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O'Malley #1
The Negotiator
FBI agent Dave Richman from Danger in the Shadows is back. He's about to meet Kate O'Malley, and his life will never be the same. She's a hostage negotiator. He protects people. He's about to find out that falling in love with a hostage negotiator is one thing, but keeping her safe is another!
Introducing the O'Malleys, an inspirational group of seven, all abandoned or orphaned as teens, who have made the choice to become a loyal and committed family. They have chosen their own surname, O'Malley, and have stood by each other through moments of joy and heartache. Their stories are told in CBA best-selling, inspirational romantic suspense novels that rock your heart and restore strength and hope to your spirit.
Introducing the O'Malleys, an inspirational group of seven, all abandoned or orphaned as teens, who have made the choice to become a loyal and committed family. They have chosen their own surname, O'Malley, and have stood by each other through moments of joy and heartache. Their stories are told in CBA best-selling, inspirational romantic suspense novels that rock your heart and restore strength and hope to your spirit.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 9, 2000
923 people are currently reading
13274 people want to read
About the author
Dee Henderson
71 books4,195 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Dee Henderson is the author of 27 non-fiction and fiction titles, including Jesus our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus the Truth and the Life, The Good News Project, Taken and the acclaimed O’MALLEY series. Several titles have appeared on the USA Today Bestseller list; Full Disclosure has also appeared on the New York Times Bestseller list. For details visit: DeeHenderson.com
Dee Henderson is the author of 27 non-fiction and fiction titles, including Jesus our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus the Truth and the Life, The Good News Project, Taken and the acclaimed O’MALLEY series. Several titles have appeared on the USA Today Bestseller list; Full Disclosure has also appeared on the New York Times Bestseller list. For details visit: DeeHenderson.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,315 reviews
December 18, 2012
I did not realize that this was an inspirational romance when I began reading it. Even before we got to the proselytizing the characters were just a bit too perfect; all of them very successful at what they did. Then comes the fact that the hero would not even consider dating the heroine (Kate) because she was not a Christian. This was the first turn off. When her sister was diagnosed with cancer and told Kate she was afraid for her soul, I just wanted to puke. Do evangelical Christians not realize just how arrogant this is? I labored on because I hate not to finish a book. At about 75% I just gave up. I do not appreciate proselytizing in my real life and I certainly do not want to read about it. Those who loved this book probably think this is they way to get people hooked. For many out there it has just the opposite effect. Even though I was baptized when I was 10 years old, I have had too many people want to "bring me to Jesus" because my church wasn't the "right" one. I finally withdrew from organized religion and homechurched. I realize this book is geared toward those who are avid believers and evangelicals and they feel it is their Christian duty to share the word. However, for those of us who feel religion is very personal, it is a huge turn-off from organized religion. These type of books just reinforce the tactics used by evangelicals which in my opinion are extremely counterproductive.
September 2, 2025
Just in time before I had to return it!
I loved it! I came to love Dave really fast and Kate was a perfect match for him. Her coming to faith was beautiful! The mystery didn’t actually keep me interested as much as the romance did for me in this one. I’m very curious to see how the rest of the O’Malley clan come to Jesus!
I loved it! I came to love Dave really fast and Kate was a perfect match for him. Her coming to faith was beautiful! The mystery didn’t actually keep me interested as much as the romance did for me in this one. I’m very curious to see how the rest of the O’Malley clan come to Jesus!
March 5, 2018
That was so good! That is, if you rearrange all the commas and put them in their proper places. ;)
September 5, 2011
I really tried to like this book and get carried away by the story. Really, I did. But I couldn't get past the totally unrealistic characters. Could there really be that many perfect, gorgeous, intelligent, rich, single, patriotic career professionals (with high-paying, exciting careers) all in one "family"? Throw in a mansion and a private jet owned by a studly FBI love interest (with an alluring British accent of all things), some intrigue and romance and it was just a little "over the top" for me. I just couldn't relate to the characters at all. On the plus side, I did appreciate the author attempting to put a spiritual message in the book and weighing in on the paradox of God's mercy vs. justice. It seemed a bit "forced" though. I did finish the book because there was enough mystery to keep me wondering "whodunit." The book was "okay" but I don't know that I will bother with more in the series. I know this book was rated highly by others so I hate to say it but maybe it's "just me" or the mood I'm currently in. To my friends and mom who really liked this one, "Sorry, gals."
January 5, 2019
Learning about a negotiator was very interesting to me. Unlike “Danger in the Shadows,” the threat in this book felt real and I really enjoyed the tension throughout it.
The spiritual thread. Wow. I’m learning to expect a powerful spiritual lesson in Dee Henderson’s books, and I love that. I especially liked Kate’s whole struggle to accept Jesus Christ as Savior. It felt real and believable. She wasn’t a character who heard about the Gospel and knew it was her answer. She had questions—deep questions. Henderson covered a lot of deep topics in this book.
I didn’t exactly like how Dave fell in love with an unbeliever, even though he knew he shouldn’t. I get that it’s real-life and it happens, but it made me slightly uncomfortable.
Now that I’ve read a full book that actually has the O’Malley’s in it, I know why people love this series. Not only are there good doctrinal topics, but the O’Malley family has a rich back story. I look forward to the rest of the series.
The spiritual thread. Wow. I’m learning to expect a powerful spiritual lesson in Dee Henderson’s books, and I love that. I especially liked Kate’s whole struggle to accept Jesus Christ as Savior. It felt real and believable. She wasn’t a character who heard about the Gospel and knew it was her answer. She had questions—deep questions. Henderson covered a lot of deep topics in this book.
I didn’t exactly like how Dave fell in love with an unbeliever, even though he knew he shouldn’t. I get that it’s real-life and it happens, but it made me slightly uncomfortable.
Now that I’ve read a full book that actually has the O’Malley’s in it, I know why people love this series. Not only are there good doctrinal topics, but the O’Malley family has a rich back story. I look forward to the rest of the series.
December 30, 2015
This book was fantastic. It was something different from what I’ve recently been reading, but so so good. I need the next one!
Kate O’Malley is a hostage negotiator. Whether defusing human time bombs or stopping stopping a person from jumping off a building, she is good at what she does and will walk into situations no one else will. Dave Richman is a FBI special agent who has spent much of his life protecting people. He is starting to care about Kate. But now someone is targeting her. Someone who is not just out for her blood, but who wants to ruin her first. A person has sent her black roses. Maybe the same one that blew up an airplane and blamed her. Dave is determined to protect her. If he can’t, she may die. When shocking evidence from the investigation threatens to crush her, can she learn to rely and trust in Dave and the God he believes in so faithfully?
I loved this book a lot. I connected with Dave and Kate right from the start. They were so fun to read about. I mean they were hilarious together and the budding romance was so sweet. Though I do think the Dave fell in love with Kate a bit too quickly. Kate was a really strong character. She could hide her emotions very well in almost every situation she was in, but she had a temper that she let out at points. Dave was kind and very protective, though he had a touch of cockiness and a lot of fun which was perfect. Then the whole O’Malley family, don’t get me started. I could laugh at most of the parts with all of them together. The protective brothers, the awesome sisters, is was cool. Marcus is my favorite of the siblings, I think. They were all good. This book was layered with puns and jokes from all of them including Dave.
The plot was intense. The mysteries, the secrets, it all added to such a great thrilling suspense. It will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout the book. I did feel like the climatic ending could have been drawn out a little bit more than it was, since there was so much anticipation leading up to it. But it was still great.
I’ll recommend this to teens and up. This was a great Christian Fiction book with so much suspense, mystery, and romance. If you like any sort of Christian Fiction, try it out! I think you’ll find it very good.
You can check out this review on my blog too, at: https://aheartredeemed.wordpress.com/... Thanks!
Kate O’Malley is a hostage negotiator. Whether defusing human time bombs or stopping stopping a person from jumping off a building, she is good at what she does and will walk into situations no one else will. Dave Richman is a FBI special agent who has spent much of his life protecting people. He is starting to care about Kate. But now someone is targeting her. Someone who is not just out for her blood, but who wants to ruin her first. A person has sent her black roses. Maybe the same one that blew up an airplane and blamed her. Dave is determined to protect her. If he can’t, she may die. When shocking evidence from the investigation threatens to crush her, can she learn to rely and trust in Dave and the God he believes in so faithfully?
I loved this book a lot. I connected with Dave and Kate right from the start. They were so fun to read about. I mean they were hilarious together and the budding romance was so sweet. Though I do think the Dave fell in love with Kate a bit too quickly. Kate was a really strong character. She could hide her emotions very well in almost every situation she was in, but she had a temper that she let out at points. Dave was kind and very protective, though he had a touch of cockiness and a lot of fun which was perfect. Then the whole O’Malley family, don’t get me started. I could laugh at most of the parts with all of them together. The protective brothers, the awesome sisters, is was cool. Marcus is my favorite of the siblings, I think. They were all good. This book was layered with puns and jokes from all of them including Dave.
The plot was intense. The mysteries, the secrets, it all added to such a great thrilling suspense. It will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout the book. I did feel like the climatic ending could have been drawn out a little bit more than it was, since there was so much anticipation leading up to it. But it was still great.
I’ll recommend this to teens and up. This was a great Christian Fiction book with so much suspense, mystery, and romance. If you like any sort of Christian Fiction, try it out! I think you’ll find it very good.
You can check out this review on my blog too, at: https://aheartredeemed.wordpress.com/... Thanks!
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February 17, 2023DNF for overly pushy male love interest
August 17, 2017
Christian Fiction at its finest! I loved it. I loved everything about it. The lack of bad words, the praying, the romance, the action. It was beautiful. Sold! I'm so reading the whole series now thank you very much :-)
July 16, 2018
The Negotiator by Dee Henderson
Genre: Suspense, Christian Romance,
Format: Kindle
Timeframe: More or less current day
Location: Chicago, IL
Characters:
Kate O'Malley: The negitiator
Dave Richman: FBI agent
Jennifer O'Malley: Youngest O’Malley sister
Marcus O'Malley: Eldest O’Malley brother, US marshal
How is it I bought this book 5 years ago and until now have never read it? Oh my, this was such a good book. Not being much of a cops-show watcher (I don’t really watch TV) I wasn’t nearly as aware of the roll of a negotiator.
Their job is to defuse dangerous or potentially dangerous situations with the goal of resolving the crisis in a manner where nobody is injured. Kate O’Malley is a negotiator with the Chicago police force. I’m not sure that what she did with the first negotiation in the book is typical, but she walked into an extremely dangerous bank hostage situation with no bullet-proof vest on, and just sat down as calmly as can be with the intent of talking and releasing tension.
Meanwhile, an FBI agent (Dave Richman) was hiding under the reception desk and only she could see him. After the crisis, they became friends, and to him, that’s all they could be. He's a believer she's not. However, with her youngest sister (in the 0.6 prequel I just finished) having just come to faith, Kate is being prayed over and God is working on her heart.
Kate lived in an abusive household before she was taken away from her family to live the rest of her childhood in an orphanage. She and her brothers and sisters (who adopted each other at The Trevor House, each changing their names as adults to O’Malley), all became scrappy survivors. Each serious professionals. Each tough and not all together trusting. Relying on themselves and each other was vital. Two people in her life are now sharing with Kate that there’s another person she can rely on, someone much bigger, someone who loves her more than she can imagine. Dave prays for openings and the right words. One of the most amazing conversations about mercy and justice I've ever read took place after one of those prayers.
But oh, there’s so much more to this story. It just never stops. I couldn’t put this book down.
Intense, romantic, amazing gospel presentations, wonderful questions and terrific writing. Can’t wait to dig into the others. I have to finish a different library book first… then I’m all about more of the O’Malleys!
Genre: Suspense, Christian Romance,
Format: Kindle
Timeframe: More or less current day
Location: Chicago, IL
Characters:
Kate O'Malley: The negitiator
Dave Richman: FBI agent
Jennifer O'Malley: Youngest O’Malley sister
Marcus O'Malley: Eldest O’Malley brother, US marshal
How is it I bought this book 5 years ago and until now have never read it? Oh my, this was such a good book. Not being much of a cops-show watcher (I don’t really watch TV) I wasn’t nearly as aware of the roll of a negotiator.
Their job is to defuse dangerous or potentially dangerous situations with the goal of resolving the crisis in a manner where nobody is injured. Kate O’Malley is a negotiator with the Chicago police force. I’m not sure that what she did with the first negotiation in the book is typical, but she walked into an extremely dangerous bank hostage situation with no bullet-proof vest on, and just sat down as calmly as can be with the intent of talking and releasing tension.
Meanwhile, an FBI agent (Dave Richman) was hiding under the reception desk and only she could see him. After the crisis, they became friends, and to him, that’s all they could be. He's a believer she's not. However, with her youngest sister (in the 0.6 prequel I just finished) having just come to faith, Kate is being prayed over and God is working on her heart.
Kate lived in an abusive household before she was taken away from her family to live the rest of her childhood in an orphanage. She and her brothers and sisters (who adopted each other at The Trevor House, each changing their names as adults to O’Malley), all became scrappy survivors. Each serious professionals. Each tough and not all together trusting. Relying on themselves and each other was vital. Two people in her life are now sharing with Kate that there’s another person she can rely on, someone much bigger, someone who loves her more than she can imagine. Dave prays for openings and the right words. One of the most amazing conversations about mercy and justice I've ever read took place after one of those prayers.
But oh, there’s so much more to this story. It just never stops. I couldn’t put this book down.
Intense, romantic, amazing gospel presentations, wonderful questions and terrific writing. Can’t wait to dig into the others. I have to finish a different library book first… then I’m all about more of the O’Malleys!
December 29, 2017
Yep! It's just as good as I remembered! :)
June 24, 2009
This work has some bright spots, mostly plotting in the second half. Other strong points are the character development of the O'Malley family members. The author does a good job of introducing the cast without belaboring the story (which is focused on Kate). Also, the author demonstrates knowledge of the police/ FBI etc. structure and procedures. There were so many reasons I WANTED to like this book.
However, there are significant weaknesses here. The most blatant of which is that Kate is supposed to be speaking with a southern accent, and Dave is supposed to be speaking with a British accent. Henderson needs to realize that word choice, tempo and enunciation are also part of accent, not just merely telling the reader they are speaking differently.
Wooden dialogue, incomplete setting of scenes (pretty problematic in a book dealing with crime), repetition of the same words within a page, and confusion about the timing of a significant incident (starts off Mon, then people start talking about "what happened on Tuesday, and finally in the last part of the book, it is a "Thursday!") all contribute to a convoluted reading experience. I had to read some parts a couple of times before I could go on.
Finally, the author is just a little bit too much in love with her characters. All the O'Malleys are flawless, gifted, top of their profession people. Numerous times, their paths in negotiator, fireman, US marshall, doctor, counselor, cross. This lack of realism may have been forgiven were it not for the final incident in which "boyfriend" is allowed into a negotiation. I don't care if he works for the FBI and has a strong personal interest in protecting the negotiator (whose reasons for being there were also thin, but plausible). I highly doubt such a situation would be permitted in real life.
Certainly these blunders are the fault of the author, yet one wonders, "where are the editors"? A rigorous editorial process/ review should have been able to address many of the flaws. Of course, maybe a rigorous review did take place? In that case, one wonders if the effort to pull a good final product from the author is worth the publisher's resources. While the content has promise, I would be embarrassed to publish this book in it's current form.
I have two other books in this series from the library. Whether or not I will be able to overcome this first installment remains to be seen... After thinking about this for about 1/2 hour while perusing Goodreads, I have decided "no", I'm not going to read anymore of this series. There are so many BRILLIANT books I would rather enjoy.
However, there are significant weaknesses here. The most blatant of which is that Kate is supposed to be speaking with a southern accent, and Dave is supposed to be speaking with a British accent. Henderson needs to realize that word choice, tempo and enunciation are also part of accent, not just merely telling the reader they are speaking differently.
Wooden dialogue, incomplete setting of scenes (pretty problematic in a book dealing with crime), repetition of the same words within a page, and confusion about the timing of a significant incident (starts off Mon, then people start talking about "what happened on Tuesday, and finally in the last part of the book, it is a "Thursday!") all contribute to a convoluted reading experience. I had to read some parts a couple of times before I could go on.
Finally, the author is just a little bit too much in love with her characters. All the O'Malleys are flawless, gifted, top of their profession people. Numerous times, their paths in negotiator, fireman, US marshall, doctor, counselor, cross. This lack of realism may have been forgiven were it not for the final incident in which "boyfriend" is allowed into a negotiation. I don't care if he works for the FBI and has a strong personal interest in protecting the negotiator (whose reasons for being there were also thin, but plausible). I highly doubt such a situation would be permitted in real life.
Certainly these blunders are the fault of the author, yet one wonders, "where are the editors"? A rigorous editorial process/ review should have been able to address many of the flaws. Of course, maybe a rigorous review did take place? In that case, one wonders if the effort to pull a good final product from the author is worth the publisher's resources. While the content has promise, I would be embarrassed to publish this book in it's current form.
I have two other books in this series from the library. Whether or not I will be able to overcome this first installment remains to be seen... After thinking about this for about 1/2 hour while perusing Goodreads, I have decided "no", I'm not going to read anymore of this series. There are so many BRILLIANT books I would rather enjoy.
March 22, 2012
I actually really liked the plot of this novel, even though I'm not a mystery fan and the basic plot is that of a mystery. I thought Henderson did a good job weaving in enough suspense about Kate's background and the other elements to keep the plot snappy and quick moving...until about 2/3 of the way through when it felt like everything got tangled up in details and I started having trouble following the case and who was doing what at what time. And then there's the moment when Kate makes a big breakthrough in the case. We've been following the characters through this case detail by excruciating detail, and suddenly we skip 3 days and Kate has figured it out!
Anyway, my real problem with this book - which, really, was OK in the end - was the result of a bunch of little things. First, it was a little unbelievable that every beautiful, feisty member of the O'Malley "family" (which I guess I can let slide since they're each the main character of a romance in this O'Malley series) is at the top of their career field and that they are all in jobs that are, in essence, very similar: a negotiator, a US marshal, a firefighter, a nurse, a pediatrician... You get the picture. I loved that Kate was a kick-ass, strong female negotiator who plays basketball to unwind from the stress of her job. But it got to be a bit much when each one of her siblings is just the same.
Also, what in the world was with Kate's southern accent?! Even though she's from Chicago, she goes in and out of a Southern accent. Why?! And then apparently Dave has a British accent but he's still a US FBI officer and his family has owned an estate outside of Chicago for generations? AND Henderson didn't ever change the way the dialogue was written to account for these accents, she just kind of told you they had them and then moved on. So it was just little stuff like that that kind of built up and kind of took away from the book as a whole.
The other problem is that I'm not a reader of Christian fiction, and I read this specifically because it was Christian fiction for a class. And while I appreciated the fact that Kate is a nonbeliever and rationally questions the existence of God, I kind of got a little squirmy when Dave and his sister discuss the best way that he can go about converting Kate via "friendship evangelism." And then Kate's final conversion felt a little...forced. Especially the statement, mere seconds after she allows herself to believe, that she has to go and convert the rest of her siblings. Because she obviously knows what's best for them now. It just got a little preachy at times.
Anyway, my real problem with this book - which, really, was OK in the end - was the result of a bunch of little things. First, it was a little unbelievable that every beautiful, feisty member of the O'Malley "family" (which I guess I can let slide since they're each the main character of a romance in this O'Malley series) is at the top of their career field and that they are all in jobs that are, in essence, very similar: a negotiator, a US marshal, a firefighter, a nurse, a pediatrician... You get the picture. I loved that Kate was a kick-ass, strong female negotiator who plays basketball to unwind from the stress of her job. But it got to be a bit much when each one of her siblings is just the same.
Also, what in the world was with Kate's southern accent?! Even though she's from Chicago, she goes in and out of a Southern accent. Why?! And then apparently Dave has a British accent but he's still a US FBI officer and his family has owned an estate outside of Chicago for generations? AND Henderson didn't ever change the way the dialogue was written to account for these accents, she just kind of told you they had them and then moved on. So it was just little stuff like that that kind of built up and kind of took away from the book as a whole.
The other problem is that I'm not a reader of Christian fiction, and I read this specifically because it was Christian fiction for a class. And while I appreciated the fact that Kate is a nonbeliever and rationally questions the existence of God, I kind of got a little squirmy when Dave and his sister discuss the best way that he can go about converting Kate via "friendship evangelism." And then Kate's final conversion felt a little...forced. Especially the statement, mere seconds after she allows herself to believe, that she has to go and convert the rest of her siblings. Because she obviously knows what's best for them now. It just got a little preachy at times.
March 22, 2016
Loved this book! I enjoyed getting to know the O'Malley family immensely, and I love all the brother/sister relationships. They're always my favorite. ;)
The way the author wove God into the story was very well done. It wasn't preachy at all, and I really appreciated just how much their faith in Him worked into the character's lives.
The mystery was very well done, and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
The way the author wove God into the story was very well done. It wasn't preachy at all, and I really appreciated just how much their faith in Him worked into the character's lives.
The mystery was very well done, and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
October 18, 2010
Within the pages of The Negotiator you'll find a nail biting, well developed suspense, a sweet and equally well developed relationship and some fine secondary characters. The plot is tense, and at times the romance becomes secondary to the suspense, but still I found it nearly impossible to put down. I highly recommend this to fans suspense fans.
February 7, 2020
Absolutely phenomenal!! Really, really, REALLY enjoyed this novel!! I was privileged to go on Kate's journey. It was so beautiful to see her finding out who Jesus was and learning to trust him. The faith elements were realistic and powerful.
Dave is amazing as well! I loved him from 'Danger in the Shadows', and he was even more incredible in this novel. If only there were more men like him in this world... He is so swoon-worthy!! The way he treated Kate tenderly was heart-melting. Dave knows Kate so well: he knows when to have fun with her, but also when to just love her and protect her. They are a perfect couple together and I know that the rest of their lives will be a grand adventure.
Loved the fast-paced plot as well!! The way that Henderson wove together all the details was awesome! It had me madly turning the pages and I was on the edge of my seat for a good part of the story!! The secondary characters were all great, and I loved seeing Sara and Adam again!!
Overall, this novel was incredible! 6 out of 5 stars!!! If you haven't read it, what are you waiting for? Go buy it now and enjoy one of the best written romantic suspense novels!!!
Dave is amazing as well! I loved him from 'Danger in the Shadows', and he was even more incredible in this novel. If only there were more men like him in this world... He is so swoon-worthy!! The way he treated Kate tenderly was heart-melting. Dave knows Kate so well: he knows when to have fun with her, but also when to just love her and protect her. They are a perfect couple together and I know that the rest of their lives will be a grand adventure.
Loved the fast-paced plot as well!! The way that Henderson wove together all the details was awesome! It had me madly turning the pages and I was on the edge of my seat for a good part of the story!! The secondary characters were all great, and I loved seeing Sara and Adam again!!
Overall, this novel was incredible! 6 out of 5 stars!!! If you haven't read it, what are you waiting for? Go buy it now and enjoy one of the best written romantic suspense novels!!!
January 20, 2023
The O'Malley series was my introduction to Christian romantic suspense about a decade ago. It's a series that has stayed with me for years and I decided to reread the books to see if they still measure up to my fan-girling memories. That would be an emphatic yes! I've listened to the prequel and now this first book in the series and I am just as enamoured as ever.
Love the measured way Henderson develops the story. The romance is deliciously slow and deliberate and when Kate and Dave are together it's easy to forget the life and death stuff happening around them. I was in full swoon mode the entire read! And the faith discussions! So frank and unapologetic and moving!
The suspense is clever and complicated and accompanied by a few twists and turns. This is very much an investigative, police procedural kind of mystery and Henderson does it so well. Had me engaged to the very last word.
Love the measured way Henderson develops the story. The romance is deliciously slow and deliberate and when Kate and Dave are together it's easy to forget the life and death stuff happening around them. I was in full swoon mode the entire read! And the faith discussions! So frank and unapologetic and moving!
The suspense is clever and complicated and accompanied by a few twists and turns. This is very much an investigative, police procedural kind of mystery and Henderson does it so well. Had me engaged to the very last word.
August 10, 2017
3.5 stars because of Dave. Did not like Dave. "I reeeeally like that girl, but she is not a believer. Guess I'll just be her friend. Of course, I'll still flirt with her, stroke her face, tell her I like those snug jeans with the heart on the back pocket, but it can't go farther than that. Besides the occasional snuggle. I think I'll tell her how to dress on our not-a-date, too, because I'm sure she needs help."
Enjoyable besides Dave. I liked all the O'Malleys. The mystery was exciting. I also got the impression Dee Henderson had done a good amount of research. Various little details and procedures really added to the realism. (For example, apparently there's a certain way to place an open soda can in the cupholder of a plane's cockpit.)0
Enjoyable besides Dave. I liked all the O'Malleys. The mystery was exciting. I also got the impression Dee Henderson had done a good amount of research. Various little details and procedures really added to the realism. (For example, apparently there's a certain way to place an open soda can in the cupholder of a plane's cockpit.)0
April 29, 2025
15 years ago when I first read this book, I finished the whole series in a week.
Re-reading this book I remembered why I enjoyed this series so much. There was a mystery thread which kept me on the edge of my seat and kept me turning pages to see what is going to happen.
There was the spiritual plot where an unbeliever started to ask questions and a search of a journey to belief.
Then there was the family bond which captured my heart. I just loved the connections of the O’Malleys and how they teased each other, but ultimately have each others’ backs. Especially when the past came knocking on the door.
A great series which I hope to reread in 2025!
Re-reading this book I remembered why I enjoyed this series so much. There was a mystery thread which kept me on the edge of my seat and kept me turning pages to see what is going to happen.
There was the spiritual plot where an unbeliever started to ask questions and a search of a journey to belief.
Then there was the family bond which captured my heart. I just loved the connections of the O’Malleys and how they teased each other, but ultimately have each others’ backs. Especially when the past came knocking on the door.
A great series which I hope to reread in 2025!
March 2, 2024
I loved this first book in a series, introducing us to one of the 7 members of the O'Malley "family", Kate; a Chicago police hostage negotiator.
The book had great pacing. I thoroughly enjoyed the "Die Hard" action / suspense parts of this book. And let it be noted, the author did her research. Henderson masterfully weaves together realistic technical details, mystery, suspense and romance into one intriguing story. We get a very realistic understanding of the interaction and partnership between law-enforcement, EMS, and other civil protectors - and moreover, the unique human bond created by those who suffer adversity together.
Did you notice the mention of romance? Yep, it's in there. Despite the fact that I questioned the ease with which Dave (an FBI agent involved in the opening scene) and Kate get together, I likened their relationship to that of the fictional characters played by Richard Gere and Julia Roberts in "Pretty Woman". Since I'm sucker for a good falling-in-love story, it worked for me.
Lastly, and most importantly, the subtle golden thread running through this story; Kate’s personal spiritual journey. Oftentimes these types of things are portrayed in a sappy ultra-dramatic, bizarre, or harsh pushy manner. In this book it is quieter and simpler; yet no less profound and wondrous. It is, in a word, real - down to Earth. I really appreciated that.
I give this book five stars, and intend to read all the books in this series.
The book had great pacing. I thoroughly enjoyed the "Die Hard" action / suspense parts of this book. And let it be noted, the author did her research. Henderson masterfully weaves together realistic technical details, mystery, suspense and romance into one intriguing story. We get a very realistic understanding of the interaction and partnership between law-enforcement, EMS, and other civil protectors - and moreover, the unique human bond created by those who suffer adversity together.
Did you notice the mention of romance? Yep, it's in there. Despite the fact that I questioned the ease with which Dave (an FBI agent involved in the opening scene) and Kate get together, I likened their relationship to that of the fictional characters played by Richard Gere and Julia Roberts in "Pretty Woman". Since I'm sucker for a good falling-in-love story, it worked for me.
Lastly, and most importantly, the subtle golden thread running through this story; Kate’s personal spiritual journey. Oftentimes these types of things are portrayed in a sappy ultra-dramatic, bizarre, or harsh pushy manner. In this book it is quieter and simpler; yet no less profound and wondrous. It is, in a word, real - down to Earth. I really appreciated that.
I give this book five stars, and intend to read all the books in this series.
September 13, 2016
I loved this book so much.
Seriously, it had pretty much everything I liked. There was a case to be worked, and there was characters I loved. It had romance that was soo nicely done. And I loved
Seriously, it had pretty much everything I liked. There was a case to be worked, and there was characters I loved. It had romance that was soo nicely done. And I loved
September 21, 2020
I totally fell in love with Kate, she's awesome! And Dave? Aw goodness I can't even start. I mean a book filled with danger, thrill, mystery, faith, and romance? I can't name a more perfect combination haha. Again, this storyline is pretty similar to the others, but I loved it anyway. I read this series kinda out of order loll, but I mean it didn't ruin it too badly. All in all, if you love mystery, thrill, faith, and romance, then I totally recommend this book (and series). It's hard these days to find a good book that combines the four, but this series is great. I guess this is kind of my whole series review lol, but eek I loved it! I'll leave it at that ;)
February 15, 2011
The high rating is what drew me to the book. Unfortunately, it was one of those books I could've put down and never picked up again without losing any sleep. While other reviewers were able to get involved with the characters, I found them 'campy'. I just couldn't get into them! Kate and Dave fell in love way too fast and I don't think a Christian book always has to deal with someone 'coming to Christ'. I was really looking forward to starting another great series (like Joel Rosenberg's The Ezekiel Option)but I guess I'll have to keep looking.
January 5, 2013
I really enjoyed this book. The story was compelling and the characters likeable. It was refreshing to read a book where there was no bad language or people falling into bed together on short acquaintance.
November 27, 2012
A great premise, and mostly good writing, but a completely flummoxing ending that simply ruins the book. If you're looking for a good Christian mystery, go pick up a book by Jim Walker, or the Bowers Files series by Steven James.
September 7, 2019
Main highlights of this reread:
~ I still love Kate
~ I think the narrator was good, but they could have done better (someone who tried to do a British accent maybe?)
~ This story is still exciting and I was happy to relisten.
~ I still love Kate
~ I think the narrator was good, but they could have done better (someone who tried to do a British accent maybe?)
~ This story is still exciting and I was happy to relisten.
January 2, 2022
This was my first Dee Henderson book, but I’m sure it won’t be my last ;) Well-written dialogue, witty banter, intriguing plot line, likeable characters, suspense, and the Gospel made this a winner in my opinion. I look forward to reading more of the O’Malley series in the future.
March 18, 2025
A dear friend texted and said “re-reading the O’Malley series” and I immediately bought the kindle version for all 7. Reckless really. I have been a reader my entire life, but these books were the first “grown up” books I ever read and I never looked back (I think was 13?). Say what you will about Christian fiction being only so-so; every-time I re-read, and I’ve probably read this series at least 6x each, I fall in love all over again.
October 5, 2021
"Control the situation; don't let it control you."
June 26, 2025
I decided to steal one of my moms books to get out of my reading slump and yeah idk what i expected.
Our main character, Kate, is badass. I love her. No qualms. She was amazing and intelligent and phenomenal from start to finish. No notes.
Dave, on the other hand, i didnt like all that much. Cute, yes. British, yes. But kind of pushy at times. Also at one point Jennifer and Kate asked him to watch a movie with them and he was like 'is it going to be mushy' and that gave me the ick. Real men like romcoms!!!!
Another thing i didnt like about this book was how dave and jennifer both treated kates faith like it was inevitable. At the beginning im pretty sure dave prays to god and says something akin to 'dont let her die before shes a believer.' At one point jennifer quite literally says 'she'll believe, dave. She has too.' Its irritating when evangelicals act like this, even if its merely fictional. Becoming a Christian is not inevitable. Its not the end all be all that every person will/should become. Faith is a choice, one that christians make every day. Giving your entire heart, your entire trust and being to god, is a choice. Acting like its going to happen as long as you push enough is demeaning to believers and nonbelievers alike. Ugh.
I did like how much Kate questioned god and the bible before she believed. I love an educated choice, and im happy dave was able to have conversations about it with her without pushing her in one direction all too much.
Religious part of this book aside, the mystery of it all was done rlly well. I liked how it pulled from Kates past and present, her career as a negotiator and her childhood before the orphanage. It was intriguing and pulled me in!!!
The ending was a bit strange. There was hardly any rundown, just three pages of nothingburger after the hostage situation with Will. Just dave being like 'so do u wanna be my girl' and kate being like 'sure if i get the keys to ur private jet' (valid). Like i wanted to know more about Will. About him and Kate. Anyways, heres the only quote that stuck with me through the entire book:
''Sometimes there is something wonderful besides mercy and justice.''
''Whats that?''
''The truth.''
Our main character, Kate, is badass. I love her. No qualms. She was amazing and intelligent and phenomenal from start to finish. No notes.
Dave, on the other hand, i didnt like all that much. Cute, yes. British, yes. But kind of pushy at times. Also at one point Jennifer and Kate asked him to watch a movie with them and he was like 'is it going to be mushy' and that gave me the ick. Real men like romcoms!!!!
Another thing i didnt like about this book was how dave and jennifer both treated kates faith like it was inevitable. At the beginning im pretty sure dave prays to god and says something akin to 'dont let her die before shes a believer.' At one point jennifer quite literally says 'she'll believe, dave. She has too.' Its irritating when evangelicals act like this, even if its merely fictional. Becoming a Christian is not inevitable. Its not the end all be all that every person will/should become. Faith is a choice, one that christians make every day. Giving your entire heart, your entire trust and being to god, is a choice. Acting like its going to happen as long as you push enough is demeaning to believers and nonbelievers alike. Ugh.
I did like how much Kate questioned god and the bible before she believed. I love an educated choice, and im happy dave was able to have conversations about it with her without pushing her in one direction all too much.
Religious part of this book aside, the mystery of it all was done rlly well. I liked how it pulled from Kates past and present, her career as a negotiator and her childhood before the orphanage. It was intriguing and pulled me in!!!
The ending was a bit strange. There was hardly any rundown, just three pages of nothingburger after the hostage situation with Will. Just dave being like 'so do u wanna be my girl' and kate being like 'sure if i get the keys to ur private jet' (valid). Like i wanted to know more about Will. About him and Kate. Anyways, heres the only quote that stuck with me through the entire book:
''Sometimes there is something wonderful besides mercy and justice.''
''Whats that?''
''The truth.''
November 15, 2013
I actually read this book for the first time about eight years ago, but since I couldn't for the life of me remember what it was about, I snapped it up when it was on offer on Kindle. I knew I enjoyed it the first time around, but I couldn't remember the plot.
The Negotiator is an engaging, romantic, suspenseful read. Thankfully, Kate and Dave didn't fall in love at first sight. Instead they had this unusual 'rapport at first sight.' I enjoyed their banter and the dynamics of their relationship. The book focuses a lot on God's character, which I really enjoyed. It was great to delve into Kate's questions alongside her, and it was a good reminder of God's sovereignty and how we don't always understand why He allows certain things to happen.
Kate's journey was realistic. As for Kate's personality, she was a bit too fiercely independent at first (in my opinion) but I liked that she could lean on her 'brothers'. Nobody is completely self-sufficient, we all need somebody. I liked the slight vulnerability that she showed towards the end of the book. I liked that Dave loved her but didn't compromise his beliefs. As for Dave being British, I was glad there was a British character at first, but as the book went on he didn't really seem all that British and his being British didn't really add anything to the story. Maybe his British accent was something of a novelty for Kate and was part of his appeal.
The conclusion of the book was satisfying. I worked out who the bad guy was before he was revealed to be the bad guy, but rather than this spoiling it for me, I was relieved that it wasn't 'someone else' (trying desperately not to give any spoilers away here!!).
The O'Malleys are a lovable bunch. I kind of wish I had three brothers and three sisters now. Thank you Dee Henderson for writing such an enjoyable faith book.
The Negotiator is an engaging, romantic, suspenseful read. Thankfully, Kate and Dave didn't fall in love at first sight. Instead they had this unusual 'rapport at first sight.' I enjoyed their banter and the dynamics of their relationship. The book focuses a lot on God's character, which I really enjoyed. It was great to delve into Kate's questions alongside her, and it was a good reminder of God's sovereignty and how we don't always understand why He allows certain things to happen.
Kate's journey was realistic. As for Kate's personality, she was a bit too fiercely independent at first (in my opinion) but I liked that she could lean on her 'brothers'. Nobody is completely self-sufficient, we all need somebody. I liked the slight vulnerability that she showed towards the end of the book. I liked that Dave loved her but didn't compromise his beliefs. As for Dave being British, I was glad there was a British character at first, but as the book went on he didn't really seem all that British and his being British didn't really add anything to the story. Maybe his British accent was something of a novelty for Kate and was part of his appeal.
The conclusion of the book was satisfying. I worked out who the bad guy was before he was revealed to be the bad guy, but rather than this spoiling it for me, I was relieved that it wasn't 'someone else' (trying desperately not to give any spoilers away here!!).
The O'Malleys are a lovable bunch. I kind of wish I had three brothers and three sisters now. Thank you Dee Henderson for writing such an enjoyable faith book.
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