Nora is huddled in a dark Lincoln Town Car parked in an alley when she hears her father's voice outside. Yanked out of the car by one of her kidnappers, she is face to face with her father and the thugs. Suddenly there is a scuffle. When the gun fires, Nora jumps into her father's car and turns the key. In reverse down the alley as fast she can go, she manages to turn around and speed forward. Her father's lifeless body lies on the ground behind her. Thus begins Vanishing Act, Liz Johnson's second book.A year and a half later agent Nathan Andersen is relying on various tips and trails as he searches for Nora. She has competently disappeared, but the FBI knows her abductors are also searching. One of the biggest criminals in the Portland area is at large and does not want to take a chance on being behind bars for life.
The current trail leads Agent Andersen to a small town where he strikes up a friendship with Danielle, a local mechanic who is teaching an auto shop class at the local community college. In the class, we are introduced to a few quirky characters who are more than they seem.
Both Danielle and Nathan have buried problems in their pasts, much having to do with fear and regret, and erected walls around their hearts. Tough situations have caused them to rely less on God and more on themselves. Now they both are drawn back to Him and seeking guidance through prayer. And, it seems the time has come when each needs a confidant. Can Danielle trust Nathan after she has been confronted by a student, run off the road, and her apartment torn apart? Can Nathan get past his training as an agent and let Danielle know him more personally?
I like Johnson's quick action, witty conversations, and descriptive passages. The names of her "bad guys" are fun, too; Goodwill, Lurch, and the Shadow. Mystery, suspense, romance, inspiration, and fun are all rolled into one fast reading book. Vanishing Act.
I think you'll like it.
Paperback, 2010, published by Steeple Hill Books.
It can be purchased on Amazon.
