This new story in The SNAP Agency series is so good! Kekoa Young is a cryptologist, formerly of the Navy, and now with the private agency that does internal investigations for companies. When he is assigned to investigate his neighbor, he doesn't want to do it. The more that he gets to know Elinor Mitchell, the more he knows she is not guilty of what it looks like she has done but he found the evidence himself.
Elinor is a cute, nerdy aerospace engineer, who is leading a group of other engineers to develop a special project hoping to be used in the newly formed Space Force. The company head has hired SNAP to find out who might be selling company secrets, but he didn't expect it to be Elinor. It appears emails are being sent from her company email selling project secrets. Her grandfather was one of the Los Alamos Five, thought to be working on a nuclear project. She has some of his old codes never used in some books left to her by her Gramps but doesn't know it. When she puts some codes on the Forum to get help decoding them, she puts herself in the view of foreign countries. But is there more going on than it appears?
The chemistry between Kekoa and Elinor is sweet, funny, and special. But things really ramp up and get dangerous as ruthless people fight to get what they want for their countries. It was hard to put the book down near the end. This is a great addition and highly recommended for a suspenseful, edgy read with a thread of faith and sweet romance.
I received a complimentary ARC from Revell Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are mine only.

Natalie Walters has become one of my favorite authors and Fatal Code is one of the reasons why. She is a master of the romantic suspense genre!

Fatal Code is the second book in The SNAP Agency series. I haven’t read the first one, but this one easily stands on its own. In this installment, Elinor Mitchel, the granddaughter of one of the Los Alamos nuclear energy project, discovers she has highly sensitive material in her possession - and a target on her back. The SNAP Agency is called on to investigate the situation. A member of the agency just happens to be Elinor’s neighbor, a so it begins.

This is an intense page-turner. Elinor is accused of betraying her employer, and her country. Is she guilty or is she being framed? Who is really at fault. And what do her grandfather’s letters have to with all this? And in the middle of all the questions and accusations and danger is a beautiful friendship developing between Elinor and her neighbor Kekoah.

This book is dramatic and intense, yet also filled with humor and friendship. The characters are believable, the storyline well developed, with a satisfying conclusion that kept me guessing all the way to the end.

I received a copy from Net Galley and Revell. The opinions are my own.

Kekoa and Eli- the romance we didn't know we needed!! I love this couple!!!! The awkwardness of Eli, I could greatly identify with! And thr fact that Kekoa was a little bit awkward around her too, love. It was a pleasure and delight to watch them fall in love and the mystery and danger just added another layer to a beautiful book!!!

I have not read Natalie Walters before, but I found the teaser plot interesting. I loved the book! I guess I missed reading book one. I could tell there was history with some of the characters, but I didn't feel like it impacted the story too much.

The main character, Elinor, has lost her beloved grandfather. She finds solace in his journals and notebooks. Her neighbor, Kekoa, is a SNAP agent who is sent to monitor her for illegal activity. Kekoa doesn't believe she is doing anything nefarious, but the evidence is overwhelming. When dangerous things begin happening to Elinor, its up to her and Kekoa to solve the mystery her grandfather left behind before the enemy gets what they want.

I thought Fatal Code was a great read! It has great characters, an exciting plot line, and lots of twists and turns. I highly recommend it to anyone who likes Christian suspense without blood and gore.

2.5 stars

I've read many books in this genre, and another book by this author, and this wasn't quite what I was expecting. There was more of a romance angle to it than I prefer, and there was also some off-color humor that seemed out of place. I did like Elinor's occupation, as it's not one I'm just to reading about. I didn't read the prior book, so perhaps this one would've hit differently with me if I had. But, as is, I had a hard time connecting with the characters and staying engaged. I doubt I'll check out the next one in the series.

1 star due to lots of inappropriate content. I did not finish it because of this.

I was kinda excited to read this book after reading Natalie Walters' intriguing "Silent Shadows", but now, not so much.

This book had so many more content issues to deal with than the minor blips of my previous read of hers.

First off, let's address the elephant in the room. This is supposed to be a "Christian Romantic Suspense" read, which is absolutely my favorite genre by far.

Christian Romantic Suspense typically equals this: Tons of action, spies, cops, gun fights, undercover work, drug busts, martial arts, and car chases with just a pinch of romance from a powerhouse duo in between to catch your breath. Keep it clean, and I am SO happy with it.

This book however, fails to stick to those usually dimensions in that, instead of a pinch of clean romance, we get a tiny inkling of a faith element, and a ton of secular "romance", as well as off color "humor" that I'm really not thrilled with.

The lead female character is Elinor Mitchell, a scientist for NASA. She's not awful, just kind of a boring workaholic who doesn't seem to know hoe to enjoy life.

Elinor's co-worker Heidi insists she go to the bar with her, and Ellie reluctantly goes. She introduces Ellie to a sleazy man who when he's thoroughly drunk, tries to gets handsy with Elinor.

Ellie doesn't drink anything other than a Coke Zero, but Heidi gets smashed. 
Heidi also suggests, "what would be the harm in a fling to take the edge off?"

Ok, I actually see a lot of harm in that, Heidi! You know when you want to smack a character up the side of the head for how simply stupid they are? Yeah, her right now. *slap, eyedoink, door slamming*

Elinor's co-worker, Luka, teases Elinor about him having a big, se*y brain. She replies that she's dissected a brain, and they're not se*y. (So gross.)

Honestly, what happened to being attracted to someone's personality, character, mind, and how well they treat others, not just their "hot" body? And since when do you just strike up a conversation with a stranger, in a bar, no less?

Kekoa, the leading male character is pretty decent, but he has a heavy load of grief to carry from something in his past. I love that he's Hawaiian, and an encrypting tech genius.

Secular shows such as Grey's Anatomy and the Gilmore Girls are mentioned.

This book is very disappointing, and I probably won't be reading anymore of Mrs. Walters' work.

Fatal Code is book 2 in The SNAP Agency series. I highly recommend reading Lights Out (and even the prequel Initium) before reading Fatal Code as it references events that occurred in the previous book.

On to my review…

Can I just start by saying I love Kekoa? If you’ve read Natalie Walters’ Harbored Secrets series, you may even recall he has a small role in Silent Shadows. In Lights Out, we learn he’s become a team-member of the SNAP Agency. Fatal Code gives us more of who Kekoa is and some of his back story. I think he’s a wonderful character—hunky and smart combined with a sweet and sensitive nature. I enjoyed the tension between Elinor and Kekoa as they got to know each other.

I especially enjoyed how this story had me laughing one moment at a character’s joke or silly antic, but then the next chapter had me crying. I literally needed a tissue once or twice. All the feels for me! There’s plenty of tension and suspense. And I didn’t figure out who the ultimate “bad guy” was until the reveal. (Good job, Natalie!)

I liked so many details about this story, one of my favorite aspects of the mystery being the use of ciphers and pseudocodes. So interesting!

I’m looking forward to reading Lyla and Garcia’s story in the next book!

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)

I received an ebook ARC of Fatal Code from the publisher Revell via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my honest thoughts about this book.

Loved it. Great romantic suspense. The Hawaiin words and food added a delightful touch to the tale. Nicely paced and it kept me guessing. I had not read the first one in this series. I would like to do so. Eager to read the next one, too. Thanks to the publisher for providing a copy via NetGalley. It was a challenge to locate the book on my Kindle as it was titled Lights Out.

It probably seems odd to describe what is supposed to be a suspense book as fun, but that is the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about this book. Kekoa makes everything fun. I really enjoyed the fun-loving Hawaiian and all the little Hawaiian tidbits tucked throughout the pages. Natalie did a great job using the slang and then "interpreting" it in a subtle way that fits seamlessly into the story.

There were some pretty serious parts too. Kekoa is carrying around a past weight and Elinor has abandonment issues and these things definitely impact the story. I have to wonder how some of the revelations would affect Elinor's trust issues.

I liked having Lyla and Garcia fairly involved in the "case". They were around and helping Kekoa out quite a bit. They're super fun, too.

This is the second book in this series, and it can be read alone! I loved how the author puts the two main characters as neighbors, and how a relationship is formed.

A read that is full of suspense, and you will wonder whom to trust, and for me it was full of surprises! The author did a great job of pulling me in and not letting go until the last page is turned.

We are given a story that is rich in suspense, danger at many turns, some sweet romance, and a real page turner looking for answers.

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.

Fatal Code, the second in the SNAP series proves be a complex story that will keep readers on their toes. The author has a knack for creating highly suspenseful stories that are very realistic. Loved the nerdy jokes made by Elinor. I did find the Hawaiian language or pidgin hard to understand at times. I would recommend that reading Lights Out first to fully enjoy all the back story.

This is the second book in the author’s The SNAP Agency series.
SNAP Agent Kekoa Young has been carrying around a huge burden for years…and it is starting to take a toll - and when he is asked to “monitor” his neighbor Elinor, he finds that he just may be willing to share his burdens with someone. But is Elinor truly who she appears to be?

Elinor (aerospace engineer and basically awesome genius) Mitchell is grieving her grandfather, trying to complete a bajillion dollar project at work, all while being caught up in a mystery she does not initially recognize or understand.

This series is great! The topics are atypical for this genre and therefore very interesting - and are written in a way that is easy for the average reader to understand. The camaraderie between the SNAP team is enjoyable, and the characters have depth. I am happy to recommend this book and in fact anything by this author.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers and NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.

I loved Fatal Code! This book really hit all the right notes! Natalie Walters has a gift for creating a team dynamic that just sucks you in as a reader and makes you feel like you are part of the team. This book was no exception! Kekoa is fun loving, sensitive, and fiercely protective of his people and I was here for it! The mystery and suspense elements were sprinkled into this story expertly to highlight a growing threat and allow Kekoa and Elinor to build a genuine relationship that I was invested in as a reader. They were adorable! Kekoa’s past hurts literally broke me down! Walters dealt with his past in a delicate and respectful way while pointing the character and the reader to Christ, forgiveness and letting go of guilt. It really resonated with me. The conclusion was action packed as things began to unravel for the characters. Admittedly, I didn’t understand a lot of the computer code take and mathematical pseudo code lingo, but I trusted that the characters knew what they were doing and would get us out of the danger! Really enjoyed this story and was hands down happily contented with the conclusion. Kekoa was a perfect hero! I just love him! This book was so enjoyable and I would happily recommend it to suspense readers! Cannot wait for the next one!

I am not going to pretend for a moment that I wasn't crazy excited to read Kekoa’s story.
In Lights out (the first book), I was eager for any page time he got and that ending where Elenoir was introduced… Yep Fatal Code couldn't come fast enough for me.
Kekoa completely stole the show for me. He is an absolutely adorable “cinnamon roll” of a man, wrapped up in tattoos and his outgoing Hawaiian personality. He was always so entertaining. He has a brotherly affection for his team and I love that dynamic. He is a protector at heart and I love that about him too.
Yes this review is mostly about Kekoa, that can't be helped much.
The story opens with a new mystery brought to us and I really didn't predict all the twists and turns it took. I didn't see them all coming or how some things were connected until the end.
It was really well paced. I kept on wanting to find out how the main dilemma was going to be solved as well as the secondary realitional dilemmas. And the cipher angle was so interesting and engaging to read about.
Every and all interactions between Elenoir and Kekoa were gold. They complemented each other in such unique ways. And seeing them on the page through this book was a delight.
They were so sweet together! Have I said that before?
Yes this is a suspense with all the right mix of danger and peril, but for me the core enjoyment was watching Kekoa bring out the best, to be there for, and stand up for Elinoir.
This may be my favorite Natalie Walters book.
Yep Bruh, it is.
I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher through Netgally. All thoughts and opinions in this review are honest and completely my own.

This is another great suspense novel about the SNAP agency in Washington, DC and this time the focus is Kekoa, the Hawaiian computer guru at the agency. His next door neighbor, Elinor Mitchell is a nerdy scientist and the SNAP agency has been hired to keep an eye on her. Kekoa draws the assignment. As Elinor is stalked by killers intent on getting some of her deceased grandfather's research from her and others trying to get the details of the project she is currently working on, Kekoa also battles his feelings of guilt over the death of his brother in Hawaii and his own estrangment from the rest of his family who is eager to reconnect.

The characters in this series of books are so much fun, and there is always all kinds of high drama related to the US government and stories of individuals struggles with their faith. The stories are always intriguing and heart grabbing.. This is another can't put it down book. Waiting anxiously for the next installment!

I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that I received from NetGalley. All views expressed are only my own honest opinion.

'God, if You're there, I could use a win tonight.'

When I read Natalie Walters's first book, I knew right then I wanted to follow her. Her work has only gotten better! Seriously. I love this new series featuring the SNAP agency. Walters has populated the group with really wonderful characters from the very beginning and leaves the reader wanting to read all each of their stories. When I first met Kekoa Young in the first book, I was just so excited to read his story and it did not disappoint.

Tasked with a seemingly impossible quest, the SNAP agency must up their game this time, as Kekoa is asked to keep an eye on his neighbor, Elinor Mitchell, who is in possession of super sensitive information. But Kekoa likes her and refuses to believe she is the enemy.

Walters ramps up the suspense to a frightening degree here with a plot that is both intriguing and thrilling, racing toward a powerful conclusion, as well as delves into the deep emotional hurts of her characters as they struggle to do the right thing. I was in from the very first page and I love when that happens. Well done!

My thanks to Revell Publishing for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The review here is my own opinion.

Fatal Code is a modern-day action thriller written by Natalie Walters. It is book two in the Snap Agency series. It is not necessary to have read book one in order to enjoy this one.

Summary: When Elinor Mitchell inherits her grandfather’s possessions, she is intrigued by the secret codes written amongst his things. As she tries to solve them, she has no idea that these codes complete a nuclear project her grandfather helped to create in the 1960s. And that Russia and China want these codes. Badly.

The closer Elinor gets to the truth, the more danger she is in. Can former Navy cryptologist Kekoa Young protect her from those who will do anything to obtain them?

My Thoughts: I really liked this one. There is tons of action, plenty of twists and turns, and some really great interpersonal relationships as well.

This book is a great blend of adventure, romance, and mystery, and I would definitely recommend it.

I would like to thank Revell for providing me with a free digital copy of this book in exchange for my review. Thank you!

Natalie has done it again! Fatal Code is a prime example of why she has quickly become one of my favourite authors, and I will never hesitate to read anything she has written. The plot lines are absolutely fantastic, her characters are raw and real, and I love the humour she sprinkles liberally throughout the dialogue. Kekoa was hands-down my favourite character in Lights Out, so I've been (impatiently) anticipating his story for months now, and jumped at the chance to read an early copy.

Aerospace engineer Elinor Mitchell is the granddaughter of one of the Los Alamos Five--a group of scientists who had designed a project for the US government in the mid 1960s before being dissolved without warning. In her efforts to decode one of her grandfather's notebooks, Elinor posts a single line on an online forum and instantly becomes a target. As a member of the SNAP Agency and a former Navy cryptologist, Kekoa Young has been tasked with the job of keeping an eye on his potentially criminal next-door neighbour. The only problem? He kinda-sorta, reeeaaally likes her, despite his best efforts to keep her in the friend zone. Plus, he's quickly convinced that there is absolutely no way Elinor is guilty of the crimes the agencies are accusing her of committing. Oh, and did I mention he isn't interested in a relationship? There's a lot at stake here, and it will take everything Kekoa and SNAP have to keep Elinor alive long enough to uncover the truth.

Kekoa was such an amazing hero. Tragically losing his brother has left him with a shattered heart and the inability to allow anyone close enough to hurt him again. I loved seeing the ways his family, Elinor, and ultimately God helped him work through his pain and see that loving really is worth everything it might cost. I also really enjoyed seeing his Hawaiian culture play a big part in the story. I loved Elinor's nerdy science jokes (her t-shirts were pretty great too) and Kekoa's sense of humour throughout the book as well. There was so much to love about Fatal Code, but you'll have to read it yourself to see the rest!

Fatal Code gets an easy 5/5 stars as one of my favourite books so far this year. Anyone who loves romantic suspense will want to add this one to their TBR asap!

*I received a complimentary copy of Fatal Code through the publisher and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. My positive review is not required.

**4.5/5 Stars**
Natalie Walters does it again with Fatal Code, the second novel of her “SNAP Agency” series. I always love her books, because they have a unique sense of humor that I’ve rarely found in other works of fiction. That comedic factor, combined with her nearly faultless (but believable) plotlines, will always bring me back to her. Fatal Code by Natalie Walters is one of my favorite books of the year, and I read it in two sittings. I did not want to put it down, and I have no doubt other readers will feel similarly.

Since joining Life is Story, romantic suspense has been my specialty genre. I’ve always enjoyed it, but I didn’t read it as much prior to joining the LiS team. This has introduced me to a number of authors including Susan May Warren, DiAnn Mills, Lynette Eason, and Elizabeth Goddard. I would be the first to admit, I am a hard reader to please, and I hesitate to give anyone the moniker of “favorite author.” But Walters has earned that title, and then some. Fatal Code only solidified that further. I loved the multilayered, complex plot, the characters, and the storytelling. Some authors have too much dialogue; others grow distracted by descriptions. Fatal Code possesses the perfect balance.

I am not an intelligence professional—not by any means. But I have studied it, so I perhaps know a bit more about the subject than the average person. Walters did not try to plug her characters into the FBI, CIA, or some other three-letter agency. Instead, she created her own, which I loved. I wasn’t sidetracked by looking for errors. Instead, I embraced the believable story Walters portrayed. Kekoa and Elinor tugged at my heart—especially Elinor’s science jokes and t-shirts. What a fun little quirk!

The only reason this book is not getting five stars: The excessive use of “Brah”/“Brother.” As Kekoa is Hawaiian, I understand this may be part of his culture, but…I got really tired of seeing it in the majority of his dialogue. It grated on me. Like one of those annoying times when your eye twitches, and you don’t know why and can’t make it stop. This doesn’t mean Kekoa’s not a great character—he is. I loved getting to know him better, as he might’ve been my favorite character from Light’s Out. He made me laugh in that book, and it continues in Fatal Code.

Fatal Code by Natalie Walters is a wonderful example of the romantic suspense genre. Dramatic and multifaceted, yet also humorous and gratifying. I loved every second I spent with Kekoa, Elinor, and the rest of the SNAP Agency crew, and I can’t wait for the third novel. There has to be one…I need Garcia and Lyla to get together, please!

I couldn’t wait for Kekoa’s story in Natalie’s SNAP Agency series and Fatal Code did not disappoint. It is one of the best Romantic Suspense novels I’ve read this year.
Elinor’s team is one step away from a defense contract when she finds pseudo codes in her deceased grandfather’s journals. Posting one online for help from the cyber community just put a target on her back. The problem is—she doesn’t have a clue.
Kekoa was placed strategically in the apartment next to Elinor. He’s supposed to find out whether or not she’s selling company secrets. The emails are coming from her account. The problem is—he’s attracted to her and doesn’t want to believe the evidence that seems to be right in front of him.
The stakes are high in this adrenaline fueled book as things aren’t quite what they seem. Can Kekoa keep Elinor alive long enough to see if their relationship can grow into something real?
I received a copy of this book courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and this is my honest opinion of the book.