Backlash by Rachel Dylan

The emphasis in this novel is character relationships more than suspense. Many of the characters are from the first book in the series. This plot concentrates on Layla, a CIA Agent and Izzy, an NCIS Agent. Both women come under investigation and must defend themselves to save their careers. Layla is being accused of being a double agent and Izzy is a suspect in the murder of a colleague who assaulted her when she was in the police department. There is some sporadic suspense as the leader of a cartel wants to kill Layla. This is a result of an operation happening before the events in this novel.

A central aspect of Layla's part of the plot is a mole in the CIA and her location being repeatedly revealed. Crooked law enforcement officials seem to be a popular plot point right now and finding one in this novel disappointed me. Izzy's part of the plot dealt with sexual assault. That brought added interest to the novel as I am not sure Layla's story would have been sufficient.

There is a very good Christian message in this novel as Layla reconnects with Hunter, a man who previously hurt her deeply. Forgiveness and honestly is essential in re-establishing their relationship. He has had doubts about his faith and that is addressed well.

The end to this novel is a bit quick. When Layla's issues are finally cleared up, all of a sudden Izzy's are too. That seemed a bit unrealistic to me.

This is the second in a series but read well on its own. You can read my review of the first in the series, End Game, here.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

Rachel Dylan is an award-winning and bestselling author of legal thrillers and romantic suspense. She has practiced law for over a decade, including being a litigator at one of the nation's top law firms. Her works have won the Holt Medallion, the Maggie Award, and the FHL Reader's Choice Award. She lives in Michigan with her husband and their five furkids. You can find out more at www.racheldylan.com. Photo: Erika Aitken Photography.

Bethany House, 320 pages.

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

(My star ratings: 5-I love it, 4-I like it, 3-It's OK, 2-I don't like it, 1-I hate it.)