Reluctant Runaway, To Catch a Thief Series #2

Why did Karen Webb abandon her husband and newborn baby? Is it coincidence that she disappeared just one day after irreplaceable Anasazi Indian artifacts were stolen from the University of New Mexico Museum of Art and Anthropology? When Boston-based security consultant Desiree Jacobs is called to the scene, her FBI agent boyfriend, Tony Lucano, warns her not to play amateur sleuth. When he joins her in Albuquerque on the copyrighted property pirating case that he is assigned to, it becomes obvious that their cases are connected. And the popular media ministry, The Inner Witness, has more than a little something to do with them. Desi and Tony are scrambling to connect the dots and figure out how Karen fits into the picture if it is not too late to save her. When the horrifying truth comes to light, can they even save themselves?

A Life or Death Game of Connect-the-Dots Why did Karen Webb abandon her husband and newborn baby? Is it coincidence that she disappeared just one day after irreplaceable Anasazi Indian artifacts were stolen from the University of New Mexico Museum of Art and Anthropology? When Boston-based security consultant Desiree Jacobs is called to the scene, her FBI agent boyfriend, Tony Lucano, warns her not to play amateur sleuth. When he joins her in Albuquerque on the copyrighted property pirating case that he's assigned to, it becomes obvious that their cases are connected. And the popular media ministry, The Inner Witness, has more than a little something to do with them. Desi and Tony are scrambling to connect the dots and figure out how Karen fits into the picture - if it's not too late to save her. When the horrifying truth comes to light, can they even save themselves?

The latest in Jill Elizabeth Nelson’s unique To Catch a Thief series, Reluctant Runaway continues the legacy of her spirited heroine, Desiree Jacobs. Owner of an art museum security company, Desiree has a knack for landing herself in sticky situations. Her latest caper and a southwestern wind combine to sweep Desi from her cherished Boston to arid New Mexico, where, much to her FBI boyfriend Tony Lucano’s chagrin, she tackles religious fanatics, drug dealers, and murderers.

When her best friend and employee Maxine Webb’s niece Karen disappears from her Albuquerque home, do-or-die Desiree is determined to help. By the time Desi reaches New Mexico, however, the mystery has already deepened. Suspicious evidence surrounding Karen’s disappearance leaves local authorities dubious of Karen’s innocence. Is she really the victim of a dangerous cult? Or is she on the run after robbing the prominent Santa Fe museum where she worked? The lines of truth twist further when Tony’s organized crime case leads him after the same bad guys Desi is tracking.

With characters compiled from casts ranging from a biker gang to pueblo Indians to White House employees, Reluctant Runaway pops with color and life from start to finish. Desi’s lively spirit and courageous (yet tender) heart make her a well-rounded and likeable heroine, while Tony’s self-possession and private manner set him as a perfect contrast to his leading lady. Their differences provide for chemistry and tension which Nelson skillfully interweaves with her novel’s action points. Though at times their quarrels seem over-written, their struggle to find a balance between Tony’s over-protectiveness and Desiree’s risk-taking actions is a very real one. Some of her secondary characters, such as Texan Maxine Webb, seem less realistic, but add diversity to the story.

The spiritual component of Nelson’s book is nothing if not unique. Tackling themes rarely dealt with in Christian fiction, Reluctant Runaway deals with cult activity and darker spiritual themes. Her handling of these issues reveals her as an honest writer unafraid to deal with the seedier side of life. An accurate portrayal of the dangerous reality of cults and their seduction of the hurting and needy is a much-needed revelation regarding the threat they pose today. Nelson also hints at the spiritual warfare many other authors avoid, leaving Reluctant Runaway distinct among contemporary Christian novels.

Nelson also does a skillful job of pulling the reader into the novel with imagery and descriptions that make the story come alive. For a Minnesota author to describe so vividly the beauty and culture of New Mexico is no small feat. Reluctant Runaway’s colorful language, both in dialogue and description, may be its most distinguishing feature. At times, the novel is even grows overwhelming in its use of colloquialisms and clichés. On the whole, however, Nelson’s clever style supplements her quirky storyline and characters.

Combining attractive heroes, a lively plot, and an excellent pace, Reluctant Runaway provides fun as well as food for thought. Those seeking an entertaining and engaging story will find themselves more than satisfied with Nelson’s latest work. – Lauren Peltier, Christian Book Previews.com

Average Rating:

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Reviewed by Fern Moore (Apple Valley, MN), February 27, 2009

I was glad to find the rest of the books all at one time. I found the first one on the bargain table at Northwestern Book in Burnsville. I really like the story in line that included Christian thoughts along with the story. So, I looked up her web-site and found your web-site and ordered. I have finished reading all 3 books and enjoyed them. Also to note, that the author is a Mn. resident made it more fun to be a part of. Thanks for being there.

Reviewed by Gigi Hoffman (Oregon), December 26, 2008

Book two in Jill Elizabeth Nelson’s To Catch a Thief series is just as gripping as book one. Nelson packs murder, stolen artifacts, a missing woman, and an endangered baby in the can’t-put-it-down novel. Desiree Jacobs is always there for a friend in need, especially when her close friend, Maxine Webb, interrupts a presidential ball with news of her niece’s disappearance. Despite her FBI boyfriend’s objections, Desi gets involved in discovering why Maxine’s niece would run off. Desi soon finds herself in a mess of villains, eerie rituals, and something sinister. Then, when Tony’s case collides with Desi’s investigation, it is up to them to discover just what bloodthirsty entity is out there. They must rely on God to keep them safe and put all the pieces together before it’s too late. If you’ve read book one, this is a must read! The characters are just as interactive as in book one; and I for one, can’t wait to get my hands on book three.

Reviewed by Trish Perry (Leesburg, VA), October 11, 2007

In her novels Jill Nelson has a way of simplifying some of the most prickly issues Christians face today. One of my favorite scenes in her latest novel, The Reluctant Runaway, involves the heroine, Desiree Jacobs and her Native American kidnapper, Pete Cheama, a member of the Zuni tribe. Pete has made plenty of bad choices in his life, and he ultimately blames his mistakes on Christians, whose system “was forced upon [his] people centuries ago and has made [their] spirits weak and [their] minds confused.” No Christian wants to feel her faith has weakened or confused anyone, so sometimes we refrain from even discussing Christianity. But Desiree merely responds, “Jesus is not an oppressor.” Right there, concisely—the difference between true Christianity and any faith that demands, rather than invites. Nelson’s novel is a fun read, with plenty of suspense and action (and some clever romance, to boot). You could enjoy the entire reading experience without stopping to focus on the choice tidbits about faith with which she occasionally peppers the story. But those tidbits deepen the novel and make it stay with you well after you finish the last page. I’d recommend Reluctant Runaway for teen-through-adult readers.

Reviewed by Karen Peale (Westville, NJ), August 28, 2007

I've read both books in this series and you can see that the author is "maturing". I most of this book. There was only one area where it was too slow for me. I read literally over a hundred books of christian fiction each year, so I know what I like. I have added Jill Nelson on my "definitely like" list. She is doing a nice job developing the characters as their relationship progresses.

Reviewed by Linda Rondeau (Malone, New York), July 02, 2007

In this engaging sequel to Reluctant Burglar, museum security expert Desiree Jacobs, once again becomes drawn into a mystery when Max’s niece goes missing. Could her disappearance have anything to do with Tony’s organized crime case? As their romance heats up, so does the trail that leads to stolen artifacts, leading them both to the New Mexico desert. They must learn to trust God, not only with their surmounting dangers, but with their romance. Is it possible that this new religious cult, is at the center of these mysteries?

As in Reluctant Burglar, Jill Nelson has once again masterfully weaved a tale of suspense and drama while demonstrating the power of faith to overcome the worst of our fears and obstacles. As the romance develops between Desiree and Tony, an FBI agent, the reader is shown the hand of God in even this, our most intimate of human relationships. Is it possible for these two, an over-protective cop and an independent, sometimes risk-taker security expert, to find a peaceful coexistence in which their love can blossom?

Although the plot can be read independently from the book’s forerunner, Reluctant Runaway, has achieved the best of sequel writing. Not only has the author improved on her story telling techniques, but has added depth and challenge to an all-ready intriguing story. Very enjoyable read.

Reviewed by Betsy St. Amant (Shreveport, Louisiana), June 27, 2007

Whatever you do, don't "runaway" from this story!!! Okay, cheesy, I know, but guys, seriously, this was a super fun read! I actually liked it even better than the first in this series, and I didn't think that could happen! Jill has somehow managed to create a book/series that is at the same time fun and serious, intense and light, funny and shocking...what a combo! My favorite part of Jill's books are by far her characters - so realistic. They crack me up, yet two pages later, they have me tearing up. Job well done, Jill!! As for the rest of you - check out this series ASAP! You won't regret it!

Reviewed by Todd Michael Greene (NC), June 21, 2007

Security expert Desiree Jacobs' friend/business associate Maxine has a problem. Max's niece is missing. Kidnapping victim? Runaway? No one knows, but it seems everyone has an opinion. The niece also works for a museum recently robbed of priceless items. Right before the niece's disappearance. Now things are getting worse. Desi has to step in and help. But wait! She's promised her FBI boyfriend Tony she won't get involved in such things anymore. But she has to, right? This is her friend we're talking about. When Desi and Tony's individual cases collide sparks aplenty fly. If you'll pardon the obvious pun, I was reluctant to read this novel, which is book 2 in the series. See, I'm ashamed to say I hadn't read book 1. And Jill Nelson is my pal. Oh I'd read a chapter of book one that was posted to her website once. That was enough to convince me she was a good writer. I've been swamped with books that I had to read. It seems there's never an end sometimes. Oh the horrors! :-) The opportunity came for me to read book 2, Reluctant Runaway. As a member of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance we're plugging this novel this week. I received a copy of it to write a review. So glad I did. And the fact that it was the second in a series never tripped me up. Jill's sprinkles enough backstory to set you at ease with the characters, all the while taking you on a thrill ride like no theme park you've ever been to. It was a pleasure to read this novel. Jill's writing is tight and easy to read. Her characters are engaging and endearing. And the cliff hangers at some of the chapters! Shesh! I was already to put the book down for a while at one point to do some other things and then a gun went off at the end of the chapter. Ack! Who's dead? I couldn't stop reading there. Nuh uh. :-) Now I'm looking forward to going back in time and reading book one in the To Catch A Thief series, Reluctant Burglar. And then there's the upcoming book 3, Reluctant Smuggler.

Reviewed by Chandra Smith (Littlestown,PA), May 30, 2007

In Book two of the To Catch A Thief series, Jill Nelson has definitely done it again. Her edge of the seat mysteries will keep you reading and not much else! Museum security expert Desiree Jacobs always manages to find danger. Not by intent. Hoping life would settle down to a normal pace for her is futile. Maybe normal pace for her is insane. But when her best friend’s niece disappears, Desi must take action. Even if her FBI agent boyfriend, Tony Lucano wants her to play it safe, Desi must go. The mystery takes her from the streets of Boston to the mountain desert of New Mexico. In New Mexico, she must face doubting family members, uninterested police force, a rough motorcycle dude, a strange religious sect and a man who claims to be her long lost relative. Who can she trust? And, when Tony’s long time organized crime case actually intersects with Desi’s missing niece case, the two of them must face the reality of unseen evils worse than they ever imagined. Will they solve the case before the sacrifices continue? Will their faith carry them through the dark spiritual realm they are trapped in? Is love really the strongest force on earth? When you open this book be sure your calendar is clear, work is done and no one needs you. For you will be whisked away into the mystery and putting the book down will not find a place in your vocabulary. Jill Elizabeth Nelson has truly done it again.

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