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The Stronghold
Drug violence, revenge killings, and kidnapping are nothing new along the U.S.-Mexican border. But now teenage girls are disappearing from the Apache reservations of Arizona and New Mexico.
Apache tribal cop Pilar To-Clanny and FBI Special Agent Alex Torres have a long and tumultuous history. When someone close to them disappears, Pilar and Alex must risk everything to rescue the child, including facing the unresolved issues of the past, and venture into the no-man's land of the drug cartels.
Can Pilar and Alex work together to stop a sadistic killer before he strikes again? On a quest to rescue those they love, who will rescue them?
Apache tribal cop Pilar To-Clanny and FBI Special Agent Alex Torres have a long and tumultuous history. When someone close to them disappears, Pilar and Alex must risk everything to rescue the child, including facing the unresolved issues of the past, and venture into the no-man's land of the drug cartels.
Can Pilar and Alex work together to stop a sadistic killer before he strikes again? On a quest to rescue those they love, who will rescue them?
320 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2016
2 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Carter
52 books246 followersWriter. Book Lover. Avid Gardener. World Traveler.
Lisa Carter is the Publishers Weekly bestselling and award-winning author of more than thirty books. She writes the contemporary Truelove Matchmaker romance series with Love Inspired. She also writes romantic suspense—best described as “Sweet Tea with a Slice of Murder.” When not hard at work on her next fictional adventure, she enjoys reading and spending time with her family. A native North Carolinian, she has strong opinions on barbecue and ACC basketball. www.lisacarterauthor.com
Follow Lisa on BookBub for the latest book news at https://bit.ly/3G2iWGv.
Join her newsletter mailing list for book happenings at https://rb.gy/2ilkh7.
Lisa Carter is the Publishers Weekly bestselling and award-winning author of more than thirty books. She writes the contemporary Truelove Matchmaker romance series with Love Inspired. She also writes romantic suspense—best described as “Sweet Tea with a Slice of Murder.” When not hard at work on her next fictional adventure, she enjoys reading and spending time with her family. A native North Carolinian, she has strong opinions on barbecue and ACC basketball. www.lisacarterauthor.com
Follow Lisa on BookBub for the latest book news at https://bit.ly/3G2iWGv.
Join her newsletter mailing list for book happenings at https://rb.gy/2ilkh7.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
December 8, 2016
I have a low tolerance for violence to children (even fictional children), but I figured it'd be alright since this was a Christian novel. I understand that the author was trying to educate people about how cruel the Mexicans and Apache were to each other in the past, but she has a modern guy torturing and killing teens as a part of the story. We're given gruesome details. I had bad dreams after reading this book even if I read it in the morning rather than the evening. I had to quit after a young, innocent girl is kidnapped by the bad guy because I'd lost trust that the author wouldn't put that poor girl through torture. I didn't want to read about it. While the hero held out the hope found in God to the broken heroine (as she's also been a victim), it just seemed like a very dark book to me.
I received this review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.
I received this review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.
October 14, 2018
Teenaged girls have been disappearing from Apache reservations--a danger that hits far too close to home for tribal cop Pilar To-Clanny. She'll have to go after a ruthless killer. And she's not looking forward to partnering with a painful part of her past, in the form of Special Agent Alex Torres in The Stronghold by author Lisa Carter.
This book was anything but easy reading for me. Quite frankly, I needed a story that could connect with a singular area of my anger, much of it in relation to issues in real life that this romantic suspense novel tackles.
Indeed, it's a heavy read that braves rough and dark terrain. Poverty. Post-traumatic stress disorder. Self-harm. Manipulation. Racism. Rape, and a culture of sexual violence. Serial murder. FEAR. It's not a story to be read for thrills but for its illustration of dynamic light cutting through grave darkness.
Now, I often say I don't have to think a book is perfect to find it amazing. Some of the digs, arguments, and characters' reactions become redundant in this book, and action beats in the dialogue fall into predictable patterns at times. Many of the paragraph breaks are jarring and unnecessary when the dialogue isn't switching between speakers. I wouldn't have forgotten that Alex is good-looking and Pilar is Apache even if those points weren't repeated so often. And a few matters at the height of the novel play out in ways that aren't entirely convincing.
Still, this author writes with depth, realism, and flashes of pithy lyricism, weaving an intricate plot that pierces so that it can heal. ChristFic fans who appreciate gritty and relevant stories of faith would do well to check this one out.
This book was anything but easy reading for me. Quite frankly, I needed a story that could connect with a singular area of my anger, much of it in relation to issues in real life that this romantic suspense novel tackles.
Indeed, it's a heavy read that braves rough and dark terrain. Poverty. Post-traumatic stress disorder. Self-harm. Manipulation. Racism. Rape, and a culture of sexual violence. Serial murder. FEAR. It's not a story to be read for thrills but for its illustration of dynamic light cutting through grave darkness.
Now, I often say I don't have to think a book is perfect to find it amazing. Some of the digs, arguments, and characters' reactions become redundant in this book, and action beats in the dialogue fall into predictable patterns at times. Many of the paragraph breaks are jarring and unnecessary when the dialogue isn't switching between speakers. I wouldn't have forgotten that Alex is good-looking and Pilar is Apache even if those points weren't repeated so often. And a few matters at the height of the novel play out in ways that aren't entirely convincing.
Still, this author writes with depth, realism, and flashes of pithy lyricism, weaving an intricate plot that pierces so that it can heal. ChristFic fans who appreciate gritty and relevant stories of faith would do well to check this one out.
March 2, 2022
Love this story! What a beautiful reminder that no matter what we've done or what others may have done to us, we are God's first and foremost. He will never turn His back on us and His love never ends.
September 24, 2020
Carter expertly crafts a raw and authentic novel. Brokenness comes in many forms. The pain is horrific. The anger and fear can be paralyzing. The invitation to surrender and come to the Great Physician is available to us all. The thread of hope and healing is whispers through the pages of The Sronghold. It's a captivating love story.
Recommend to those who enjoy inspirational, romantic suspense.
I won a copy. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
Recommend to those who enjoy inspirational, romantic suspense.
I won a copy. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
April 19, 2021
I won a book from the authors newsletter and I chose this book. I wasn't prepared for how much this story would effect me. I read the blurb before I chose it so I knew about it but WOW it was so much more. I cried 😢 and cringed 😩 and hurt at times so bad I had to just stop😱. I had the hardest of times putting the book down because life made me😞 but when I read it was DO NOT DISTURB! 😉 Very glad I chose this book even if it was hard to read at times. 😊
January 19, 2016
Lisa Carter is presently my favorite author. First, because she is probably the only contemporary Anglo novelist that has truly made an effort to capture the heart of American Indians in her stories. Second, because she is so good at grabbing your attention and holding it until the very end.
As with all of her books which I have read so far, Carter includes names, phrases and customs that are unique to the cultures she highlights--in this case, Apache and Mexican people. Of particular significance in this story are the custom of wearing Apache tears, polished obsidian pendants, to remind you of a loved one. She also repeats the phrase, "death before surrender," and the idea that Apaches don't do forgiveness but vengeance.
An important device in this novel is that Lisa Carter switches back-and-forth between the present and a time "before," gradually unfolding the back story of her characters as the action plays out. As a young girl, Pilar classified family and friends according to their strengths--which she referred to as "superpowers." We see how the attraction between her and Alex existed from the day they first met and then how they were alienated from one another through a series of poor choices and unfortunate events. Pilar bears horrible physical, as well as emotional scars, suffered at the hands of the same serial rapist and murderer she and Alex find themselves investigating together from the San Carlos reservation all the way into Mexican drug territory.
This book was a real page-turner. In addition to the fast pace and suspense of a murder mystery/thriller, there are plenty of unexpected plot twists. For example, I didn't realize how important Reyna was to Pilar's nephew, Manny. For that matter, I did not anticipate the true nature of Pilar's relationship to her teen-aged ward. The history of Isabel, Alex's grandmother and Pilar's guardian, came as a surprise, as well. You really have to be on your toes to catch the subtle hints throughout the narrative whose significance is not revealed until later on.
It was interesting that Alex could see the evil in the villain's heart right away, while Pilar and Manny were captivated by his charm and good looks. Pilar, on the other hand, immediately sensed the threat to her nephew in the villain's female accomplice. None of them realized the connection between the two until much later in the story.
I love what Alex says about Pilar's habit of "cutting" to deal with her pain. He tells her the only blood-letting that can make a person clean is Jesus' sacrifice.
While I agree that Pilar never asked to be attacked and that Alex did not drive her into the predator's arms, I think it was wrong to lay all the blame at the rapist's feet. Alex was right to feel guilty for hurting Pilar by lying so cruelly to her. His alienation of the girl led to her foolish effort to get back at him for taking advantage of her. Pilar's vengeful and reckless response put her into an extremely risky situation.
Learning what was revealed at the end of this story, I would love to see a sequel or prequel highlighting Isabel and Segundo's story. Nevertheless, this is a really good novel I am sure most Christians would appreciate. It has something for everyone--mystery, romance, action, adventure, humor and pathos. It is NOT suitable for young people, as the main subject matter is dark and disturbing. It may reopen old wounds for those who have suffered sexual assault. On the other hand, it may be helpful for those who know someone who has thus been traumatized, as it could shed light on the reasons behind certain behaviors of their loved ones.
I was given a free galley copy of this book for an honest review. I found only one typo in the whole book--which is unheard of in an Advance Reader's copy! Kuddos to Ms. Carter and her editorial team for pulling this off! I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and look forward to Lisa Carter's next book.
As with all of her books which I have read so far, Carter includes names, phrases and customs that are unique to the cultures she highlights--in this case, Apache and Mexican people. Of particular significance in this story are the custom of wearing Apache tears, polished obsidian pendants, to remind you of a loved one. She also repeats the phrase, "death before surrender," and the idea that Apaches don't do forgiveness but vengeance.
An important device in this novel is that Lisa Carter switches back-and-forth between the present and a time "before," gradually unfolding the back story of her characters as the action plays out. As a young girl, Pilar classified family and friends according to their strengths--which she referred to as "superpowers." We see how the attraction between her and Alex existed from the day they first met and then how they were alienated from one another through a series of poor choices and unfortunate events. Pilar bears horrible physical, as well as emotional scars, suffered at the hands of the same serial rapist and murderer she and Alex find themselves investigating together from the San Carlos reservation all the way into Mexican drug territory.
This book was a real page-turner. In addition to the fast pace and suspense of a murder mystery/thriller, there are plenty of unexpected plot twists. For example, I didn't realize how important Reyna was to Pilar's nephew, Manny. For that matter, I did not anticipate the true nature of Pilar's relationship to her teen-aged ward. The history of Isabel, Alex's grandmother and Pilar's guardian, came as a surprise, as well. You really have to be on your toes to catch the subtle hints throughout the narrative whose significance is not revealed until later on.
It was interesting that Alex could see the evil in the villain's heart right away, while Pilar and Manny were captivated by his charm and good looks. Pilar, on the other hand, immediately sensed the threat to her nephew in the villain's female accomplice. None of them realized the connection between the two until much later in the story.
I love what Alex says about Pilar's habit of "cutting" to deal with her pain. He tells her the only blood-letting that can make a person clean is Jesus' sacrifice.
While I agree that Pilar never asked to be attacked and that Alex did not drive her into the predator's arms, I think it was wrong to lay all the blame at the rapist's feet. Alex was right to feel guilty for hurting Pilar by lying so cruelly to her. His alienation of the girl led to her foolish effort to get back at him for taking advantage of her. Pilar's vengeful and reckless response put her into an extremely risky situation.
Learning what was revealed at the end of this story, I would love to see a sequel or prequel highlighting Isabel and Segundo's story. Nevertheless, this is a really good novel I am sure most Christians would appreciate. It has something for everyone--mystery, romance, action, adventure, humor and pathos. It is NOT suitable for young people, as the main subject matter is dark and disturbing. It may reopen old wounds for those who have suffered sexual assault. On the other hand, it may be helpful for those who know someone who has thus been traumatized, as it could shed light on the reasons behind certain behaviors of their loved ones.
I was given a free galley copy of this book for an honest review. I found only one typo in the whole book--which is unheard of in an Advance Reader's copy! Kuddos to Ms. Carter and her editorial team for pulling this off! I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and look forward to Lisa Carter's next book.
March 23, 2016
Reading this novel was not really a pleasant experience for me. There were several factors that made it tough reading.
One was the setting. The novel takes place on the Arizona rez and in Mexican mountains. Both of these locations are foreign to me and I had trouble imagining them in my mind. It was almost like the author felt I should be familiar with the scenery and geological features so did not do what I felt was an adequate job of setting each scene for me.
Another factor was the ethnicity of the characters. They were Apache and Mexicans. The author used many words from their native languages that were new to me and I didn't understand. There was also the practice of calling people by different parts of their full name that I found confusing. I didn't like the behavior of many of the Apache characters. There seemed to be lots of lying and deception and putting Apache honor before truth or honesty.
And then there were the characters themselves. I did not find myself being drawn in by them or feeling compassion for them. I found Alex to be an odd man. He was an FBI agent yet had unrestrained emotions. Rather than being a strong male character, I found his emotional outbursts to be disconcerting and disliked. I don't like a lead male character who cannot control himself, whether it be sexual desires or angry outbursts. I didn't like Pilar (or Pia or Maria or Caterina or Mia) very well. Yes, she'd been sexually assaulted and gravely hurt in the past. I did not feel she had successfully worked her way through the hurt and was captive to it. I did not see her as a strong female lead character who would garner my admiration.
The subject of the plot is female kidnapping and sexual slavery of Apache women and children by Mexicans. There was a long history to this practice and it was being done in the novel by a drug lord. That was a hard subject to read about.
Perhaps what I found most disconcerting about the novel was the author's writing style. There were many incomplete sentences and prepositional phrases as sentences. Sometimes sentences were one word. Or two. The choppy nature of the text was distracting. I prefer authors use accepted rules of language to create a suspenseful scene, not a choppy writing style.
I found the structure of the novel difficult as well. It was not until I was about half way through that the whole thing began to make sense to me. The flashbacks helped flesh out the current situation but it took several of them to do so. Perhaps there would have been a better way to structure the story so I would have been drawn into it right away.
I would recommend this novel to readers who would enjoy lots of violence incorporated into the setting of Apache Mexican interaction. There is a strong Christian element in the form of Alex. (Another reason to wonder at his uncontrolled angry outbursts.) There is a lengthy discussion guide included.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
One was the setting. The novel takes place on the Arizona rez and in Mexican mountains. Both of these locations are foreign to me and I had trouble imagining them in my mind. It was almost like the author felt I should be familiar with the scenery and geological features so did not do what I felt was an adequate job of setting each scene for me.
Another factor was the ethnicity of the characters. They were Apache and Mexicans. The author used many words from their native languages that were new to me and I didn't understand. There was also the practice of calling people by different parts of their full name that I found confusing. I didn't like the behavior of many of the Apache characters. There seemed to be lots of lying and deception and putting Apache honor before truth or honesty.
And then there were the characters themselves. I did not find myself being drawn in by them or feeling compassion for them. I found Alex to be an odd man. He was an FBI agent yet had unrestrained emotions. Rather than being a strong male character, I found his emotional outbursts to be disconcerting and disliked. I don't like a lead male character who cannot control himself, whether it be sexual desires or angry outbursts. I didn't like Pilar (or Pia or Maria or Caterina or Mia) very well. Yes, she'd been sexually assaulted and gravely hurt in the past. I did not feel she had successfully worked her way through the hurt and was captive to it. I did not see her as a strong female lead character who would garner my admiration.
The subject of the plot is female kidnapping and sexual slavery of Apache women and children by Mexicans. There was a long history to this practice and it was being done in the novel by a drug lord. That was a hard subject to read about.
Perhaps what I found most disconcerting about the novel was the author's writing style. There were many incomplete sentences and prepositional phrases as sentences. Sometimes sentences were one word. Or two. The choppy nature of the text was distracting. I prefer authors use accepted rules of language to create a suspenseful scene, not a choppy writing style.
I found the structure of the novel difficult as well. It was not until I was about half way through that the whole thing began to make sense to me. The flashbacks helped flesh out the current situation but it took several of them to do so. Perhaps there would have been a better way to structure the story so I would have been drawn into it right away.
I would recommend this novel to readers who would enjoy lots of violence incorporated into the setting of Apache Mexican interaction. There is a strong Christian element in the form of Alex. (Another reason to wonder at his uncontrolled angry outbursts.) There is a lengthy discussion guide included.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
May 14, 2016
FBI Agent Alex Torres and Apache tribal police officer Pilar To-Clanny have a long history together of ups and downs. After being gone for years, Alex returns to Arizona when young girls come up missing from New Mexico and the reservation in Arizona. Alex wants to help find them but, because of his faith, he also wants to make things right with Pilar. When Manny (a boy they both love) goes missing, Pilar and Alex reluctantly work together risking their lives to rescue the boy. What they discover along the way is not only more sinister than they ever imagined but it will also change their lives forever.
I have read several Lisa Carter books and really like her stories and The Stronghold is no exception. I will say though that this was not an easy read because of the nature of the story. It deals with some dark subject matters. Some scenes are pretty intense and graphic which is why it’s difficult to read. Aside from that, I thought the story was very good. The dynamics between Alex and Pilar were interesting, complex and edgy. Their history together was about great love and deep hurt which you learn about through a series of flashbacks. Pilar felt unclean and unloveable because of what happened to her so she holds everyone at arms length. I appreciated seeing Alex’s faith in action and the ways he expressed it especially to Pilar. But I also saw the way he still struggled with certain things. To me, that’s real life. God never promised we would never have trouble, pain or heartache but He did promise to walk through all of it with us. For me, the beginning of the book seemed a bit confusing but when you get to the end of the story it all makes sense and the author brings everything together in a very cohesive way.
*This complimentary copy was provided by Abingdon Press through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
A favorite quote:
“The only thing I’ve managed to cling to, Pia, is the great love of God for his children. A love that desires a real relationship. The kind of relationship that offers a choice. To love or not to love.” Alex’s chest heaved. “And not to love Him, I realized, was the first step on the path toward evil. Because real love, like His, loves enough to let us choose Him or the darkness. To make our own mistakes. But He’s also there to pick up the pieces of our brokenness when we cry out to Him.”
For more information about this book or other books by Lisa Carter, I encourage you to visit her website at http://www.lisacarterauthor.com
I have read several Lisa Carter books and really like her stories and The Stronghold is no exception. I will say though that this was not an easy read because of the nature of the story. It deals with some dark subject matters. Some scenes are pretty intense and graphic which is why it’s difficult to read. Aside from that, I thought the story was very good. The dynamics between Alex and Pilar were interesting, complex and edgy. Their history together was about great love and deep hurt which you learn about through a series of flashbacks. Pilar felt unclean and unloveable because of what happened to her so she holds everyone at arms length. I appreciated seeing Alex’s faith in action and the ways he expressed it especially to Pilar. But I also saw the way he still struggled with certain things. To me, that’s real life. God never promised we would never have trouble, pain or heartache but He did promise to walk through all of it with us. For me, the beginning of the book seemed a bit confusing but when you get to the end of the story it all makes sense and the author brings everything together in a very cohesive way.
*This complimentary copy was provided by Abingdon Press through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
A favorite quote:
“The only thing I’ve managed to cling to, Pia, is the great love of God for his children. A love that desires a real relationship. The kind of relationship that offers a choice. To love or not to love.” Alex’s chest heaved. “And not to love Him, I realized, was the first step on the path toward evil. Because real love, like His, loves enough to let us choose Him or the darkness. To make our own mistakes. But He’s also there to pick up the pieces of our brokenness when we cry out to Him.”
For more information about this book or other books by Lisa Carter, I encourage you to visit her website at http://www.lisacarterauthor.com
February 26, 2016
Pilar is set to get revenge and to help the apache girls who keeping coming up missing. When she set out to the crime scene she never thought the past would haunt her in that spot but she knew he was watching she couldn't see him but knew deep in her soul he was there. Can she stop him from hurting all these young girls will she be able to save one or will it be to late? Will she be able to keep the secrets hunting her and her family or will they come out and will she loose everything? Alex has to get Pia to see that she needs her, when he gets sent to the Rez to work on a homicide he knows its only a manner of time before he will run into her and it will give him the chance to make things right. But the question is will making things right work out the way he has planned or will it be to late and in the middle will he be able to protect her again and protect those close to her without getting anyone killed in the process?
I really enjoyed this book, its completely eye opening to the human trafficking going on. I will admit I had a hard time getting into the book but after the first chapter the book took off and I found it hard to put down. Its an intense book so while I found it hard to put down I also sometimes had to walk away. The book is a real page turn its a love story gone wrong and everything else goes wrong with it. The characters seek to find healing along the way some longer then others. At the end it makes everything come together that didn't make since in the first chapter including things you saw coming. You really can not go wrong with this book . Totally worth the read!!!!
Disclosure: I received this book free of charge from the publisher, but this review consists of my honest opinions, not influenced in any way by the author or publisher
I really enjoyed this book, its completely eye opening to the human trafficking going on. I will admit I had a hard time getting into the book but after the first chapter the book took off and I found it hard to put down. Its an intense book so while I found it hard to put down I also sometimes had to walk away. The book is a real page turn its a love story gone wrong and everything else goes wrong with it. The characters seek to find healing along the way some longer then others. At the end it makes everything come together that didn't make since in the first chapter including things you saw coming. You really can not go wrong with this book . Totally worth the read!!!!
Disclosure: I received this book free of charge from the publisher, but this review consists of my honest opinions, not influenced in any way by the author or publisher
March 18, 2016
What a fascinating mystery and romance The Stronghold turned out to be! Pilar To-Clanny is now working as the Apache tribal cop on the reservation and Alex Torres is now working as an FBI Special Agent and they are placed in each others' paths yet again to solve the crimes of the missing young people after discovering bodies on the reservation. It has been a long long time since Pilar and Alex were young and in love and there is a great deal of anger, hurt, and unresolved issues creating baggage between the two. They find clues pointing to thee Mexican drug cartels in the crimes and when her son and his grandmother run off to try and save Tagalong, they have to choice but to return to the very place that holds an important piece of their own past history. Can they work together without killing each other? Can they save the ones they love from the wicked person who is kidnapping and killing innocent lives?
I'll be honest, at first, I thought this might be a boring book and that I might find a language barrier as the first pages used some of the language of the local tribes. But I was quickly very pleasantly surprised as I fell in love with Pilar and Alex and just wanted their open wounds to heal. I could see they were broken but I didn't yet know why. I was compelled to read to see what their history entailed and to find out who is carrying out hideous acts. This novel could easily be an episode of Criminal Minds. I am a huge fan of Criminal Minds so this book fed my addiction. The romance was an added bonus.
I rated this book 5 stars and would like to read more books by Lisa Carter.
I received a copy of this novel from netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
I'll be honest, at first, I thought this might be a boring book and that I might find a language barrier as the first pages used some of the language of the local tribes. But I was quickly very pleasantly surprised as I fell in love with Pilar and Alex and just wanted their open wounds to heal. I could see they were broken but I didn't yet know why. I was compelled to read to see what their history entailed and to find out who is carrying out hideous acts. This novel could easily be an episode of Criminal Minds. I am a huge fan of Criminal Minds so this book fed my addiction. The romance was an added bonus.
I rated this book 5 stars and would like to read more books by Lisa Carter.
I received a copy of this novel from netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
February 17, 2016
To be honest this book was hard to rate, It is not the typical Christian Romance novel. In fact some of the content may not be suitable for all ages and people. This novel deals with kidnaping of young girls, rape, murder, cutting and the after effects of them all, some things are given very detailed information. There is a lot about the American Indian culture and Mexican cartel as well. That being said this is a christian romance novel woven throughout all the drama and American Indian culture. It is not easy reading, in fact I was lost during the first part of this book. It does all come to light before the end of the book, but it is a bit confusing. There is surprise, mystery, heartache, secrets, forgiveness and love throughout this novel.
Pilar To-Clanny has been through much in her life, while trying to solve a crime with the least expected man she ever expected to see again, she must learn to face her past to be able to embrace her future. Pilar is a very determined, strong willed Apache woman filled with heartache and secrets. She has been through more than anyone should have to face but will she have to endure more just to save the ones she loves?
FBI Special Agent Alex Torres must come face to face with his past and help solve a crime all while trying to keep the one he loves the most safe. Will Pilar ever be able to forgive him and will he be the testimony that she needs or will his faith be tested more than he can endure.
I was given a copy of this novel from net galley for my honest opinion.
Pilar To-Clanny has been through much in her life, while trying to solve a crime with the least expected man she ever expected to see again, she must learn to face her past to be able to embrace her future. Pilar is a very determined, strong willed Apache woman filled with heartache and secrets. She has been through more than anyone should have to face but will she have to endure more just to save the ones she loves?
FBI Special Agent Alex Torres must come face to face with his past and help solve a crime all while trying to keep the one he loves the most safe. Will Pilar ever be able to forgive him and will he be the testimony that she needs or will his faith be tested more than he can endure.
I was given a copy of this novel from net galley for my honest opinion.
June 9, 2016
Definitely on the edgey side. The Stronghold has a Criminal Minds kind of vibe though it stops shy of being as graphic. Yes, this story covers difficult subject matter -- serial killings, human trafficking and the violent history between the Apache nation and Mexico -- so it is a hard read at times. One that haunted me when I put it down. But there is also such healing and hope and the inspirational message comes across with startling clarity.
Carter has created beautifully flawed characters. They are by no means perfect and their raw and honest reactions are proof of that. Alex is a Christian but that doesn't mean he reacts in a Christ-like manner all the time. He's a work in progress as we all are. Watching him fight against his natural reactions as he struggles to apply his faith in different situations was inspiring.
By contrast, Pilar is haunted by her past -- angry, hurting, she's a survivor but it's taken its toll. She fights against the notion of a loving God with all the fury of her bottled up rage. A stunning portrayal of God meeting us right where we are.
Alex and Pilar have a past which the author reveals by slow degrees through flashbacks. You might say the romance is as mysterious and the suspense! Both are mesmerizing. My heart was racing the whole read! I figured out some pieces of the puzzle fairly easily; others simply floored me. I love a suspense that keeps me on my toes.
A stunning, thought-provoking romantic suspense that testifies of the relentless love God has for all of us.
Carter has created beautifully flawed characters. They are by no means perfect and their raw and honest reactions are proof of that. Alex is a Christian but that doesn't mean he reacts in a Christ-like manner all the time. He's a work in progress as we all are. Watching him fight against his natural reactions as he struggles to apply his faith in different situations was inspiring.
By contrast, Pilar is haunted by her past -- angry, hurting, she's a survivor but it's taken its toll. She fights against the notion of a loving God with all the fury of her bottled up rage. A stunning portrayal of God meeting us right where we are.
Alex and Pilar have a past which the author reveals by slow degrees through flashbacks. You might say the romance is as mysterious and the suspense! Both are mesmerizing. My heart was racing the whole read! I figured out some pieces of the puzzle fairly easily; others simply floored me. I love a suspense that keeps me on my toes.
A stunning, thought-provoking romantic suspense that testifies of the relentless love God has for all of us.
January 27, 2016
As with all of Ms Carter's books, the writing is solid with a cast of colorful characters, and the story moves quickly along. It takes place on an Apache reservation in Arizona. Pilar To-Clanny is a tribal cop who has a long history with FBI agent Alex Torres. She hasn't seen him in years until he shows up to help with the investigation into a body found in an archaeological site. Things didn't end well between them but can they move on and work together? Of course, but it's not so easy. Pilar has walls sky high and PTSD issues the source of which is slowly revealed throughout the book. That part gets a little frustrating - to be kept waiting to see why things are the way they are, but that's just me being impatient.
I'm warning you now, the story is heavy and intense so it's not for everyone. No light fluff here! It's well done, though, and it never crosses the line into sensationalism or excessive violence or smut.
I recommend this book ... with a couple exceptions. Not to younger girls because of the heavy content, and not to those who are looking for a sit and relax kind of read. This one keeps you tense!
I received this book for the purpose of an honest review from Abingdon Press. My opinion is my own. Thank you Abingdon.
I'm warning you now, the story is heavy and intense so it's not for everyone. No light fluff here! It's well done, though, and it never crosses the line into sensationalism or excessive violence or smut.
I recommend this book ... with a couple exceptions. Not to younger girls because of the heavy content, and not to those who are looking for a sit and relax kind of read. This one keeps you tense!
I received this book for the purpose of an honest review from Abingdon Press. My opinion is my own. Thank you Abingdon.
March 14, 2016
The Stronghold
by Lisa Carter
Abingdon Press
Christian, Religion & Spirituality
Pub Date 15 Mar 2016
I was given a copy of The Stronghold through the publisher and their partnership with Netgalley in exchange for my honest review which is as follows:
Pilar learned early she must adapt or die. Pilar learned first hand the dangers for a young girl when she herself was a teen and she tries to do what she can to help others.
Pilar is angry and doesn’t believe in forgiveness despite everything she was taught only revenge but the case of a Mexican Serial Killer who drops bodies off in New Mexico Brothels brings her to someone from her past.
By the time Pilar was ten she stopped believing in Mercy and Grace and even goodness she only believed in survival and secrets.
Soon they discover that the agent may not be a Mexican but an Apache.
The case brings back her own secrets and she ends up telling Alex the secret that her son is actually her rapists child, when her son ends up missing, believed to be taken to Mexico with her Abuela.
Will Pilar and Alex be able to find Manny? Will Pilar be able to let go of the strongholds in her life and finally be able to accept Jesus into her heart.
Find out in The Stronghold.
Five out of five Stars
Happy Reading Friends
February 22, 2016
I have read several of Lisa Carter's novels, and I think I like this one best. Lisa Carter has a way with her characters, and she is able to build suspense by the structure of the book. From the beginning the reader knows that the heroine, Pilar, and the dashing hero, Alex, have a shared past and that something terrible happened to split them apart and cause great harm to Pilar. As the past is slowly revealed in flashbacks, present day events pull these two together to face their own demons and their future. As always in her novels the characters' relationship with God is an important element. If anyone feels broken and beyond repair this novel can show you that God's love is there to give you peace and healing.
My only criticism has to do with the climax that has much that is unrealistic, improbable, and likely impossible. However, I learned to overlook this as I kept turning pages until the early hours of the morning to find out what was going to happen. Overall, I recommend this novel.
I received a free copy of this book through the Amazon Vine Program in exchange for my review.
My only criticism has to do with the climax that has much that is unrealistic, improbable, and likely impossible. However, I learned to overlook this as I kept turning pages until the early hours of the morning to find out what was going to happen. Overall, I recommend this novel.
I received a free copy of this book through the Amazon Vine Program in exchange for my review.
May 9, 2016
This is the second of Lisa Carter's books I have read and I certainly will be watching for more books from her. I was caught up in the story from the beginning. Stories about Indians have always held my interest, especially when they are cast in a positive light. The heroine of the story, Pilar To-Clanny, is an Apache who has experienced some terrible atrocities but she is strong in her desire to help others. The book is very suspenseful, and rather intense at times, but there are lighthearted moments as well, particularly during the flashbacks to the past when Pilar, Alex, and her brother were kids. After all that had happened to her, the heroine deals with some major trust issues regarding God and men and struggles greatly with unforgiveness. I sensed an overshadowing of spiritual warfare when the law-abiding characters talked about The Wicked One and his stronghold. The descriptions of his characteristics were very realistic and reminded me of the devil. I recommend The Stronghold to more mature readers who enjoy suspense. If you like mild, sedate romance novels this one may not be for you although there is a thread of romance through the book. I totally enjoyed the story.
February 10, 2016
Pilar, an Apache and reservation policewoman, and Alex, a Latino FBI agent from L.A., immediately clash when they meet at a crime scene. And no wonder. Years ago, they had been married.
Something bad happened. Pilar keeps the wounds of the past bottled up. Instead of confronting what happened, she suffers in silence. Bitterness and revenge keep her going. Peace and lightness elude her.
Alex longs to talk with her about the incident. He finally gets his chance when they search for missing people in Mexico and are themselves being hunted.
Pilar blames herself for what happened. Alex insists she could have done nothing to prevent it. She must forgive herself for what she thinks she did to deserve it. Holding onto shame only perpetuates the evil. The monster they seek derives pleasure from making her ashamed, in addition to the physical power over her.
I enjoy Lisa Carter’s books. This one was a little too dark or edgy in places for my tastes. Lisa paints a hauntingly realistic picture of the evil that has been dogging Alex, Pilar, and the people they love.
March 5, 2016
Pilar To-Clanny is a police officer on an Apache Indian reservation near the Mexican border. When she secures the crime scene where a teenaged girl's body has been found, the discovery shakes her to her core. And when FBI Special Agent Alex Torres takes the lead on working the case, she must face the scars her distant past left on her heart by him and others. But can she come to grips with all of the hurt and shame? Or will she hold onto the hate and anger that eats her alive? Once more, Lisa Carter has woven a tale of suspense and love that kept me glued to the book as I finished half of it in one sitting. I smiled, giggled, and had tears in my eyes as I followed the struggles of Alex and Pilar as they came to grips with their pasts. So if you like a challenging read, great action, romantic tension, and a subtle inspirational element, this book is for you.
January 18, 2016
I was captured by this book from start to finish! I couldn't wait to unravel Pilar and Alex's story. This was not a predictable book but unlike most you are able to follow the story and be surprised and not have to go back and try to figure out what you missed to bring you there!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
April 10, 2016
I have been reading pretty much all of Ms. Carter's book and saw this was a new release. This still contained flasbacks, a trademark writing device Carter always uses. I don't love historical flashbacks in books but this worked, even thought it was actually double the flashbacks. Very good story.
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