Review of STANDOFF by Patricia Bradley

STANDOFF is the first book in a new series about park rangers in Natchez, Mississippi. What an enthralling beginning to this new series and a definite magnet to read the other books as they are published! The descriptive details of the small town setting in the south was well done and made me believe that I was actually there. The main character is Brooke Danvers, a young woman about to be sworn in as a park ranger, working for her father John. Then, a tragedy occurs when John is killed. The powers that be label his death as a suicide, but Brooke is determined to prove that her dad’s death was a murder and wants to find his killer. Joining her in her quest is ex-boyfriend Luke Fereday, the grandson of a beloved elderly neighbor. Brooke does not know and Luke does not share with her that he is on an undercover assignment to break up a drug ring in the area. The action is non-stop in this very complicated and well-written plot. There were a lot of characters, so at first it was hard to keep track, but once I got into the rhythm of the story, I knew who was who and was guessing right along with Brooke and Luke and the identity of the bad guys. Bradley made my guesses a challenge since she included many twists and some red herrings, but that made the book more fun for me to read. I think what I enjoyed the most was Bradley’s realistic portrayal of the challenges of undercover officers. There was plenty of suspense, some light romance and a satisfying conclusion. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series, for sure! Fans of romantic suspense that is a completely clean read will really enjoy this book.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell as part of the Revell Reads Blogger Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”