this is a riveting story to the end, viv is a lawyer at the state department, but she is friends with others that are cia for fbi or other departments now two people are dead and it is not natural, but who would do it then someone is after her , jacob is a former seal and is assigned to guard her if you have read the other books or not you will want to read this story if you like suspense and Interreg and the darkness that assassins' and political people have this is a must read story do not want to give anything away, so i will stop , i was given a copy of the story but this is an honest review.

I have really enjoyed this Capital Intrigue series by Rachel Dylan. I was anxiously awaiting book three, so now I am a bit sad that the trilogy is finished. These three books focused on three law school friends and their various Washington DC jobs. Although these were the main heroines, each book also had a side story going on. By the end, the group of friends was larger than when it started. This added additional depth to the story as we all live in communities that are expanding and growing.

The events of this book start when two people are poisoned at a state dinner. Viv is associated with both victims, but as one of many state department lawyers, she does not think that matters. The rest of the story is about unrivaling how everything is connected.

Vivian deliberately avoided going into subterfuge careers like the ones her friends pursued. But soon she has to be a part of a situation she did not bargain for. There were several on-the-edge-of-your-seat moments. Parts of the book I predicted, but there were definitely many parts that surprised me as well.

Jacob is transformed throughout the book. Yet he is definitely a work in progress. He was definitely a hero to contend with.

Delaney is also an enjoyable minor character. I liked her part in uncovering part of the truth. And I like the fact that her own "happily ever after" is alluded to be coming.

Sometimes in romantic suspense books, one of main characters tries to save the other, both physically and sometimes emotionally. While there was some of that, there was also an emphasis on seeking outside support and counseling. The promise was to be there as the person walked through the process of finding healing rather than providing instant solutions. That seemed much healthier to me. We will all find ourselves recovering from situations that put us in over our heads. I appreciated the fact that this book emphasized taking steps in the right direction with trained people along to guide. PTSD and childhood trauma are not easy to get over.

Faith is an understated part of this book. I thought that fit with the characters' personalities. Descriptions of violence were very limited. This is a clean book that I would definitely recommend.

I did get an advanced reader copy of this book from the author. I wanted to write a review. All opinions are my own.

This is a great conclusion to Dylan's Capital Intrigue series.

Dylan is a master at legal thrillers. While this is part of a series, it cold be read as a standalone novel. Reading them in order will help the reader have a better appreciation for the characters, as they do carry over from prior books. I love the strong female leads in the series.

I enjoyed sleuthing things out with the characters. There are romantic and faith elements to the story, but neither is overpowering. The relationship did seem to come together a bit too quickly and seemed a bit unnatural, but it wasn't such to take away from the story overall. I appreciated the diverse, well-drawn cast of characters and the fact that there was enough action to keep me actively engaged.

One of my favorite quotes:
“That’s where our faith has to come in. It’s one of the only things that has gotten me through the dark times – knowing that our God is greater than all of these dark things we’re dealing with. It’s a source of comfort and strength for me.”

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review

“Love could make you do crazy things. Even become a traitor to your country.”

Power Play, the third installment in author Rachel Dylan’s Capital Intrigue series, is a captivating tale of deception, friendship, and romance. Rachel Dylan is one of my favorite romantic suspense authors because of her wonderful characters who feel like old friends, her intense action-filled storylines, and the perfect balance of romance and suspense in her novels. She continues to incorporate well-written diverse characters into her storylines, such as Power Play’s Latino hero Jacob Cruz, who the readers will easily fall in love with.

In Power Play, State Department Attorney Vivian Steele is suddenly thrust into a world of danger and subterfuge after two ambassadors appear to have been targeted at a diplomatic dinner she is attending. Being partnered with Supervisory Special Agent Jacob Cruz on a task force to investigate places her life on the line in a fascinating and thrilling conclusion to the Capital Intrigue series.

The romance in this novel develops realistically at a slower pace as Jacob dislikes Vivian from the beginning, mainly due to her job as an attorney. However, once they realize their feelings for each other, get ready for sparks to fly between the two!

Rachel Dylan intricately weaves beautiful messages of faith into the storyline. This novel can be read as a standalone, but fans of the Capital Intrigue series will enjoy cameo appearances from characters featured in books one and two. There are also new supporting characters introduced in this book as part of the special joint task force, but it is done in such a way that there is no confusion over these additional characters.

Power Play is highly recommended for readers of romantic suspense, especially those who enjoy books by authors such as Lynn H. Blackburn, Irene Hannon, Dani Pettrey, and Lynette Eason. Power Play will definitely be one of my top reads of 2021.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

ADDITIONAL QUOTES:

“For the first time in a long time, she had hope that love wasn’t just something out of fairy tales, but something she could have with Jacob.”

“That’s where our faith has to come in. It’s one of the only things that has gotten me through the dark times – knowing that our God is greater than all of these dark things we’re dealing with. It’s a source of comfort and strength for me.”

Power Play by Rachel Dylan
Power Play takes you into the world of Ambassadors, the F.B.I., the C.I.A. and the State Department. This fast moving suspense novel is worth the read. This is the third book in the Capital Intrigue series by Dylan. They can be read alone or as the series. I have enjoyed all of them. They provide a window into the different lives and world of Washington D.C. The books have mystery, suspense, intrigue, romance and politics, of course. This book kept me on edge and guessing what would happen next. I would recommend this book (and series) to readers of Inspirational suspense, mysteries, clean romance, political intrigue and inspirational fiction. This book was provided by the author and publisher for my review. The opinions expressed are my own. #PowerPlay. #NetGalley

Rachel Dylan is a go-to author for her romantic suspense novels and legal thrillers. This series follows 3 best friends who went to law school together and ended up working in various government agencies. This was a great conclusion to the Capital Intrigue series! This series has had a really full cast of characters, but each one is well developed and I never had trouble keeping the characters straight, which is really difficult with so many wonderful characters! While helpful to have some history, it's not necessary to read End Game or Backlash before Power Play. This book follows Vivian Steele, who is an attorney for the State department. When 2 diplomats end up dead at a dinner where she is attending, she finds herself on the task force to figure out what happened, along with Jacob Cruz, who had been head security at the dinner and had determined then and there that he did NOT like Vivian Steele. When they find themselves stuck together, feelings start to change. In addition to great characters, this book had intense suspense, a mystery I couldn't unravel, twists and turns and a solid faith thread. While the "enemies to lovers" is always a fun trope in romantic suspense, the reason I rated this one 4 stars instead of 5 is because that transition didn't seem quite natural to me in this book as the change in feelings seemed to happen pretty abruptly from my viewpoint. Outside of that, though, this was an excellent read and one I'd still strongly recommend to fans of inspirational romantic suspense. Special thanks to the author and publisher for an advance copy of this novel. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.

Rachel Dylan does it again! Power Play is packed with action, mystery, interesting characters, and a romance I was rooting for. Dylan knows how to keep a story moving with twists and surprises while also providing moments to let the story have room to breathe. I finished this story in one day because I couldn't put it down!

State Department lawyer Vivian Steele is tasked with working with Diplomatic Security Service agent Jacob Cruz on a joint task force to discover the cause of not one, but two deaths at a diplomatic dinner. As the pair work to investigate what happened to the Egyptian diplomat, Vivian's life is threatened several times. Jacob becomes Vivian's personal security and the pair continues to ferret out who is behind the attacks on Vivian and the diplomat.

While Vivian is a layer, this story carried less of a legal background than the other books in this series. The secrets kept by the government haunt Vivian and Jacob as race against the clock to keep Vivian safe. I appreciated Vivian's fight for what she believed in throughout this story. She was brave, but her fears were never just pushed to the side. I loved that she was so well developed as a character. I think Jacob could have been a little more well-rounded, and that the romance at the end could have been a little less rushed.

Overall, I found this to be a great ending to the Capital Intrigue series!

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. This review is my own, honest opinion.

“Power Play” by Rachel Dylan is a fantastic read! This is the third and final book in the Capital Intrigue series. This was a great read to end the series. Rachel Dylan continues to be one of my all-time favorite romantic suspense authors.

I loved this series! It follows three best friends who went to law school together. They have remained best friends. These characters were so well developed and likeable. They were characters that make you feel like you’re in their story and one of them!

This story follows Vivian Steele. She witnesses two ambassador’s collapse. Her, along with a Diplomatic Security Service agent, Jacob Cruz, try to figure out what really happened. This mystery brings up some past event that happened to Viv.

I highly recommend this book and all of Rachel Dylan’s books. You won’t be disappointed! Her books are always good, clean and keep you reading to see what happens next!

I received this book from the author through NetGalley for my honest opinion.

POWER PLAY is the third novel in the Capital Intrigue series by RACHEL DYLAN, and, although it can be read as a stand alone, it is great to come across characters from the first two books as we follow Vivian's story. It is a legal thriller and the suspense will grip you right to the end. There is also some romance and a good Christian message.
Vivian Steele is an attorney in the Office of the Legal Advisor at the State Department. Her best friend, Layla Karam McCoy, works for the CIA. She has other friends who work in various law enforcement agencies.
She meets former Navy SEAL, Jacob Cruz, at a diplomatic dinner in the Washington DC area where Ali Zidan, the Egyptian ambassador, falls down dead and Penelope King, the US ambassador to Belgium, has to be rushed to hospital.
The scene is set and I am not going to tell you anything more!
The book is well written, the characters are real and the plot is exciting and well worked out. I highly recommend Power Play to anyone who enjoys a really good thriller.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. the opinions in this review are completely my own.

With strong characterization and a fast-paced plot, this conclusion to the Capital Intrigue series is a definite must-read. State Department attorney Vivian Steele gets inadvertently caught up in government schemes when she witnesses the deaths of two ambassadors at a state dinner. The Egyptian ambassador’s death appears to be a plot against his government and somehow Viv is targeted afterwards because of her prior dealings with that government. Because she becomes a target, she is assigned security in the form of Jacob Cruz, a former SEAL who is determined that no one else will die on his watch. The American ambassador who died, Penelope King, has an entire backstory that is intriguing and adds to the story. Her death is being investigated by Delaney, an FBI agent extraordinarily well-suited for her position. Delaney is mentoring Weston and the two of them together make a formidable team. This second plot had a lot of twists and turns as Delaney follows the clues and finds the killer. Delaney’s investigation was a cerebral one for the most part. The first plot, involving Viv, had a lot more action in it, with bad guys targeting Vivian and some “bite your nails” moments as she narrowly escapes death herself. There is violence depicted in the book, but it is not graphically described, so the novel is a clean read. I was sorry to see the series end because I have befriended the well-developed characters. I did especially enjoy the epilogue that was like a curtain call for all of the characters from this book and the previous ones. This book can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading the entire series because each book is a fascinating look at investigations and the inner workings of our national government. Fiction, of course!
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via Netgalley. 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.”

The 3rd book in the Capital Intrigue series does not disappoint. Vivian Steele is a lawyer who gets caught up in a series of dangerous events that begin with the possible attack on 2 ambassadors at an elite event. Government agents, secrets, elaborate plots and complex characters make this a suspense book you do not want to miss. Dylan keeps you guessing up until the very end as to what is going to happen. I love "seeing" characters from the previous books but you do not have to read the previous books to enjoy this one. I received an advance copy from the author/publisher but all opinions are my own.

Vivian a lawyer with the State Department for six years. Her boss wanted her to attend the annual dinner for the swanky DC power players. Making small talk at the dinner table when screams were heard. The Egyptian ambassador Ali, she knew, now laid on the floor. Meeting Jacob Cruz the supervisor Special Agent for the diplomatic service, for this event.
Ambassador from Belgium waved her over, and within minutes she fell to the floor. Again seeing Jacob and his icy stare, you again.
To be called in the next morning as a lawyer for what had happened, finding she was working with Jacob, Correction he soon let her know he worked alone, to him lawyer are chasing trouble. Vivian loved a challenge and would be relentless in her investigation. First was for him to learn political protocol you don’t show up unannounced.
Definitely a five star series. This third book also draws you in, you know the characters, the intrigue. Now to find out why they were targets, and two opposites working together to figure out.
Given ARC from Net Galley, Bethany Publisher and the author for my voluntary review and my honest opinion

Rachel Dylan does it again. She pulled me in from page 1 and kept me engaged until the very last word.
State Department Attorney, Vivian Steele, is brushing elbows with world diplomats when two, including one she considers a friend, collapse.
Former Navy Seal, new to Diplomatic Security, Jacob Cruz, cannot believe things are going so horribly during one of his first security assignments. And why is his luck so bad that he's now stuck working alongside an ATTORNEY on the task force??
Will Viv set aside her expectations for Jacob to be able to do his job the best way he knows how? Will Jacob relent and realize not every attorney is the same? Are the threats on Viv's life tied to the case or her past? Thank God for heroes, warriors, and good Samaritans being in the right place at the right time.
I enjoyed this story. There were several threads to pull and follow. There was more than one love angle. And of course the friends that are always there when they need each other.
Dylan did a great job with this series finale. I cannot wait for you to read it!
Thank you, Bethany House and NetGalley, for the opportunity to review this book. All opinions are my own.

A.wonderful romantic suspense novel! This was a fast paced suspense read! The character development was amazing and on point! The other books in this series was a good quick read also this series is one you won't want to miss!

This is the 3rd book in Rachel Dylan's Capital Intrigue Series. Vivian is a State Department attorney that gets embroiled into some shady goings on in Washington DC. She is in danger when some international thugs think she is really a CIA operative. A former Navy SEAL that does security, Jacob Cruz, is pressed into duty to protect her until they track down the bad guys. I have really enjoyed this whole series. There's plenty of crazy stuff going on in the Federal government to provide plots for a lot of suspense novels. Rachel Dylan makes it exciting and fun.

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

The final book in the Capital Intrigue books. I’m sad to see it end. I hope she brings some of the characters into a new series so that we get to follow up on their stories! As with the first two books, Rachel Dylan packed this one with lots of action and also a bit of romance. You won’t regret picking this book or the whole series up. Enjoy!

Power Play by Rachel Dylan is an intriguing, engaging story that brings the Capitol Intrigue series to a dramatic conclusion. This book tells the story of Vivian (Viv) Steele, who is an attorney for the State department. When two diplomats, one of which is a friend of hers, end up dead at a dinner where she is attending, she finds herself on the task force to figure out what has happened. Jacob Cruz is the head of security at the dinner, so when two people end up dead, he is also put on the task force. Despite tension when they first meet, he and Viv must work together to get the answers their looking for. With compelling characters this fast paced plot is sure to please lovers of Romantic Suspense!

I received a complementary copy of this story through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

While attending a state dinner, Vivian "Viv" Steele, an attorney for the state department, witnesses the Egyptian ambassador collapse and die in front of everyone. Then not long after that Viv sees Penelope King, the US Ambassador to Belgium and within moments the Ambassador collapses in Viv's arms. This is not how the state dinner was supposed to go.
Jacob Cruz, SSA (Supervisory Special Agent) of diplomatic security, is at a loss as to how not one, but 2 diplomats have gone down at this function, on his watch.  But unlike the Egyption Ambassador, Mrs. King has not died so hopefully the task force that has been put together will be able to figure out what happened and why it happened. Hopefully Mrs. King will be able to help in figuring that out.
The task force is made up of FBI, CIA & local law enforcement along with Viv. Although she is not law enforcement, the FBI feels she will be helpful since she will be able to advise what they will be able to do legally in their investigation.  It quickly becomes personal when Viv is attacked on her way home a few nights after the dinner. Then other things happen making it clear to the task force that there are 2 investigations that need to happen, the one to determine why the Ambassadors were attacked and why multiple agents are being attacked in various ways.
After Viv was attacked Jacob took it upon himself to be her personal security along with upgrading her security system. As they work together they are both realizing they care about the other and wonder if something good would come of this situation for them.  But both are very cautious about letting the feelings get in the way of their job and neither is sure if they are able to have a solid relationship while doing this job. But maybe God has  other plans. 
Thank you Rachel Dylan for allowing me to be a part of your team. I think this may have been my favorite of the 3.

This is Rachel Dylan at her best! A story with spies, action, danger, faith, love and characters that pull the reader in and don't let go until well after the final page is flipped. Viv loves her job and the interesting people she gets to meet. But when her friends and colleagues start to die under very mysterious circumstances she has to start questioning everything she thought she knew. Now people are trying to kill her, spies are following her to try and get information she is sure she does not have, and she is now partnered with a former soldier who doesn't like lawyers. The weeks are going to be long, until the partners get to know each other and discover how deep their feeling are. Viv and Jacob are digging for answers to the mysterious death of a US Ambassador while trying to keep Viv alive. Are the cases linked? What do they think Viv knows, when she is sure she knows nothing of great importance? Then a deep seated spy is found in close contact and Viv needs to jump from lawyer to spy to find out what the other side knows. This is a fast paced page turner that will keep the reader up late to get to the end. What a great book to finish of the Capital Intrigue series. Rachel Dylan is always on my TBR pile, can't wait for the next story! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed are completely my own.

Why would someone kill two ambassadors at the same diplomatic dinner party? Vivian Steele, an attorney for the State Department, is appointed to a task force find out what happened. Jacob Cruz is also appointed to the task force. Jacob was in charge of security for the dinner party. He wants to find out what happened as he feels responsible. While investigating one of Vivian's past assignments comes to light. She is also being targets by assassins'.


This is a fast paced book with lots of action and suspense. I highly recommend it to all mystery buffs.

I was given this book by Bethany House Publishing House via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.

This fast-paced tale of multiple FBI and CIA teams working around the clock to solve murders and stop terrorists opens with two people collapsing at a diplomatic dinner that sends the country into international commotion and turmoil.

I'm sorry to see this series end. I love the cameo appearances by the leads from the earlier stories and it was so fun to have Viv have her own heart-stopping story! Her swoony protector is a former Navy Seal, with a troubled past. Excellent romantic suspense!

I highly recommend Power Play and all the books in the Capital Intrigue series! Thank you to the author and publisher for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.

She wasn’t sure whether the terror was over or just beginning.

Vivian Steele, lawyer, works in the Office of the Legal Advisor in the State Department - a behind the desk kind of job. Somehow that all changes in this incredible conclusion to the Capital Intrigue series. A state dinner, the death of two ambassadors and suddenly Viv finds herself in a dangerous position she would not have chosen!

The author has done a fabulous job of taking us behind the scenes as the FBI, CIA, State Department and others try to unravel the mystery behind these deaths. The non-stop action will keep you on the edge of your seat, wondering who can be trusted. Don’t expect to put this one down until you reach the end.

This ARC was received through Baker Publishing Group, Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley. These impressions and comments are my own and were in no way solicited.

Rachel Dylan never disappoints. She wries engaging political suspense with intriguing characters and exciting plots. I always enjoy her books. She is on a list of authors whose books I automatically buy without reading the synopsis, they are that good! So grab a sweet tea and settle in a comfy spot for a terrific book!

I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley.com with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.

This third installment in Capital Intrigue series starts out with a bang as two ambassadors at a diplomatic dinner collapse, triggering domestic and international turmoil. As always, Rachel Dylan combines suspense, action, and intrigue with just the right amount of romance to create a gripping, can't-put-down tale. Fans of romantic suspense will absolutely love this book.

There are two plots in this book - one involving the death of an Egyptian ambassador and another involving the murder attempt of a US ambassador to Belgium. Vivian, a lawyer for the State Department, and Jacob, diplomatic security agent, are on a task force to dig into the Egyptian ambassador's demise when Vivian finds herself a target of multiple attacks. Their path to finding answers is convoluted and often confusing but their attraction is undeniable. The murder attempt on the US ambassador is headed by Delaney who is a laser-focused FBI agent. This second plot has some fascinating twists and turns and I was definitely surprised at the conclusion of this thread. Seeing how faith lives out in these brave, crime-solving patriots was quite encouraging.

I received the book from Bethany House Publishers and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are solely my own.

"Power Play" is a Christian romantic suspense. It's the third in a series, but it works as a stand alone. While the task force initially believed that the deaths of the two ambassadors were connected, soon the story split into two separate investigations. We followed events in both investigations, though the focus was more on Vivian. The FBI partners investigating the death of the American ambassador worked well together and had a mentor/mentee relationship. Vivian and Jacob investigated the death of the Egyptian ambassador because Viv had contacts with the Egyptian Embassy due to a past assignment. They soon discovered that she (and others) had become the target of terrorists due to that past assignment. While Jacob initially didn't trust Viv and resisted her slower, diplomatic approach, he soon came to admire her and found a way to pair their strengths and weaknesses to solve the case.

The main characters were likable, interesting people that reacted realistically to events. They supported and built each other up. The suspense came from the danger to Viv. I wondered why Jacob wasn't really suspicious of the Good Samaritan since he usually didn't trust people easily and the motives behind that attack weren't certain at that point. Anyway, Viv felt like her relationship with God was strengthened through the events she endured. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this exciting story.

Rachel Dylan’s Capital Intrigue series just keeps getting better! Power Play has everything you want from a romantic suspense novel. Action that starts from page one and doesn’t let go, sparks flying between our MCs and an ending you can’t predict.

As most of you would know, I’m always impressed when I can’t figure out what’s happening in a suspense novel & this one definitely kept me guessing!

I highly recommend!! Look for it when it releases on June 1!

Also, as a side note, I reread books 1 and 2 before reading this one, and while each can easily be read as a standalone, they’re really good read one after the other!

Thanks Rachel for having me on your launch team! I loved every second of this book!! And how beautiful is that cover?!

Thanks also to @bethanyhousefiction and @netgalley for the review copy.

.Power Play is the third and final book in the Capitol Intrigue series and it ended the series with a bang. This book has two story lines with two romantic mysteries. The main story featured Jacob a former NAVY seal and Viv an attorney for the State Department. I really enjoyed the characters and the story lines.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher and this is my honest opinion.

When I want romantic suspense, I go to Rachel Dylan. Her Capital Intrigue series has been one of the best in the genre. With the release of Power Play, the series comes to an end. I loved the book — engaging characters that are real and relatable, a twisting plot with lots of suspects, wonderful supporting characters, and non-stop action that kept the characters (and the reader 😉 ) on their toes. The book features not one, but two murders, and the task force made up of members from a variety of agencies are tasked with finding out the connections and whodunit. I have really enjoyed that aspect in this series. In this case we have State Department, FBI, and CIA personnel working the case. It was interesting to see how each went about their investigations. Main characters Vivian and Jacob don’t like each other at first, but the sparks begin to fly as they are assigned to work the case together. The romance in this book is a good counterpoint to all the nefarious goings on. The action increases with the danger, and I could not stop turning the pages. I devoured this book in record time. As always, Dylan interjects a faith element that is natural, not preachy. The ending to the book left me wanting more — more from secondary characters and more great books from Dylan. Not sure I will get my wish on the first, but from experience, I know that my second wish will be granted.

If you haven’t read the first two books in the Capital Intrigue series, let me encourage you to get all three. I guarantee once you have read the first, you won’t want to wait to on the second and third. Look at it this way, you are in for a great book-binge time! 😉

Recommended.

Audience: adults

This author seems to Neve disappoint and this book was very much that for me. I feel like the author has a way of making you feel like you are right there in the middle of the action. I really Liked Viv she has appeared in the other two books and so I was excited she got her story. I Like Jacob as well, in the beginning I felt like he was throwing his weight and being kind of mean, but he quickly grows on you and shows his true colors and he becomes easy to like. I was literally on the edge of my seat throughout there are some things that make you go hmmm and keeps you guessing but the book is so good. This book is really worth the read.

Dylan is a wonderful author of all things suspense. I always look forward to a new book from her being released and this book did not disappoint!
Vivian Steele is an attorney with the State Department. She doesn't spend time in courtrooms, her job is to make sure people are being treated appropriately among State affairs. When she witnesses not one, but two ambassadors collapse at a diplomatic dinner, she gets brought into the investigation.
Jacob Cruz, an ex-SEAL, was the security detail at the diplomatic dinner. He feels he must see the investigations through to the end and is assigned to work with Vivian. Their methods of working are exact opposites, but through it all, Viv knows that Jacob is the one person she can truly trust her life with.
There are multiple storylines within this book, so you’ll want to make sure you pay close attention to the different settings and characters mentioned. I did like the fact that we got a first hand view into the two different ambassador’s cases to see if they were related or just coincidental and how the attacks on Vivian related to them.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and publisher. All opinions stated are my own.

I was captivated by this stunning, hard-hitting finale in the Capital Crimes series! I am really going to miss these close friends! Power Play can easily be read as a standalone as it includes sufficient information about the other characters. The author designed another intriguing plot taking place on US soil, rooted in international terrorism. I learned interesting things about the workings of some national agencies and have a better feel for the real people who support our country. Ultimately, it shows how vital faith in the Lord is for every aspect of our lives.

Vivian is a State Department attorney. Her best friends, Layla and Bailey, work for the CIA and the FBI respectively, and she has worked with many ambassadors. I was surprised to learn the role of attorneys in some government agencies since I see lawyers as courtroom crusaders. Viv and Layla are at a special dinner attended by diplomats from around the world when Ori Zidan, the Egyptian ambassador to the US collapsed and was taken to the hospital. He was a young man but had a heart problem. Later, Viv saw Penelope King, the US ambassador to Belgium and a friend from having worked together in the past. Penelope waved Viv over, began to look ill, and collapsed. Viv believes something is going on behind the scenes to have two diplomats fall physically ill at the same dinner. Later they learn that Zidan was pronounced DOA at the hospital. Penelope was barely holding on with only a small chance of survival.

Jacob, a former SEAL, is the State Department’s lead security man at the dinner. Vivian is one of his suspects as she was the first one to reach Penelope, and he had also seen her with Zidan after his collapse. The next day he is in a special joint task force with Viv and with directors and staff members of leading agencies. They will investigate what happened to the ambassadors the night before. He is unhappy to be paired with her as he is sure she will only slow him down. It is unknown why Viv becomes a target, even when an associate is murdered.

The protagonists are very personable, defined primarily by their conversations and actions. I enjoyed meeting Delaney, a senior FBI agent partnered with Weston, a young, new agent, as well as getting to know Vivian much better. She adapted to incredible challenges over the course of the investigation that most people would not choose to. While she wanted to know who killed Zidan and possibly succeed in causing her friend Penelope’s death, she took over-the-top risks. Jacob is a hard person to get acquainted with, but the closer he and Viv work, the more we learn about him.

At the heart of the novel is how Viv, her friends, and Jacob live out their faith, especially as they both deal with significant past events. I appreciated how they viewed their life and work, even as they fulfill difficult job functions. Viv and Jacob investigate the Egyptian diplomat’s death while the FBI team handles Penelope’s case. I could not imagine doing what Viv did, and so many others do every day! Seeing the courage and wisdom of our government representatives gave this reader an insider’s look at our many unsung heroes. The last few chapters showed a power play of epic proportions, more than Vivian could have foreseen. I highly recommend this thrilling adventure, and the rest of the series!

From a thankful heart: I received an electronic ARC of this novel from the publisher through NetGalley, and this is my honest review.

I love this series of books. I love each of these women that are the main characters. I really enjoy that Vivian is not a spy and she is just a normal lawyer who is vulnerable. She knows that she does need help from Jacob to get through this trying time in her career. This has a few twists and turns and I look forward to many more stories from this author. I love the romance and the suspense. I received a copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

This FBI/CIA romantic suspense novel is a little different in that the heroine, Vivian, is not an agent of one of those agencies. She is, in fact, an attorney at the State Department. She gets caught up in a dangerous operation, however, when she witnesses two ambassadors collapse as if poisoned at a diplomatic dinner in Washington DC. She becomes an essential person in the attempt to determine what happened and who is responsible.

There are two investigations going on by the combined task force. One deals with the death of the Egyptian ambassador and involves Vivian and her past work overseeing the transfer of prisoners, making sure the action was legal regarding international law. The other investigation deals with the death of the U.S. ambassador to Belgium. The two investigations are unrelated except the murders happening at the same dinner. The dual plots helped fill out the character roster and perhaps provided enough material for an entertaining novel when one plot would not have been sufficient.

There is suspense for Vivian as someone wants to either hurt her or kidnap her, related to her previous work in Egypt. There is some romance as she begins to have feelings for the hunk protecting her. One aspect of this plot I really liked was Vivian being asked to take part in a dangerous ploy to get information, something only a trained agent would normally do. That gave depth to Vivian's character and highlighted her bravery.

The other plot is a straightforward investigation and involves no suspense nor romance for the agents involved.

This is a good novel for readers who would appreciate a truly amateur individual being asked to participate in a high level ploy to gather information regarding international intrigue. It is the third book in the Capitol Intrigue series but since each book concentrates on a different character reads well on its own. There is a good representation of Christian faith included.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

The Capital Intrigue series wraps up with this action filled drama. Vivian is mistaken for a CIA operative when she attends a diplomatic dinner. Two guests unexpectedly die at the function anc Vivian joins in to find if the deaths are connected. Jacob, a former Navy Seal is assigned to protect Viv as the team searches for answers. Lots of action, intrigue and suspense with some romance. Enjoyable series. Recommended.

Fantastic suspense book.
A state attorney targeted by terrorists. It takes multiple agencies to keep her safe from "friends" who aren't who they appear to be.
Last book in the Capital Intrigue Series is definitely worth picking up and grab the first 2 also!

First, a bit of advice. Don't start this book before you go to bed because it's almost IMPOSSIBLE to put down. (and I had to go to work the next morning!) Although this book is part of a series, it can be read as a stand alone; however, I would recommend reading the previous two books because you will get more out of this story. The book is about Vivian Steele, a State Department Attorney, who was introduced in a previous book, but now it's her turn to be in the spot light... and not in a good way. The book starts off with Viv attending a diplomatic dinner where two ambassadors were poisoned. Because she was there and because she knows how to handle diplomatic situations, she is recruited to be a part of a FBI task force who will investigate what happened. She is paired up with former Navy SEAL Jacob Cruz who can't stand attorneys and isn't thrilled to be working with her. It also doesn't help her situation, that it now appears that she has a target on her back. Not sure if the attacks against her are personal, because she is investigating the dinner or because of a previous CIA mission, both her and Jacob race against the clock to find answers before one of them ends up hurt... or worse.

I really enjoyed reading this book and the cover is AWESOME. This book is filled with twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat and I promise, it will be a thrilling adventure. The characters are relatable and by the end of the story you really feel like you've gotten to know them. I also found it very interesting to get a look at what a State Attorney might do, because it sounds like a boring job.. but this book was anything but boring! I also loved everything about Vivian's character and I thought the dynamic relationship between Jacob and Vivian was amazing! Overall, definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes to read Romantic Suspense and I rate it 5 out of 5 stars!

I would like to thank Rachel Dylan, Bethany House Publishers and Netgalley for allowing me to read and review this book - all opinions are my own.

Power Play, / by Rachel Dylan (Capital Intrigue, 3)
Bethany House ISBN 9780764234323
Adult Rating: 4
Award-winning author Rachel Dylan concludes her action-packed inspirational romantic suspense series with this final novel.
In Power Play, two ambassadors collapse within minutes of one another at a diplomatic dinner. One dies immediately, while the other is hospitalized in critical condition. State Department attorney Vivian Steel knows them both and witnesses it. Are they connected?
Asked to participate in a Department of State/FBI task force assigned to look into the situation, Vivian works with Diplomatic Security Service Agent Jacob Cruz, a former Navy SEAL. While Vivian and Jacob investigate the US ambassador’s collapse, FBI agents are investigating the other ambassador’s collapse. Jacob and Vivian clash over their different working styles, but soon discover Vivian is in danger due to a past assignment. Can they work together on the task force and keep Vivian safe?
Dylan’s fans will be delighted with fast-paced action, believable characters, faith elements, and plot twists. Characters from her earlier book make an appearance. The reader’s attention is grabbed from the first chapter. The action continues on its roller coaster pace until the final page. International relations hang in the balance as readers discover the truth behind the attacks and the person(s) who masterminded them.
Although it could be read as a standalone, readers may find it beneficial to read Dylan’s End Game and Backlash first.
Recommended for adult collections in public libraries and fans of romantic suspense novels by Dani Pettrey, Irene Hannon, Lynette Eason, and legal thrillers by Cara Putman.

Disclaimer: Book reviews are written for books I either purchased or received free of cost from the publishers, publicists, or authors. I voluntarily reviewed this book, and my review represents my honest opinion.

Power Play
by Rachel Dylan
Published June 1, 2021

This is the third book in this series and I have loved every one! Intriguing and interesting every page of the book.
I highly recommend this author and series.
Thanks to the Publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.

5 star

This book was truly amazing. I was hooked from the beginning and when I had to put it down, I would find myself counting the time until I could pick it back up.
I loved the way this awesome series ended. Viv was a great way to end it, and her chemistry with Jacob was intense.
I highly recommend this book to anyone

An engaging story with multiple threats and teams working against the clock to solve the murders and stop the terrorists. You’ll love seeing characters from earlier books as well as getting to know Viv in her own story. Add in a great hero and this is a story to fall into.

I enjoyed this conclusion to the Capital Intrigue series. Vivian, a State Department lawyer, is drafted to work on a task force after tragedy strikes at a diplomatic dinner. She happens to be paired up with Jacob, the handsome man who was watching her at the dinner. His good looks do not translate into a genteel manner as he shows how unhappy he is to be paired with her. Vivian's insights and intelligence soon change his mind.

I enjoyed seeing the relationship between Jacob and Vivian grow and change. I appreciate when people are open and don't try to play games with each other. Mark was an interesting, surprising character to add to the mix.

The story was fast paced. It was hard to put down. I liked the excitement and the action. It was fun seeing how different people worked on their assignments. I find the whole mix of CIA/FBI/DSS to be fascinating. It was nice to see characters from the other books in the series and to have a nice sense of closure. I will look forward to what comes next from this author.

Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

Power Play is a contemporary suspense novel written by Rachel Dylan. It is book three in the Capital Intrigue series, but it is not necessary to have read previous books in order to enjoy this one.

Summary: State Department attorney Vivian Steele’s mandated presence at the latest diplomatic dinner is the last thing she wants to do. But, it’s part of her job.

Just when she’s ready to call it a night, the unthinkable happens. Two ambassadors collapse causing pandemonium. One appears to have had a heart attack, while the other seems to be poisoned. Are the two cases related, or just a massive coincidence?

Tasks teams are developed to track down what might have happened to the ambassadors, but the further Vivian and her team dig, the deeper the hole gets. As more tragedies occur and Vivian’s life is put in danger, she begins to discover that one event from her past could be triggering current events.

Can VIvian discover the truth and stop the destruction before she loses those she cares about most?

My Thoughts: I enjoyed this one-it is just the type of book I enjoy reading. The characters are likable, and the story is well-written. There is a very good mystery, tons of twists and turns, and lots of suspense.

If you are looking for a good read with plenty of action and intrigue, this one is a good bet. I would definitely recommend it, and the entire series for that matter.

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

The third installment in the Capital Intrigue book is the best in the series with more action, danger, and romance at all the right swoon-worthy moments.

While at a diplomatic dinner, State Department attorney Vivian Steele watches as two ambassadors collapse, and it is soon speculated that poison is involved. She is quickly recruited into a joint FBI task force to investigate what really happened. Together with Diplomatic Security Service agent Jacob Cruz, they must figure out who is behind the attack, if anyone else is being targeted, and who can be trusted. Viv works with her sources and Jacob uses his skills as a former Navy SEAL to find the truth and stay alive as the danger comes closer and their working relationship becomes complicated by their growing feelings for one another.

I’m going to start with the only bad thing I have to say about this book, it is the last in the series and I don’t want this series to end! Each book has brought more drama, suspense, romance, tension, and characters that I have fallen in love with. This one really had a way of making me extra invested in the characters and what was going to happen. So much tension builds with each chapter that it kept me glued to my seat turning the pages as fast as possible. I love it when a novel gets me so engrossed, I forget about everything else going on around me. One thing I loved was the fact that Viv was a twin and Dylan really showed that relationship and how important it is. Each of the main characters from the previous books show up as secondary characters, so readers get a chance to see how their stories are continuing to progress which is nice. I recommend this book and series to anyone who likes romantic suspense with a great storyline that is fast paced and a good clean read.

I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.

This is the third book in the Capital Intrigue Series, and oh my! I think this one was the best of all! And I loved the previous two!
I love that this series is about three best friends: Bailey, Layla and Vivian. This is Viv’s story and wow! It was a total page turner. I couldn’t stop biting my nails until the last page! There was so much fast paced action, danger, intrigue, intel information to digest, and the characters -Vivian and Jacob- were so well developed, complex, so opposite to each other, but they complemented so well! They were made for each other even if they started clashing because of different views in how to approach the investigation.
State Department attorney Vivian Steele witnesses a crime when two ambassadors, from Egypt and Belgium, collapse -probably poisoned- at a diplomatic dinner in Washington, DC. After this, she is recruited along with Jacob Cruz to join the FBI task force assigned to investigate the case. Special agent Jacob Cruz, a former Navy SEAL, the man in charge of the event’s security takes the attack personally and immediately takes charge of things, breaking more than one rule, which makes Vivian nervous. Worse, the ambassador from Belgium, Penelope, is Vivian’s friend from working together in the past, and she’s shocked when she waves to her at the dinner and then immediately collapse. Zidan, the Egyptian diplomat is declared dead arriving at the hospital, and Penelope’s condition is very serious, with little possibilities of survival. Viv is affected and vows to discover who attempted to murder them. Jacob suspected of Vivian at first, since he saw her near both of the ambassadors before collapsing. But then he is asked to join forces with her in the investigation. He’s not thrilled because Viv plays by the rule, and that will only slow things down. Jacob doesn’t hesitate to take risks when he deems it necessary, and that means not always playing by the book to surprise your enemy. Viv, who thought she was safer as an attorney than her friends who worked at the CIA and FBI, now finds that her life is on peril, as she suddenly becomes a target herself. Nobody knows why she’s being targeted, but Jacob wants her near to protect her.
The plot is full of unexpected twists and with danger right around the corner the whole time. You are always wondering who is behind all this, what their motivations are, and what terrorist and of what country might be after something powerful that evades them. Always looking for connections, I love that part of the story, trying to tie all the events, actions, past actions, with extreme attention to detail. A small thing overseen might be what uncovers the criminals and the persons or terrorist group behind them.
The character development was very well done. I think, both Viv and Jacob grew during this story, especially Jacob. Trying to live their faith and trust God under these uncertain circumstances is no joke. And I loved the way they navigated through it all with God being their ultimate strength and the One who will always have their backs. It was a very inspiring book. Even after all the suspense, the author managed to thread in the faith elements in a very natural and even attractive way.
I also loved seeing Bailey and Layla again. And I loved meeting Delaney, she was a brave woman and had an important part in the uncovering of the truth.
Viv and Jacob both had issues from the past that needed to be dealt with. I loved how they supported each other and even sought counseling from experts, because it was not a simple issue to overcome. But they had each other’s back in the process.
The romance, which was not the main focus of the story, was really sweet. I loved the way they changed from not quite enemies, but opposites, to being there for the other and their feelings gradually changing to attraction, admiration, and then love. Clean love.
I definitely recommend this book to Romantic Suspense lovers. I assure it will keep you at the edge of your seat since page one and probably until the last page! An amazing read!
The book can be read as a standalone, but I strongly suggest to read the series in order. You’ll love the group of friends, and how they have each other backs from the start.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.

Rachel Dylan is a go to author for me because she writes such fabulous romantic suspense and legal intrigue.

I am very sad to see this series come to a close. This book is packed with action, suspense, swoony heroes and legal intrigue that keeps you turning pages faster and faster.

As a Navy brat I loved that she had a Navy Seal as one of the characters. Vivian has been one of my favorite characters of the three friends so I was happy to see her get her own story.

Ms. Dylan wove the faith element throughout the story beautifully; without being overbearing or preaching.

This is one of my favorite quotes from the book.

“That’s where our faith has to come in. It’s one of the only things that has gotten me through the dark times – knowing that our God is greater than all of these dark things we’re dealing with. It’s a source of comfort and strength for me.”

I highly recommend this book! You could read this as a stand alone but I recommend reading the series in order to understand the characters and general story.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via the publisher. I was not required to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Power Play is a fantastic addition to the Capital Intrigue series. Well developed plot and characters. Rachel Dylan has another winner. Romantic suspense fans will enjoy this book.

Power Play was my favorite of the Capital Intrigue series! I loved the variety of the characters - I don’t think I’ve read any other books featuring a DSS agent. I also enjoyed the way the event at the beginning of the book branched off into two separate investigations, both international and domestic, and let us get to know more characters. One branch of the investigation featured plenty of action as Viv’s life was in danger multiple times, and the other was a bit slower paced but just as interesting. Viv and Jacob were a great couple - Viv needed someone to keep her safe, and Jacob needed someone not to give up on him. Their story was a perfect complement to the suspenseful moments. I highly recommend Power Play and the rest of the series!

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

Power Play concludes Rachel Dylan's Capitol Intrigue series, and once again, she brings readers into the inner-workings of a criminal investigation with enough action to keep hearts pumping as you read.

When two ambassadors collapse at a diplomatic dinner in Washington, D.C., State Department attorney Vivian Steele is called on to join a task force to investigate. Working with Jacob Cruz from the Diplomatic Security Service, she soon realizes that she may be the next target on a killer's agenda. Can Jacob step in to protect her when the enemy is unknown but everywhere?

I love how Rachel Dylan takes her readers through an investigation, showing both the action, and the legalities. As a lawyer herself, she brings her knowledge to bear in her stories, which makes them completely believable. When I finish one of her books, I almost expect to hear the story on the evening news, or read it in the paper.

Readers who enjoy suspense with a little romance and lots of political intrigue, will enjoy Power Play. There's also enough action to keep people who love action/adventure type books enthralled. While this is the third book in the series, it can be read as a stand-alone. Characters from the first two books make appearances, but you don't need to know their back stories to enjoy Power Play. I definitely recommend!

Power Play is an exciting conclusion to the Capital Intrigue series. And these books truly are packed with intrigue! Power Play can easily be enjoyed as a stand alone novel, too, in case you haven’t read the other books in the series.

The way the team was divided up to try and work on different aspects of the case felt very realistic to me. There were two ambassadors dead and so many possibilities of who was behind the acts.

I liked the way the relationship grew and changed throughout the story between Jacob and Viv. I enjoyed watching the way they worked together. There was also a fun potential relationship that looked to be developing between two side characters, as well. This book definitely kept me guessing!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

Vivian Steele loves her work as a State Department attorney, but she has no stomach for the danger her friends, Bailey and Layla, who work as field agents for the FBI and CIA. But when she attends a political event and two ambassadors collapse and die, she gets dragged into an investigation that puts a target on her back.

Even worse, she gets paired with the annoying security agent and former Navy SEAL, Jacob Cruz. Although handsome, he has trust issues. But as the net of danger closes around her, Vivian has to decide if she can trust Jacob with her life.

Jacob Cruz feels responsible when two people die at a diplomatic dinner where he headed up the security detail. He gets assigned to a multi-agency task force to unravel the mysteries and find the whereabouts of two escaped prisoners.

Thrown into the attractive Vivian Steele’s company, he quickly realizes he cares for her more than he lets on. But he has no desire to deal with his past—and without healing, he could never enter a lasting relationship. But Viv’s persistence, both in finding the truth in the case they're working and in helping him face his past, just might overcome his barriers.

Why I Loved This Book

Dylan packs her books with energy, intrigue, plot twists, and action. Readers who love Carrie Stuart Parks or Susan Sleeman will enjoy this book. It’s the third book in the Capitol Intrigue series, but readers can enjoy it as a standalone book. Unlike in the other books in the series, the subplots, while intriguing, didn’t seem connected much to the main character.

The characters struggle with questions of faith, but the book never seems heavy-handed or preachy. I'd share it with a non-believer.