"Red Dawn Rising" by Sue Duffy (book 2 in series) + Free Kindle June 20 & 21

About the book: Twenty-seven-year-old Cass Rodino is a hardworking, dedicated set designer on Broadway. But, like the actors who take the stage every night, she is masking a different reality. Her secrets lie deep within past wounds too severe to expose to anyone.

Evgeny Kozlov has secrets of his own. A former KGB assassin, he is trying to outrun the underground revolution he once served. Trying to right his wrongs, he's in a race against time and against a former colleague, Ivan, who has sinister plans to bring down the United States, including an assassination attempt on famed pianist Liesl Bower.

As Cass and Evgeny separately set out to save Liesl from an impending doom, both are hurled into a fierce CIA/FBI dragnet, not knowing that their formidable opponent-a most unlikely predator-is already closing in on them.

Book 2 of the Red Returning Trilogy, Red Dawn Rising mixes suspense, action, and romance in a tale of personal tragedy and triumph that will keep readers pivoting between the evil desires of world powers and the redeeming powers of personal faith, life, and love.

Review:   This is my first Sue Duffy book and it's a "keeper." The story line involves international intrigue and individuals on both sides who spy, kill, capture, create mayhem. Red Dawn Rising is book two in a series and I missed book one, The Sound of Red Returning, which I regret. However, one may read Red Dawn Rising as a stand-alone book.

Our main female lead, Cass Rodino, is a wealthy young woman who has experienced sorrow and disappointment in life. She follows her step-father under cloak of darkness because her mother suspects his having an affair. However, it opens wide the door of danger, intrigue, and national security.

During the same time frame, Evgeny Kozlov, a Russian spy is pursuing another Russian who is intent on destroying the confidence of the American people in their country and government's powers of protection. This Russian is known as the "Architect." The Architect's plan is even far more reaching on the international scene as he plans to shape the future of Israel, Russia, and America. His identity unknown to most everyone.

I enjoyed the story, the action, and the characters. The story was interesting to read and to consider the premise that such could actually occur. It is encouraging to read of CIA, FBI, and police agencies involved in the protection of our country and how much goes on of which the average citizen has no idea. I know this is a novel but it brings a surge of pride when good triumphs over evil. It is also encouraging to read of characters of little or no faith coming to trust in the God that saves and shelters.

I recommend Red Dawn Rising for home libraries, public and school libraries, and individual reads.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary review copy of Red Dawn Rising from Kregel Publications for the purpose of this review. Opinions expressed are solely my own and I received no compensation for this review.