Dangerous Illusions

Written by Irene Hannon

Narrated by Thérèse Plummer

Detective Colin Flynn investigates a tragic death that's been linked to a grieving woman with apparent memory loss, but it quickly becomes clear there's more to the case--and the woman--than meets the eye. Trish Bailey is on overload trying to deal with a demanding job, an ailing mother, and a healing heart. When a series of unsettling memory lapses leads to a tragic death--and puts Trish under police scrutiny--her world is once again thrown into turmoil. Detective Colin Flynn isn't certain what to think of the facts he uncovers during his investigation. Did Trish simply make a terrible mistake or is there more to the case than meets the eye? As he searches for answers, disturbing information begins to emerge--and if the forces at work are as evil as he suspects, the situation isn't just dangerous . . . it's deadly. Bestselling and award-winning author Irene Hannon captures readers with a mind-bending story that will have them doubling back to retrace their steps--and figure out what they missed!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Recorded Books, Inc.
• Release date: Oct 3, 2017
• ISBN: 9781501966446

Irene Hannon

Two-time RITA Award winner Irene Hannon is the bestselling author of 40+ romance and romantic suspense novels. She has also won a National Readers’ Choice Award, a Carol Award, a HOLT Medallion, a Daphne du Maurier Award and 2 Reviewers’ Choice Awards from RT Book Reviews. Booklist named one of her novels a “Top 10 Inspirational Fiction” title for 2011. Visit www.irenehannon.com.

Reviews for Dangerous Illusions

[renee van Nifterik · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

A nice cozy mystery. An easy read and pretty good

[Ruth Wheeler · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

What an excellent story, classy in its romance, intriguing in its story, and suspenseful in the action! What a gifted author!!!

[mookiekat · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Another awesome novel by Irene Hannon. This story is wrapped around a women named Trish whose life has not been rather pleasant. A man, Matt, who is far from Trish's type and a man, Colin, who she meets only after tragedy strikes vie for her affection. When something happens to Matt and a "stranger" takes his place things take a downward turn sending Trish's life in a spiral. In comes Colin who works diligently to clear Trish's name and to save her life. An intriguing story with a lot of twists and turns. I loved how the author splits the stories of the characters and then brings them back together. Great suspense story and subtitle romance.

[carol420 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

I know there are readers out there that absolutely went nuts over this story and will certainly keep Ms. Hannon in groceries by buying this book as well as the other 2 in this series…but I probably won’t be one of them. Quiet frankly the story line confused me and I had to go back often to see if I had missed something or if it just wasn’t there. I will say that the characters are fleshed out very well…Trish and Colin are likable even if their romance practically took place before the book was even opened. I’m sure that fans of “light weight mysteries" and not so "light weight romances” will love the book. It was, however, interesting enough to deserve the 3 star rating.

[love2readnovels_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Trish Bailey is dealing with a lot of things, one of the most recent is her very ill mother. Seems like the stress is getting to her because she finds she's forgetting things. When tragedy strikes the police take a close look at Trish. Colin Flynn is the detective investigating the situation. As he searches for answers he finds much more than he thought possible. But will Colin and Trish discover the truth before it's too late?Another wild ride by Irene Hannon. From beginning to end you will be on the edge of your seat putting all the clues together. It was very clever and well written. I enjoyed the interaction between the characters and I liked that one of Colin's best friends was someone from a previous series. I really like when books have a loose common thread like that. Well done!I listened to this book on Audible Escape and must say that the narrator did a great job of telling the story.

[missyvonnee · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Great read! Look forward to reading more by this author.

[lamb521 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Title: Dangerous Illusions (Code of Honor #1)Author: Irene HannonPages: 358Year: 2017Publisher: RevellMy rating is 5 out of 5 stars.Colin Flynn and his two best friends meet every other Saturday to catch up on their lives and share a meal. One Saturday he tells them about his latest case. His two friends immediately sense a reticence about Colin regarding a suspect. They grill him and he finally admits he is attracted to the suspect, an attractive art teacher. Colin tries not to show his friends too much of his feelings, but they know him too well and see through his apparent nonchalance. Colin must keep a professional distance during the case. He doesn’t think Trish is guilty of any crime, but he must find proof to clear her as well as find the true perpetrator.Trish Bailey is a young, widowed, art teacher who has moved in with her mother to help her after her mother sustained serious injuries in a car accident. This accident also took the life of her father and her husband. Trish’s parents are wealthy and have set up a charitable foundation that her mother still administers on a monthly basis by meeting with the foundation’s accountant. Trish’s mother also asks Trish to sit in on these meetings so she knows what is going on with the foundation. This accountant has asked Trish out on a couple of dates and Trish accepted, but felt no spark of attraction. Trish is stressed out with teaching, taking care of her mother, arranging her mother’s caretakers when Trish is at work, as well as being involved with the foundation. So, it is natural she might be a bit forgetful sometimes, right? You’ll have to read the story to see how this plays out!Once again, Irene Hannon as written a spellbinding, tension-filled tale with a romance included. I have read most of her trilogies and find them to be engaging and easy to get involved with, and this first book in this trilogy is no exception. I soon became invested in the two main characters’ lives and emotions, watching their romance develop as well as reliance on faith. The faith element in Irene’s stories is evident throughout, but not overwhelming. Faith is woven into the story naturally. I thought the plot well done with a surprise or two. This book will make a great Christmas gift, whether to yourself or to someone who likes a great story!Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255. “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[virginia51-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This was a fantastic book for the first in a new series. I did not want to put this book down. It was very interesting and had many twists and turns. Trisha and Colin were great characters. They learn many things about each other during this investigation. I loved this story. I received a copy of this book from Revell for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

[vintagebeckie · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I have always been a fan of Irene Hannon’s romantic suspense novels. But I have to say that I think her latest, Dangerous Illusions, is my favorite so far. This twisting, turning book will keep you on your toes providing tension from page one. I rate this one unputdownable!Trish Bailey is swept into a nefarious plot when her mother dies under suspicious circumstances. This independent woman has been through a lot and is determined to trust God to direct her steps. She gets a lot of help from hunky Detective Colin Flynn. His protective instincts click as they face a puzzling mystery. Will they discover the truth before danger arrives?Dangerous Illusions provides a rollercoaster ride for the reader. I often found myself holding my breath as the plot unfolded. The bad guys are revealed to the reader early, but it’s hard to discern the how of the crime. Hannon keeps her characters and the reader on their toes! And you will love the characters. Trish and Colin have instant chemistry, and their relationship develops in a most satisfying way. Fans of Hannon’s other series will recognize some of the supporting cast. As for the bad guys, they act very bad! But Hannon never glamorizes their activities — it’s clear that they are not on the side of the angels. Trust in God in the midst of trouble is the faith thread that runs throughout the novel. And the main characters need the help of God to get them through.Dangerous Illusions is another hit from the talented Hannon. This is the first book in the Code of Honor series, and it promises a great series. I will be anxiously awaiting more books to come.Highly Recommended.Audience: adults.(Thanks to Revell for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

[polarmath · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book was a great read. It has a great plot and is full of twists. It is one that you will not want to put down and will keep reading until you can figure out what has happened.

[emmyson · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Like everything Irene Hannon writes, I loved this! Excellent characters, a fast-paced and exciting plot, and a sweet romance are all I need! This book has it all.

[bookdivasreads · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Trish Bailey is made to feel that the normal stress of dealing with her mother's illness and job are causing forgetfulness. Trish knows she's stressed, but she isn't that stressed. However, after her mother dies and an autopsy reveals that she received lethal doses of one of her medications, Trish begins to wonder if there may be some truth to her forgetfulness. Fortunately, Detective Colin Flynn isn't as sure about the circumstances. After getting to Trish a bit better, Colin launches an investigation into Trish's mother's death and finds too many warning signs to ignore, especially when all of those warning signs are tied to the accountant for Trish's family charitable foundation. Then a missing person's case gets linked to that same accountant and the warning bells begin to clang. I found DANGEROUS ILLUSIONS to be a fast-paced and enjoyable read. Once again, Ms. Hannon has crafted a story filled with intrigue as well as inspiration for the faith-centric reader. I've said it before and I'll say it again, if you enjoy reading well-written inspirational intrigue, then look no further. It truly doesn't matter what your faith system is, you're sure to enjoy reading this story. (Hey, I'm Muslim and I enjoy reading her books because the primary characters put their faith and trust in their Creator first). I was pleased to note that DANGEROUS ILLUSIONS is the beginning of a new series, Code of Honor, and look forward to reading the next book.

[peggy.s · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

The title of this book says it all – the book is about not being sure exactly who is the ”good guy” and who is the “bad guy”. The author gives enough clues that I was constantly wondering exactly what was going on with the “bad guy.” I thought I had it figured out – but didn’t!The story is a pretty straight-forward mystery. When her mother mysteriously dies, Trish Bailey finds herself in charge of a large trust – and in the midst of a con to get the money from the trust from her. The efforts of the con man become deadly – and Trish finds herself turning to a local detective for help. A romance could happen between the two – if they can get through the current problems in her life.There is a great blend of suspense, action, and romance in this book. This is the first book in a new series by Irene Hannon. I look forward to reading the rest of the series! I was given this book through the LibraryThing Early Reviewers program in exchange for an unbiased review.

[gincam · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Irene Hannon is a gifted storyteller of inspirational romantic suspense, and she begins her “Code of Honor” series with “Dangerous Illusions”. Trish Bailey has endured a series of tragedies which have left her in a somewhat fragile state. An accident took the life of her husband and her father and left her mother with serious injuries which later took a further toll on her health. Trish has her hands full with her work, caring for her mother, and helping with the charitable foundation set up by her parents. The attractive accountant, Matt Parker, who manages the finances of the foundation, seems to want to be more than just friends with Trish, but she doesn’t share his sentiments. Her mother’s sudden death at home under Trish’s care leaves her shaken, especially when a cloud of doubt settles around the medication Trish dispensed for her mother. When Detective Colin Flynn is called to the scene, he finds it hard to believe that Trish could be responsible for her mother’s death. An immediate connection is felt by both Trish and Colin, but each has serious issues to resolve. As more facts come to light, “dangerous illusions” are bound to be exposed, and that could lead to deadly revelations. Trish and Colin must trust each other, and find a steadfast faith, in order to reach out for a future filled with lasting love and happiness. Book Copy Gratis Revell Books via Library Thing

[milibrarian · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Trish lost her father and husband in an accident two years ago. Now, while on a date, her mother dies. Not only must she deal with her grief, but she is also a suspect in her mother's death. When her date tells the detective that she has been forgetful lately, and the toxicology report shows too much of a prescription medication in her mother's bloodstream, she is suspected of giving her mother the overdose. As Detective Colin Flynn works to find the truth, he learns that there is more to the case than meets the eye as well as an attraction to Trish which he cannot deny. Trish also finds herself in increasing danger as more of her accountant's past is revealed.This is a fast-paced, fun book which will appeal to many readers. It primarily a mystery/thriller with some added romance. As the first in a promising new series, a master of Christian fiction combines the elements to show how blessings can come from hard times. The theme is well-presented without being preachy. I would have given this a 5 instead of a 4.5 if I had not guessed the ending.

[starbritejan · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I loved this book! The first one I have read from this author. Very suspenseful and interesting. Great plot! Will look for her other books to read as well!

[jaymewill-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I have loved Irene Hannon's books and Dangerous Illusions was no exception. The author weaves a tale with great characters, plot line, and so much suspense, I couldn't put it down! The story begins with Trish, a children's art teacher, who lives quietly with her mom. She doesn't go out much except with her friend, Matt. He runs her mother's charitable foundation and would like to be more than friends. Tragically, Trish's mom dies and at the beginning, all fingers point to Trish. During this low point of her life, Trish meets Detective Colin Flynn. The two feel an instant attraction and concern for the other. As Colin digs deeper into the circumstances of the death of Trish's mom, many things don't add up. Then when Trish is attacked with a knife, he knows something far more sinister is going on. The plot takes the reader on a roller coaster of mystery and illusion. Some aspects were happily unexpected. There is just the right amount of Christianity without being overbearing and the right amount of romance without being sappy. Put Dangerous Illusions on your Fall reading list, I highly recommend it!

[tea58 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

There is nothing like a good Romantic suspense along with a Christian background. "Dangerous Illusions" by Irene Hannon certainly does hit the spot. This novel is also about stress. It can certainly become a nightmare. In this instance, a daughter becomes a murder suspect. Her high stress level at the time is the cause. Caring for a sick mother and losing a father to death leads to quite a few mistakes. Her errors make it very easy for her to become a victim of crime. Life and its unexpected turns is worth much thought.After reading this novel that is from the series Men Of Valor, I definitely want to read another in this series. One theme from this book, remains on my mind. It is the fact that some people can make a pretense of friendship while really not caring about you at all. When making friends, there is definitely a need for prayer. Irene Hannon wisely and gently writes about sharing our fears with God. By the way, there is a frightening scene where Trish is mug after teaching an Art class. It's a great book.

[sherripo · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I have read several of Irene Hannon's books and this was the first book of another great series. It is a fast read, partly because you can't put it down. This book was a good combination of suspense, mystery, romance and Christian fiction. I will definitely read the next book in this series.

[alekee_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Irene Hannon rocks, this new series is awesome, having just finished Dangerous Illusions I can’t wait for the next book in this series.The author had me on the edge of my seat from page one until the very end. What does murder, embezzlement, stealing identities, Mafia, and did I say murder again; have to do with a young woman who has already lost a lot?We soon realize that Trish comes from a rather well to do family, and they are big on giving back, but money can’t buy happiness, and she has lost her beloved husband, her Dad, and her Mom was severely injured, in an accident. Trish spends her days teaching and taking care of her Mother, but evil has a way of winding its hand in and that happens here, with the accountant, but things are not always as we perceive, but keep reading.Spell bound is a good term for this page-turner, and you will be unable to put this one down. This is a Christian meeting the evil of the world, and we pray for the good to prevail. We do meet early in the book Detective Colin Flynn, and sparks fly between him and Trish.Loved the interaction between Flynn and his long time friends, survival friends from youth on, and how they are there for one another.This is a read that is going to linger!I received this book through Librarything, and was not required to give a positive review.

[jenniferrobb · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I received a copy of this book from LibraryThing's Early Reviewers program in exchange for an honest review. Note: I always struggle a bit to review books like these because I don't want to give away the plot twists and endings.At the beginning of the book, I felt a bit confused. Matt Parker gets a surprise, unwanted visitor who seems a bit sinister. We learn that Matt is an accountant who is overseeing the funds of a foundation established by Trish's parents. Trish's mother has been trying to push Trish and Matt together romantically. Trish is planning to give Matt the "let's just be friends" speech when she arrives home to discover her mother has died and Matt seems to go out of his way to tell the police that Trish has been under a lot of stress lately and has been forgetful. This event also brings Colin Flynn into Trish's life. The bylaws of the foundation require 3 trustees. Since Trish's mother has passed on, it falls to Trish to appoint a third trustee to join herself and the minister whom her mother appointed. Matt keeps pushing for it to be him--with an ulterior motive behind his request. It seems his visitor has a plan to redirect money from the foundation to himself through some creative accounting measures, so that he can continue to live in the manner he desires and to keep himself in hiding from the Russian mafia (from whom he also appropriated funds). After getting over my initial confusion, I enjoyed the characters--especially Trish and Colin. I liked Colin's relationship with his two friends: Rick and Kristin and that the 3 continued to have regular lunches together. I also liked Colin's professional partnership with Mac. Matt's behavior continued to both concern and confuse me. I wondered what this mysterious visitor had on him to ensure his cooperation. At one point, I almost guessed the plot twist correctly. I had the right idea, just the wrong method of how it was done. I would read more books by this author, which is the highest compliment I feel I can give for any book I read.

[sherylhendrix · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Hannon fans will look forward to this new series "Code of Honor" with the introductory offering "Dangerous Illusions" bringing in the full range of characters, delayed romance, and heightened suspense that they are used to reading. Like the Private Justice series, this series will focus on a triad of friends from childhood whose varying adventures are individually featured in each book. "Dangerous Illusions" introduces us to Detective Colin Flynn who is assigned to what seems at first to be an open and shut case of tragic error leading to death. But as he explores further, Trish Bailey's tragic loss of her mother leads to deception, murder, and the Russian mafia. I found this story interesting and compelling, and quickly finished the book.

[koalamom_1 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Matt Parker opens his door and will soon regret it and this changes a lot of things for many unsuspecting people.Felt slow to start but kept me reading nonetheless and then came the twists and turns and many other things. May have been slow but hard to put down.