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Deadly Christmas Trap
Deadly Christmas Trap has descriptive copy which is not yet available from the Publisher.
Audible Audio
Published November 25, 2025
15 people want to read
About the author
Lynette Eason
183 books3,999 followersLynette Eason grew up in Greenville, SC. She graduated from the University of South Carolina, Columbia, and then obtained her masters in education from Converse College. Author of twenty inspirational romantic suspense books, she is also a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and Romance Writers of America (RWA). In 1996, Lynette married "the boy next door" and now she and her husband and their two children make their home in Simpsonville, South Carolina."
Series:
. Amazon Adventure
. High Stakes
. Women of Justice
Series:
. Amazon Adventure
. High Stakes
. Women of Justice
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
November 28, 2025
Deadly Christmas Trap opens with danger already pressing in, and Lynette Eason brings that intensity forward with a precision that kept me fully engaged from the start. Cheyenne Chen is the kind of character I love to walk beside: steady, thoughtful, and quietly braver than she knows. Jack Donadio, with his loyal K-9 partner at his side, steps into the story with a determination that feels grounded and sincere.
The pacing is strong, and I appreciated the way Eason layers fear, loyalty, unresolved emotion, and the fragile hope of a second chance inside a plot that never loosens its grip. Each scene is intentional, and the suspense builds cleanly without losing sight of the characters’ humanity. The faith elements are woven with sincerity … offering truth and quiet reminders that God walks beside His people in every moment, including when the pressure builds and danger draws near.
The atmosphere is vivid, too: a winter landscape wrapped in shadows and threat, with pockets of warmth that rise from courage, connection, and the determination to protect what matters. I loved how immersive the descriptions were… the chase, the uncertainty, the intensity of being hunted. It truly read like a one-setting, uninterrupted whirlwind, with Jack’s K-9 partner adding a guarded presence amid the danger.
And the narration is outstanding. Cindy Kay delivers the story with such emotional clarity that each chapter feels alive. She brings definition to fear, exhaustion, bravery, and quiet tenderness without ever overshadowing the story itself. Her performance carries natural intensity where needed and softens at just the right moments, making this audiobook an absorbing and compelling listen.
For readers who appreciate Christmas stories wrapped in suspense, danger threaded with conviction, and characters who choose courage when the pressures mount, this novella offers a gripping and deeply engaging experience.
I received a digital audio ARC of this book from HarperCollins via NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this review are my own. I focused on its faithfulness to Christian themes, the writing style, the pacing, the characterization, and the quality of the narration, ensuring transparency and reliability.
The pacing is strong, and I appreciated the way Eason layers fear, loyalty, unresolved emotion, and the fragile hope of a second chance inside a plot that never loosens its grip. Each scene is intentional, and the suspense builds cleanly without losing sight of the characters’ humanity. The faith elements are woven with sincerity … offering truth and quiet reminders that God walks beside His people in every moment, including when the pressure builds and danger draws near.
The atmosphere is vivid, too: a winter landscape wrapped in shadows and threat, with pockets of warmth that rise from courage, connection, and the determination to protect what matters. I loved how immersive the descriptions were… the chase, the uncertainty, the intensity of being hunted. It truly read like a one-setting, uninterrupted whirlwind, with Jack’s K-9 partner adding a guarded presence amid the danger.
And the narration is outstanding. Cindy Kay delivers the story with such emotional clarity that each chapter feels alive. She brings definition to fear, exhaustion, bravery, and quiet tenderness without ever overshadowing the story itself. Her performance carries natural intensity where needed and softens at just the right moments, making this audiobook an absorbing and compelling listen.
For readers who appreciate Christmas stories wrapped in suspense, danger threaded with conviction, and characters who choose courage when the pressures mount, this novella offers a gripping and deeply engaging experience.
I received a digital audio ARC of this book from HarperCollins via NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this review are my own. I focused on its faithfulness to Christian themes, the writing style, the pacing, the characterization, and the quality of the narration, ensuring transparency and reliability.
December 2, 2025
Deadly Christmas Trap is an exciting, fast-paced, Christian suspense romance that pulled me in from the beginning. Tech analyst Cheyenne Chen finds herself in danger almost immediately, and Officer Jack Donadio steps in determined to protect her. Love Inspired Suspense books are always fast reads, but this one is packed with nonstop action and tension. Lynette Eason truly is the queen of inspirational romantic suspense, and she proves it again here.
Cheyenne and Jack’s chemistry is undeniable, even though they’ve both kept their distance for reasons that totally make sense. The problem? They never told each other those reasons. Dangerous circumstances finally push them back together, forcing them to face their feelings head-on. Nothing clarifies what really matters quite like facing life-or-death stakes! JI loved both characters already from their earlier appearances, so seeing them finally get their happy ending was incredibly satisfying. Getting little peeks at other Dakota K-9 team members was an added treat. Even if you haven’t read the rest of the series, you can absolutely jump in here without feeling lost.
I listened to the audiobook and thoroughly enjoyed it. Once I started, I didn’t want to stop. The audio quality is crisp and clear, and the narration is perfectly paced with a warm, inviting tone. I would happily listen to more books narrated by Cindy Kay.
If you enjoy romantic suspense with faith themes woven throughout, Deadly Christmas Trap is worth adding to your TBR.
Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the ALC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Cheyenne and Jack’s chemistry is undeniable, even though they’ve both kept their distance for reasons that totally make sense. The problem? They never told each other those reasons. Dangerous circumstances finally push them back together, forcing them to face their feelings head-on. Nothing clarifies what really matters quite like facing life-or-death stakes! JI loved both characters already from their earlier appearances, so seeing them finally get their happy ending was incredibly satisfying. Getting little peeks at other Dakota K-9 team members was an added treat. Even if you haven’t read the rest of the series, you can absolutely jump in here without feeling lost.
I listened to the audiobook and thoroughly enjoyed it. Once I started, I didn’t want to stop. The audio quality is crisp and clear, and the narration is perfectly paced with a warm, inviting tone. I would happily listen to more books narrated by Cindy Kay.
If you enjoy romantic suspense with faith themes woven throughout, Deadly Christmas Trap is worth adding to your TBR.
Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the ALC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 11, 2025
I listened to this as an audiobook. I really enjoyed how the narrator brought the story to life. She had the ability to provide different voices for the characters. The narrator also had the ability to bring the suspense to her voice!
The story grabbed me from the beginning as Cheyenne tries to avoid those who are after her. She is cunning and so intelligent in her cyber life. It brought a unique aspect to a Love Inspired Suspense story.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the audiobook. The opinions are my own.
The story grabbed me from the beginning as Cheyenne tries to avoid those who are after her. She is cunning and so intelligent in her cyber life. It brought a unique aspect to a Love Inspired Suspense story.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the audiobook. The opinions are my own.
November 15, 2025
Deadly Christmas Trap by Lynette Eason
The holidays take a threatening turn…
in this riveting Dakota K-9 Unit novella.
With a bounty on tech analyst Cheyenne Chen’s life, officer Jack Donadio and his K-9 partner safeguard her from hired assassins in Lynette Eason’s Deadly Christmas Trap. Only, when their hideout is discovered, they must uncover the mastermind—and a lethal holiday plot.
My favorite quote is
She really shouldn’t get too excited about that idea, but she couldn’t stop the thought from bouncing through her mind. Thinking about her coworker, with his stylishly messy brown hair, expressive green eyes and perpetual five o’clock shadow sent warm fuzzies all through her and her heart softened with the thought of being with him. The reaction annoyed her and thrilled her at the same time because while she was ready to find someone and settle down, dating Jack could completely upend her life. And that terrified her.
I recommend this book.
Deadly Christmas Trap by Lynette Eason is a 5 - star book.
I am looking forward to reading or listening to more books by Lynette Eason.
I voluntarily listened and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
The holidays take a threatening turn…
in this riveting Dakota K-9 Unit novella.
With a bounty on tech analyst Cheyenne Chen’s life, officer Jack Donadio and his K-9 partner safeguard her from hired assassins in Lynette Eason’s Deadly Christmas Trap. Only, when their hideout is discovered, they must uncover the mastermind—and a lethal holiday plot.
My favorite quote is
She really shouldn’t get too excited about that idea, but she couldn’t stop the thought from bouncing through her mind. Thinking about her coworker, with his stylishly messy brown hair, expressive green eyes and perpetual five o’clock shadow sent warm fuzzies all through her and her heart softened with the thought of being with him. The reaction annoyed her and thrilled her at the same time because while she was ready to find someone and settle down, dating Jack could completely upend her life. And that terrified her.
I recommend this book.
Deadly Christmas Trap by Lynette Eason is a 5 - star book.
I am looking forward to reading or listening to more books by Lynette Eason.
I voluntarily listened and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
December 1, 2025
Star Rating: 🦮🦮🦮🦮🦮
Scoville Spice Scale: 🫑
Author: Lynette Eason
Narrator: Cindy Kay
Time: 3 hours 2 minutes
Set around the Christmas time frame, Deadly Christmas Trap tells the story of Cheyenne Chen, a police tech analyst who worked on a Special Unit with Jack Donadio and his K9 partner, Bo. Cheyenne and Jack have feelings for each other and were getting close. However, after Jack got shot in the leg, he pulled away.
They find out Cheyenne has a bounty on her head from someone who blames her for his incarceration. That's when things get interesting.
What I loved about this story:
💕 Fierce Friendship between not just Cheyenne & Jack, but the entire unit.
😍 Jack & Cheyenne's mutual pining
🦮 The K9s were such brave dogs who were loyal, well trained members of the unit.
👨👩👧👦 Found Family
🕊 Faith
❤️🩹 Wholesome Romance
There were Christian overtones in this story. To me, it enhanced the story as faith plays a big part in healing people's lives and Cheyenne and Jack were going to need healing.
This was a quick listen that kept me engaged over a day of driving and chores. I was so glad for the company of the characters.
Thank you to the author, @netgalley and #harlequinaudio for this gifted advanced listing copy in exchange for an honest review.
Scoville Spice Scale: 🫑
Author: Lynette Eason
Narrator: Cindy Kay
Time: 3 hours 2 minutes
Set around the Christmas time frame, Deadly Christmas Trap tells the story of Cheyenne Chen, a police tech analyst who worked on a Special Unit with Jack Donadio and his K9 partner, Bo. Cheyenne and Jack have feelings for each other and were getting close. However, after Jack got shot in the leg, he pulled away.
They find out Cheyenne has a bounty on her head from someone who blames her for his incarceration. That's when things get interesting.
What I loved about this story:
💕 Fierce Friendship between not just Cheyenne & Jack, but the entire unit.
😍 Jack & Cheyenne's mutual pining
🦮 The K9s were such brave dogs who were loyal, well trained members of the unit.
👨👩👧👦 Found Family
🕊 Faith
❤️🩹 Wholesome Romance
There were Christian overtones in this story. To me, it enhanced the story as faith plays a big part in healing people's lives and Cheyenne and Jack were going to need healing.
This was a quick listen that kept me engaged over a day of driving and chores. I was so glad for the company of the characters.
Thank you to the author, @netgalley and #harlequinaudio for this gifted advanced listing copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 29, 2025
3.75 Stars
Completed: Nov. 27/25
Series: Dakota K-9 Unit
Format: audiobook ARC
Narrator: Cindy Kay - good but the FMC sometimes sounds a lot younger than she is in the book
Cheyenne and Jack work together and it had seemed they were heading into the direction of romance when he was shot. After that, Jack pulled away. Fast forward to current day when Cheyenne’s life is threatened repeatedly and someone seems to be a step ahead of them. They draw closer and the chemistry appears to still be there. Each one struggles to speak up and admit to feelings.
When Cheyenne is kidnapped and in serious danger, they both come to realize that it’s time to stop letting fears and insecurities take away a chance at love.
Techie people will enjoy the role of technology (old and new) in this book. The chemistry between the two is good and the reader wants to see them together.
This isn’t to the level of this author’s full-length novels, in my opinion. However, it packed some twists and turns and a good build-up in the romance aspect. With a shorter book, it’s more difficult to get as immersed in the story or as familiar with the main characters.
*** My thanks to the Publisher and Net Galley for providing me with an advance audio copy. My honest review is voluntary and these are my own words.
Completed: Nov. 27/25
Series: Dakota K-9 Unit
Format: audiobook ARC
Narrator: Cindy Kay - good but the FMC sometimes sounds a lot younger than she is in the book
Cheyenne and Jack work together and it had seemed they were heading into the direction of romance when he was shot. After that, Jack pulled away. Fast forward to current day when Cheyenne’s life is threatened repeatedly and someone seems to be a step ahead of them. They draw closer and the chemistry appears to still be there. Each one struggles to speak up and admit to feelings.
When Cheyenne is kidnapped and in serious danger, they both come to realize that it’s time to stop letting fears and insecurities take away a chance at love.
Techie people will enjoy the role of technology (old and new) in this book. The chemistry between the two is good and the reader wants to see them together.
This isn’t to the level of this author’s full-length novels, in my opinion. However, it packed some twists and turns and a good build-up in the romance aspect. With a shorter book, it’s more difficult to get as immersed in the story or as familiar with the main characters.
*** My thanks to the Publisher and Net Galley for providing me with an advance audio copy. My honest review is voluntary and these are my own words.
November 14, 2025
Classic Eason. She manages to pack so much into this novella that it has the same kind of impact as one of her full-length novels. There’s depth in characterization and an intense plot that kept me engaged right through to the end and I consumed it all in one compulsive listen!
Cindy Kay is a veteran audio narrator and it shows in the way she delivers Cheyenne and Jack’s story with intensity and emotion. A thoroughly enjoyable and attention grabbing performance.
This novella comes at the tail end of the Dakota K-9 Unit multi-authored continuity series but it can definitely be enjoyed as a standalone. While members of the team do play supporting roles, this is very much Jack and Cheyenne’s story – a friends to more romance that has been percolating on the back burner for months. It takes a diabolical villain and a few near death experiences to shake some romantical sense into this hero and heroine which makes for an exhilarating read!
My thanks to Harlequin Audio and Net Galley for providing me with an audio copy of this book.
Cindy Kay is a veteran audio narrator and it shows in the way she delivers Cheyenne and Jack’s story with intensity and emotion. A thoroughly enjoyable and attention grabbing performance.
This novella comes at the tail end of the Dakota K-9 Unit multi-authored continuity series but it can definitely be enjoyed as a standalone. While members of the team do play supporting roles, this is very much Jack and Cheyenne’s story – a friends to more romance that has been percolating on the back burner for months. It takes a diabolical villain and a few near death experiences to shake some romantical sense into this hero and heroine which makes for an exhilarating read!
My thanks to Harlequin Audio and Net Galley for providing me with an audio copy of this book.
November 14, 2025
This audiobook novella, is a Christian, suspense romance in which another member of the Dakota K-9, find themselves not only in danger , but discover love.
Though a stand alone, if you have read or listened to the previous Dakota K-9 stories, you’ve met tech analyst Cheyenne Chen and officer Jack Donadio and his K-9 .
Afraid of his future, Jack has not told Cheyenne how he feels about her, but when a bounty is put on her head, he’ll everything to keep the woman he loves safe.
Though short, it was a well developed, action packed story where friends are foes and time is against them, and the characters are also well develoed. Something few authors can manage in a novella.
Bringing the story to life are narrators, Callie Beaulieu and Cindy Kay.
I was entrusted a copy of this audiobook by Netgalley and Harlequin Audio. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Though a stand alone, if you have read or listened to the previous Dakota K-9 stories, you’ve met tech analyst Cheyenne Chen and officer Jack Donadio and his K-9 .
Afraid of his future, Jack has not told Cheyenne how he feels about her, but when a bounty is put on her head, he’ll everything to keep the woman he loves safe.
Though short, it was a well developed, action packed story where friends are foes and time is against them, and the characters are also well develoed. Something few authors can manage in a novella.
Bringing the story to life are narrators, Callie Beaulieu and Cindy Kay.
I was entrusted a copy of this audiobook by Netgalley and Harlequin Audio. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
December 21, 2025
Cheyenne Chen’s life is in danger some one has sent bounty hunters after her, but why, is it a case of mistaken identity? This sends Cheyenne, Officer Donadio and his K9 partner running. However, it is interesting how being thrown into a dangerous situation to bring their whole back history to light while running for their lives and figuring out who was doing this.
This is the wonderful, clean, action packed, fast paced kind of story that will drag you into getting the rest of the series, oh and throw in a K9 and I am there. I appreciate the authors learning all about K9’s it makes it easier to read. This really is a wonderful audio and the narrator is amazing.
Review copy provided by Netgalley
This is the wonderful, clean, action packed, fast paced kind of story that will drag you into getting the rest of the series, oh and throw in a K9 and I am there. I appreciate the authors learning all about K9’s it makes it easier to read. This really is a wonderful audio and the narrator is amazing.
Review copy provided by Netgalley
November 12, 2025
This book belongs to the Dakota K-9 Unit series but occurs after the main storyline has been resolved. It involves the story of two characters I've been wondering about.
Cheyenne has been the team's IT specialist, and she has mad skills. I was hoping she would find love before this series ended.
Jack is a member of the team and his K-9 can sniff out technology.
In Deadly Christmas Trap, Cheyenne's life is in danger. It takes a little time to discover why.
This was such a good story. I loved seeing all the twists and turns.
The suspense and romance are in good balance.
The narrator does a great job.
Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin Audio for the opportunity to experience this book.
Cheyenne has been the team's IT specialist, and she has mad skills. I was hoping she would find love before this series ended.
Jack is a member of the team and his K-9 can sniff out technology.
In Deadly Christmas Trap, Cheyenne's life is in danger. It takes a little time to discover why.
This was such a good story. I loved seeing all the twists and turns.
The suspense and romance are in good balance.
The narrator does a great job.
Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin Audio for the opportunity to experience this book.
November 28, 2025
Deadly Christmas Trap
by Lynette Eason
Narrated by Cindy Kay
Pub Date **Nov 25 2025**
Harlequin Audio
Christian | Romance
I am reviewing a copy of Deadly Christmas Trap through Harlequin Audio and Netgalley:
After someone places a bounty on tech analyst Cheyenne Chen, Jack Donadio and his K-9 partner safeguard her from hired assassin.
After their safe houses are discovered, that they must uncover the mastermind and a lethal holiday plot.
Deadly Christmas Trap is a short but action packed story, I give it five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
by Lynette Eason
Narrated by Cindy Kay
Pub Date **Nov 25 2025**
Harlequin Audio
Christian | Romance
I am reviewing a copy of Deadly Christmas Trap through Harlequin Audio and Netgalley:
After someone places a bounty on tech analyst Cheyenne Chen, Jack Donadio and his K-9 partner safeguard her from hired assassin.
After their safe houses are discovered, that they must uncover the mastermind and a lethal holiday plot.
Deadly Christmas Trap is a short but action packed story, I give it five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
November 24, 2025
Deadly Christmas Trap by Lynette Eason is what I call a K.I.S.S. read - Keep it Sweet & Simple.
Cheyenne Chen is a tech analyst and someone has put a bounty on her head. Jack Donadio and his K-9 are on Cheyenne's team and he's determined to keep her safe at all costs and maybe just maybe, finally open up to her about his feelings.
Can Jack keep Cheyenne safe, can they fin out who's trying to take her out and will love win in the end?
Cheyenne Chen is a tech analyst and someone has put a bounty on her head. Jack Donadio and his K-9 are on Cheyenne's team and he's determined to keep her safe at all costs and maybe just maybe, finally open up to her about his feelings.
Can Jack keep Cheyenne safe, can they fin out who's trying to take her out and will love win in the end?
November 26, 2025
This is a short & sweet holiday romance story about Cheyenne & Jack.
I enjoyed the mystery & action and how their story played out. The narrators did a good job also.
Thanks to the author, publisher & Netgalley for the ARC read. All opinions are my own.
I have read/listened to quite a few Love Inspired Suspense books & several of Lynette Eason's stories as well & enjoy them!
I enjoyed the mystery & action and how their story played out. The narrators did a good job also.
Thanks to the author, publisher & Netgalley for the ARC read. All opinions are my own.
I have read/listened to quite a few Love Inspired Suspense books & several of Lynette Eason's stories as well & enjoy them!
December 5, 2025
This is a short & sweet holiday romance story about Cheyenne & Jack.
I enjoyed the mystery & action and how their story played out. The narrators did a good job also.
Thanks to the author, publisher & Netgalley for the ARC read. All opinions are my own.
I have read/listened to quite a few Love Inspired Suspense books & several of Lynette Eason's stories as well & enjoy them!
I enjoyed the mystery & action and how their story played out. The narrators did a good job also.
Thanks to the author, publisher & Netgalley for the ARC read. All opinions are my own.
I have read/listened to quite a few Love Inspired Suspense books & several of Lynette Eason's stories as well & enjoy them!
November 9, 2025
Deadly Christmas Trap by Lynette Eason is her 9th book in her Dakota K-9 unit series. Get ready to enjoy this fast paced, action packed Christmas Romantic Suspense. Great narration by Cindy Kay. Thank you to #Harlequin Audio for this Arc. This is my honest review.
November 22, 2025
Part of an interconnected series that is better if read in order but can be read as a standalone.
Friends to more
Past enemies return
Fear vs love
Friends to more
Past enemies return
Fear vs love
November 26, 2025
Quick easy enjoyable read
December 30, 2025
Deadly Christmas Trap by Lynette Eason
Cheyenne Chen is a tech analyst with a bounty on her head. Someone from the past has a score they want to settle.
Jack and his K-9 partner make it a priority to keep her alive. When their efforts are snubbed as the would-be assassin makes an attempt on her life in the safe house, the tension and urgency mounts.
This was a suspenseful holiday thriller that will keep you in the edge of your seat.
I listened to the audio and the narration was great. It provided an extra element to the story.
I would like to Thank NetGalley for the opportunity to review an ARC of the audiobook for this title. The opinions expressed in this review are my own. 4/5⭐
Cheyenne Chen is a tech analyst with a bounty on her head. Someone from the past has a score they want to settle.
Jack and his K-9 partner make it a priority to keep her alive. When their efforts are snubbed as the would-be assassin makes an attempt on her life in the safe house, the tension and urgency mounts.
This was a suspenseful holiday thriller that will keep you in the edge of your seat.
I listened to the audio and the narration was great. It provided an extra element to the story.
I would like to Thank NetGalley for the opportunity to review an ARC of the audiobook for this title. The opinions expressed in this review are my own. 4/5⭐
January 19, 2026
This is a Christmas Romantic Suspense, and this is the ninth book in the Dakota K-9 Unit. I have read several other books in this series before picking up this book. I read this book by listening to the audiobook for this book, and I really enjoyed the audiobook for this book. This is a fast paced action pack book. I really enjoyed this book, and I loved the characters in this book. This book had me not wanting to put this book down. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews