Code of Valor (Blue Justice Book #3)

By Lynette Eason

What Detective Brady St. John really needs is a relaxing vacation. Unfortunately, just as the sun is setting on his second day at a friend's cabin on Lake Henley, he hears a scream and races to rescue a woman from her would-be killer. When the killer escapes only to return to finish the job, Brady vows to utilize all of his many resources to keep her safe--and catch those who would see her dead.

Financial crimes investigator Emily Chastain doesn't trust many people. And even though she let the detective who saved her life in on a few pertinent facts about why she was being attacked, there are some things you just don't share with a stranger. Little does she suspect that the secret she is keeping just might get them both killed.

Bestselling and award-winning author Lynette Eason sends readers on a race for the truth in this heart-stopping story of risk, regret, and redemption.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Baker Publishing Group
• Release date: Jan 1, 2019
• ISBN: 9781493416639

Lynette Eason

Lynette Eason lives in Simpsonville, SC with her husband and two children. She is an award-winning, best-selling author who spends her days writing when she's not traveling around the country teaching at writing conferences. Lynette enjoys visits to the mountains, hanging out with family and brainstorming stories with her fellow writers. You can visit Lynette's website to find out more at www.lynetteeason.com or like her Facebook page at www.facebook.com/lynette.eason

Book preview

Praise for Called to Protect

Eason’s page-turner is energetic and tense until the end.

Publishers Weekly

Praise for Oath of Honor

Explosions, gun battles, and a terrifying, cop-killing criminal pepper the rocket-powered plot. Author Lynette Eason’s formidable female characters stand out, as do the male leads who trust the women’s judgment without question.

Bookpage

This nonstop, white-knuckled thrill ride will please devotees of police procedurals.

Library Journal

Although concerned and delicate with both grief and romance, Eason’s well-rounded story doesn’t spend too much time bogged down in either as the harrowing plot unfolds. Eason’s fans will enjoy this first installment of a promising new series.

Publishers Weekly

"Lynette Eason once again pens a gripping thriller with her latest book, Oath of Honor. I can’t wait for her next installment of the Blue Justice series!"

Carrie Stuart Parks, award-winning author of A Cry from the Dust

"Lynette Eason’s Oath of Honor promises to be the beginning of another roller-coaster ride series. Readers are going to love Isabelle and Ryan’s story while getting to know the entire St. John family. This engrossing novel will have them hooked from page one."

Lisa Harris, bestselling and Christy Award–winning author of The Nikki Boyd Files

Books by Lynette Eason

WOMEN OF JUSTICE

Too Close to Home

Don’t Look Back

A Killer Among Us

DEADLY REUNIONS

When the Smoke Clears

When a Heart Stops

When a Secret Kills

HIDDEN IDENTITY

No One to Trust

Nowhere to Turn

No Place to Hide

ELITE GUARDIANS

Always Watching

Without Warning

Moving Target

Chasing Secrets

BLUE JUSTICE

Oath of Honor

Called to Protect

Code of Valor

© 2019 by Lynette Eason

Published by Revell

a division of Baker Publishing Group

PO Box 6287, Grand Rapids, MI 49516-6287

www.revellbooks.com

Ebook edition created 2019

Ebook corrections 01.07.2019, 02.16.2022

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means—for example, electronic, photocopy, recording—without the prior written permission of the publisher. The only exception is brief quotations in printed reviews.

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data is on file at the Library of Congress, Washington, DC.

ISBN 978-1-4934-1663-9

Scripture quotations are from the King James Version of the Bible.

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is coincidental.

Dedicated to those who go above and beyond: To every law enforcement agency who fights for justice, to the firefighters and medical personnel who put their lives on the line for those they don’t even know. We thank you, we appreciate you, and we pray for you.

Contents

Cover

Endorsements

Half Title Page

Books by Lynette Eason

Title Page

Copyright Page

Dedication

Law Enforcement Oath of Honor

Epigraph

Friday, October 18

1

Wednesday, October 23

2

Thursday, October 24

3

4

5

6

Friday, October 25

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

Saturday, October 26

14

15

16

17

18

19

Sunday, October 27

20

Tuesday, October 29

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

Excerpt from the next Blue Justice Adventure

1

Acknowledgments

About the Author

Back Ads

Back Cover

For the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.

1 Samuel 16:7

Friday, October 18

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1

The broker rose from his chair and glared at the imbecile standing on the other side of the desk. We paid you well to steal that boat. Where is it?

Jeremy Hightower smirked. Well now, that’s the question of the night, isn’t it? I went to a lot of trouble to get that boat for you. It took planning and cunning. Finding a marina worker uniform that fit and a couple of guys to help. Unfortunately, the measly twenty-five grand you forked over isn’t going very far. I need more. He looked around. And it’s obvious you have plenty.

Rage pounded through him. He should have known better than to trust this worthless piece of an excuse for a human.

The broker rounded the desk and jabbed a finger at the greedy man. Planning? Cunning? I planned it down to the last detail and simply told you what to do! Now tell me where that boat is and I might let you live!

Not until you wire another one million dollars to this account number. He tossed a piece of paper onto the desk. I had to hire some help to get it done and they demanded payment up front. When I have confirmation the money’s there, I’ll tell you where the boat is.

Do you know what happens to people like you? People who betray me? They die. Just ask Reuben Kingman. Oh wait. He laughed. You can’t ask him. Because he’s dead! He slammed a fist on the desk and leaned forward. And I’ll kill you just like I killed Reuben.

Then you’ll never get the location of the boat.

The fact that his outburst and threats didn’t seem to faze Hightower didn’t sit well. His blood churned faster. He needed those pictures in the boat’s safe. Pictures that showed him wielding the knife and killing yet another who’d betrayed him. You had help. I’ll find them and get it from them.

Good luck with that. They’re dead. This time it was a picture he flung onto the desk.

The broker studied it. Two very dead men stared at him with sightless eyes. He returned to his chair behind the desk, pausing a moment to draw in a breath and consider his options. The picture told him a lot. You planned this from the beginning, he said.

Hightower shrugged. It was hard not to.

I’ve killed men for less.

So have I. Hightower’s stare remained solid. Unwavering.

And the broker knew this latest traitor wouldn’t back down. So. It’s come to this, has it?

I’ve been your go-to boy for a long time now, Hightower said. It’s time for me to branch out.

Pay him.

The two men turned at the voice that came from the corner of the room. The broker scowled. Stay out of this. It doesn’t concern you.

Of course it does. If it concerns you, it concerns me. Now, wire Jeremy the money.

He reluctantly considered his friend’s advice, then opened his laptop with one hand. With the other, he pulled his weapon from the holder he kept attached to the underbelly of the desk. He raised the gun and aimed it at the man who would dare try to blackmail him. At the brief flash of fear in Hightower’s eyes, satisfaction flowed. Are you sure you don’t want to tell me now?

If you pull that trigger, you’ll never find it.

Oh, I’ll find it.

Put the gun down. His friend rose to his feet. Think about this.

I have.

Hightower laughed. You shoot me and you’ll all go to prison.

What are you talking about? the broker asked.

I was followed. She had a tracker on my car that I found later.

And?

She took pictures of me on the boat. She’ll report it and the location, the cops will go get it and return it to its rightful owner, who’ll then have access to the contents of the safe—and the pictures—and you’ll be done.

For a moment, he thought his blood pressure might actually do him in. His eyes closed for a moment. I’ll find it, he muttered.

No, you won’t. I disabled the GPS, as you’ve probably already discovered.

The broker turned to his friend, who sat still, hands clasped loosely between his knees. What do you think?

His friend’s jaw tightened, the only indication that he was affected by the scene playing out before him. Pay him. And he and I will work together to get rid of anyone who knows anything. His eyes studied Hightower. Don’t make me regret this.

No regrets. I get my money, you get your boat. Jeremy nodded at the man. But we’d both better make sure that nosey reporter dies. She’s the one who can bring everything down for all of us.

We’ll take care of her, the broker’s friend said.

I have a guy who can get it done and he doesn’t ask questions.

With a scowl, the broker picked up the paper with the account number on it and turned back to Hightower. Seems like you need her dead as much as we do. When it’s done, let me know and I’ll transfer the money. He jabbed a finger at Hightower. And so help me, if you betray me again, I’ll take my chances and just kill you. Am I clear?

Clear.

Get out of here.

Hightower smiled as he exited and closed the door behind him.

I want him dead, the broker said. No one crosses me like this and lives. Have him killed. He paused. No, don’t.

Don’t?

The broker snapped his fingers. New plan. Keep Jeremy away from that reporter until you can get the location of the boat from her, then let him get rid of her. Once she’s dead and we have the boat, I want you to bring Hightower to me so I can take care of him myself.

Wednesday, October 23

ch-fig1

2

Heather Gilstrap glanced over her shoulder as she pulled her keys from her pocket. With a click, she unlocked her car and heard the chirp—and something else.

She stopped to listen.

Yes, that was a footstep behind her. Not for the first time that day. For the past week, she’d felt watched. When she’d asked Emily, her best friend, if she felt the same, Emily had simply shaken her head.

Heather turned and saw no one. But someone was definitely behind her. Following. Stalking. But who? She’d been so careful to cover her tracks.

Not careful enough.

Rapid puffs of air escaped her lips as she resumed her rush to the vehicle.

Her heels clicked on the parking garage concrete floor, echoing in the quiet. Covering the sound of the person following her. Why had she stayed so late? Why hadn’t she asked security to walk her to her car? She pulled her phone from the other pocket of her blazer just as she reached the silver Toyota Camry.

Heather opened the driver’s door and slid into the seat. Slamming the door with one hand, she hit the locks with the other and lunged toward the glove compartment. The door fell open and she grabbed for her Smith & Wesson 642. Only to find it gone. What? she whispered. But how? It didn’t matter right now. She jabbed the key at the ignition, her shaking fingers betraying her as she dropped the set.

She leaned down to grab them, praying she had enough gas to get out of the garage. Why oh why hadn’t she stopped to fill up the tank?

When she straightened, a figure was approaching from her left, walking slowly, clearly not in any hurry. Yet the threat emanated from him. She jammed the keys into the ignition and twisted.

Nothing happened.

No, she whispered. No, no, no. Terror centered itself in her midsection. With another glance at the person dressed in black, she grabbed her phone and dialed 911. And still he continued his slow stroll toward her. He was stalking her, toying with her. She put the phone on speaker, then switched the screen to her text messages.

911. Where is your emergency?

I’m in the Cannon Street Garage, third floor. My name’s Heather Gilstrap. There’s a guy following me and I think he’s going to kill me. She had to get out of the car, but she couldn’t go out the driver’s door. He’d catch up to her in seconds. She lunged across the seat and pulled the handle.

Nothing happened. What?

The door won’t open! Heather yelled, cutting off the dispatcher’s words. She pounded the door and tried again with a low grunt.

Again, nothing.

I can’t get out! No, no, no.

She tossed the phone onto the back seat and climbed over, tried both doors. Same result. No wonder he wasn’t in a hurry. Somehow he’d jammed the doors. She was trapped. And he was enjoying his game.

She rolled on her back and kicked the window. Once, twice. It didn’t even move. And there was nothing she could use that would smash through the glass. I can’t get out!

With shaking fingers, she grabbed her phone and heard the operator above the rush of blood in her ears. Heather? I’ve got officers en route.

My car won’t start and my doors are jammed. He did something to my doors! Pictures. She had to send them. She punched the text string of the one person she could trust, and quickly tapped a message, added a photo from her gallery, then hit send.

Adrenaline surged, muffling her other senses. Another picture, the next text went. Then the next. Emily needed the pictures for evidence. If she simply texted the words and tried to explain, it wouldn’t hold up in court. But the photos would.

Heather? Heather! What’s happening? The operator’s voice cut through her panic.

A frantic glance showed the man coming closer. She whimpered. He’s almost here. He has a gun. With a suppressor. Please, Jesus. I love you, but I don’t want to die today.

Do you know who he is?

Another text went. If God didn’t intervene and she was going to die, she was going to take down the people who killed her. Unfortunately, her texts might not be enough—but it was all she had.

No. He has a ski mask on. Tears streamed down her cheeks. She sniffed. Please, God, don’t let me die in vain, she whispered as her fingers worked the phone. Please, he’s going to kill me—

I have someone on the way right now. You have to find a way out of the car and run.

I can’t!

Maybe he would just take her. Demand to know what she knew. Force her to hand over the evidence she’d gathered. But he might not. Her breathing came now in harsh gasps while her heartbeat thundered in her ears.

She hit send on the final text, then started erasing them from her phone even as the dispatcher’s voice asked her another question she missed.

What? No. She needed one more text. The location.

The lake where we

Can you break the window? the woman demanded.

I tried, she whispered. Tell Em I tried. Emily Chastain, tell her! Warn her she’s in danger!

The back window shattered. Glass rained over her and she screamed. The phone fell into her lap. Frantic, she grabbed for it. The last text shot off to Emily only half finished. She looked up into dark eyes that held nothing. Just empty black pools. He placed the gun against her head and she froze.

Please, don’t, she whispered.

He reached in and disconnected the call. Then took her phone and stepped back. He kept an eye on her, the gun in his left hand never wavering as he tapped the screen and scrolled. Emily Chastain? What did you tell her? What did you send her?

Leave her alone. She doesn’t know anything.

Unfortunately, while that might have been the case three minutes ago, it might not be now.

Wait, what? Was he going to—

The gun lifted.

Heather screamed again.

The muzzle flashed.

Sharp pain hit her, then darkness.

Thursday, October 24

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3

Brady St. John sat on the porch of the cabin he’d rented for the next two weeks and let his mind drift behind closed eyes. Unfortunately, the current took it to places he’d rather not revisit, so he lifted his lids and let his gaze settle on the lake.

Peaceful. Gentle. A great place to solo dive or fish for largemouth bass and catfish. He’d had the catfish for dinner tonight. Remnants of the meal that consisted of two ears of corn, a side of baked beans, and an apple pie now lay pushed to the side. Chloe had made the pie and insisted he take it with him.

On his vacation.

Because he’d needed a break before he snapped like a toothpick. Only now the October evening air had gone from brisk to downright freezing, sending goose bumps to pebble his skin under the long-sleeved sweatshirt. But he wasn’t ready to go inside just yet.

He finished cleaning the Glock and wiped it down. Setting it on the table next to his empty plate, he shook his head as his sister’s voice echoed in his mind.

Go somewhere peaceful, someplace quiet, Chloe had said. Where you can go diving or just sit. And be. Like the Drummonds’ little cabin on Lake Henley. They rent it out on a regular basis, I think.

Yeah, during the summer. Lake Henley’s closed up for the winter.

So sweet-talk them into letting you stay there. They probably wouldn’t mind making a little extra money on it.

Maybe.

You need to, Brady, you’ve been through a lot. Don’t think, just go. And just . . . be. And take your Bible with you.

He’d realized she was right. He probably did need a break. Especially after the latest case where a mother had driven her two children, ages four and six months, into the river, drowning all three of them. On purpose. Not to mention the fact that Krystal had managed to make a complete fool out of him. What had he seen in her anyway? She’d been smart. He’d liked that. And beautiful. That hadn’t hurt either. And mercenary.

But he wasn’t going to think about that. He was going to sit.

And be.

So here he sat.

Just . . . being.

And he was bored out of his skull. He sighed and leaned back to stare at the porch ceiling. No, not bored. There just weren’t any distractions, which meant too much time to think about things he’d rather not think about. That was the real problem. He should have asked one of his brothers to come with him.

With a groan, he rose and raked a hand through his hair. Fine. He’d go inside and start a fire, warm up—and pack. So he could go home and do what he did best.

Which was to throw himself into work until he was so exhausted he fell into bed and slept without nightmares.

A scream ripped through the air and he froze for a split second before reaching for his weapon.

With the sun setting in the next several minutes, light was quickly diminishing.

Another scream.

Brady shot off the porch and into the yard, trying to discern the direction of the cry.

There. On the water.

A speedboat motored out to the middle of the inlet, aimed toward the open water, and the silhouettes of two people came into view. One sitting behind the wheel. The other sat on the bow, hands tied to the rail that ran along the side of the boat. She struggled, yanking and twisting against her bonds.

Hey! Let her go!

The driver jerked his head in Brady’s direction. Then lifted his weapon and fired. Brady dove to the ground and rolled. The bullet missed but was a little closer than he was comfortable with. He lifted his head to see the man taking aim at his captive. She stilled, head ducked, shoulders heaving with her sobs. Brady fired while running toward the water. The man jerked and swung his weapon back in Brady’s direction.

And then the woman was loose. She launched herself over the side and into the water. The man’s curses reached Brady even as he settled back into the driver’s seat and spun the wheel. The boat sped away.

Brady caught sight of the woman’s head just above the surface, but her arms flailed, slapping the water.

She went under.

Brady ran to the edge of the dock, stopped long enough to shuck his sweatshirt and loafers, and dove in. The icy water wanted to steal the breath he held, but it wasn’t the first time he’d swum in freezing water. He reached her in ten long strokes.

Just as she was going back down, he got behind her and slid his forearms beneath her armpits, lifting her head up once again. Her back pressed against his chest. She gasped and coughed. Started to struggle. Hey, hey, it’s okay, relax. I’m here to help you. Rest your head back on my shoulder and just breathe, okay?

She gave one last hacking cough, then went limp. Hoping she hadn’t passed out, he kicked toward the shore. The dock would get them out of the water faster, but if the guy decided to circle back and start shooting again, he could pick them off.

Are you conscious? he asked. Then kicked, wishing he’d had the time to get rid of the heavy jeans, but he ignored the weight and aimed them for land.

Yes.

What’s your name?

Emily, she gasped. Chastain.

I’m Brady. Are you hurt?

I d-don’t th-think so.

But she was cold. Can you swim?

No. I mean yes, but . . . no strength.

All right. Just be still and don’t fight me and I’ll have us on shore in a couple of minutes.

She trembled against him. A combination of fear and cold. Finally, his feet found the sandy bottom of the lake and he hefted her into his arms.

She gasped, coughed, then wiggled. I can walk. I’m too heavy to c-carry. P-put me down.

He wanted to laugh. Be still. I bench press more than you weigh. A lot more.

She stilled and he set her next to the dock, out of sight of the lake, protected by the wood. Stay here for just a second.

Shuddering, she nodded. At least he thought it was a nod. Keeping low, hunched against the wind that sent shudders whipping through him, he made it to the end of the dock, all the while feeling like he had a target on his back.

But no one fired. He shoved his feet into his shoes and grabbed the sweatshirt. He hurried back to find Emily curled into a ball, back against the dock post, tremors wracking her frame.

Without asking for permission, he tugged the sweatshirt over her long-sleeved T-shirt and swept her into his arms once more. She didn’t protest, simply turned her face into the side of his neck and clutched his shoulders.

divider

Emily used the towel to clear the steam off the mirror and tried to calm her shaking. The hot shower had chased away the bone-deep cold, but the horror of what she’d just lived through wouldn’t loosen its hold. She’d thought she was going to die.

Tears dripped down her cheeks as the images flashed in her mind.

A knock on the door made her jump, and she pulled the plush white robe tighter, then swiped the tears from her cheeks. Yes?

You okay? I’ve got some sweats and a dry sweatshirt you can put on while your clothes and shoes dry if you want.

She opened the door and looked up into the kindest blue eyes she’d ever seen. The gentleness she found there eased her pounding pulse. Thank you. She took the clothes from him.

There’s a hair dryer under the sink too. If you need to use it.

I do. Thanks.

Anything else you need?

No. I’ll be out in just a moment.

He nodded and she shut the door.

After drying her chin-length chocolate-colored hair, she changed into the clothes, for once doing so without studying herself in the mirror and judging. She had to roll the waistband to shorten the length, then roll a thick cuff around her ankles. The sweatshirt hung midthigh. Once she had on the wool socks, she took a deep breath.

She was alive and finally warm.

Only now she had to go explain to the man who’d just saved her life why someone wanted her dead and that he was now in danger as well. Which meant she should probably leave quickly.

Gathering her nerve, she stepped out into the hall and followed it into the spacious den area. Her rescuer sat in one of the wingback chairs facing the warm flames from the logs. His right hand worked a cloth over the weapon held in his left hand. Probably the gun he’d fired at her captor.

Excuse me while I take care of this, he said. It went into the lake with me and I need to get it dried out just in case we need it.

In case they find me here, you mean?

I would think that whoever was in the boat would be long gone, but you never know about people—or how desperate they are. His eyes locked on hers for a moment.

He seemed pretty desperate, she said. He’d showered and changed into jeans, warm socks, and a red-and-blue flannel shirt. She stepped up next to him and held her hands out to the fire. This is lovely.

He gestured to one of the chairs to his right. Have a seat. Your clothes and shoes are in the dryer.

Thanks. She lowered herself into the chair and curled her legs under her. I should probably leave as soon as my clothes are dry. I don’t want to put you in danger.

He went back to cleaning the gun. I’m not worried about it.

But I am.

He glanced up again. Don’t. I can take care of myself. And you.

But—

Seriously. Okay?

She sighed. Okay. For now. She took in her surroundings for the first time. "This is

Reviews for Code of Valor (Blue Justice Book #3)

[lowelibrary · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This is a well written book about the St John family. Book 3 starts the stories of the brothers where 1, 2 and 2.5 covered the 3 sisters. Brady St John is the main character and his budding relationship with Emily Chastain is great. The story flows quickly leaving the reader on the edge of their seat. Loved it. Cannot wait for the next one.

[gincam · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The "Blue Justice Series" from author Lynette Eason features the St. Johns--a large, close-knit family whose members serve in law enforcement. Book 3 in the series, "Code of Valor", is Brady St. John's story, and what a story it is! The second day of detective Brady St. John's much-needed vacation turns into a criminal investigation when he must rescue a beautiful woman from armed attackers. Renting a friend's cabin at Lake Henley for two weeks had seemed like a good idea, but the cries of a person in peril had quickly brought his lawman instincts to the forefront. Emily Chastain, a financial crimes investigator for a bank, has stirred up a dangerous hornet's nest with her findings. Eluding the determined assailants had not been easy, and Brady vows to keep Emily safe and bring the criminals to justice. With his formidable law-enforcement family to aid him in his quest, he stands a good chance of bringing down the bad guys--but can he protect his own wary heart from falling for Emily? A top-notch entry in a highly- recommended inspirational romantic suspense series from the talented Lynette Eason.Book Copy Gratis Revell Books via Library Thing

[veragodley · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Opening the pages of Code of Valor you are immediately immersed in the depths of an attempted murder and a fantastic rescue. Situated on a lake where a gun shot and a plunge into the depths could end it all, Emily is in a fight for her life and a larger-than-life rescue takes place at the hands of Brady.Emily and Brady are the main characters in this intense, fast moving, and complicated suspense. As the third book in the series, Blue Justice, the story flows beautifully bringing into play favorite characters from the previous books and yet the reader is not lost if they never read the earlier adventures.Financial crimes are at the core of this tale and it is difficult to determine just who the culprit is. Who the gains? Who is steering this intense drive to find a sunken boat and the treasure that is on it? Sounds like a pirate tale. But it isn't. This is a modern story. Good does overcome the evil. The bad guys are stopped. But it takes a long and convoluted path to reach this ending. And the ending is dynamite.Disclosure: I won a copy in the LibraryThing.com Early Reviewers program. A review is appreciated though not required. Opinions are mine, alone.

[lcjohnson1988_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Title: Code of Valor (Blue Justice #3)Author: Lynette EasonPages: 336Year: 2019Publisher: RevellMy rating is 5 out of 5 stars.Detective Brady St. John has decided to spend his vacation in a cabin on a lake. He needs the time to recharge and read his Bible. On his second day, however, his plans are drastically altered. He hears a woman scream, runs to the lake and sees her struggling with an armed man in a boat. She manages to topple into the water but can’t swim as her hands are bound. Brady jumps in to rescue her while the armed man escapes. He soon finds out that the man was trying to kill Emily Chastain, a financial crimes investigator. Later that night, the killer returns to finish the job. Brady helps Emily escape once more, but he fears things are only going to get worse. Emily has no idea why someone would want to kill her.Emily’s best friend Is an investigative reporter who has disappeared. Emily and her friend are as close as sisters, and Emily is desperate to find her friend. Is one of her stories the reason for her disappearance? Emily is worried about her friend and now she is on the run with Brady trying to avoid the killer’s next attempt. Brady’s brothers help him protect Emily. They are also in law enforcement. Then, something happens that causes Emily to surrender to the killer while trying to hold on long enough for Brady to rescue her again, but she doesn’t expect what occurs next.Sound interesting and exciting? Well, it is! This is one of those books I read in one sitting. I was turning the pages as fast as I could to see what was around the next corner. There was plenty of action to keep me stuck to my chair. I like the way the author works in faith in the lives of her characters so that it is an integral part of who they are, but it is not over the top. The suspense and tension were riveting! I can’t wait for the fourth and final book in the series that is to be released in August 2019.

[ladytaluka · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

I was given this book free from LibraryThing. I had it for a few months before finally picking it up. I didn't really know what type of book it was, but realized it wasn't really my thing once I started reading. This is a fast-paced novel dealing with a mystery and cops. It was kind of exciting at first, but then when the whole novel is just one person after another trying to kill the main character, Emily, it got kind of repetitive. There ends up being a romance (of course) with the cop who continues to save Emily. But I didn't really buy it. There wasn't enough emotion in the dialogue for me. The book ended up with a very detailed mystery, with lots of twists and I couldn't keep track of all of the different characters very well. This was just so-so for me. I won't be looking for more books in this genre.

[peggy.s · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Code of Valor is the third book in Lynette Eason’s Blue Justice series. I have read all three, and truly enjoy the St John family of law enforcers. Each book is a stand-alone story about a different family member. I found this one sort of hard to follow. I am a slow reader, so it took me a while to read it. There are so many “bad guys” involved, I couldn’t keep them straight. I found I was wasting a lot of time trying to look back to see who different people were – I finally decided to just keep reading, hoping it would all make sense in the end. Which it did – but I still really don’t know how the “main” bad guy fit into the life of the main character! I like the storyline – and the main characters are very well developed – but I was confused by the number of other characters. I am sure it would have been easier to follow if I could have read it faster – maybe I wouldn’t have forgotten some of the key connections between the characters.I received this book from LibraryThing as part of their Early Reviewers’ program.

[alekee_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I’ve come to love and look forward to spending time with the St. John family, and this time it is Brady’s turn, and most of this family at least peek in for a visit with us.This book has it all, a bit of sweet romance, injustice, murder for greed, and non-stop action. Yes, you are going to be page turning for answers, and beware when they come you will be shaking your head, a big Wow to the Lynette Eason, I love how your mind works, I never would have come to the conclusion this book does.I still want more visits with this family and author, this story will keep your attention for sure!I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.

[claudia.castenir · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

It is always great to reconnect with the St. John family. Code of Valor focuses on Brady, who while vacationing while recuperating from a really bad relationship, jumped in to save Emily Chastain from being murdered, not knowing that this would be the first of many times that he would have to save her life. Emily, a financial crimes investigator for a bank, had stumbled across some suspicious activity that pointed forward human trafficking. Along with her friend, reporter Heather Gilstrap, Emily was seeking enough information to take to the authorities, unfortunately, their investigation did not go without notice. This suspense novel holds the readers' interest with carefully paced clues as well as carefully withheld information, dolled out at just the right place in the story. The dialogue is well written, and the characters' faith comes across as believable and authentic. Fans of Lynn H. Blackburn's Dive Team Investigations will be happy to see some of her characters included in Eason's story. I am a big fan of Lynette Eason's writing, and Code of Valor did not disappoint. I appreciate receiving this copy from Revell Publishing through NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review and received no monetary compensation.

[sarahgracegrzy · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Code of Valor is one wild, crazy ride from page one until the end! I've been so looking forward to Brady's story, and it did not disappoint. Our female MC, Emily, is a very complex character, and I greatly enjoyed her story. Eason touches on some very pertinent issues with her character, which I really liked. Brady seemed a little lacking in depth, but I still really liked his character. The plot is convoluted and gripping, and the action doesn't stop. You will not be able to put this one down! This book might just be my favorite in the series. Also, can we talk about that gorgeous cover? All the covers in the series are just so gorgeous! All in all, I greatly enjoyed this explosive release from Lynette Eason! Highly recommended!CONTENT NOTE: Lots of violence, shootings, near-death situations, etc. Some romance, kissing, hugging, attraction, etc. [In high school, Emily gets pregnant, and the scene is mentioned, although not in detail. Her father is also abusive.] Recommended for ages 17+. FTC disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.

[jillrey · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Never a dull moment in this heart pounding romantic suspense. Every page of this read will have you holding your breath, gripping your seat.Emily Chastain would be dead if it weren’t for Brady St. John’s love of the water and need for a vacation. But, as soon as Brady saves Emily once he discovers she’s a magnet for trouble, and that those hunting her will stop at nothing to kill her and tie up their loose ends. Loose ends she didn’t even know she was tied up in. But Brady has fallen for her, and isn’t going to allow his law enforcement connections to let Emily down.Each chapter ends with you wanting more, and before you know it your entire night has been spent chasing Emily, trying to figure out what she’s gotten involved in. This is certainly strong enough to be a standalone novel, but Brady’s references to Krystal leave you wondering what has crushed him so helplessly in the past.*Disclaimer: A review copy of this book was provided by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[khiemstra631 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I received an Early Reviewer copy of this book, and I believe it is the first Lynette Eason book that I have read. That said, I would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good suspense novel. In fact, the suspense level ratcheted up so high that I had put the book down several times to recover before I could go on reading. My only quibble would be that things worked out terrifically well for the heroine in the end. Granted, lots of people were praying for her safety so it is possible all of those circumstances could have happened. I was glad that they did so that I could breathe a sigh of relief. I will definitely read more in this series and look forward to knowing this author better.

[thegenreminx · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

The Blue Justice series is one of my favorite romantic suspense series because I enjoy how each book in the series balances the crime and mystery with romance. The romance element is always there but it never takes over. Also, I like the characters from the St. John family and it is always interesting to see how their individual skills play a role in each book. There is always more than one family member playing a supportive role in the story and that is nice because I am already familiar with them and their backstory, so not too much time is needed to be spent introducing them. Which gives more time to the actual plot and I love that.Code of Valor starts out with the type of action that will have your heart in your throat! Brady St. John needed a time out from his hectic life but he just wasn’t able to “relax” like everyone wanted him to, although he was indeed trying. Just when he was ready to head back to his home and finish out his vacation by returning to work he was taken aback by an attempt at murder that was occurring practically right in front of him. His first reaction was to save the woman who was clearly in distress with no thought to the consequences. It was this choice to get involved that would put Brady in grave danger as he and Emily try to solve the mystery as to why anyone would want her killed. This story was non-stop action and suspense! The plot was full of twists and moments of disbelief! The mystery as to why Emily was being targeted was nicely done and kept me guessing for the longest time. The Author certainly did not pull any punches with the villains of this story, they were truly despicable. I did feel like what was developing between Brady and Emily was believable and I liked their pairing, they were a good fit. I will say, though, that I liked Emily’s character but I didn’t love her and she fell a little flat for me. Overall though, I enjoyed reading Code of Valor and I am looking forward to the next book in this series!This review is based on a complimentary book I received from LibraryThing Early Reviewers. It is an honest and voluntary review. The complimentary receipt of it in no way affected my review or rating.

[sherylhendrix · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Another in the Blue Justice series that features the lives and cases of members of the St. John family, a family of siblings (and mother) all in either law enforcement professions or helping professions. This story begins with Brady St. John taking a well-deserved vacation only to be interrupted by the necessity to foil an attempted murder followed by arson. He quickly calls for the backup of his many siblings and from there the plot jigs and jags through a series of other murders and allusions to the ultimate plot. As I found in the first book in this series, which I also reviewed, I felt like the book would have benefited from a cast of characters. I repeatedly felt the need to look back at earlier chapters to determine who the character was and how he/she fit into the plot. That said, I still found the book moved forward quickly and it did hold my interest. Fans of Eason will likely love it.

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

This book was remarkably well written, it was thrilling, and exciting. Once I picked it up, I did not want to put it down.The Blue Justice series focuses on one member of this crazy family (mostly cops, with a doctor thrown in) in each book so far, but you still see the other members of the family as well, so I would recommend starting at the beginning of the series. I was so excited to read Brady’s story. He is such a strong, protective man. The way he looks out for everyone, especially the women he cares about, makes him a dream for women.Emily was such a strong character, and I loved her immediately. The way she held her own and faced danger head on was inspiring.The chemistry between these two was intense and I loved how hard they both tried to fight it!Lynette Eason has a knack for writing gripping stories that make you just want to curl up with her book and not get up again until you finish it. I highly recommend this book to anyone! *I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.*

[harley0326 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book has all the makings for a great action movie. It has intrigue, fast pace action and danger everywhere you turn. The author does a great job of grabbing readers' attention right away.Emily is a wonderful character who sees more danger than anyone should in their lives. The mystery surrounds a sunken boat and a mysterious flash drive. Emily's friend is missing and that puts her on high alert. When Emily is rescued by Brady, they are both in for an adventure that takes them to the deep waters below to chases and kidnapping. Why is someone after Emily?I liked the danger that filled the pages as the story takes twists and turns that all lead to a killer on the loose. I really enjoyed reading about Emily learning how to scuba dive. I am afraid of water especially since I can't swim. I held my breath each time Emily went diving with Brady. The details were very intriguing and the author does a good job describing details of how to be safe while diving. It's a race against time as Emily finds herself depending on Brady to keep her safe. Can Brady get to her in time and catch the killer? The ending is one of the best I've read with powerful twists and edge of your seat action.I received a copy of this book from Library Thing's Early Reviewers. The review is my own opinion.

[sherripo · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I had read the other two previous Blue Justice books and again really enjoyed Lynette Eason's book. There are a lot of twist and turns in the plot that makes you not want to put the book down. I an anxiously waiting for the next book in this series.

[jenniferrobb · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Warning: Possible Spoilers:It was nice to revisit the Blue Justice series and the St. John family. (The St. John family reminds me of the O'Malley series by Dee Henderson) I'd recently read a collection that included a novella by Eason that was connected to this series (Ruthie St. John was one of the main characters). I misremembered from that book which brother had planned to take his girlfriend up to the cabin to propose and thus thought the timeline in this book was messed up when the St. John women started talking to Emily about their boyfriends. Brady St. John is the main St. John character in this book, though, as always, his siblings do make appearances. Brady's taken some vacation time to decompress but finds himself in the middle of things when he sees someone trying to toss a woman into the lake near the rental home he's staying in. At first, I had a hard time connecting the first chapter with the Blue Justice series. It's all new characters and honestly, it wasn't one of those "grab my attention and make me keep reading" moments--but I have read Eason before and I know I like her books and this series, so I kept reading. I liked Chapter 2 a bit better, but again, it's a character I don't know and at this point, I don't even know how she fits into the story--so finally in Chapter 3, a St. John appears!The plot takes some twists and turns as Brady and Emily try to find out who is trying to kill her and who has taken or killed Emily's friend Heather. The one part that got a little confusing was when the police were questioning Paul Bailey about his cousin. In the observation room, it seemed like someone referred to her as a sister instead of a cousin--but I may have misread it since I think it was a St. John family member who made the remark and he may have been talking about or referring to one of his sisters at the time. But at the time I read it, it pulled me out of the story because I thought it was wrong. All in all, a satisfying read and I look forward to more in the Blue Justice series. I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the publisher from LibraryThing's Early Reviewers in exchange for an honest review.

[kaykwilts · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Code of Valor is book 3 in the Blue Justice series. I knew this would be a suspense filled book and I was not disappointed. We finally get Brady St. John's story. Brady keeps saving Emily Chastain's life over and over. The bad guys are determined to get to Emily but she is smart enough to let Brady help her out. Lots of twists and turns in this book that keep you guessing. I like the previous book better that had Chloe in it but this was still a good read. Thanks to LibraryThing Early Reviewer program and Revell Books for providing me a copy of this book to read and review. This book is due to be published on January 1, 2019.

[tealadytoo · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Code of Valor is the third book in Lynette Eason’s “Blue Justice” series, which follows the exploits of the crime fighting St. John siblings. This story focuses on Brady St. John, detective and dive team member.Early in the book, Brady and Emily are thrown together in a harrowing situation, and the action never stops after that. Although the pace is fast and the suspense relentless, Ms. Eason manages to still deliver strong character portrayals of two people with traumas in their pasts who are attracted to each other, but dealing with trust issues. Emily doesn’t trust men after serious past abuse, and Brady is having trouble regaining trust in God after a spectacularly failed relationship. My only issue with the book is that the mystery is very complex, with multiple players involved and many secrets and betrayals. Even after all is explained at the end, I’m not sure I have all the pieces of the puzzle quite straight.Nonetheless, I thoroughly enjoyed this story and recommend it to any fan of romantic suspense with a Christian perspective.I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[hes7 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

The St. Johns are back in Lynette Eason’s latest Blue Justice book, Code of Valor! Here, Detective Brady St. John takes center stage, and his proves to be a story full of twists and turns.Brady intends only to take a much-needed vacation at the lake… until he hears a scream that puts all his investigative senses on alert. He then comes into contact with Emily Chastain and becomes swept up in unceasing danger (or so it seems).In the midst of this chaos, Brady and Emily have issues with which to wrestle—doubts and body issues, faith and of course, the romance sparking between them. Eason crafts their characterizations well, and I couldn’t help enjoying getting to know them through Code of Valor. This book is an exciting addition to the Blue Justice series. I enjoyed it (and I’m sure other readers of romantic suspense will, too) and look forward to reading more of the St. Johns soon.I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.

[lamb521 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Title: Code of Valor (Blue Justice #3)Author: Lynette EasonPages: 336Year: 2019Publisher: RevellMy rating is 5 out of 5 stars.Detective Brady St. John has decided to spend his vacation in a cabin on a lake. He needs the time to recharge and read his Bible. On his second day, however, his plans are drastically altered. He hears a woman scream, runs to the lake and sees her struggling with an armed man in a boat. She manages to topple into the water but can’t swim as her hands are bound. Brady jumps in to rescue her while the armed man escapes. He soon finds out that the man was trying to kill Emily Chastain, a financial crimes investigator. Later that night, the killer returns to finish the job. Brady helps Emily escape once more, but he fears things are only going to get worse. Emily has no idea why someone would want to kill her.Emily’s best friend Is an investigative reporter who has disappeared. Emily and her friend are as close as sisters, and Emily is desperate to find her friend. Is one of her stories the reason for her disappearance? Emily is worried about her friend and now she is on the run with Brady trying to avoid the killer’s next attempt. Brady’s brothers help him protect Emily. They are also in law enforcement. Then, something happens that causes Emily to surrender to the killer while trying to hold on long enough for Brady to rescue her again, but she doesn’t expect what occurs next.Sound interesting and exciting? Well, it is! This is one of those books I read in one sitting. I was turning the pages as fast as I could to see what was around the next corner. There was plenty of action to keep me stuck to my chair. I like the way the author works in faith in the lives of her characters so that it is an integral part of who they are, but it is not over the top. The suspense and tension were riveting! I can’t wait for the fourth and final book in the series that is to be released in August 2019.

[kimpotter-309059 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Code of Valor by Lynette Eason is the third book in her Blue Justice series. The story starts off with a bang and keeps you on the edge of your seat till the end. Detective Brady St. John just wants a few days of peace, quiet and rest. Instead he rescues a damsel in distress. Emily Chastain has no idea why someone is trying to kill her all she knows is that she must escape. Then Brady comes to her aid and she finally has someone she can trust. I liked how Emily was able to change her view of herself with help from her friends. It shows how surrounding yourself with the positive can affect our attitude. Lynette draws her readers in and doesn’t let them go; even after the book ends the characters linger with you. For lovers of romantic suspense, this is a must read!I received this book from the LibraryThing in exchange for my honest review.