Smoke Screen is a story about family, love, wrongs dealt unjustly, reputations and the havoc of a messy divorce and custody battle.

Brenna is a mess after her husband left her for a much younger woman and is now fighting for custody of their two young children. Brenna has turned to alcohol to cope and the news that the man responsible for murdering her father has been pardoned only heightens her stress levels. When smoke jumper, Nate Beckett hears of his father’s pardon, he has no intention of returning to the small town that so quickly turned their backs on his family and accused Nate of burning down the church in revenge. But an injury while fighting large wild fires, means he must return, coming face-to-face with the woman who still holds his heart.

I was intrigued by the story in Smoke Screen. It is more a contemporary novel about romance, broken relationships and heartbreak, than suspense novel. There are two investigations in this story, both of which concluded, incorrectly, many years ago. But while these investigations are being re-evaluated now due to current events, they tick along in the background. It is Brenna’s story of alcohol abuse and battle for custody that drives the plot and brings tension to the book. I thought it was very obvious who the murderer would be and I was not surprised to be proven correct. The story just had too many easy fixes and neat endings not to go with that clean tie-up.

As Brenna and Nate rekindle their romance from their teenage years, both have a lot of baggage, past and present, with which to deal. Nate’s support of Brenna was admirable, especially when she didn’t always reciprocate. Nate also encourages her to turn to God rather than relying on herself or him as the rescuer she claims he is. And, despite all the stress and turmoil, there is a nice, neat happy ending. Brenna, while she certainly had my sympathy for the terribly unfair situation she found herself in, however, was not an easy character to like.

While I am not a huge fan of Terri Blackstock’s writing style, which is heavy on words that tell the story rather than showing it through the character’s actions, I do enjoy her way of bringing together important topics, like alcohol abuse and the effects of custody battles, lots of tension and sweet romance.

The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.

This was a book that kept me engaged and looking forward to how things would turn out.
I received this book free from the publisher via net galley in exchange for an honest review.

Fourteen years ago, Nate and Brenna were an item. But Nate left when his dad was convicted of murdering Brenna’s dad. Now he’s back; his dad has been released from prison; and Brenna is facing another devastating trial. Her ex-husband is trying to gain sole custody of their children.
This book deals with loss and how we respond to suffering. It’s obvious that Brenna is not dealing well with her trials. This story shows how having someone who believes in you and cares for you can help you change how you face the hardships in your life. She was blessed to have Nate return and stay with her through the messy days. It would have been easy to write her off as a lost cause.
There is some good action and a mystery or two to be solved. There’s an emotional legal drama played out as well as drama within family relationships. It’s a good read. Thank you to Thomas Nelson for providing me with an e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
#SmokeScreen #Netgalley

This is an emotional story that revolves around small town life where painful memories are hard to forget, reputations are hard to overcome, and yet love and faith are important to move forward. Nate Beckett left Carlisle, Colorado, after his father was convicted of killing his girlfriend's father and local preacher. When Nate was accused by townspeople of setting fire to the preacher's church, he decided it was time to leave. The police never questioned him so he didn't feel that he had to stay. Now, he is working as a smoke jumper with a talented group of hotshots. He was injured with second degree burns after saving a senator and his family-now he is considered a hero. His father has been pardoned by the governor, thanks to work by his mother, and Nate heads home to see his family and recover.
Brenna Hertzog is going through a rough time. Her husband Jack has divorced her for a younger woman and now is trying to get custody of their children. He already has them every weekend. Jack's father is a powerful and wealthy man with all the judges in town in his hands. She cannot cope when the children are gone so she turns to alcohol. Her situation seems hopeless. Then her old boyfriend Nate is back in town to visit with his family. His father killed her father and now he has been pardoned. Brenna doesn't hold what his father did against Nate and is happy to rekindle their freindship.
As Brenna struggles with her problems, Nate struggles with his own but he cares for Brenna and wants to help her. There is also a mystery or two to solve-to find out if Nate's father really killed Brenna's. Who really burned down the church? This is an emotional story of faith, courage and second chances against huge obstacles. Great story.
I received a complimentary ARC from Thomas Nelson though NetGalley. Al thoughts and opinions are mine only.

Another great book from my favorite fiction author! This is a story of complex characters and surprises. I found myself stressed right along with Brenna, wondering how she was going to work things out when there seemed to be no hope, and hurting with Nate when he felt rejected by his father. The expected twists and suspense are there, and there are few, if any, dull moments. Topics like depression and alcoholism add realism and make the characters even more relatable.

Things aren’t always as they seem, and that’s definitely true in this book.

My rating: 3 stars.

I received this book in exchange for my honest review.

What a powerful story. I don't think I've ever read a book with more flawed characters than this one. Each one is dealing with grief, pain, addiction, loss, and so much more.

I personally couldn't relate with the afflictions that Brenna dealt with in this book - but I really sympathized with her in the pages of this book. She truly dealt with more than anyone should have to and still managed to stay strong.

Nate was amazing. I loved his strength especially because it wasn't just physical, but also emotional. He also has a good mind for problem solving. I loved how hard he worked to Brenna but also to save the town. I also loved his career. Smoke jumpers are fascinating.

So many wrongs occurred in this story. Some were made right whereas others had time served. But all encompassing was the importance of forgiveness and second chances.

This book does contain some triggers. There is a lot of drinking alcohol. It this is something you struggle with or find offensive you'll want to avoid this book. Also, there is a custody battle at the heart of this book. If that is something you will find too painful to read about I advise you skip this one. It had some pretty heartbreaking moments.

I received an advanced copy of this book through NetGalley. This is my honest opinion.

An overall enjoyable read. The main characters were likeable and complex, the plot interesting, and the villains as they should be.
I really liked the fact that it was written in the first-person point-of-view (not everyone can make it work, but it adds and extra layer to the story when, like this book, it's well-written).
The pacing of the story was good, but not quite as fast and suspenseful as I had expected. That said, never once did I feel as if the book was dragging, it just wasn't the action-packed suspense I was hoping for.
It's a beautiful story full of romance, reconciliation, and redemption, so if you're looking for a deep, character-driven plot, this book is for you!

(I received a complimentary copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.)

I've read and enjoyed a number of Blackstock's books in the past, so I was excited to read her latest. Sadly, it fell a bit short for me. This had far more of a romance angle than expected (or wanted). I prefer my romantic suspense books heavy on the suspense vs. romance. Blackstock does pay attention to the details, like in her other books. I had a hard time connecting with Brenna. I'm used to heroines in this genre being stronger and more independent than she came across. She played more of a "damsel in distress" for Nate to rescue. The overall mystery was interesting. There were a couple surprises, but not enough to warrant more than three stars.

You can always count on Terri Blackstock to write a great book, and this one sends it out the park! I was captivated by the first page and couldn’t put it down! It’s a story that’ll capture your heart, as it tackles many life-changing events, from divorce, ugly child custody disputes, and losing a parent, to struggles with alcoholism. I developed a new admiration for the heroic (and sometimes tragic) life of a smokejumper, putting their lives on the line to save cities and towns from what could be massive devastation. Told from both Brenna and Nates’ points of view, I was able to relate to each character intimately. And in typical Blackstock fashion, the twists and turns will have you guessing until the end.

I received a copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers through NetGalley and was under no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Terri Blackstock should have the title Queen of Romantic Suspense. I downloaded this book after church on Sunday and thought I would just peruse a few pages to see what it was about. I didn't stop until after midnight when I read The End. Seriously, I could not put this book down. I loved the hero. He was definitely that. A hero. The heroine was one I had to warm up to, but could empathize with. She was in a very bad place in her life. As far as the bad guy, I had an idea who it was, but it didn't matter because it was great seeing how it all played out. Great writing and sweet romance and as such with Blackstock, a great message of hope.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher and this is my honest opinion.

Smoke Screen brings all the suspense and intrigue readers expect from Terri Blackstock. Although not as fast-paced as some of her other novels, Smoke Screen throws readers into the complex lives of Brenna and Nate. The two high school sweethearts are reunited after the years and buried secrets have separated them.

The drama unfolds right from the first page. Brenna is going through a nasty custody battle for her two children. Nate’s job as a smoke jumper sends him back to town to heal from his wounds after he rescues a family from a deadly fire. Nate’s father served time for killing Brenna’s father, so their relationship is tense as Nate’s father is released from prison and pardoned.

The author writes characters with flaws and emotions so real that readers won’t want the book to end. Nate’s humility and strength shine when the town throws unfounded accusations his way. Brenna’s struggles are magnified when the deck is stacked against her in the fight for her children. But mysteries run throughout the novel as Nate tries to uncover what happened the night Brenna’s father was murdered.

Definitely move Smoke Screen to the number one spot on your TBR list. The complex characters and small town secrets will keep readers hooked until the very end.

I received a complementary ebook review copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

'God is powerful. He could be my dread champion, my rear guard, the one who fihts for me. But I feel like I'm fighting all alone.'

Terri Blackstock returns with a captivating new novel told in two different POVs. Nate Beckett's father spent fourteen years in prison for killing Brenna Strickland's preacher father. Now, Nate's father has been released and Nate has returned to town to recover from a burn injury he's gotten on his job as a smokejumper. Brenna has also returned to town, divorced and fighting for her children from a vengeful ex husband who left her for a younger woman. Brenna is coping with alcohol from this devastating turn of events. In the meantime, a wildfire is threatening their town. This is a many-faceted novel that will draw the reader in over and over and interest is held captive until the very end. It moved me greatly. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Terri Blackstock has not lost her ability to keep a reader enthralled with the depth of emotions and suspense she is known for. Recommended.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers through Net Galley. Opinions stated in this review are completely my own.

I really like Terri Blackstock because I get the experience the twists and turns and yet it is a Christian book. This book made me want to read all day to finish. It was fast paced and exciting.

Terri Blackstock has been writing Christian fiction and suspense novels for a number of years and has had over 30 titles published. Smoke Screen is her most recent release and my first Blackstock book. And it won't be my last!

Blackstock writes like the veteran she is. Her writing style is polished, yet simple and engaging. I found myself very easily drawn into the story within a page or two. The plot and pacing are flawless; while not especially action-packed, there's never a moment that drags. The complexity of the multiple storylines kept me on my toes without ever becoming confusing. Throughout the course of the book, the author tackles some very difficult topics such as divorce, a custody battle, alcoholism, murder, and more. And she does so with much grace, grit, and honesty.

Smokejumper Nate Beckett returns to his small Colorado hometown after an injury sidelines him from his job. Years ago, his father was convicted--perhaps falsely--of murder, and upon his release from prison and Nate's return to town, rumors about the family run rife. Nate just wants to heal physically, and maybe find some restoration in his family. Brenna Hertzog is fighting a vicious custody battle against her ex-husband--and his influential father--and finds herself turning to alcohol to cope. The reunion between these characters couldn't have come at a worse time in their lives, but they are able to find healing as their relationship blossoms once more. The faith themes Blackstock weaves throughout the story were very beautiful and well done, and I loved seeing how the characters pointed each other back to God in the end. The romance between the characters was void of the extreme physical attraction that I find so tiresome in most romances, which was a breath of fresh air!

In summary, I think Terri Blackstock may have a new bestseller in Smoke Screen! Due to the aforementioned themes, I would recommend this book to older teens and adults. If you love a good contemporary fiction\suspense, you're not going to want to miss this one.


FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.

What a wonderful book! I hate to use a cliche but I literally couldn’t put it down. One of those stories you can’t wait to keep reading. This isn’t just a sweet love story, it leads you through different areas of suspense and heartbreak. Through it all you have a hero who wants to help the girl he loved since he was a teenage boy, and you have a mom who fights for her children and finds her way back to the God she has drifted from.
"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."

Nate Beckett has spent his life fighting wildfires instead of the lies and rumors that drove him from his Colorado hometown. His mother begs him to come back now that his father has been released from prison, but it isn’t until he’s sidelined by an injury that he’s forced to return and face his past. But that means facing Brenna too.
Fourteen years ago, Nate was in love with the preacher’s daughter. When Pastor Strickland discovered Brenna defied him to sneak out with Nate, the fight between Strickland and Nate’s drunken dad was loud—and very public. Strickland was found murdered later that night, and everyone accused Roy Beckett. When the church burned down not long after, people assumed Nate set the fire to get even for his father’s conviction. He let the rumors fly and left town without looking back.
Brenna is stunned to learn that the man convicted of murdering her father has been pardoned. The events of that night set her life on a bad course, and now she’s fighting a brutal custody battle with her ex and his new wife where he’s using lies and his family’s money to sway the judge. Brenna is barely hanging on, and she’s turned to alcohol to cope. Shame and fear consume her.
As Nate and Brenna deal with the present—including new information about that fateful night and a wildfire that’s threatening their town—the past keeps igniting. Nate is the steady force Brenna has so desperately needed. But she’ll have to learn to trust him again first. – from the publisher
Smoke Screen is a quick read. Terri Blackstock is a master of suspense. While Smoke Screen is not your typical suspense novel it does have elements of mystery. Ms. Blackstock in this novel delved a little deeper into relationships with her characters Nate and Brenna and how assumptions can change both relationships and a person’s life. Smoke Screen does have more heavy romance than most of her past books but it broadened the story.
Readers who enjoy pure suspense novels may be disappointed by this entry. However, readers who enjoy suspense and a good story with the effects of events on people and their relationships will thoroughly enjoy Smoke Screen. This reader enjoyed the alternate viewpoints between Nate and Brenna which enhanced the total picture of that eventful night fourteen years prior. Grab this book with an open mind for a quick and enjoyable read.
I received an ARC ebook from Netgalley and the publisher, Thomas Nelson, in exchange for an honest review.

Suspense is definitely something I read a TON of Terri Blackstock is also an author who I have read everything she has written. So when I heard Blackstock was writing another book, I couldn't wait to get my hand on it. With her newest novel, Smoke Screen, I wouldn't really classify it as a suspense novel. There was an element of surprise in the plot, but it didn't have the spine chilling chase from something or someone that Blackstock's stories usually do. Smoke Screen reminded me a lot of Center of Gravity by Laura McNeil. A story where the main heroine is trying to cope with the loss of a marriage and what it does to her. While the suspense element, trying to find out who really killed the preacher, was there, it didn't really capture the whole story. There was romance between the heroine and hero. Something that started fourteen years ago and tried to resume in the pages of the story. I really liked how Blackstock created a safe and honorable hero who didn't take advantage of a weak woman as she moaned the lost of her marriage. Overall, Smoke Screen reminds me of a contemporary woman's fiction with a hint of suspense. Not a bad novel but not what I was expecting.

I received a complimentary copy of Smoke Screen by Terri Blackstock from Thomas Nelson Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.

Terri Blackstock’s last three books, the If I Run series, are some of my favorites in the suspense genre, so maybe my expectations were too high for this one, but I didn’t love it. The premise sounded really interesting, but it ended up being more family drama than suspense. That's fine and has its place, but not the action-packed suspense I was hoping for. When the suspense aspect did come into play, the crimes were solved almost by coincidence more than any investigation. Nate was a great hero, but Brenna wasn’t that likeable to me for the first half of the book. It’s still a solid, engaging story with a satisfying ending, and some people might love it, but it didn’t quite live up to my hopes. I will definitely keep reading Terri Blackstock's books, though!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Brenna and Nate were high school sweethearts, a relationship that ended in heartache when Nate's father was convicted of killing Brenna's father. Soon after, Nate left town amid accusations that he'd burned down the local church. Fast forward almost 15 years, and Nate returns to town an injured hero, and Brenna is fighting a bitter custody battle for her two children. Nate's father has been released from prison, but most people still believe he is guilty, including Nate. While Nate tries to reconnect with his father and Brenna tries to fight her own demons while also fighting her ex-husband, Nate and Brenna realize that their flame is still burning.

This book gave me all the feels...I got angry, I smiled, and I shed some tears. Nate was incredible, Brenna was all too real, and their relationships with God were presented in a very real, positive way. I am very glad that I read this book.

The book is listed on Netgalley as a mystery/thriller, but it really isn't either of those. It's more drama & suspense, with a heavy romance. Yes, the mystery of who killed Brenna's father, as well as who burned down the local church, are addressed in the book, but they are some of the smallest plot threads, at least until near the end. One of the biggest arcs is Brenna's battle with her horrid ex-husband. That was the part that had me angry. I won't pretend that things like this can't happen in real life, but the way it all went down was just...so aggravating. And because of this situation, Brenna was struggling with alcoholism, which was a heavy element in the book as well. But it was difficult to blame her, considering how she was being steamrolled into not being able to take care of her children properly.

The relationship between Nate and Brenna was one of the sweetest romances I've read in a long time. It was not about the physical, but purely about the emotional & historical connection between them. That Nate was able to look past the effects of her currently terrible circumstances to see the real woman, and gave her a lifeline when she needed one the most, while allowing her to build her own strength, rather than relying purely on him, all makes him one of my favorite male romantic protagonists ever.

The book was told in first-person perspective, but switched back and forth between Nate's and Brenna's points of view, which I found a little disorienting. Each time we switch, or even just when there's a new chapter, we are clearly told who's perspective we're in, but I still had a difficult time with it. And I'm not sure there was really a good enough reason to do it this way.

I think that one of my biggest issues was with the predictability and contrivances that I noticed. One of the things that happened near the end I basically assumed had to happen, though weirdly, even when it did happen, it turned out to not be for the reason I thought it was necessary. And a few events were a little too coincidental, happening purely to make sure the plot went where it was supposed to.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I was surprised by how quick and easy of a read it was, and would recommend it to all fans of Christian drama, suspense, and romance.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Another great book by Terri Blackstock!
Suspense at its best! Fourteen years ago Nate was in love with the preacher's daughter. But then people assumed he set the fire that burned the church down. He left town and never looked back, Until.... He's forced to return and face Brenna.

As Nate and Brenna return to deal with the present, including new information about the fateful night and the wildfire that is threatening their town- What will happen?

You won't want to put this book down. Suspenseful!

I received a free digital ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.