Standoff

This is definitely a can't-put-down book.

Tiel McCoy is on her way to a relaxing vacation in New Mexico when she hears that the teenage daughter of Russel Dendy, Fort Worth's tycoon is kidnapped. Tiel immediately cancels her vacation plans to chase the big scoop, being a hardworking reporter that she is. That night she makes a stop at a convenience store in Rojo Flats to ask her boss for directions, when suddenly a young boy and his pregnant girlfrield enter the store and hold the people there hostages at gunpoint.

It doesn't take long for Tiel to realize that they are Ronnie Davison and Sabra Dendy, who are actually eloping because of her father's threats to separate them — from each other and from their child — forever. What she doesn't expect, is that Sabra is on the verge of delivering their child. Things doesn't look good for her, and it definitely isn't the right time and place.

The suspenseful drama unfolds as Tiel assists the mysterious Doc in helping Sabra, while also helping Ronnie communicate with the FBI agents outside. Will Ronnie and Sabra get their conditions fulfilled by Russel Dendy? And will Tiel get her big scoop? It's for you to find out.

Despite the short span of time, the characters are very well-developed. At first Tiel's thoughts of making a big news out of her discovery strikes me as more than just a bit selfish, but perfectly understandable — that's what reporters do. I'm just glad she does the right thing at the end of the story. The most intriguing thing though, is the problem Ronnie and Sabra had to face. Fathers like Russell Dendy would often goes to extreme length to get what he wants, and it's ironically realistic.

Standoff has a great story and a good amount of action. It focuses a lot more on Ronnie and Sabra rather than Tiel's own romance, which only starts in the last few chapters. But overall it's a quick and enjoyable read. Thanks a lot to Sandra for sending this nice book to me through the Goodreads giveaway! :)