What do you think?
Rate this book
Heroes of the Tundra #1
Northern Deception
Reunions can be deadly. After a savage attack in university, Kira Summers fled to the safety of northern Canada and her work as a polar bear scientist. But when her whistleblower brother dies in a mysterious car crash, she must return home to bury him and pack his belongings. Unaware she's carrying explosive evidence someone's willing to kill for, she has no choice but to rely on the one person she never thought she'd see again.
Lukas Tanner, a widowed single father of a special needs toddler, moved to Churchill five years ago. As the proud owner of Guiding Star Enterprises, a wilderness tour company, he and his daughter lead a simple life. But when Kira comes crashing back into his world, he realizes God has other plans. Now, Lukas and Kira must confront a merciless killer as their past and present collide in a deadly race--a race they must win if they have any hope of a future together.
Lukas Tanner, a widowed single father of a special needs toddler, moved to Churchill five years ago. As the proud owner of Guiding Star Enterprises, a wilderness tour company, he and his daughter lead a simple life. But when Kira comes crashing back into his world, he realizes God has other plans. Now, Lukas and Kira must confront a merciless killer as their past and present collide in a deadly race--a race they must win if they have any hope of a future together.
248 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2018
About the author
Laurie Wood
12 books128 followersLaurie Wood has followed her RCAF serving husband across Canada, raising their two special needs children to adulthood, and "keeping the home fires burning" while she began her writing career. She's a member of Sisters in Crime International and Canada West as well as the Faith, Hope, & Love Christian Fiction Writers. She writes romantic suspense and police/mystery novels.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
December 16, 2018
4.5 stars
Wow! Buckle up (and bundle up!) for Northern Deception, Laurie Wood’s debut novel. A fast, high-stakes pace reminds me of a Love Inspired Suspense novel, with edge-of-your-seat action from the beginning right through to nearly the end. The Canadian tundra setting is vividly drawn and carries the perfect mixture of awe and fear, from the breathtaking beauty readers can easily visualize to the stark cold and rogue polar bears that are roaming about town, wreaking havoc. Wood masterfully captures this range of emotions without over-detailing the scenes yet still sending readers’ hearts into their throats as a polar bear ambles by within a hair’s breadth or gunshots burst out again (also too close for comfort).
Reunited first loves Lukas and Kira are thrust together in a race for their lives, dodging bullets and polar bears and bombs … and emotional baggage that’s had years to accumulate between them. I loved watching their chemistry & attraction resurface in the calmer moments – as well as the depths of their emotions in the moments they weren’t sure they’d survive. Sweet little Sophie, Lukas’ special needs toddler, wrapped herself around my heart from her first scene, and her interactions with both Lukas and Kira are just precious. Ruby is another solid supporting character who I’d like to spend more time with in future books.
Bottom Line: The thrilling ride that is Northern Deception captures readers from the first word and keeps them riveted throughout the remainder of the story. Non-stop action, stunning twists and chilling suspense (quite literally) combine seamlessly with a sweet second-chance romance and poignant reflections on faith. Wood has skillfully created layered characters and a vivid setting, and I look forward to more books from her in the near future!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
Wow! Buckle up (and bundle up!) for Northern Deception, Laurie Wood’s debut novel. A fast, high-stakes pace reminds me of a Love Inspired Suspense novel, with edge-of-your-seat action from the beginning right through to nearly the end. The Canadian tundra setting is vividly drawn and carries the perfect mixture of awe and fear, from the breathtaking beauty readers can easily visualize to the stark cold and rogue polar bears that are roaming about town, wreaking havoc. Wood masterfully captures this range of emotions without over-detailing the scenes yet still sending readers’ hearts into their throats as a polar bear ambles by within a hair’s breadth or gunshots burst out again (also too close for comfort).
Reunited first loves Lukas and Kira are thrust together in a race for their lives, dodging bullets and polar bears and bombs … and emotional baggage that’s had years to accumulate between them. I loved watching their chemistry & attraction resurface in the calmer moments – as well as the depths of their emotions in the moments they weren’t sure they’d survive. Sweet little Sophie, Lukas’ special needs toddler, wrapped herself around my heart from her first scene, and her interactions with both Lukas and Kira are just precious. Ruby is another solid supporting character who I’d like to spend more time with in future books.
Bottom Line: The thrilling ride that is Northern Deception captures readers from the first word and keeps them riveted throughout the remainder of the story. Non-stop action, stunning twists and chilling suspense (quite literally) combine seamlessly with a sweet second-chance romance and poignant reflections on faith. Wood has skillfully created layered characters and a vivid setting, and I look forward to more books from her in the near future!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
December 5, 2018
4.5 Star Debut
Debut author Laurie Wood transports readers to the barren and dangerous Canadian tundra while delivering a story that doesn’t let up from the first page to the final one.
Kira and Lukas have a history—first loves who never spoke again after Kira walked away five years ago. With the death of her brother, their paths cross again. As Kira finds herself fighting for her life—multiple times—Lukas is determined to protect her (and his own heart). The elements, rogue polar bears, and more challenge them both.
Add in proximity, Lukas’s adorable daughter you can’t help but love, and lots of sizzle between this one-time couple, and Wood’s debut is impressive
Great character development, intense action, and the unique setting make Northern Deception a debut you don’t want to miss.
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Debut author Laurie Wood transports readers to the barren and dangerous Canadian tundra while delivering a story that doesn’t let up from the first page to the final one.
Kira and Lukas have a history—first loves who never spoke again after Kira walked away five years ago. With the death of her brother, their paths cross again. As Kira finds herself fighting for her life—multiple times—Lukas is determined to protect her (and his own heart). The elements, rogue polar bears, and more challenge them both.
Add in proximity, Lukas’s adorable daughter you can’t help but love, and lots of sizzle between this one-time couple, and Wood’s debut is impressive
Great character development, intense action, and the unique setting make Northern Deception a debut you don’t want to miss.
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
January 26, 2019
"Where are you, God? Why have you stripped me of everyone I've ever loved? Why am I alone?"
Trying to make sense of her life again after the questionable death of her brother, polar bear scientist Kira Summers returns to northern Canada in order to continue her research. It becomes apparent that whoever killed her sibling has struck a vendetta against her as well, for shortly after arriving back at the Arctic Science Research Centre, she narrowly escapes a vicious attempt on her life. Adding to her confusion is the reappearance of her first love, Lukas Tanner, who along with his young daughter, is living just miles away from Kira's research laboratory.
The chase is on . . . .to find answers and to discover just who is behind a ten million dollar "northern deception"! Can Kira and Lucas untangle their hearts at the same time?
Trying to make sense of her life again after the questionable death of her brother, polar bear scientist Kira Summers returns to northern Canada in order to continue her research. It becomes apparent that whoever killed her sibling has struck a vendetta against her as well, for shortly after arriving back at the Arctic Science Research Centre, she narrowly escapes a vicious attempt on her life. Adding to her confusion is the reappearance of her first love, Lukas Tanner, who along with his young daughter, is living just miles away from Kira's research laboratory.
The chase is on . . . .to find answers and to discover just who is behind a ten million dollar "northern deception"! Can Kira and Lucas untangle their hearts at the same time?
December 7, 2018
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
This is a clean romance read with some Christian themes throughout the book. Kira Summers makes her home in Northern Canada and she works as a polar bear scientist. On the other hand Lukas Tanner moves to Churchill and works at his own Guiding Star Enterprises, giving tour guides throughout the snowy land of Canada. Even though Lukas has been there for five years, he and Kira’s paths have never crossed.
Lukas and Kira has a past outside of Nothern Canada, there is some background as to what happened to pull them apart. But with Lukas now a free man raising his daughter and Kira unmarried as well, there is much room for attraction to climb between these two characters. I found Kira’s job interesting, I believe this is the first book I’ve read where a polar bear scientist is involved. There’s not a lot of detail about what the job consist of but it is interesting to read the details here. Then there is the thriller of who is after Kira and why is she a target? Could t be something her dead brother had that these people are looking for?
There is quite a bit of action going on here, several twists to the story that will have you wondering what is going on and the question of whodunnit! And you might just be surprised just who is behind all of the suspense! This debut novel is sure worth your read. Pick up this new thriller from new author Laurie Wood and have a seat for a few hours of thrills and chills!
I received this book from Prism Tours to read and review. 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 55.
This is a clean romance read with some Christian themes throughout the book. Kira Summers makes her home in Northern Canada and she works as a polar bear scientist. On the other hand Lukas Tanner moves to Churchill and works at his own Guiding Star Enterprises, giving tour guides throughout the snowy land of Canada. Even though Lukas has been there for five years, he and Kira’s paths have never crossed.
Lukas and Kira has a past outside of Nothern Canada, there is some background as to what happened to pull them apart. But with Lukas now a free man raising his daughter and Kira unmarried as well, there is much room for attraction to climb between these two characters. I found Kira’s job interesting, I believe this is the first book I’ve read where a polar bear scientist is involved. There’s not a lot of detail about what the job consist of but it is interesting to read the details here. Then there is the thriller of who is after Kira and why is she a target? Could t be something her dead brother had that these people are looking for?
There is quite a bit of action going on here, several twists to the story that will have you wondering what is going on and the question of whodunnit! And you might just be surprised just who is behind all of the suspense! This debut novel is sure worth your read. Pick up this new thriller from new author Laurie Wood and have a seat for a few hours of thrills and chills!
I received this book from Prism Tours to read and review. 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 55.
December 4, 2018
Laurie Wood's debut novel is a MUST READ. Whether you enjoy, suspense, romance, or even polar bears, you will love this book!
Kira studies polar bears and their migration habits, loves her job and is good at it. The research station where she works offers her a wonderful place to 'hide out' after a savage attack in her college days left her disillusioned about life and love.
Lukas leads a simple life running a wildlife tour company and caring for his special needs daughter, Sophie. He dated Kira in college, but hasn't seen her since the night he proposed and she ran away with no explanation.
Now, they are thrown together again when Kira's brother, also Lukas' best friend, is killed in an accident that may not be an accident. Attacks on Kira compel Lukas to protect her, but can he keep her safe when their very lives are threatened? And what to do about those old feelings that keep revealing themselves in new ways that are impossible to ignore?
This novel will live on in your thoughts long after that last page gets turned. You may even learn a few things about polar bears that will surprise you! I am eagerly anticipating Ms. Wood's next novel, certain it will be as thrilling and romantic as Northern Deception.
Kira studies polar bears and their migration habits, loves her job and is good at it. The research station where she works offers her a wonderful place to 'hide out' after a savage attack in her college days left her disillusioned about life and love.
Lukas leads a simple life running a wildlife tour company and caring for his special needs daughter, Sophie. He dated Kira in college, but hasn't seen her since the night he proposed and she ran away with no explanation.
Now, they are thrown together again when Kira's brother, also Lukas' best friend, is killed in an accident that may not be an accident. Attacks on Kira compel Lukas to protect her, but can he keep her safe when their very lives are threatened? And what to do about those old feelings that keep revealing themselves in new ways that are impossible to ignore?
This novel will live on in your thoughts long after that last page gets turned. You may even learn a few things about polar bears that will surprise you! I am eagerly anticipating Ms. Wood's next novel, certain it will be as thrilling and romantic as Northern Deception.
February 6, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know more about the Canadian Tundra and Churchill through the character's experiences in Northern Deception.
I pretty much put everything on hold and read this book straight through. What a fascinating setting and I enjoyed the suspense element of this book because it kept me guessing. Now I want to go dog sledding.
I love reunion stories and this one didn't disappoint. Kira and Lukas have a past they must deal with while they figure out who is trying to kill them.
Grab a cup of hot chocolate and snuggle up and enjoy this book!
I pretty much put everything on hold and read this book straight through. What a fascinating setting and I enjoyed the suspense element of this book because it kept me guessing. Now I want to go dog sledding.
I love reunion stories and this one didn't disappoint. Kira and Lukas have a past they must deal with while they figure out who is trying to kill them.
Grab a cup of hot chocolate and snuggle up and enjoy this book!
February 5, 2021
I had an elaborate meta-review planned to try and make my criticisms of Northern Deceptions kinder and gentler. About halfway through writing it, though, I got bored and a little annoyed with my desire to be nice.
Now, I do have a couple of nice things to say about Northern Deceptions and its author, Laurie Wood, and I will get to those, but first I have to say a couple of not so nice things.
Not So Nice Thing #1: the Underdevelopment -- Considering the depth of the corruption that lies at the heart of Wood's wannabe Corporate-thriller, there is nowhere near enough time or space given to developing the companies, the motives, the players, or ... really ... anything to do with the Corporate-thriller conflict. In fact, that entire conflict and all the plot threads it connects to could have been cut without harming the actual conflict: the will-they-won't-they love of Kira and Lukas. All of this thriller stuff that is supposed to make our protagonists "Heroes of the Tundra" is only necessary for the "heroes" part of that subtitle (and even that is dubious. Surely the natural landscape and the polar bears and the rape recovery sub-plot would have done the trick without stretching credulity). Ms. Wood either needed to chop all her thriller filler out, or take the time and dedicate the pages to making the thriller stuff the actual structure of her piece. Not doing either of these things is a big failure on her part and the part of her editors at Anaiah Press.
Not So Nice Thing #2: the Ridiculousness -- Churchill, where this book is set, is a small place. We're talking a population of 900 in far northern Manitoba. Yet when the smallest thing of note happens in Churchill, we, in the rest of Manitoba, are sure to hear about it right away. Big old unseasonal blizzard? We know. Missing child? We know. Polar bear attack? We know. Churchill is not a place where big things can happen and stay hidden. Yet in the span of a week in Laurie Wood time Churchill faces an arson and attempted murder at a Polar Bear Lab, a C4 explosion at the local eatery, a polar bear attack on their only RCMP officer, a shooting in the wilderness, a toxic waste dump in the midst of the polar bears' well known stomping grounds, a shoot-out in their Medical Centre (where, I should add, my partner works in real life), and a kidnapping / attempted murder. And all of the folks perpetrating these crimes are doing them to cover something up. Ummm ... sure.
Not So Nice Thing #3: the heavy Christianity -- Hey, I'm a recovering Catholic, so take my biases under advisement here, but even at the height of my devotion to the faith, I never thought the way Lukas and Kira think when Ms. Wood flips to italics and takes us into their heads. My partner was seriously Baptist (both her Uncle's were preachers for Christ's sake!), and she assures me that the thoughts going through their heads, even if I never experienced them, are common enough for the evangelicals among us -- I imagine Kirk Cameron would be able to play Lukas without too much trouble -- yet I found all the internal praying and apologies to god and begging for forgiveness to be both disruptive and out of proportion. There are few thoughts that come from our protagonists that aren't connected to god and faith, and surely, even for the most religious, the realistic ratio should have given us far less god-thought and far more personal feelings. And if I am wrong (and I admit I could be) what remains for me is that the thoughts of Lukas and Kira were just too far removed from my experience. I simply can't relate to their thoughts, and by the end of the novel it was driving me nuts.
Now for a Couple of Nice Things -- First: whatever problems Northern Deceptions has in terms of the realities of Churchill, it was really fun to have a book set in a place I know (however tangentially). No matter how annoying I found Northern Deceptions, I already have the next book in the series, simply because I am excited to see more of Churchill, even if it is a Churchill where the impossible happens on a regular basis.
Second: Laurie Wood has potential. She is not a terrible writer. She needs a better editor, or a more forceful editor, but she is readable, and that is nice to see.
I wish my two nice things were enough to make me give Northern Deceptions more than one star -- and you'd think I should since I've already bought its sequels and plan to keep reading the series -- but one star is all I can muster.
Unless you are from Manitoba and have a personal affinity for Churchill, or you are someone who is a devote Christian with more devotion than I ever had, I am pretty sure this book won't be for you, and if my one star keeps you from wasting your time then my conscience is clear. Besides ... I paid full price for Ms. Wood's books, so I have done my part to support our Manitoba authors.
Now, I do have a couple of nice things to say about Northern Deceptions and its author, Laurie Wood, and I will get to those, but first I have to say a couple of not so nice things.
Not So Nice Thing #1: the Underdevelopment -- Considering the depth of the corruption that lies at the heart of Wood's wannabe Corporate-thriller, there is nowhere near enough time or space given to developing the companies, the motives, the players, or ... really ... anything to do with the Corporate-thriller conflict. In fact, that entire conflict and all the plot threads it connects to could have been cut without harming the actual conflict: the will-they-won't-they love of Kira and Lukas. All of this thriller stuff that is supposed to make our protagonists "Heroes of the Tundra" is only necessary for the "heroes" part of that subtitle (and even that is dubious. Surely the natural landscape and the polar bears and the rape recovery sub-plot would have done the trick without stretching credulity). Ms. Wood either needed to chop all her thriller filler out, or take the time and dedicate the pages to making the thriller stuff the actual structure of her piece. Not doing either of these things is a big failure on her part and the part of her editors at Anaiah Press.
Not So Nice Thing #2: the Ridiculousness -- Churchill, where this book is set, is a small place. We're talking a population of 900 in far northern Manitoba. Yet when the smallest thing of note happens in Churchill, we, in the rest of Manitoba, are sure to hear about it right away. Big old unseasonal blizzard? We know. Missing child? We know. Polar bear attack? We know. Churchill is not a place where big things can happen and stay hidden. Yet in the span of a week in Laurie Wood time Churchill faces an arson and attempted murder at a Polar Bear Lab, a C4 explosion at the local eatery, a polar bear attack on their only RCMP officer, a shooting in the wilderness, a toxic waste dump in the midst of the polar bears' well known stomping grounds, a shoot-out in their Medical Centre (where, I should add, my partner works in real life), and a kidnapping / attempted murder. And all of the folks perpetrating these crimes are doing them to cover something up. Ummm ... sure.
Not So Nice Thing #3: the heavy Christianity -- Hey, I'm a recovering Catholic, so take my biases under advisement here, but even at the height of my devotion to the faith, I never thought the way Lukas and Kira think when Ms. Wood flips to italics and takes us into their heads. My partner was seriously Baptist (both her Uncle's were preachers for Christ's sake!), and she assures me that the thoughts going through their heads, even if I never experienced them, are common enough for the evangelicals among us -- I imagine Kirk Cameron would be able to play Lukas without too much trouble -- yet I found all the internal praying and apologies to god and begging for forgiveness to be both disruptive and out of proportion. There are few thoughts that come from our protagonists that aren't connected to god and faith, and surely, even for the most religious, the realistic ratio should have given us far less god-thought and far more personal feelings. And if I am wrong (and I admit I could be) what remains for me is that the thoughts of Lukas and Kira were just too far removed from my experience. I simply can't relate to their thoughts, and by the end of the novel it was driving me nuts.
Now for a Couple of Nice Things -- First: whatever problems Northern Deceptions has in terms of the realities of Churchill, it was really fun to have a book set in a place I know (however tangentially). No matter how annoying I found Northern Deceptions, I already have the next book in the series, simply because I am excited to see more of Churchill, even if it is a Churchill where the impossible happens on a regular basis.
Second: Laurie Wood has potential. She is not a terrible writer. She needs a better editor, or a more forceful editor, but she is readable, and that is nice to see.
I wish my two nice things were enough to make me give Northern Deceptions more than one star -- and you'd think I should since I've already bought its sequels and plan to keep reading the series -- but one star is all I can muster.
Unless you are from Manitoba and have a personal affinity for Churchill, or you are someone who is a devote Christian with more devotion than I ever had, I am pretty sure this book won't be for you, and if my one star keeps you from wasting your time then my conscience is clear. Besides ... I paid full price for Ms. Wood's books, so I have done my part to support our Manitoba authors.
August 21, 2020
Kira Summers returns home for her brother's funeral. The last person she expects to see is old flame, Lukas Tanner, especially as she ran from a restaurant five years ago after he'd proposed. She's never told him about the harrowing incident that made her leave. She's now working as a polar bear scientist and didn't know that Lukas had moved to Churchill, Manitoba, which isn't far from her research station. He's now a widower with a beautiful little Down Syndrome daughter, and runs a wilderness tourist venture. So many questions, but Kira isn't ready to chance her heart and tell him the truth about all those years ago.
It soon becomes clear that her brother had stumbled upon some important information that most likely got him killed. However, it seems the information has died with him. Kira's life is now in danger and it's a race against time to catch the culprits before more lives are lost. Kira and Lukas have to join forces to catch the bad guys, but is it too late for them as a couple?
I really enjoyed this debut novel from Canadian author Laurie Wood. I knew practically nothing about Churchill, Manitoba - the polar bear capital of the world. She really brought the setting to life and it's now towards the top of by bucket list. The main characters were likable, but still had issues to deal with, which made their story arc interesting. The action and suspense were really good, and the writing sparkled. The fact that Lukas had a child with Down Syndrome also added an extra dimension to the story, and showed the value of every person no matter what challenges they face. The faith issues were also dealt with sensitively.
A couple of the twists didn't really work for me, as I was able to work out who most of the bad guys were. But then I read a lot of mystery/suspense novels, so maybe I'm just suspicious. However, I enjoyed the novel as a whole and am looking forward to the next in the series.
If you enjoyed Dani Pettrey's Alaskan Courage series or Colleen Coble's romantic suspense novels, you'll enjoy this one.
It soon becomes clear that her brother had stumbled upon some important information that most likely got him killed. However, it seems the information has died with him. Kira's life is now in danger and it's a race against time to catch the culprits before more lives are lost. Kira and Lukas have to join forces to catch the bad guys, but is it too late for them as a couple?
I really enjoyed this debut novel from Canadian author Laurie Wood. I knew practically nothing about Churchill, Manitoba - the polar bear capital of the world. She really brought the setting to life and it's now towards the top of by bucket list. The main characters were likable, but still had issues to deal with, which made their story arc interesting. The action and suspense were really good, and the writing sparkled. The fact that Lukas had a child with Down Syndrome also added an extra dimension to the story, and showed the value of every person no matter what challenges they face. The faith issues were also dealt with sensitively.
A couple of the twists didn't really work for me, as I was able to work out who most of the bad guys were. But then I read a lot of mystery/suspense novels, so maybe I'm just suspicious. However, I enjoyed the novel as a whole and am looking forward to the next in the series.
If you enjoyed Dani Pettrey's Alaskan Courage series or Colleen Coble's romantic suspense novels, you'll enjoy this one.
November 29, 2018
A fast-paced story filled with exciting action as this couple’s safety is threatened....and strong romantic feelings between them are are rekindled!
When polar research scientist Kira Summers finds out her old boyfriend, arctic rover tour operator Lukas Tanner, lives in the same remote Canadian town, she finds her heart at risk again, as well as her life. Can Kira survive the threats and be given the second chance at love she wishes she could have?
NORTHERN DECEPTION is packed with heart-thrilling moments as Lukas tries to keep Kira safe. Author Laurie Wood knows how to create great suspense to keep us reading into the night. The tension escalated as I tried to figure out who was trying to harm Kira...and why. This book, with its interesting details, provided a fascinating virtual visit to the polar bear land of Churchill, Manitoba, Canada. I was shivering, not just from the freezing temperature, but also from fear of the huge northern bears. The characters were all believable, and I especially liked precious little Sophie. The romance between the couple is sweetly portrayed, with one of the absolutely cutest proposals I’ve ever read.....the perfect ending.
If you like romance with strong suspense elements and woven with threads of faith, I highly recommend NORTHERN DECEPTION. I’m counting on more great stories about Heroes of the Tundra from author Laurie Wood.
*I received a copy of this book with no requirement to write a review. I’m delighted to offer my honest opinion.
When polar research scientist Kira Summers finds out her old boyfriend, arctic rover tour operator Lukas Tanner, lives in the same remote Canadian town, she finds her heart at risk again, as well as her life. Can Kira survive the threats and be given the second chance at love she wishes she could have?
NORTHERN DECEPTION is packed with heart-thrilling moments as Lukas tries to keep Kira safe. Author Laurie Wood knows how to create great suspense to keep us reading into the night. The tension escalated as I tried to figure out who was trying to harm Kira...and why. This book, with its interesting details, provided a fascinating virtual visit to the polar bear land of Churchill, Manitoba, Canada. I was shivering, not just from the freezing temperature, but also from fear of the huge northern bears. The characters were all believable, and I especially liked precious little Sophie. The romance between the couple is sweetly portrayed, with one of the absolutely cutest proposals I’ve ever read.....the perfect ending.
If you like romance with strong suspense elements and woven with threads of faith, I highly recommend NORTHERN DECEPTION. I’m counting on more great stories about Heroes of the Tundra from author Laurie Wood.
*I received a copy of this book with no requirement to write a review. I’m delighted to offer my honest opinion.
March 29, 2021
This book had been on my reading list for months. I’m excited I finally got time to check it out. Laurie Wood does an excellent job. She balances clean romance with action/suspense and a decent nod to the environment. I don’t think I’ve ever read a fiction work, let alone a romance, that tackles global warming, polar bears, and human contributions to environmental issues. Bravo!
The plot was well executed. So many romances loose steam with lack of story line. Those books tend to only focus on the couple and forget that the world turns without them. This novel explored many different angles aside from the romance and that made it a thousand times more interesting. And a novel about Churchill? So difficult to find. I love polar bears and I love this series.
The plot was well executed. So many romances loose steam with lack of story line. Those books tend to only focus on the couple and forget that the world turns without them. This novel explored many different angles aside from the romance and that made it a thousand times more interesting. And a novel about Churchill? So difficult to find. I love polar bears and I love this series.
December 5, 2018
Ahhh ... this was a great book. Mystery! Suspense! Dogsleds! Canadian spelling! LOL. (I went to Alaska in 2012, and really wanted to go dogsledding. The cruise excursion was canceled due to weather, but one day I'll get to do it!)
The book certainly starts off with a bang, and really doesn't let go until the end. Prepare yourself for some laser-focused reading time! (Life? What's life?)
Wood is a new-to-me author, but Northern Deception definitely makes me want to read more of her books.
The one issue I had was that Kira managed to use a laptop right after a concussion (after lengthy hospital discussions about how she shouldn't)...and later telling a doctor that Lukas didn't let her get away with anything.
Still, a fast-paced read that I'd happily revisit. I especially enjoyed the medical components, working in that industry myself, as well as the Canadian setting.
I received a copy of the book from Prism Book Tours. All opinions are my own.
The book certainly starts off with a bang, and really doesn't let go until the end. Prepare yourself for some laser-focused reading time! (Life? What's life?)
Wood is a new-to-me author, but Northern Deception definitely makes me want to read more of her books.
The one issue I had was that Kira managed to use a laptop right after a concussion (after lengthy hospital discussions about how she shouldn't)...and later telling a doctor that Lukas didn't let her get away with anything.
Still, a fast-paced read that I'd happily revisit. I especially enjoyed the medical components, working in that industry myself, as well as the Canadian setting.
I received a copy of the book from Prism Book Tours. All opinions are my own.
December 8, 2018
Northern Deception takes place in a small town in northern Canada, and captures the beauty of the little-travelled destination. It brings together facets of romance, suspense, humour, and hope, into an intricate and beautiful story.
Kira Summers is a relatable and intense character, and Laurie Wood is able to make you feel exactly what she is feeling. The strength, pain, and victory that Kira possesses is remarkable, and she is able to be those things with an attitude to boot!
If you enjoy romantic tension with a taste of danger, this book is a must-read! I couldn’t put it down. Every paragraph makes you feel or visualize something without making it feel like filler content—a win-win in my books!
Kira Summers is a relatable and intense character, and Laurie Wood is able to make you feel exactly what she is feeling. The strength, pain, and victory that Kira possesses is remarkable, and she is able to be those things with an attitude to boot!
If you enjoy romantic tension with a taste of danger, this book is a must-read! I couldn’t put it down. Every paragraph makes you feel or visualize something without making it feel like filler content—a win-win in my books!
December 19, 2018
Debut author, Laurie Wood captured my attention from page one of Northern Deception. The story is packed with suspense and had me flipping pages long into the night. Set in Canada and filled with polar bears, snow, dog sled teams and adventure Northern Deception swept me into an entire world that I knew nothing about. As Kira searches for answers and battles her own fears and brokenness, she finds that the man she ran from is exactly the man she needs now. Single parent, Lukas has a heart of gold and the strength of a quintessential hero. Together, they team up to take down the worst kinds of predators and solve a mystery—but they must first stay alive to do so. I loved Northern Deception and would highly recommend it. Laurie Wood has a lot to offer and I look forward to her next book.
Read
July 1, 2019Northern Deception packs a lot of action and has an unusual setting. It would have benefited from editing to reduce the repetition of backstory and improve dialogue flow. The action starts too soon, before I had a chance to know and care about the heroine.
After writing a story with a character who has Down syndrome, I was interested to meet Sophie. She seems incredibly healthy and easygoing. Lukas has no difficulty securing childcare, even though his provider also runs a busy restaurant and store. And he's not concerned about the lack of services for his daughter in such a small town. I'm an occupational therapist, so that's what I worry about.
After writing a story with a character who has Down syndrome, I was interested to meet Sophie. She seems incredibly healthy and easygoing. Lukas has no difficulty securing childcare, even though his provider also runs a busy restaurant and store. And he's not concerned about the lack of services for his daughter in such a small town. I'm an occupational therapist, so that's what I worry about.
December 18, 2018
Breathtaking!
Kira and Lukas are such endearing characters. Kira shows us that strength can be beautiful. Lukas gives us proof that even when life is not perfect, it is worth loving. God does not make mistakes. Kira suffered so much, but she used those wounds to make herself strong.
Laurie Wood does an amazing job describing the Tundra and life among polar bears. The story of God's love in spite of our decisions to leave Him behind resonates deep in my heart.
Kira and Lukas are such endearing characters. Kira shows us that strength can be beautiful. Lukas gives us proof that even when life is not perfect, it is worth loving. God does not make mistakes. Kira suffered so much, but she used those wounds to make herself strong.
Laurie Wood does an amazing job describing the Tundra and life among polar bears. The story of God's love in spite of our decisions to leave Him behind resonates deep in my heart.
February 4, 2019
Wood has put a significant amount of thought and research into this story. Well rounded, believable characters with fantastically developed backstories against the backdrop of a pretty fast paced plot where you literally never know what’s going to happen next. In some suspense thrillers, you know who is after the main characters. I couldn’t put this story down because I had NO idea who was behind all of the attacks. A definite page-turner.
January 30, 2021
Kira went north to study the polar bears. She did not plan on running into her college boyfriend. He was a different person back then as he often made her feel like she was not enough. Has he changed? Is he willing to listen to the real reason why Kira broke up with him. This is great story of redemption. I liked the suspense aspect, and I did struggle to determine who was after Kira. A well done book by Laurie Wood. I do recommend that you read the series in order.
February 21, 2019
A great suspenseful romance
Kira and Lukas were great h and H of the story. I liked their personalities. They never did anything stupid, which occurs often in suspenseful romance. The plot had quite a few twists that kept me guessing on who was responsible for trying to kill Kira. I highly recommend this book.
Kira and Lukas were great h and H of the story. I liked their personalities. They never did anything stupid, which occurs often in suspenseful romance. The plot had quite a few twists that kept me guessing on who was responsible for trying to kill Kira. I highly recommend this book.
December 6, 2018
I loved this book! The characters, setting, plot....amazing! Read my full review on my blog Christy's Cozy Corners
January 30, 2019
An exciting read!
Plenty of suspense, romance & action in this new series set in the fascinating wilds of Canada. This book is well written & the author swiftly draws the reader into the plot and the llives of the characters. A very enjoyable read!
Plenty of suspense, romance & action in this new series set in the fascinating wilds of Canada. This book is well written & the author swiftly draws the reader into the plot and the llives of the characters. A very enjoyable read!
December 5, 2018
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
This is a clean romance with Christian themes and principles woven throughout. It is a quick, easy-to-read book, and since it is the first book in a series, it's always great to start by reading the first book. I say that because I don't always have that luxury when reviewing books. But this one I did.
I enjoyed the fact that the readers were brought immediately into the action, and it is great that realism is seen from page one and following. Sometimes these romance stories have little real conflict and they follow the same, exact formula. The author departed from the formula and added her own special touches thus making this book truly her own.
My only complaint was that I would have preferred a more expanded backstory on our two main characters. I still don't feel I have a good handle on either one, and maybe the author plans to do that in future books; I don't know. I felt that I struggled to get to know Kira and Lukas, but by the end of the story, it was a little clearer. I did find the story grew on me the more I read, and by the end, I was somewhat invested in the lives of these characters.
This is a clean romance with Christian themes and principles woven throughout. It is a quick, easy-to-read book, and since it is the first book in a series, it's always great to start by reading the first book. I say that because I don't always have that luxury when reviewing books. But this one I did.
I enjoyed the fact that the readers were brought immediately into the action, and it is great that realism is seen from page one and following. Sometimes these romance stories have little real conflict and they follow the same, exact formula. The author departed from the formula and added her own special touches thus making this book truly her own.
My only complaint was that I would have preferred a more expanded backstory on our two main characters. I still don't feel I have a good handle on either one, and maybe the author plans to do that in future books; I don't know. I felt that I struggled to get to know Kira and Lukas, but by the end of the story, it was a little clearer. I did find the story grew on me the more I read, and by the end, I was somewhat invested in the lives of these characters.
May 30, 2020
Wonderful story full of suspense and intrigue
This was a story full suspense, loss, forgiveness, friendship, healing, and love. Kira goes to her brothers funeral and meets her ex boyfriend, Lucas there. When she goes back home she finds out he lives there, too. Bad things start to happen to her and Lucas steps in to help. They figure out why her brother died and are in a lot of danger as well as those around them. Those they thought were friends or coworkers turned out to not be who they portrayed to be. Come along on this suspenseful journey as they put the pieces together, the twists and turns they encounter as they try can to catch the bad guys. Through it all, Kira, who thought God had abandoned her realizes He was with her all along. She sees how He is with her even in the craziness, helps her persevere and not give up. I am looking forward to reading more of this superb author, Laurie Wood.
This was a story full suspense, loss, forgiveness, friendship, healing, and love. Kira goes to her brothers funeral and meets her ex boyfriend, Lucas there. When she goes back home she finds out he lives there, too. Bad things start to happen to her and Lucas steps in to help. They figure out why her brother died and are in a lot of danger as well as those around them. Those they thought were friends or coworkers turned out to not be who they portrayed to be. Come along on this suspenseful journey as they put the pieces together, the twists and turns they encounter as they try can to catch the bad guys. Through it all, Kira, who thought God had abandoned her realizes He was with her all along. She sees how He is with her even in the craziness, helps her persevere and not give up. I am looking forward to reading more of this superb author, Laurie Wood.
March 28, 2024
Northern Deception is a second chance romantic mystery set in northern Canada in Churchill. Colleen Coble has written a suspenseful story where Kira, a polar bear scientist and Lukas, owner of a wilderness tour company find each other after years of secrets and running . Each person is struggling with different pain from their past and this is a story of redemption, healing and hope with an edge of danger.
“Every day is precious, and the present is all we have, dear. It’s pointless to dwell in the past and let it dictate what we have now.”
“Every day is precious, and the present is all we have, dear. It’s pointless to dwell in the past and let it dictate what we have now.”
April 15, 2020
Fast paced, enjoyable read filled with secrets and surprises; Northern Deception will fill all your expectations. It is centered on God and relationships, and it might help you to look at things under a different light.
“Hon, I don’t need to know the details. I do know this—God has never left you. You have to believe that. God meets us right where we are—it could be grief, it could be sickness, it could be our own rebellious nature.”
“Hon, I don’t need to know the details. I do know this—God has never left you. You have to believe that. God meets us right where we are—it could be grief, it could be sickness, it could be our own rebellious nature.”
May 5, 2020
Its not often that I can say that I thourghly enjoyed a book. Its a second chance book that takes place in northern Manitoba. I really enjoyed Kira Summers & Lukas Tanner's story. Its a story of survival and love. It has alot of action and suspense. The bad guys will surprise you. I love the little one that steals the show. Its well written and Laurie does a great job of drawing you into the story. I'm hoping for more of these stories. J
June 12, 2021
Excellent book!
This is a new author to me and I didn’t want to put the book down. It’s set in Canada where Lukas runs an outdoor tour business and Kira is a scientist monitoring polar bears. They haven’t seen or talked to each other for 5 years until her brother, his best friend dies. Then someone is trying to kill Kira! I highly recommend this book for anyone who likes suspense.
This is a new author to me and I didn’t want to put the book down. It’s set in Canada where Lukas runs an outdoor tour business and Kira is a scientist monitoring polar bears. They haven’t seen or talked to each other for 5 years until her brother, his best friend dies. Then someone is trying to kill Kira! I highly recommend this book for anyone who likes suspense.
August 17, 2020
Captivating and heartwarming
Great book! The suspense and action were compelling, and I was really rooting for the main characters to get together. The romance aspect was also written well. The details of the unfamiliar (to me) Canadian setting was quite interesting as well! Felt like I was really there.
Great book! The suspense and action were compelling, and I was really rooting for the main characters to get together. The romance aspect was also written well. The details of the unfamiliar (to me) Canadian setting was quite interesting as well! Felt like I was really there.
March 25, 2021
Kira was attacked while at college and told no one, she ran away. Her brother was a whistle blower and got killed, though they said an accident with his car rolling over. There had been a proposal, she was damaged goods would not fit into his life of perfection. God had other plans when she is attacked a number of times after her brothers funeral. good story of second chances.
January 12, 2021
Great story. The setting was fascinating--Polar Bear Jail?--loved it! Kira and Lukas were genuine and believable, but Sophie stole my heart. Unexpected villains, plenty of twists and turns, and a fun love story. Really enjoyed the first in the series and looking forward to more.
June 18, 2021
I loved this book. It was more than what I was expecting. Their chemistry and feelings, I was so into it. My heart went to Kira and all she had bee through and Lukas for being the awesome person he was. Their past only cemented their future, they had to fall to rise even stronger
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews