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The Shadows #1
Midnight Shadow
It’s not the first time she’s fled for her life.
When an armed assailant breaks into her home, geneticist Tari Salah is forced to run from an unknown enemy. The murder of two friends and the bombing of her lab strip her of all her allies. When she’s framed for the crimes and branded a terrorist, she can’t even go to the police for help.
He thought it would be an easy case… he couldn’t be more wrong.
Special Agent Dalton Fowler is thrilled when the director of a covert law enforcement agency handpicks him for a sensitive case. Locating and protecting a wrongly accused geneticist should be simple. When he’s shot his second day on the case, he quickly realizes that nothing about the case will be straightforward. Failure won’t just tank his career – it’ll end his life.
Their enemies won’t relent.
Hunted by the law, mercenaries, and covert groups, Tari and Dalton fight to stay one step ahead of their pursuers. Aided by a mysterious nomad, they struggle to piece the puzzle together before the killers catch up to them. Can they outmaneuver the killers? Or will the darkness consume them?
Midnight Shadows, book one in The Shadows series, is a tense story of Christian suspense and delves into the value of holding firm to the truth of Jesus in the midst of trials. Don’t miss this thrilling journey!
When an armed assailant breaks into her home, geneticist Tari Salah is forced to run from an unknown enemy. The murder of two friends and the bombing of her lab strip her of all her allies. When she’s framed for the crimes and branded a terrorist, she can’t even go to the police for help.
He thought it would be an easy case… he couldn’t be more wrong.
Special Agent Dalton Fowler is thrilled when the director of a covert law enforcement agency handpicks him for a sensitive case. Locating and protecting a wrongly accused geneticist should be simple. When he’s shot his second day on the case, he quickly realizes that nothing about the case will be straightforward. Failure won’t just tank his career – it’ll end his life.
Their enemies won’t relent.
Hunted by the law, mercenaries, and covert groups, Tari and Dalton fight to stay one step ahead of their pursuers. Aided by a mysterious nomad, they struggle to piece the puzzle together before the killers catch up to them. Can they outmaneuver the killers? Or will the darkness consume them?
Midnight Shadows, book one in The Shadows series, is a tense story of Christian suspense and delves into the value of holding firm to the truth of Jesus in the midst of trials. Don’t miss this thrilling journey!
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 10, 2022
152 people are currently reading
72 people want to read
About the author
Candle Sutton
25 books65 followersCandle Sutton writes suspense novels from a Christian worldview. While her primary goal is to entertain, Biblical themes are woven throughout in a non-preachy fashion. She firmly believes that fiction is a powerful tool and that God can and does use it to encourage, challenge, convict, and change His people.
Sutton is a Christian saved by grace, who loves Jesus and tries to live for Him. The beauty of God's creation captivates her, especially anything having to do with water. She enjoys a simple and quiet life in the United States.
Sutton is a Christian saved by grace, who loves Jesus and tries to live for Him. The beauty of God's creation captivates her, especially anything having to do with water. She enjoys a simple and quiet life in the United States.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
September 27, 2024
Even though I give this first novel in the series:
5 stars,
I still had a few 'issues'.
I am NOT picking on this author,
she is just one of many Christians,
( authors and readers)....
Who all spout the same mantra:
Her writing was not
'preachy'.
That is my pet peeve, that seemingly and
apparently,
I almost stand alone in holding such a pet peeve!
Nevertheless,
I'm having a real hard time reading
that statement,
over and over,
novel after novel!!!
Jesus tells his followers to:
"go into all the world
and 'preach'
the gospel to every creature".
Mark 16:15
And
Paul expresses the necessity of sharing the gospel, by saying
"For if I 'preach' the gospel,
that gives me no ground for boasting.
For necessity is laid upon me.
'Woe to me'
if I do not
'preach' the gospel!"
1 Corinthians 9:16
Plus:
'preach' the word..................
2 Timothy 4:2
I could add more, but you get the idea.
Putting scriptures ( God's Word),
in one's Christian book,
and showing...
( by writing, how to apply the included scriptures
to a person's life,
those scriptures, applications and Biblical principals,
Is to me,
a BIG part of what makes a novel:
A 'Christian' novel, rather than a clean secular book.
Even IF, the author, has many examples of
Biblical principals,
( but not 'preachy' by having little,
to no scriptures,
then, I tend to think,
that a non-believer reading said novel....
almost certainly, might not know that those particular principals
were 'Christian and from the Bible, God's Word'.
Anyway, when I read a comment
( in almost in 50% of the comments, reviews etc. of Christian books...
well, at least in a LOT)...
either by the author
or readers,
that one of the great
'positives' of the novel under discussion,
is that it is not 'preachy'
I sometimes almost want to pull my hair out!!!
Arrrgghhhh!!!!!!
It seems sadly like a missed opportunity,
to share with unbelievers and believers
who read the authors novels,
to share the Word of God:
In the beginning was the Word,
and the Word was with God,
and
the 'Word
was
God'.
John 1:1
Okay, off my soap box,
this was well written, interesting,
etc. etc. and I will read the next in the series.
Yes, there were a few more small issues
but this took up so much space,
that I will just leave this review as it is right now.
5 stars,
I still had a few 'issues'.
I am NOT picking on this author,
she is just one of many Christians,
( authors and readers)....
Who all spout the same mantra:
Her writing was not
'preachy'.
That is my pet peeve, that seemingly and
apparently,
I almost stand alone in holding such a pet peeve!
Nevertheless,
I'm having a real hard time reading
that statement,
over and over,
novel after novel!!!
Jesus tells his followers to:
"go into all the world
and 'preach'
the gospel to every creature".
Mark 16:15
And
Paul expresses the necessity of sharing the gospel, by saying
"For if I 'preach' the gospel,
that gives me no ground for boasting.
For necessity is laid upon me.
'Woe to me'
if I do not
'preach' the gospel!"
1 Corinthians 9:16
Plus:
'preach' the word..................
2 Timothy 4:2
I could add more, but you get the idea.
Putting scriptures ( God's Word),
in one's Christian book,
and showing...
( by writing, how to apply the included scriptures
to a person's life,
those scriptures, applications and Biblical principals,
Is to me,
a BIG part of what makes a novel:
A 'Christian' novel, rather than a clean secular book.
Even IF, the author, has many examples of
Biblical principals,
( but not 'preachy' by having little,
to no scriptures,
then, I tend to think,
that a non-believer reading said novel....
almost certainly, might not know that those particular principals
were 'Christian and from the Bible, God's Word'.
Anyway, when I read a comment
( in almost in 50% of the comments, reviews etc. of Christian books...
well, at least in a LOT)...
either by the author
or readers,
that one of the great
'positives' of the novel under discussion,
is that it is not 'preachy'
I sometimes almost want to pull my hair out!!!
Arrrgghhhh!!!!!!
It seems sadly like a missed opportunity,
to share with unbelievers and believers
who read the authors novels,
to share the Word of God:
In the beginning was the Word,
and the Word was with God,
and
the 'Word
was
God'.
John 1:1
Okay, off my soap box,
this was well written, interesting,
etc. etc. and I will read the next in the series.
Yes, there were a few more small issues
but this took up so much space,
that I will just leave this review as it is right now.
July 30, 2024
I’ve seen this book a few times when perusing online for fiction works, but skipped over it because science fiction or futuristic fantasy are not my favored genre. But one day, it was offered at a price point that had me giving it a second look, which caused me to purchase the book. I am glad I did.
I love a fiction work that strongly stands for God’s truth. One of my favorite verses is Joshua 24:15, “If it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom you will serve…but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” This fiction was gritty, suspenseful, and pushed the reader to reflect on what standing and serving the Lord means. The central character, Tari Salah walks us through an action filled primer of what it means to be a believer, when times are not easy and choices could mean death.
The setting is vividly portrayed and the characters were compelling. Page after page I wanted Tari to defeat all those who troubled and attached her. Dalton Fowler, the hero becomes more and more sympathetic. He was tasked to find and protect Tari. He believes he understands the task, but full understanding comes in waves of puzzle pieces, for him as well as the reader. Dalton is very single focused on his task, he does not give up. The other key character is Malachi Jones, who is special, unique, and ethereal. Added to the memorable circle of characters that support Tari in her time of struggle and stress are a nasty bunch of shadowy characters.
This story never slowed, never was unfocused, and after it was completed, I felt that the time I spent reading was well spent. Kudos author.
I love a fiction work that strongly stands for God’s truth. One of my favorite verses is Joshua 24:15, “If it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom you will serve…but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” This fiction was gritty, suspenseful, and pushed the reader to reflect on what standing and serving the Lord means. The central character, Tari Salah walks us through an action filled primer of what it means to be a believer, when times are not easy and choices could mean death.
The setting is vividly portrayed and the characters were compelling. Page after page I wanted Tari to defeat all those who troubled and attached her. Dalton Fowler, the hero becomes more and more sympathetic. He was tasked to find and protect Tari. He believes he understands the task, but full understanding comes in waves of puzzle pieces, for him as well as the reader. Dalton is very single focused on his task, he does not give up. The other key character is Malachi Jones, who is special, unique, and ethereal. Added to the memorable circle of characters that support Tari in her time of struggle and stress are a nasty bunch of shadowy characters.
This story never slowed, never was unfocused, and after it was completed, I felt that the time I spent reading was well spent. Kudos author.
November 25, 2023
Midnight Shadow
The Shadows, Book 1
By: Candle Sutton
Narrated by: Brittany Goodwin
I love a good, well thought out suspenseful plot and Candle Sutton has started this series off with an amazing one! Meet Tari Salah. She is on the run after her home is invaded and several of her colleagues are murdered. She has something these people want, so framing her for the incidents is the perfect way to smoke her out. Dalton is a special agent and sent to find and protect her. But he quickly finds that he isn't enough to keep her safe. But luckily, there is someone who can help and at the most opportune times! A mixture of thrilling suspense and faith keep this story exciting and fresh. I loved the premise of the story, the excitement of the chase and belief that there is always help. It's a fantastic start to this series and I can't wait for book 2.
Brittany Goodwin brings this gem alive with an amazing performance. She finds the personality of each character and pairs it with a voice that is suitable and fits. She builds the suspense, keeps it high and thrilling and made this listen a fun one.
The Shadows, Book 1
By: Candle Sutton
Narrated by: Brittany Goodwin
I love a good, well thought out suspenseful plot and Candle Sutton has started this series off with an amazing one! Meet Tari Salah. She is on the run after her home is invaded and several of her colleagues are murdered. She has something these people want, so framing her for the incidents is the perfect way to smoke her out. Dalton is a special agent and sent to find and protect her. But he quickly finds that he isn't enough to keep her safe. But luckily, there is someone who can help and at the most opportune times! A mixture of thrilling suspense and faith keep this story exciting and fresh. I loved the premise of the story, the excitement of the chase and belief that there is always help. It's a fantastic start to this series and I can't wait for book 2.
Brittany Goodwin brings this gem alive with an amazing performance. She finds the personality of each character and pairs it with a voice that is suitable and fits. She builds the suspense, keeps it high and thrilling and made this listen a fun one.
May 24, 2022
wonderful, excellent!
I can’t believe I am going to have to wait for the second book. This is a great start to a new series! From the very first page, we are already at a high suspense level. The book begins with action! One of the wonderful twists about this book is, instead of the author telling you only scriptures, she incorporates Christian principles into the main character. We get to see the main character using Christian principles in her struggles, in her daily life, in the forces that are trying to take her down. This is not what most Christian fiction books contain. This is a wonderful refreshing twist. The main character not only refers to the Bible, but she uses it to help her every day. Now, throw in a special FBI agent, at least a few organizations trying to end her life, and take her life‘s work, and you have a wonderful recipe for action, suspense, thrills, and God! You definitely need to read this book. You will be wonderfully amazed at how the author weaves together these, seemingly opposite characteristics.
I can’t believe I am going to have to wait for the second book. This is a great start to a new series! From the very first page, we are already at a high suspense level. The book begins with action! One of the wonderful twists about this book is, instead of the author telling you only scriptures, she incorporates Christian principles into the main character. We get to see the main character using Christian principles in her struggles, in her daily life, in the forces that are trying to take her down. This is not what most Christian fiction books contain. This is a wonderful refreshing twist. The main character not only refers to the Bible, but she uses it to help her every day. Now, throw in a special FBI agent, at least a few organizations trying to end her life, and take her life‘s work, and you have a wonderful recipe for action, suspense, thrills, and God! You definitely need to read this book. You will be wonderfully amazed at how the author weaves together these, seemingly opposite characteristics.
July 27, 2022
I found it so hard to lay this book aside to attend to my real life duties. It is exciting, thought provoking, and inspirational. I often wonder what will be the future of Christians until Christ returns. This was a realistic view of what could be ahead. I was intrigued by the characters and their part in the story. It's a clean book without inappropriate language or content; one of my stipulations for reading/listening to a book. This is the first I have heard of this author and I am most impressed. I hope to be able to get the next book. Though this book can be a stand alone, it does leave one wanting to continue the series.
The narrator is wonderful. She uses her voice to create the tension and excitement, the moods and emotions of the characters. Her performance brings the characters and the story to life.
I requested this audio book from the author and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
The narrator is wonderful. She uses her voice to create the tension and excitement, the moods and emotions of the characters. Her performance brings the characters and the story to life.
I requested this audio book from the author and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
September 25, 2025
Mission Escape
From the first moment that we meet Tali in her frantic efforts to escape the assassin's hands, we are caught up in a whirlwind of action. It seems there is constant movement as she and her Christian friends try to release her lab work that has resulted in a wonderful cure while keeping Tali safe until she can clear her name. In the meantime, the press, the media, and the public all believe she is a traitor of the worst kind. There are 2 different violent groups trying to catch her before this information can be released, and she's not 100% sure of which is the most dangerous. The 1 man that she knows she can count on, Dalton, is not a believer, but he's determined to help Tali If at all possible. Receiving guidance directly from God, Tali knows she has angels watching over her, and that God is with her every step of the way ... regardless of where her path leads.
From the first moment that we meet Tali in her frantic efforts to escape the assassin's hands, we are caught up in a whirlwind of action. It seems there is constant movement as she and her Christian friends try to release her lab work that has resulted in a wonderful cure while keeping Tali safe until she can clear her name. In the meantime, the press, the media, and the public all believe she is a traitor of the worst kind. There are 2 different violent groups trying to catch her before this information can be released, and she's not 100% sure of which is the most dangerous. The 1 man that she knows she can count on, Dalton, is not a believer, but he's determined to help Tali If at all possible. Receiving guidance directly from God, Tali knows she has angels watching over her, and that God is with her every step of the way ... regardless of where her path leads.
June 15, 2022
Definitely a thrilling journey with the twists and turns that make it impossible to stop reading.
I liked how the author gives insights of the people “shadows,” which makes the story intriguing.
Congratulations to the author for masterfully writing this exceptional suspense! The narrator is brilliant!
Looking forward to the second book because the story doesn’t end…
I received an audio copy of this book; I was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions in this review are my own.
I liked how the author gives insights of the people “shadows,” which makes the story intriguing.
Congratulations to the author for masterfully writing this exceptional suspense! The narrator is brilliant!
Looking forward to the second book because the story doesn’t end…
I received an audio copy of this book; I was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions in this review are my own.
June 29, 2023
Intriguing story. Shame that a particular political position seems to be the ideal for the Christian faith, not the true Gospel of Jesus. Not all Christians have an American worldview but are still true believers. Additionally, the agent only believed or trusted the main character after she changed her appearance to be more like the majority culture. What subtle xenophobic and racist point of view. Jesus would have something to say about that.
September 27, 2025
Great Book, excited for the series!
Well written, fast paced suspense in a world where the battles rages with the forces of Light versus Dark. I appreciate a book where the Holy Spirit and his is gifts are evident and being used. A book with warning and applicable to our times today! It’s been a while since I’ve wanted to read other books in a series, but I can’t wait for these. I’m pretty intrigued!
Well written, fast paced suspense in a world where the battles rages with the forces of Light versus Dark. I appreciate a book where the Holy Spirit and his is gifts are evident and being used. A book with warning and applicable to our times today! It’s been a while since I’ve wanted to read other books in a series, but I can’t wait for these. I’m pretty intrigued!
June 9, 2022
This thrilling Christian Suspense novel kept me turning the pages far into the night (but that's nothing new, for me). What's a little lost sleep when I am lost in a book that has all the good stuff like intriguing characters and an intricate plot woven by a masterful storyteller. I highly recommend Candle Sutton's books to anyone.
December 10, 2025
This was book 1 of the Shadow Series but I felt as if there was still information missing. I have looked at many others with this theme. I stopped counting at 20 some. There are so many books out there that describe 2 people running or hiding. That constant running gets a little old. It was okay but not one I would like to read again.
July 28, 2022
This was a new to me author. I enjoyed it. It seems like so many books have romance in them and I get a little tired of that. This book tied up most of the loose ends in a satisfactory way, but still left a little bit to entice you into reading the next in the series.
August 2, 2022
I’m truly enjoying these spiritually suspense thrillers. They are exciting. Page turners. Whatever I exercise is going to happen, never does!!! I hope this author continues to write more books in this series.
October 4, 2022
Wow
This book kept my attention from page one. Not only was it exciting and fast paced but I also was touched by the message of Gods protection, always. Made me ask myself if I truly look at what is around me.
This book kept my attention from page one. Not only was it exciting and fast paced but I also was touched by the message of Gods protection, always. Made me ask myself if I truly look at what is around me.
August 12, 2023
Great action
Some parts seem a tad farfetched, but hey it's fiction! The action is non-stop. I love the spiritual and faith-filled references in the story and those are never far-fetched. God is indeed good.
Some parts seem a tad farfetched, but hey it's fiction! The action is non-stop. I love the spiritual and faith-filled references in the story and those are never far-fetched. God is indeed good.
January 13, 2025
This book was a gift from my daughter and I'm excited to add Candle Sutton to my list of favorite authors. I enjoyed reading Tari and Dalton's story. Tari is a handful and Dalton is in love. Awesome story! I'm anxious to read her next book.
March 17, 2025
4.5 stars. Slightly futuristic, prophetic, visions, and the supernatural. It’s a great story. I read the prequel to this one but didn’t have to in order to flow the plot. Only the mysterious Malachi’s character comes back for this book. If you’re not a Christian, you won’t like this story.
September 9, 2025
Well... that was a wild ride. I enjoyed the suspense part of this book. The rest just didn't resonate with what I believe about God. I do admire the way Tari relied on God and put her complete trust in him. It made me want to be better at that in my own life.
September 17, 2025
Great read
Highly recommended for those who like action. Fast-paced and great characters and plot. Great Christian fiction which is not wishy-washy, nor pushes any particular theology.
Highly recommended for those who like action. Fast-paced and great characters and plot. Great Christian fiction which is not wishy-washy, nor pushes any particular theology.
August 1, 2022
Very good ! Waiting for the next book !
March 7, 2023
Great thriller
Well written and exciting. Interesting characters. I will definitely be reading more from this author. Five stars and looking forward to the next book!
Well written and exciting. Interesting characters. I will definitely be reading more from this author. Five stars and looking forward to the next book!
November 4, 2023
Incredible.
What a true Christian crime story and incredible faith.
I loved the whole story and will be reading the second book in this series because it was that good.
What a true Christian crime story and incredible faith.
I loved the whole story and will be reading the second book in this series because it was that good.
January 24, 2024
Great read!
Exciting! Loved the characters! A page-turner that I couldn't put down. I'll look forward to the next in the series!
Exciting! Loved the characters! A page-turner that I couldn't put down. I'll look forward to the next in the series!
January 26, 2024
Amazing
This is an amazing story. It is full of action. Not only is it a great suspense story, it is also encouraging. El Roi does indeed see and watch over his children.
This is an amazing story. It is full of action. Not only is it a great suspense story, it is also encouraging. El Roi does indeed see and watch over his children.
February 28, 2025
A page turner!
Wow! So excited to find this author and series. You won’t be disappointed. Now I need to get the 2nd book. Enjoy! PTL!
Wow! So excited to find this author and series. You won’t be disappointed. Now I need to get the 2nd book. Enjoy! PTL!
October 4, 2025
I really enjoyed this book and I'm excited to read more in the series, although I will be a little sad if we don't get to see more of Tari and Dalton in book 2.
October 6, 2025
Suspenseful & gripping
I enjoyed this book. It has a good storyline & kept me going back for more. Also makes you think.
I enjoyed this book. It has a good storyline & kept me going back for more. Also makes you think.
December 25, 2025
It was definitely well paced and suspenseful, yet I am not sure if I am going to read the next part.
July 18, 2024
Scarry how people think money is more important than life!!!!
Loved this book, everyone should read this series, it puts what's valuable first
Loved this book, everyone should read this series, it puts what's valuable first
January 23, 2026
The prequel to this book was really good so I decided to continue the series. So far, this one wasn’t as intriguing but I’ll continue reading the series and I’m sure it will all tie together well. I really enjoyed how the previous characters were integrated into this story-It provided a seamless experience with enough suspense to keep things interesting. I love that the author incorporates faith into her books and values the power of good story telling. I’d compare it to reading a parable. Enough story to make the reader eager to know more, and sufficient information to teach an important lesson.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews