What a great mix of suspense, family ties, and romance!

Nathan and Jesslyn were great characters who were dedicated to their jobs, their friends, and their faith, but I love how they learned and grew through this investigation and found things within themselves that they could improve!

A great read!

Oh boy did this one keep me guessing! This mystery was super intriguing and all the pieces to the mystery are extremely well crafted. I had a suspect and I was off the mark by a mile! I never miss a Lynette Eason book, and this story is a perfect example as to why that is. Her stories never disappoint!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and also have pre-ordered my own Audible copy. I was not required to post a positive review and all thoughts are my own.

I’m not sure how I missed Target Acquired, but I’ll need to go back and read it. Please forgive me for skipping to from book one to book three of Lynette Eason’s “Lake City Heroes” series for this review. In Serial Burn by Lynette Eason, twenty years ago, Jesslyn’s immediate family passed away in a housefire. Seeking justice—and answers—becomes her goal in life, sending her down the career path of a fire marshal. When Jesslyn’s church goes up in flames, FBI Special Agent Nathan Carlisle comes with is partner to investigate. He has his own tragic history with fire. When the arsonist continues striking, both Jesslyn and Nathan must face their pasts, while simultaneously trying to keep Jesslyn alive.

Like all of Eason’s previous work, Serial Burn is action-packed and filled life-or-death situations, for both the main characters and minor ones. You think Eason’s taking a break, but a Molotov cocktail shatters the peace. Or gunshots. Or a car accident. Or another fire. The author keeps readers biting their fingernails; I certainly did. Eason pulled me into the story from the prologue, and I had to keep reading. When I couldn’t read, I found myself thinking about the book. Apologies to all the people who might have texted me, or engaged me in conversation, as I didn’t comprehend a word. While I found the amount of action to be…farfetched, it was the appropriate amount for a novel. It didn’t fill every page, but it wasn’t nonexistent, either.

What I appreciate most about Christian romantic suspense, though, is its underlying messages. Serial Burn focuses on acceptance, faith, forgiveness, and redemption. Acceptance and faith because we won’t always understand why things do—or don’t—happen. Redemption because it’s never too late to restructure relationships or to overcome the past. Forgiveness because…well, forgiveness is complicated. You can decide to forgive someone, even if it takes a while for your heart to catch up. Forgiving others is hard; forgiving yourself is harder; accepting God’s forgiveness is the hardest of all in so many ways. It is incredibly difficult to think that God could want to give it to us, after all the times we fail. After all the times we sin. But He does, and He will tomorrow, too. Serial Burn by Lynette Eason portrays this concept so clearly.

I loved Serial Burn. Lynette Eason is one of my “go-to” authors for romantic suspense novels. She never disappoints, and Final Approach needs to arrive sooner, thank you very much.

Serial Burn begins with a glimpse of events from the villain’s perspective which always seems to suck me into a novel. I’m always looking for a tiny clue that might hint at who is behind what is going on. There were plenty of potentially dangerous moments sprinkled throughout this book, however I would say that most of them were somewhat predictable which didn’t make this read one of those edge of your seat suspense books. This book was heavy on info gathering/investigating and low on the romance due to both characters having past trauma they needed to work through before sparking a major romance. The conclusion was definitely intense for the characters and even though I felt as though the person behind the arson was pretty obvious, it was still a danger filled, fast paced conclusion that featured how intelligent Jesslyn could be in moments of need. The author heavily featured themes of forgiveness, and dealing with guilt and grief from a Biblical perspective which was really authentic and one of my favorite things about this story. This one might be for you if you are looking for a suspense book that features strong friendships, moments of danger and overcoming your past to find your future with a bit of arson at every turn!

I was enthralled with this book. Having already read book 2 in this series (not required or necessary to enjoy this story, but it does bring the character developments and thread together for those who have), Serial Burn does not disappoint. It’s lively, full of thrills and suspense, a kindling of a new romance (to fit the pun!) and a lot of mystery to have you wondering who the baddie is.

Loved, loved, loved it! Already itching to read the fourth and final instalment of this series. Thank you Lynette for another fantastic adventure.

Serial Burn is an book that's impossible to put down until the end. Deputy State Fire Marshal Jesslyn McCormick and FBI Special Agent Nathan Carlisle are on the case to find a serial arsonist. Both characters are likable and well-developed. They are complex characters that have a lot to deal with from their pasts. The plot moves at a fast pace that is perfect for the story. There are twists, including a huge one towards the end that I did not anticipate at all. Author Lynette Eason's writing style flows well and allows her readers to get completely immersed in the novel. The dialogue feels natural and advances the plot. One strong theme is forgiveness. This romantic suspense novel made me ponder the difference between forgiving oneself and accepting the forgiveness of God. I found the ending satisfying with the crime wrapped up. I highly recommend this standalone third book in the Lake City Heroes series.
I received a complimentary copy and am sharing my opinion of this extremely well-written and engaging novel.

Jesslyn investigates fires but she’s driven by the desire to find the person who killed her family in a fire when she was a child. On the twentieth anniversary of their deaths she gives an impassioned speech that starts a strange series of events.

Nathan is an agent with the FBI called in to investigate the circumstances surrounding a church fire. He’s acquainted with Jesslyn but the more he works with her the more he’s drawn to her.

As they work together in the midst of more fires, attempts on Jesslyn’s life, and no clear suspect will they survive long enough to take a step toward each other?

This book is well written and draws you into the emotions of the characters. It shows the cracks trauma can place in a family but the Lord has the power to restore and heal the broken places. I highly recommend this book.

I was given a copy courtesy of Revell through NetGalley. This is my honest opinion of the book.

The whole story is on edge. It’s a constant battle to figure out what is going on. I felt the frustration of the people in the story as they tried to piece out the information that they had. It’s thought of as 3 jigsaw puzzles all thrown together and you can’t find any borders. The author keeps you guessing throughout the story. I feel that’s more real than the mysteries that give you exactly what you need from the start.
Besides the mystery, there is a struggle to be vulnerable. Is it better to be alone than to have harm come to someone you care about? And when all is resolved, is it possible for her to simply be her, without the obsession, the vengeance, the justice? Who is she without the pity or the search for justice? Her past has consumed her. Who is she without her past?
The story also deals with guilt and suicidal thoughts while coming to terms with truth. There are other ways to grow and go on after tragedy and guilt, besides giving up.

Good one! Jessyln's social life and life goals are self stunted due to her focus on figuring out who caused the death of her family members. Years ago her parents and siblings perished in a tragic fire. Jessyln is determined to find out who started the fire and it seems she has poked a bear. The tables have turned and someone is setting fire to the places Jesslyn frequents starting with her church.

It was fun to try to fit together all the puzzle pieces and learn as they get sorted out.

Look forward to the next in the series!

Serial Burn is another incredible addition to the Lake City Heroes series and I was hooked from page one,

Jesslyn’s desire to honor her family and the way she faces her fears is admirable. The way her character is written is so realistic and relatable, and Eason does an incredible job of incorporating little things that, as someone who’s experienced a house fire, make Jesslyn’s history more credible (not in a triggering way).

The way Andrew supports Jesslyn as she investigates the fires, protecting her while respecting her wishes, are real-life husband goals and makes him one of my favorite MMCs yet.

With signature plot twists and heart-pounding suspense, Serial Burn is a can’t-miss book for those who enjoy romantic suspense.

Serial Burn is the third book in the Lake City Heroes series but could absolutely be enjoyed as a standalone in you have not yet read those books yet.

Every time I pick up a book by Lynette Eason, I know without a doubt that I'm in for a story that is going to keep me at the edge of my seat from start to finish. This one was certainly no exception. Jesslyn has dedicated her entire life and career as a fire marshal to tracking down the arsonist responsible for the death of her family when she was a young child. After a series of fires seem like they are related, it seems like the secrets of her past are closer than ever. I don't want to give too much away, but there were definitely a whole lot of secrets coming to light in this story...so many twists and turns to keep me guessing. And of course, I adored the romance between Jesslyn and Nathan... while I definitely feel like the suspense took center stage, these two had great chemistry and I loved seeing their story play out as well. If you love Christian romantic suspense, this is absolutely one you'll want to check out!

(Note: There are a few mentions of suicide, which could be triggering for some readers.)


**ARC received via Netgalley for consideration. All opinions are my own.

I love this type of book and Eason is a master writer of intense suspense. I love series with overlapping characters. The characters are interesting and likeable. They're very driven by pasts that haunt them and yearn for resolution and forgiveness.

There were layers to the mystery of who was behind the devastation happening all around Jess. While I guessed at part of it, other parts took me by complete surprise although it was still very believable. I like when that happens. It keeps it interesting right to the end.

This was a great suspenseful read. I'd highly recommend it and the other books in the series. Thank you to Revell for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

How do you catch an arsonist who leaves nothing but smoke and silence in their wake?

Lynette Eason ignites the pages with Serial Burn, a wildfire of suspense, faith, and second chances that had me hooked. This isn’t your average hunt-for-the-arsonist thriller—it’s a blazing reminder that sometimes the hardest flames to fight are the ones inside us.

Jesslyn McCormick doesn’t just know fire—she’s lived through it. Lake City’s fire marshal carries more than just a badge; she carries the weight of a blaze that shattered her world twenty-five years ago. When a string of fires rattles her community—including one too close to home at her church—the past crackles to life in a way she can’t ignore.

Enter FBI Special Agent Nathan Carlisle, a man with his own scorch marks. Nathan’s steady faith becomes the anchor Jesslyn didn’t realize she needed. His reminder that “God knew what was going to happen. It didn’t take Him by surprise” feels less like a platitude and more like a lifeline tossed into rough waters.

The chemistry between Jesslyn and Nathan is the slow, steady kind that burns long after the flames die down. Watching Jesslyn wrestle with God in the aftermath of her pain -- her honest question: “Why didn’t He stop it?”—hits like a backdraft because we’ve all been there, standing in the ashes wondering why the rescue didn’t come.

Eason expertly crafts mysteries, weaving puzzles that play with your head. Every twist was like trying to outrun a fire line—you never know when it’ll shift direction.

But what really makes Serial Burn unforgettable is its heart. It’s about redemption, forgiveness, and learning to step out of the ashes without smelling like smoke. Nathan’s quiet words to Eli, “The issue isn’t you forgiving yourself, but accepting the forgiveness that God offers you,” will stay with me.

If you’re craving a story that lights up your faith while keeping you guessing, Serial Burn is your match. Eason delivers a firestorm of suspense wrapped in faith that smolders long after the final page.

I received a digital ARC of this book from the publisher, Revell, and NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

Just. So. Good.

Lynette Eason does it again with another edge-of-your-seat romantic suspense read. I always need to clear my calendar when I start one, because I never want to stop for life. Serial Burn is the third book in the Lake City Heroes series. It can be a stand-alone but these series are always just a little better when you read them in order and invest in the characters and friendships. In this book we get to know Jesslyn and Nathan, and watch the sparks fly while they try to catch an arsonist. Who may or may not be the arsonist that killed Jesslyn’s family when she was a child. Who may be trying to kill her.

The twists and turns kept me guessing. The romance was sweet and felt genuine with complications in both of their pasts making them both unsure if starting a relationship is a good idea. Loved the secondary story where Nathan helps and finds healing with his brother.

If you’re looking for great suspense, look no further than the Lake City Heroes series, or any Lynette Eason book. I’m eagerly waiting for the next book in the series!!

I received a complementary copy of this book from the author and publisher and NetGalley. I was not asked to leave a positive review. My opinions are completely my own.

This was a good read. I liked the law enforcement characters and that each of our mains had pains in their pasts to overcome. There was a good sideline of family in this read. This Christian romantic suspense had a mystery that I didn’t fully solve. It kept us guessing and the web was woven tight. I enjoyed the action and danger. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.

I received an eARC of this book through NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

The latest book in the Lake City Heroes series is one that held me enthralled from the first page until the satisfying conclusion. I was sympathetic with Jesslyn McCormick and her intense desire to find the arsonist who killed her entire family when she was a young girl. As a fire marshal, Jesslyn is adamant about tracking down the arsonist who wreaked such havoc in her young life and is certain that the new fires being set around the town all relate to the perp who killed her family. Along with FBI special agent Nathan Carlisle, Jesslyn faces insurmountable odds and increasing danger as the fires keep getting more and more personal and the threat to her is obvious. Calling on their friends in Lake City to help keep Jesslyn safe, Nathan finds himself attracted to her but she is not ready for a relationship and avoids his advances. The romance progresses methodically, but the suspense continues to build as Jesslyn is getting closer to discovering the truth about her father’s past and the fire that led to the destruction of her family. I really enjoyed the head-spinning twists and the complex plot that included clues from the past woven into the current events. The suspense was compelling and the characters were dynamic and realistically flawed. With faith as a firm foundation and part of the story, this was an enjoyable and entertaining clean read with multiple layers and a fast-moving plot that was believable and satisfyingly puzzling, with clues that led me to keep guessing until the final reveal. Although this is the third book in a series, it can definitely be read and enjoyed as a standalone.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell as part of the advance review team for the author. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

Serial Burn is another great book by Lynette Eason. Jesslyn McCormick lost her family to an arson when she was seven years old. Now, she's the fire marshal of Lake City, and she is determined to find the person responsible for killing them.

FBI Special Agent Nathan Carlisle is assigned to a case of a string of fires in Lake City believed to be a hate crime. Nathan has his own baggage concerning fires and works to get through the memories of a deadly fire from his past as he works with Jess to catch the arsonist who seems to be targeted by him or her.

With secrets being brought out about Jess' family and Jess and Nathan trying to stay alive, the twists and turns in this book will keep you turning pages. And that ending! Wow! Blew me away.

I don’t think I’ve ever been disappointed by a Lynette Eason book. Serial Burn kept me intrigued and engaged from start to finish. I enjoyed the characters, pacing, and plot. It was a great read.

The third installment of the Lake City Heroes series does not disappoint. Eason brings to life Jesslyn and Nathan's stories through this captivating tale of tracking who is responsible for the arson fires ravaging this small town.
Jesslyn McCormick is a top notch fire marshal on a quest to find justice for her family killed a quarter of a century earlier in a deadly house fire and who is responsible for the recent crazy fires breaking out across town.
Nathan Carlisle is an FBI Special Agent tasked with teaming up with local law to uncover who just burned down a local church.
Both Jesslyn and Nathan find themselves having to navigate their difficult pasts. Will they let their dysfunction overcome or will they learn to trust and rely on God to guide them down the right path?
If you're a fan of this series or of Lynette Eason you will enjoy this story. The author does a great job navigating some difficult topics and the struggle to find grace and forgiveness.
Thank you to the publisher and author for the opportunity to review this novel. All opinions are my own.

The 3rd story in this series is another exciting one! This one is about Jesslyn and Nathan. The story keeps unfolding more interesting facts as you go! You might be surprised about who dunnit in the end!!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the advance e-copy of this book! All opinions expressed are entirely my own.