🎯 Book Review: The Target by Catherine Coulter
A high-stakes romantic thriller that blends emotional trauma, relentless pursuit, and the healing power of love—with FBI agents Savich and Sherlock back in action.
Book 3 in Catherine Coulter’s FBI Thriller series, The Target is a gripping standalone that introduces new characters while continuing the dynamic presence of fan-favorite agents Dillon Savich and Lacey Sherlock. With a strong Goodreads rating of 4.15/5 from nearly 15,000 readers, this installment is praised for its emotional intensity, fast pacing, and layered suspense.
🧠 Plot Overview
In the remote Colorado Rockies, Judge Ramsey Hunt is living in solitude after a scandal forced him off the bench. His peaceful retreat is shattered when he discovers a young girl—Emma—injured and mute, clearly the victim of a traumatic abduction.
Soon, Emma’s mother, Molly Santera, arrives and mistakenly believes Ramsey is the kidnapper. Once the misunderstanding is cleared, the three are thrust into a deadly chase, pursued by mysterious men with violent intent. With nowhere safe to hide, they seek refuge in Chicago at the compound of Molly’s father—crime boss Mason Lord.
As the danger escalates, FBI agents Savich and Sherlock join the investigation, helping unravel a conspiracy that reaches deeper than anyone expected. The trio must confront not only external threats but also the emotional scars that bind them.
💬 Why Readers Love It
- Emotional Depth: Ramsey and Molly’s growing bond is tender and believable, especially as they protect Emma.
- Fast-Paced Suspense: The action moves quickly, with shootouts, escapes, and constant tension.
- Savich & Sherlock’s Return: Their presence adds continuity and charm, grounding the story in the series’ universe.
- Strong Female Lead: Molly is resilient, smart, and fiercely protective of her daughter.
⚠️ Critiques
- Some readers felt the villains were underdeveloped and the ending slightly rushed.
- The romantic subplot, while heartfelt, may feel predictable to seasoned thriller fans.
- The crime boss subplot adds intrigue but stretches believability at times.
🏁 Final Verdict
The Target is a satisfying blend of romantic suspense and FBI procedural, with enough emotional weight to elevate it beyond a standard thriller. If you enjoy stories about redemption, found family, and danger lurking in every shadow, this one hits the mark.
