Rating: 
Summary: Well-written, but disappointing
Review: When I stumbled upon this book in the O'Malley series, I thought had found a respite from the usual, formula Christian romance books I had read. Kate was a strong female character, a welcome change from weak female characters who play the smaller part in the Christian romance genre. The book is well-written, however, there was much too much emphasis on the action, and mystery and not enough on the relationship. I liked the back story about Kate forming a family with the other orphans, THAT was something new. Like other readers, I could not finish reading the book. My interest was lost somewhere in the middle. I assume Kate and Dave got together in the end, but by then, I just didn't care.
Rating: 
Summary: The Negotiator
Review: I read this book in three days, couldn't put it down. My background in fiction is as a lover of romance novels. However, I was unable to stomach how many romance books were becoming sex with a story line thrown in. This was an answer for my dilema. This book was a great romance/mystery that was clean and written with a purpose. I would not be embarrassed to be seen reading this book or to pass it on to a friend. In fact, I already have, many times!The story is the first in the O'Malley series. (There is a prequel, but not really of the O'Malleys.) The story had me between tears, laughter, and romantic sentiment throughout. The plot was solid and the characters well formed, especially for a first in a series. Excellent piece of work and highly recommended for anyone who likes romance/mystery without the smut and language.
Rating:
Summary: Great Characters
Review: I love the O'Malley family from Dee Henderson. The characters she has created are wonderful. I normally am not a big fan of love story type novels, but this one makes it easy to read and enjoy. The reason I believe she has created such great stories is the flirtation between characters and good natured ribbing between the "siblings" This is one of the hardest things to write in a way that a reader enjoys. Most novels jump straight to physical love, but this novel let the characters develop their feelings in front of you-wonderful.
Rating: 
Summary: This is Love?
Review: I also thought this book was going to be a mystery, and where those elements applied it was well written. however when one really can't stand the "Hero", it kind of removes all traces of romance, this guy wants to change her from day 1. he doesn't tolerate her lack of belief, is constantly praying to God to help him suffer her till he can convert her. this to me isn't love, if he loved her he wouldn't keep trying to change her. i couldn't even finish this book as i knew she would be converted, this didn't fit her character as she had gone all her life not believing for a reason and seemed too sensible to me to fall for a guy so obviously lacking in understanding or consideration of her views. for myself i am Christian, and i still couldn't read this book so unless you like Christian books don't bother.
Rating:
Summary: No Negotiation Necessary
Review: This is a great introduction to a family you find yourself wanting to know about. Action-packed and romantic, you can't help but fall in love with Kate. Henderson provides heroes of incredible stature and moral character that any woman would want. But I found her heroines just as amazing - strong women who can take care of themselves if necessary, who are Targets but not Victims.
Rating:
Summary: Somewhat engaging, but awkward plot
Review: I purchased The Negotiator thinking it was a mystery novel, which it is to some extent. I was not aware of the religious overtones of the book, and found their introduction into the story somewhat disruptive. The mystery elements of the book are engaging, and the overall writing is better than average. The plot line is relatively strong, and there is enough action to be engaging. However, the discussions of Christianity were rather forced. When Dave, the lead character, is reflecting on his religious beliefs, the text is consistent with his character. The discussions about God are awkward, and Kate's sudden conversion to being a "believer" based on a deal she constructs with via prayer is not a good fit with her characterization in the novel. Anyone who wants a G-rated read will enjoy this book, or if you can move past the over management of parts of the storyline, you may enjoy it overall.
Rating:
Summary: "Predictable"
Review: I was disappointed with Ms. Henderson's entire O' Malley series as a whole. I thought the plots in each and every single story were sadly predictable. On the plus side, the characters in all of Ms. Henderson's series were fun, that it why I rated the series as a whole with (2) stars instead of (1).
Rating:
Summary: The Negotiator is a page turner that will captivate you.
Review: "The bomb goes off at 11:15. The plane is talking to the tower. Tell Kate O'Malley I haven't forgotten the past." Just when Kate thought that her week couldn't possibly didn't get any worse, she heard the message threatening to blow up a plane and had a personal message directed at her. As a hostage negotiator she was used to being able to handle situations like this and bring them to a peaceful resolution. She was also used to threats from those convicted through her job as a negotiator. This time however, the rules are different. In the midst of all of the chaos her sister Jennifer and new friend Dave expect her to turn to the God that she blames for the turmoil in her life. One night when she can't sleep she reads the book of Luke and writes out the questions that she has. Jennifer and Dave really want her to believe, but don't they realize that it's not that simple? Believing is about trust, and Kate's life experiences have taught her not to trust easily. Will Kate be able to overcome the obstacles that arise when she is tied directly to the bombing that caused the deaths of 214 people? How will Kate react when she is brought face to face with a past that she thought she had left behind for good? This was an excellent novel. I found it hard to tear myself away from the characters and either go to work or to bed. I enjoyed meeting the O'Malley family and continuing getting to know Dave from "Danger in the Shadows" where he protected his sister Sara.
Rating:
Summary: An alternative
Review: Finally, an alternative to crime novels and love stories that leave you feeling upbeat after you read them. These books provide a wonderful alternative for fans of those genres. The O'Malley characters are strong and express many of the sentiments of those just learning about Christ. Doubts and questions are not downplayed but are answered insightfully. And what a concept for a story! Orphans who adopt each other and form their own family and take the name of the O'Malley's. Each family member is explored in detail in their own book. "The Negotiator" tells the story of Kate a hostage negotiator. The action picks up from page one and never lags. We follow Kate through her chaotic job, love life, tortured past and search for God. Also, while getting the Lord's message across, this book doesn't become "preachy" to the point where any one is turned off. However, you do leave the book feeling upbeat and encouraged. These books have just the right mix of action, suspense, love, tears, humor and inspiration. I haven't been this excited about a series of books in years. Way to go Mrs. Henderson. Two thumbs up. Breathlessly awaiting the next in the series.
Rating:
Summary: Boring Unrealistic Characters
Review: Sorry, but I thought the characters were completely unrealistic especially Kate. They were cardboard characters that really didn't pull me in. I suppose that I read too much and I do have high expectations, but this wasn't even tolarable. The Christian perspective didn't bother me except to say that Kate was too cookie cutterish as the non believer. The mystery I found boring and have read better mystery in 2nd grade class (sorry but I did spend 11 bucks on this) and these two characters had NO chemistry together. NONE. I love novels were the characters are dripping with chemistry. If you want chemistry suspense and good characterization, skip this novel.
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