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Kaely Quinn Profiler #2
Fire Storm
When FBI profiler Kaely Quinn's mother is diagnosed with cancer, Kaely takes time off work to go to Dark Water, Nebraska, to help her brother care for their mother. Upon her arrival, she learns of a series of fires in the small town, attributed by the fire chief to misuse of space heaters in the frigid winter. But Kaely is skeptical, and a search for a pattern in the locations of the fires bolsters her suspicions.
After yet another blaze devastates a local family, Kaely is certain a serial arsonist is on the loose. Calling upon her partner from St. Louis, Noah Hunter, and her brother's firefighter neighbor who backs Kaely's suspicions, Kaely and her team begin an investigation that swiftly leads them down a twisted path. When the truth is finally revealed, Kaely finds herself confronting a madman who is determined his last heinous act will be her death.
After yet another blaze devastates a local family, Kaely is certain a serial arsonist is on the loose. Calling upon her partner from St. Louis, Noah Hunter, and her brother's firefighter neighbor who backs Kaely's suspicions, Kaely and her team begin an investigation that swiftly leads them down a twisted path. When the truth is finally revealed, Kaely finds herself confronting a madman who is determined his last heinous act will be her death.
336 pages, Paperback
First published August 6, 2019
168 people are currently reading
2949 people want to read
About the author
Nancy Mehl
67 books1,384 followersNancy Mehl is the bestselling author of over 50 books. She’s won the Daphne Du Maurier Award, as well as an ACFW Mystery Book of the Year Award and a Carol award. She was also a finalist for the prestigious Christy award. Her short story, Chasing Shadows, was in the USA Today bestselling Summer of Suspense anthology. Learn more about her at www.nancymehl.com and on her blog, the Suspense Sisters: www.suspensesisters.blogspot.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 345 reviews
June 6, 2019
Nancy Mehl has been a hit-or-miss author for me, but I fell in love with Mind Games, the first book in her newest series, Kaely Quinn Profiler. So, of course, I was thrilled to get an advanced copy of the second book in the series.
Unfortunately, in many respects, Fire Storm didn't hold up to the stellar quality of story that its predecessor did.
Fire Storm focuses a lot more on Kaely and her family than the suspense\mystery aspect of the story. And while I liked that fact at times, I wish the suspense had played a larger role in this book, as it did in Mind Games. That being said, there was still a goodly amount of suspense, just not as much as I expected. Also, considering the amount of air time the storyline with Kaely and her family got, the resolution was quite disappointing in that regard, as not much was resolved.
The romance between Kaely and Noah picked up a bit more in this book, although it still played a very backseat role, which I very much liked. This is not your typical romantic suspense novel. Still, I was hoping for some resolution between these characters by the time the story ended, but that didn't really happen either.
Mehl did a great job building up the storyline to and through the climax, but after the climax, we had less than 10% of the book to wrap the story up, which was nowhere near enough. If more time and care had been taken to ensure that all of the many storylines Mehl had running were wrapped up, my rating would have been 4 or 5 stars, but because I was left feeling so disappointed by the end, I had to lower my rating to 3. I understand that this is a series and there must be some storylines left open to continue on in book 3, but everything was left too open, in my opinion.
One other aspect I was disappointed with: the spiritual themes. Mehl brings up some very intriguing, and even somewhat controversial themes in book one, so I was excited to see what she would do with those themes in book two. Unfortunately, nothing much was done in that regard. I would have loved to see the author attribute these themes to spiritual warfare, but instead, they were never really addressed. There is still room to do that in book three, I suppose, so I'm still hoping that will happen.
All in all, this story is a very fascinating story, it just ended poorly, in my opinion. I still look forward to continuing Kaely's story in book three. I don't mean to bash this story, as there are still a lot of elements I appreciated in it. This review is simply my opinions, so take them with a grain of salt and check out Fire Storm for yourself! :)
FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Unfortunately, in many respects, Fire Storm didn't hold up to the stellar quality of story that its predecessor did.
Fire Storm focuses a lot more on Kaely and her family than the suspense\mystery aspect of the story. And while I liked that fact at times, I wish the suspense had played a larger role in this book, as it did in Mind Games. That being said, there was still a goodly amount of suspense, just not as much as I expected. Also, considering the amount of air time the storyline with Kaely and her family got, the resolution was quite disappointing in that regard, as not much was resolved.
The romance between Kaely and Noah picked up a bit more in this book, although it still played a very backseat role, which I very much liked. This is not your typical romantic suspense novel. Still, I was hoping for some resolution between these characters by the time the story ended, but that didn't really happen either.
Mehl did a great job building up the storyline to and through the climax, but after the climax, we had less than 10% of the book to wrap the story up, which was nowhere near enough. If more time and care had been taken to ensure that all of the many storylines Mehl had running were wrapped up, my rating would have been 4 or 5 stars, but because I was left feeling so disappointed by the end, I had to lower my rating to 3. I understand that this is a series and there must be some storylines left open to continue on in book 3, but everything was left too open, in my opinion.
One other aspect I was disappointed with: the spiritual themes. Mehl brings up some very intriguing, and even somewhat controversial themes in book one, so I was excited to see what she would do with those themes in book two. Unfortunately, nothing much was done in that regard. I would have loved to see the author attribute these themes to spiritual warfare, but instead, they were never really addressed. There is still room to do that in book three, I suppose, so I'm still hoping that will happen.
All in all, this story is a very fascinating story, it just ended poorly, in my opinion. I still look forward to continuing Kaely's story in book three. I don't mean to bash this story, as there are still a lot of elements I appreciated in it. This review is simply my opinions, so take them with a grain of salt and check out Fire Storm for yourself! :)
FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
August 9, 2024
Fire Storm by Nancy Mehl - 4.5 Stars
(Book 2 in the Kaely Quinn Profiler Series)
FBI profiler Kaely Quinn's mother is diagnosed with cancer so Kaely takes time off work to Nebraska to go help her brother care for their mother. When she gets there, there is a series of fires in the small town. The fire chief has attributed the fires to misuse of space heaters but Kaely is skeptical and searches for patterns in these cases. They realize quickly these fires are arson and Noah, her partner, comes in from St. Louis to help solve the case.
Another good Nancy Mehl read! I love the relationship growing with Noah and Kaely in this series, we really see how much he cares for her. I really like the spin on the fires in this suspense because we don't see a lot of arson suspense stories, so it makes it more unique for me. Kaely's family issues also add a good layer of depth to her character and for the story. You are really rooting for her in this series.
The audiobook was fantastic, highly recommend! Some nice faith elements make this a great Christian suspense book.
While this is book 2, you can technically read this as a standalone if you prefer. I recommend starting with Mind Games because you are really introduced to her backstory but it's not required.
Only reason this is 4.5 is the ending was more tell me, versus show me, but still really enjoyed it!
(Book 2 in the Kaely Quinn Profiler Series)
FBI profiler Kaely Quinn's mother is diagnosed with cancer so Kaely takes time off work to Nebraska to go help her brother care for their mother. When she gets there, there is a series of fires in the small town. The fire chief has attributed the fires to misuse of space heaters but Kaely is skeptical and searches for patterns in these cases. They realize quickly these fires are arson and Noah, her partner, comes in from St. Louis to help solve the case.
Another good Nancy Mehl read! I love the relationship growing with Noah and Kaely in this series, we really see how much he cares for her. I really like the spin on the fires in this suspense because we don't see a lot of arson suspense stories, so it makes it more unique for me. Kaely's family issues also add a good layer of depth to her character and for the story. You are really rooting for her in this series.
The audiobook was fantastic, highly recommend! Some nice faith elements make this a great Christian suspense book.
While this is book 2, you can technically read this as a standalone if you prefer. I recommend starting with Mind Games because you are really introduced to her backstory but it's not required.
Only reason this is 4.5 is the ending was more tell me, versus show me, but still really enjoyed it!
May 27, 2020
2.5 stars
Again I'm left without really ever warming up to Kaely as a character. The crimes make sense but the solutions felt disjointed and the case in Omaha that Kaely and Noah were working on gets dropped and apparently is only a means to get them to the state to be near Darkwater and then to take them out of town for a short time while something happens.
Noah continues to show himself a solid lead male, if a little stodgy, but he spends much of the time off the page, so I'm not even sure if I can consider him much of an MC in this book. Kaely keeps hoping he'll open up to God but while she talks about God and faith she doesn't speak to him of salvation and Jesus, so it's a hazy sort of faith. There's enough that a Christian would interpret it as Christianity but not that someone unfamiliar with the Christian POV about faith would limit it to Christian faith.
The serial arsonist intrigued me because I'm aware that arson is a continually growing issue in the US, especially in the Midwest.
Kaely has many hair-breadth escapes and in the end she puts herself entirely in the killer's hands, gets herself drugged, and barely escapes when backup arrives. This felt like a rehash of the showdown in book 1 and I wasn't honestly worried about her survival because I knew there was a book 3. But she goes out to meet someone and I felt cheated because, up to then, we'd been in her head knowing what she was thinking; but suddenly we discover Kaely knew much more than the reader knew and had already arranged for backup. This felt like a cloak-and-dagger trick at the reader's expense and honestly it robbed me of most of the thrills of the ending because I was just thinking she was incredibly stupid as I read those scenes.
And once again her imaginary friend Georgie took away from the seriousness of her story.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required.
Again I'm left without really ever warming up to Kaely as a character. The crimes make sense but the solutions felt disjointed and the case in Omaha that Kaely and Noah were working on gets dropped and apparently is only a means to get them to the state to be near Darkwater and then to take them out of town for a short time while something happens.
Noah continues to show himself a solid lead male, if a little stodgy, but he spends much of the time off the page, so I'm not even sure if I can consider him much of an MC in this book. Kaely keeps hoping he'll open up to God but while she talks about God and faith she doesn't speak to him of salvation and Jesus, so it's a hazy sort of faith. There's enough that a Christian would interpret it as Christianity but not that someone unfamiliar with the Christian POV about faith would limit it to Christian faith.
The serial arsonist intrigued me because I'm aware that arson is a continually growing issue in the US, especially in the Midwest.
Kaely has many hair-breadth escapes and in the end she puts herself entirely in the killer's hands, gets herself drugged, and barely escapes when backup arrives. This felt like a rehash of the showdown in book 1 and I wasn't honestly worried about her survival because I knew there was a book 3. But she goes out to meet someone and I felt cheated because, up to then, we'd been in her head knowing what she was thinking; but suddenly we discover Kaely knew much more than the reader knew and had already arranged for backup. This felt like a cloak-and-dagger trick at the reader's expense and honestly it robbed me of most of the thrills of the ending because I was just thinking she was incredibly stupid as I read those scenes.
And once again her imaginary friend Georgie took away from the seriousness of her story.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required.
October 29, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
We learn a bit more about Kaely but this storyline wasn't as interesting to me.
There was more family relations and character building than there was mystery/suspense. Also, I didn't entirely buy the big reveal of the bad guy and their motive: a detail that didn't make sense to me.
I enjoyed it enough to continue with the series-- a higher than average read for me but not a favorite.
Content: arson, death, sibling and parental death, cancer
Christian faith rating: 1/3
We learn a bit more about Kaely but this storyline wasn't as interesting to me.
There was more family relations and character building than there was mystery/suspense. Also, I didn't entirely buy the big reveal of the bad guy and their motive: a detail that didn't make sense to me.
I enjoyed it enough to continue with the series-- a higher than average read for me but not a favorite.
Content: arson, death, sibling and parental death, cancer
Christian faith rating: 1/3
November 10, 2019
In Fire Storm, Kaely has left St. Louis on leave to visit her mother in Darkwater, Nebraska. Kaely notices a pattern with several recent fires in the town and works with local officials to help solve the crime.
August 28, 2024
I definitely did not see that twist coming! And I'm not too pleased about the ending. I wanted to hear that conversation!
August 5, 2019
This book had me on pins and needles, but in a different way than Mind Games, book 1 in the Kaely Quinn profiler series.
You see, after some revelation bombs dropped in Mind Games, I was more than curious to see how Kaely’s relationships would evolve. And I was literally on pins and needles the entire time. In fact, the very last part of the book was a cliff hanger and had me curling up in a fetal position because Dead End (book 3) doesn’t release until next year! What’s a book lover supposed to do?!
As for the mystery/suspenseful aspects, I joined in playing the guessing game. I tried to be a profiler (or should I say behavioral analyst) like Kaely but I totally failed. I did not see the twist coming. The ups and downs, twists and turns is one of the reasons I’m so addicted to this series.
Now to bide my time and wait for book 3.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley. My review was not required nor influenced.
**review first seen at: https://tonishiloh.com/2019/08/05/rev...
You see, after some revelation bombs dropped in Mind Games, I was more than curious to see how Kaely’s relationships would evolve. And I was literally on pins and needles the entire time. In fact, the very last part of the book was a cliff hanger and had me curling up in a fetal position because Dead End (book 3) doesn’t release until next year! What’s a book lover supposed to do?!
As for the mystery/suspenseful aspects, I joined in playing the guessing game. I tried to be a profiler (or should I say behavioral analyst) like Kaely but I totally failed. I did not see the twist coming. The ups and downs, twists and turns is one of the reasons I’m so addicted to this series.
Now to bide my time and wait for book 3.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley. My review was not required nor influenced.
**review first seen at: https://tonishiloh.com/2019/08/05/rev...
October 11, 2021
4.5/5
I am just loving this series. I really like Kaely Quinn. This time the crime was arson, which was refreshing for me to read about. I really like seeing inside the issues between Kaely and her family. I love Noah and his growing affection for her. Overall, I am super impressed and excited for the third book!
I am just loving this series. I really like Kaely Quinn. This time the crime was arson, which was refreshing for me to read about. I really like seeing inside the issues between Kaely and her family. I love Noah and his growing affection for her. Overall, I am super impressed and excited for the third book!
June 26, 2021
An exciting story from start to finish. I couldn't put the book down at any time because I wanted to know what would happen next. I am looking forward to reading the third book in this series when I find it.
September 15, 2021
Again the middle of the book was a 3.5 star but reading to the end is so worth reading this series. Kaely goes home to help her Mother with her brother. Her brother wants the family to come back together. When Kaely comes home she discovers that there are numerous fires taking place and she knows something isn't right. So Noah and Kaely join the police and fire department to help solve these fires. When Kaely dives in deeper the crime comes close to home when the arsonist sets fire to her Mother house. Now Kaely is out to find out who has done it no matter what the cost!! Again a fun read and the ending of these books are fabulous. This one I kinda knew what was going to happen but it was written in such a way you couldn't help be excited to read the end! Again the message of forgiveness was the center of this book. I love how the author focuses on what Christ can do for you if you only follow Him. So now on to book 3. Will Kaely and Noah fall in love, can she ever forgive her father? So much at stakes in this last book I just can't wait to read it!!
January 25, 2020
3.5 stars. If you've never read a Kaely Quinn book, let me tell you she is the daughter of a serial killer. Kaely changed her name and joined the FBI. She has an imaginary friend named Georgie. She looks to God in her life.
Kaely takes 2 weeks off work to visit her mother in Nebrasks who has cancer. While she's there, an arsonist takes aim at the town and Kaely becomes unofficially involved.
Kaely searches deep within herself and asks for God's guidance in healing the rift between herself, her mother and her brother. Her relationship with fellow FBI agent Noah Hunter deepens. This author's style is to line up a bunch of red herrings and then allow Kaely to use her uncanny ability to put together the truth. This one didn't end as I expected.
Kaely takes 2 weeks off work to visit her mother in Nebrasks who has cancer. While she's there, an arsonist takes aim at the town and Kaely becomes unofficially involved.
Kaely searches deep within herself and asks for God's guidance in healing the rift between herself, her mother and her brother. Her relationship with fellow FBI agent Noah Hunter deepens. This author's style is to line up a bunch of red herrings and then allow Kaely to use her uncanny ability to put together the truth. This one didn't end as I expected.
July 8, 2019
An intense, thrilling suspense novel by Nancy Mehl. Fire Storm can be read as a stand alone novel, but readers who want to understand more about Kaely Quinn’s background will definitely want to read book one in the series, Mind Games, first. The romance thread in this book is very light, and the storyline focuses primarily on Kaely’s job as a profiler and finding out who is the serial arsonist. The clues dropped throughout the novel all make sense once the arsonist’s true identity is revealed. An enjoyable read!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.
August 22, 2019
This is a good thriller but not Mehl's best. This is also the first novel I've read featuring Kaely Quinn. I found her conjuring up characters to talk to a little disconcerting. I know some of us had imaginary friends in childhood but to have one as an adult is quite odd. I would rather that Quinn talk to the Holy Spirit to obtain information about villains.
I also had some trouble in the end believing the final points of the plot and the people involved. Some of the characters were not who we readers thought them to be and it seemed a bit unrealistic that so many were fooled by them. Also, the very end, well, I felt the set-up was just too unrealistic.
Mehl's character development of Quinn is done well. She is a good FBI agent because of events in her childhood. Her character is a good model of one currently being driven by events from the past. Readers will find other characters with the same motivation. That part of the plot would be good for discussion.
While I don't think this is Mehl's best novel, I do like her writing style and will look for more from her. I may skip any more in the Kaely Quinn series as I personally don't like the character.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
I also had some trouble in the end believing the final points of the plot and the people involved. Some of the characters were not who we readers thought them to be and it seemed a bit unrealistic that so many were fooled by them. Also, the very end, well, I felt the set-up was just too unrealistic.
Mehl's character development of Quinn is done well. She is a good FBI agent because of events in her childhood. Her character is a good model of one currently being driven by events from the past. Readers will find other characters with the same motivation. That part of the plot would be good for discussion.
While I don't think this is Mehl's best novel, I do like her writing style and will look for more from her. I may skip any more in the Kaely Quinn series as I personally don't like the character.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
February 9, 2020
Kaely Quinn has returned to Darkwater, Nebraska to help her brother care for her mother who is being treated for cancer. When she arrives, she finds that the town has experienced a series of fires. The fire chief blames it on space heaters, but as an FBI profiler Kaely sees a pattern and believes there is a arsonist at work.
I enjoyed the suspense in this novel as well as the numerous twists and turns. I had a suspicion who the arsonist was but the twist that appeared at the very end was definitely a shocker. The romance played a backseat to the suspense which I appreciated. But I still was bothered by how Kaely figures out what is happening especially since she claims she is a Christian which led me to give it a 4 rather than a 5.
I enjoyed the suspense in this novel as well as the numerous twists and turns. I had a suspicion who the arsonist was but the twist that appeared at the very end was definitely a shocker. The romance played a backseat to the suspense which I appreciated. But I still was bothered by how Kaely figures out what is happening especially since she claims she is a Christian which led me to give it a 4 rather than a 5.
May 26, 2024
In the second installment of the Kaely Quinn Profiler series, Kaely heads to Nebraska to be with her mother who is sick. While there she notices there are several suspicious fires going on in the town of Dark Water. Soon Noah is down to help investigate to see what’s going on.
I will say only one thing really bothered me when it came to this book. Where was the state fire marshals? I have a friend who is a Kansas fire marshal so I know that whenever there are that many fires in one town or if there is a death in a fire, she is dispatched. I think but I will have to ask her, but whenever there is a structure fire, a fire marshal comes out to investigate. But I’m not sure on that last part.
Other than this, I loved the story. I loved the suspense. Now the plot twist I’m not really sure about. The twists the was behind the fires was wild. It is a bit hard to believe. Then the ending… What is going to happen between Noah and Kaely? The cliffhanger was insane. Thankfully I have the third book on audible.
I will say only one thing really bothered me when it came to this book. Where was the state fire marshals? I have a friend who is a Kansas fire marshal so I know that whenever there are that many fires in one town or if there is a death in a fire, she is dispatched. I think but I will have to ask her, but whenever there is a structure fire, a fire marshal comes out to investigate. But I’m not sure on that last part.
Other than this, I loved the story. I loved the suspense. Now the plot twist I’m not really sure about. The twists the was behind the fires was wild. It is a bit hard to believe. Then the ending… What is going to happen between Noah and Kaely? The cliffhanger was insane. Thankfully I have the third book on audible.
October 7, 2020
While I liked this book, I don't think it was quite as strong as the first book in the series. (Side note, I now wonder if books can suffer from 'middle child syndrome' . . . this is not the first time I've noticed that the 2nd book in a trilogy isn't as strong as the first or third books in the series. An interesting thing to ponder.)
That said, I was pulled into the story of Kaely trying to help the town of Darkwater figure out if there was an arsonist targeting the town. I also enjoyed getting to know more of her family situation as she interacted with both her brother and mother in this book.
I don't know that her method of profiling suspects bothered me all that much in the first novel, but it definitely left me feeling unsettled in this book. I also wish there had been a slightly stronger Christian message/thread in the book as well.
That said, I was pulled into the story of Kaely trying to help the town of Darkwater figure out if there was an arsonist targeting the town. I also enjoyed getting to know more of her family situation as she interacted with both her brother and mother in this book.
I don't know that her method of profiling suspects bothered me all that much in the first novel, but it definitely left me feeling unsettled in this book. I also wish there had been a slightly stronger Christian message/thread in the book as well.
October 28, 2020
This was my first book by Nancy Mehl, and it felt very authentic to me. She did her research, she made the characters super unique, and she added a twist I didn't see coming.
August 6, 2019
Fire Storm is the second book in the Kaely Quinn Profiler series by Nancy Mehl.
First of all, the cover is stunning. It shows a house partially burned in the snow with embers floating down in the foreground.
This book can be read as a stand alone but it it best read after Mind Games, book one in the series.
Her brother, Jason, has asked Kaely Quinn to visit her estranged mother in a seemingly quiet Nebraska town. She soon discovers that an arsonist is on the loose in Darkwater. She is intrigued enough to ask her partner in the FBI, Noah Hunter, to join her to check it out.
Kaely uses unconventional methods to profile criminals. The point is, she gets results! A profiler typically gets into a criminal’s head. In Kaely’s case, she lets them get into hers! But just how this is accomplished is Kaely Quinn’s secret. Something that haunts Kaely is if this method is God’s will for her.
Why is this firebug targeting a small town in the middle of winter? This is a thrilling, nonstop, but carefully crafted story. There are several possible suspects and each one is plausible. I guessed three different perpetrators but I didn’t see the real end coming! We also get to delve a little more into the mind of Kaely Quinn as a person and as a profiler. There was a hint of romantic interest with more room for it to develop in book three, which I look forward to eagerly. We also observe family relationships with Kaely’s mother and brother as well as her work relationship with her partner.
If you enjoy unique, puzzling suspense novels, pick up books one and two of this series by Nancy
Mehl.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher on behalf of the author. I was under no obligation to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
First of all, the cover is stunning. It shows a house partially burned in the snow with embers floating down in the foreground.
This book can be read as a stand alone but it it best read after Mind Games, book one in the series.
Her brother, Jason, has asked Kaely Quinn to visit her estranged mother in a seemingly quiet Nebraska town. She soon discovers that an arsonist is on the loose in Darkwater. She is intrigued enough to ask her partner in the FBI, Noah Hunter, to join her to check it out.
Kaely uses unconventional methods to profile criminals. The point is, she gets results! A profiler typically gets into a criminal’s head. In Kaely’s case, she lets them get into hers! But just how this is accomplished is Kaely Quinn’s secret. Something that haunts Kaely is if this method is God’s will for her.
Why is this firebug targeting a small town in the middle of winter? This is a thrilling, nonstop, but carefully crafted story. There are several possible suspects and each one is plausible. I guessed three different perpetrators but I didn’t see the real end coming! We also get to delve a little more into the mind of Kaely Quinn as a person and as a profiler. There was a hint of romantic interest with more room for it to develop in book three, which I look forward to eagerly. We also observe family relationships with Kaely’s mother and brother as well as her work relationship with her partner.
If you enjoy unique, puzzling suspense novels, pick up books one and two of this series by Nancy
Mehl.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher on behalf of the author. I was under no obligation to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
September 2, 2019
Nancy Mehl is back with Kaely Quinn Profiler series and let me tell ya! It was well worth the wait for this one. Once again, Mehl brings her characters to a fantastic setting and a gripping plot line filled with perfectly chiseled characters.
As a daughter of a cancer survivor, I really felt like I connected with Kaely so much in this novel. As the wife of a firefighter, the story line really hit home with me. The intensity of the suspense is incredible. Learning of each fire with Kaely, learning of the reasoning behind them, was fast paced, gripping and had me turning the pages long into the night.
The way that Kaely faced all of this investigation and seeing her interact with her partner, Noah, was really captivating. I felt like I was in the middle of the story, help them with their investigation of who's doing what and why. That is an awesome feeling when you get to be that close to the book.
If you want a story that is filled with messages of trust, understanding, letting go and facing the future with an understanding of hope, love, and renewal, then this story is for you. If you want a 4 star novel that is intense, fast paced, and filled with awesome characters that will become a part of you, then look no further. This is a perfect addition to Kaely's story and I am absolutely looking forward to book 3! Well done, Mehl. Well done!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
As a daughter of a cancer survivor, I really felt like I connected with Kaely so much in this novel. As the wife of a firefighter, the story line really hit home with me. The intensity of the suspense is incredible. Learning of each fire with Kaely, learning of the reasoning behind them, was fast paced, gripping and had me turning the pages long into the night.
The way that Kaely faced all of this investigation and seeing her interact with her partner, Noah, was really captivating. I felt like I was in the middle of the story, help them with their investigation of who's doing what and why. That is an awesome feeling when you get to be that close to the book.
If you want a story that is filled with messages of trust, understanding, letting go and facing the future with an understanding of hope, love, and renewal, then this story is for you. If you want a 4 star novel that is intense, fast paced, and filled with awesome characters that will become a part of you, then look no further. This is a perfect addition to Kaely's story and I am absolutely looking forward to book 3! Well done, Mehl. Well done!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
November 10, 2019
First off, I have to say that I am in LOVE with the cover of the book. It has to be one of the best covers I have admired in a while with the blues and the flickers of the embers from the fires - works amazingly. If you are in the mood for an edgy Christian fiction novel, then you will enjoy Nancy Mehl's Kaely Quinn series. Kaely Quinn is a profiler for the FBI's BAU unit but she is known when she is back home as Jessie - the daughter of a famous serial killer known as The Raggedy Man. Hurt by her father's actions and confused, Kaely threw herself into learning everything about why serial killers tick and became one of the best profilers around. Due to her upbringing though, Kaely and her mother became estranged from one another. Now her mother is sick and dying and Kaely's older brother Jason has called her to come home to DarkWater to say her goodbyes and be with her mother before she goes. When Kaely arrives though, she has arrived during what seems like random fires from space heaters. Kaely, however, can see a pattern and believes the smalltown of DarkWater has an arsonist on their hands. As the book goes along, we see that the fires were connected to two major incidents and tragedies that happened in the town eighteen years ago. However, nobody has managed to put things together until Kaely arrived and now Kaely has put herself in dangers way once again. Can Kaely make it alive out of Fire Storm or will she lose another FBI partner with her decisions? Find out in Fire Storm - Book #2 in the Kaely Quinn Profiler series by Nancy Mehl. After finishing Book # 2, it has now made me want to go back and read Book #1 - Mind Games. Each book though can be read as a stand-alone story as focuses on a different case.
August 14, 2019
Having met FBI Profiler Kaely Quinn in Mind Games (#1 in Kaely Quinn FI Profiler series) created by author, Nancy Mehl, it was nice to read of her mental strategy to profile and work through the mind boggling atrocities that have befallen a small town in Nebraska.
Her own personal life and family connections are severely strained and convoluted; but faced with her mother's fight against cancer, she tries to overcome past hurts and disappointments to meet the needs of family.
Fire Storm while a good stand-alone read, would be better enjoyed and understood if the reader has first read book #1 in the series, Mind Games.
The author's talent for fleshing out her characters and balancing descriptions and dialogue allows for a thoroughly engaging suspense read. The realist development of emotionally or mentally flawed characters gives the reader a glimpse into the world of the criminal mind or the mind that evil has gained control.
This is good clean, Christian fiction that is not overly heavy with preaching or theology. Just good clean reading about believable individuals in a flawed world.
I highly recommend this series.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.
Her own personal life and family connections are severely strained and convoluted; but faced with her mother's fight against cancer, she tries to overcome past hurts and disappointments to meet the needs of family.
Fire Storm while a good stand-alone read, would be better enjoyed and understood if the reader has first read book #1 in the series, Mind Games.
The author's talent for fleshing out her characters and balancing descriptions and dialogue allows for a thoroughly engaging suspense read. The realist development of emotionally or mentally flawed characters gives the reader a glimpse into the world of the criminal mind or the mind that evil has gained control.
This is good clean, Christian fiction that is not overly heavy with preaching or theology. Just good clean reading about believable individuals in a flawed world.
I highly recommend this series.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.
July 29, 2019
5 star
This book is utterly absorbing. I picked it up and absolutely could not put it down. I love the character of Kaely. She is an FBI behavioral analyst who is haunted by her past yet trying desperately to forge a future and reconnect with her mother. I adore the character of Noah Hunter, Kaely’s partner. He is witty and sassy and a perfect counterpoint to Kaely’s darker personality.
I thought I had the mystery all figured out, but I was wrong but so close! The ending was fantastic even if it was a tad abrupt. I cannot believe this is only the second Nancy Mehl book I have read. I need to go looking for more. Mehl writes characters I instantly connect to, identify with and want to read more about their lives.
I cannot wait for book three in this series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. The views given are my own. #Firestorm #NetGalley #NancyMehl
This book is utterly absorbing. I picked it up and absolutely could not put it down. I love the character of Kaely. She is an FBI behavioral analyst who is haunted by her past yet trying desperately to forge a future and reconnect with her mother. I adore the character of Noah Hunter, Kaely’s partner. He is witty and sassy and a perfect counterpoint to Kaely’s darker personality.
I thought I had the mystery all figured out, but I was wrong but so close! The ending was fantastic even if it was a tad abrupt. I cannot believe this is only the second Nancy Mehl book I have read. I need to go looking for more. Mehl writes characters I instantly connect to, identify with and want to read more about their lives.
I cannot wait for book three in this series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. The views given are my own. #Firestorm #NetGalley #NancyMehl
October 26, 2021
Oh my gosh! I loved the second installment just as much as the first one. I think Noah is such a sweet character and I hope that he gets a happy ending.
January 1, 2025
So good! It left me on a cliff hanger and I’m ready to read book three!!!
August 31, 2019
Another fantastic book in the series! Can’t wait for number three!!!
September 14, 2019
Fire Storm is the second book in Nancy Mehl’s Kaely Quinn Profiler series.
Mind Games introduced us to Kaely Quinn, daughter of a notorious serial killer and now a talented FBI profiler specialising in profiling and catching serial killers. But she’s a damaged person, and most of her colleagues find it difficult to work with her and her unconventional methods.
In Fire Storm, Kaely’s mother is dying of cancer, and her brother has persuaded her to visit their mother in her new hometown of Darkwater, Nebraska. Kaely and her mother don’t have the best of relationships, as her mother basically checked out of motherhood when she found out her husband was a serial killer. In Marcie’s defence, I can’t say I’d be all rainbows and unicorns if I found I was married to a serial killer and had two children with him.
But Kaely hasn’t even arrived at Marcie’s house before she discovers all is not well in the town of Darkwater. There have been a few recent fires, which the fire chief says were caused by cheap space heaters. But Kaely immediately sees a pattern in the locations.
Kaely believes there is a serial arsonist at work.
It’s not a spoiler to say that the fire chief doesn’t believe her … and that the fire chief is wrong. Kaely’s challenge is to get the fire chief or police or FBI to believe her before there are more fires and more people die.
I have to say that the first chapter of Fire Storm isn’t gripping (although the Prologue certainly was). Chapter one has a lot of backstory, describing Kaely’s history and her personal problems. As such, those who haven’t read Mind Games will have no trouble picking up Fire Storm. (Those who have read Mind Games may well find themselves skimming this first chapter).
But the story soon picks up, and turns into a white-knuckle ride with lots of twists and turns.
There’s plenty of conflict in the arson story, and there’s also plenty of conflict at home. Kaely and her mother have never been close, which provides an added layer. And there’s the nice vet and volunteer fireman next door to consider.
I found Fire Storm a quick and fact-paced read, perfect for any time when you’re worried your nails might be getting too long. Recommended for fans of Carrie Stuart Parks, Terri Blackstock, and other Christian thriller authors.
Thanks to Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
Mind Games introduced us to Kaely Quinn, daughter of a notorious serial killer and now a talented FBI profiler specialising in profiling and catching serial killers. But she’s a damaged person, and most of her colleagues find it difficult to work with her and her unconventional methods.
In Fire Storm, Kaely’s mother is dying of cancer, and her brother has persuaded her to visit their mother in her new hometown of Darkwater, Nebraska. Kaely and her mother don’t have the best of relationships, as her mother basically checked out of motherhood when she found out her husband was a serial killer. In Marcie’s defence, I can’t say I’d be all rainbows and unicorns if I found I was married to a serial killer and had two children with him.
But Kaely hasn’t even arrived at Marcie’s house before she discovers all is not well in the town of Darkwater. There have been a few recent fires, which the fire chief says were caused by cheap space heaters. But Kaely immediately sees a pattern in the locations.
Kaely believes there is a serial arsonist at work.
It’s not a spoiler to say that the fire chief doesn’t believe her … and that the fire chief is wrong. Kaely’s challenge is to get the fire chief or police or FBI to believe her before there are more fires and more people die.
I have to say that the first chapter of Fire Storm isn’t gripping (although the Prologue certainly was). Chapter one has a lot of backstory, describing Kaely’s history and her personal problems. As such, those who haven’t read Mind Games will have no trouble picking up Fire Storm. (Those who have read Mind Games may well find themselves skimming this first chapter).
But the story soon picks up, and turns into a white-knuckle ride with lots of twists and turns.
There’s plenty of conflict in the arson story, and there’s also plenty of conflict at home. Kaely and her mother have never been close, which provides an added layer. And there’s the nice vet and volunteer fireman next door to consider.
I found Fire Storm a quick and fact-paced read, perfect for any time when you’re worried your nails might be getting too long. Recommended for fans of Carrie Stuart Parks, Terri Blackstock, and other Christian thriller authors.
Thanks to Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
June 13, 2019
3.5 stars for this suspense novel by Nancy Mehl. This is book 2 in the Kaely Quinn Profiler series. This book stands alone and reading book 1 is not necessary (nor is book 1 spoiled at all in this book, other than eliminating a suspect), but I would recommend it to get the full story behind the family dynamics in this one. In book 1, we learn that Kaely is the daughter of a renowned serial killer. She has changed her name and become a behavioral analyst with the FBI so that she can catch monsters like her father and lock them away. In book 1, someone was out to make her pay for her father's sins. Here in book 2, we see a bit more of the broken family her father left in his wake. Kaely's mother is sick and her brother has been taking care of things, but he finally calls on Kaely because he needs help. Upon arrival, Kaely gets swept into a suspicious string of arsons, and can't help but try to solve the case.
This book had a good story-line, an intense villain, family drama, and even a little bit of a hint of romance. My reason for not giving it 4 or 5 stars was that some of the conversations were stilted and some of the writing felt a bit "choppy" to me. Not drastic, but it just didn't flow as well as some other books I've enjoyed. Also, there were a lot of people downplaying what I thought as a perfectly plausible theory and calling it insane. And there was a lot of repetition of that particular conversation. But, in spite of that, it was an overall good book. There was also an underlying theme of letting go and forgiveness. I would recommend to those who enjoy inspirational suspense and mystery.
Special thanks to NetGalley and Bethany House publishers for an advanced E-copy of this book. I was not required to write a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
This book had a good story-line, an intense villain, family drama, and even a little bit of a hint of romance. My reason for not giving it 4 or 5 stars was that some of the conversations were stilted and some of the writing felt a bit "choppy" to me. Not drastic, but it just didn't flow as well as some other books I've enjoyed. Also, there were a lot of people downplaying what I thought as a perfectly plausible theory and calling it insane. And there was a lot of repetition of that particular conversation. But, in spite of that, it was an overall good book. There was also an underlying theme of letting go and forgiveness. I would recommend to those who enjoy inspirational suspense and mystery.
Special thanks to NetGalley and Bethany House publishers for an advanced E-copy of this book. I was not required to write a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
September 30, 2019
This is the second book in the Kaely Quinn Profiler series but though the author does a great job of making sure Fire Storm can be read as a standalone, I really think you'll get so much more from it if you read Mind Games first. And that's because Kaely is such an unusual heroine with a gobsmackingly astonishing backstory. Sometimes she can come off as abrupt or uncaring and downright strange but to know her is to love her -- quirks and all.
In this story, we get a glimpse into the dysfunction of the Quinn family. Having a serial killer for a husband and father has created diverse coping strategies in Kaely, her brother and her mother and the way they relate to one another. I loved the raw, honest look inside this fractured family and the way the author brings restitution to all that brokenness. And Kaely's continued faith journey leads her to some deep insights into her own behaviours, giving her the courage to take a leap of trust with Noah. Even if it comes as a bit of a cliffhanger. :-)
This is the kind of series where the romance takes a very slow build through the course of all three books. It's agonizing to wait and wonder but the thrill of anticipation brings quite the kick too. Can't wait for Dead End to release in March 2020 so I can see if all my hopes and dreams for Kaely and Noah will be fulfilled! I'm on romantical tenterhooks!
Aptly titled, Fire Storm deals with a serial arsonist who grows more daring with each fire. Kaely just happens to be in the right place at the right time and notices a pattern which hurls her headlong into a complicated case with eerie undertones. Think creepy -- not as over the top as Criminal Minds (which I can't bear to watch) but eerie enough to play havoc with a sensitive reader's overactive imagination. Cue the delicious shivery chills and you might want to indulge in some comfort chocolate and possibly a canine companion for this read!
In this story, we get a glimpse into the dysfunction of the Quinn family. Having a serial killer for a husband and father has created diverse coping strategies in Kaely, her brother and her mother and the way they relate to one another. I loved the raw, honest look inside this fractured family and the way the author brings restitution to all that brokenness. And Kaely's continued faith journey leads her to some deep insights into her own behaviours, giving her the courage to take a leap of trust with Noah. Even if it comes as a bit of a cliffhanger. :-)
This is the kind of series where the romance takes a very slow build through the course of all three books. It's agonizing to wait and wonder but the thrill of anticipation brings quite the kick too. Can't wait for Dead End to release in March 2020 so I can see if all my hopes and dreams for Kaely and Noah will be fulfilled! I'm on romantical tenterhooks!
Aptly titled, Fire Storm deals with a serial arsonist who grows more daring with each fire. Kaely just happens to be in the right place at the right time and notices a pattern which hurls her headlong into a complicated case with eerie undertones. Think creepy -- not as over the top as Criminal Minds (which I can't bear to watch) but eerie enough to play havoc with a sensitive reader's overactive imagination. Cue the delicious shivery chills and you might want to indulge in some comfort chocolate and possibly a canine companion for this read!
July 26, 2023
Kaely odchádza do mesta Darkwater v Nebraske za chorou matkou,aby sa o ňu spoločne s bratom Jasonom postarali a obnovili dávno zničené rodinné vzťahy.
Do mesta síce neprichádza pracovne, lenže požiare domov, ktoré v poslednom čase obyvateľov ohrozujú,jej nedajú spávať. Začne v nich objavovať vzorce a jej profilérske schopnosti sa opäť naplno prejavujú.
Kaely mala pri príchode v pláne zblížiť sa s matkou,ale ten jej narušil sériový podpaľač.
Onedlho sa ku nej pripojí aj jej partner z FBI Noah Hunter,s ktorým pracujú spolu v St.Louis. Oficiálne sú poverení pracovať na prípade s drogami pre miestnu FBI,no majú tým pádom možnosť pracovať aj na prípade podpaľača.
Podozrivích je opäť priveľa,Kaely niečo zásadné uniká a jej technika profilovania jej nevychádza. Kto stojí za požiarmi a aký má motív?
Knihu som si opäť užila. Kaely som si obľúbila už v prvej časti, takže na ďalší prípad s ňou som sa veľmi tešila.
Za mňa pútavé čítanie plné napätia so skvelým zvratom a rozuzlením na konci.
Túto sériu Vám jednoznačne odporúčam.
Do mesta síce neprichádza pracovne, lenže požiare domov, ktoré v poslednom čase obyvateľov ohrozujú,jej nedajú spávať. Začne v nich objavovať vzorce a jej profilérske schopnosti sa opäť naplno prejavujú.
Kaely mala pri príchode v pláne zblížiť sa s matkou,ale ten jej narušil sériový podpaľač.
Onedlho sa ku nej pripojí aj jej partner z FBI Noah Hunter,s ktorým pracujú spolu v St.Louis. Oficiálne sú poverení pracovať na prípade s drogami pre miestnu FBI,no majú tým pádom možnosť pracovať aj na prípade podpaľača.
Podozrivích je opäť priveľa,Kaely niečo zásadné uniká a jej technika profilovania jej nevychádza. Kto stojí za požiarmi a aký má motív?
Knihu som si opäť užila. Kaely som si obľúbila už v prvej časti, takže na ďalší prípad s ňou som sa veľmi tešila.
Za mňa pútavé čítanie plné napätia so skvelým zvratom a rozuzlením na konci.
Túto sériu Vám jednoznačne odporúčam.
February 5, 2020
I enjoyed this second installment at least as much as the first. Here's the odd thing: although I find Kaely extremely selfish, she's so oblivious to her self-centeredness that even though I called her out while listening to the audiobook, I didn't like her any less.
Her brother has to be a saint. He's moved his wedding twice, left behind his home, business, and financee to care for their mother. Then Kaely shows up to relive him and promptly leaves all the care to him. And he's only mildly irritated.
Enough about Kaely, who is an intriguing character. The mystery here kept me guessing, and I only figured it out shortly before the big reveal. I was a little disappointed that Kaely's partner/love interest remained pretty much sidelined the entire book, but hopefully we'll see more of him in the next novel.
Fire Storm is a good choice for a fast-paced contemporary suspense/mystery novel.
Her brother has to be a saint. He's moved his wedding twice, left behind his home, business, and financee to care for their mother. Then Kaely shows up to relive him and promptly leaves all the care to him. And he's only mildly irritated.
Enough about Kaely, who is an intriguing character. The mystery here kept me guessing, and I only figured it out shortly before the big reveal. I was a little disappointed that Kaely's partner/love interest remained pretty much sidelined the entire book, but hopefully we'll see more of him in the next novel.
Fire Storm is a good choice for a fast-paced contemporary suspense/mystery novel.
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