Step into the pulse-pounding world of Private Justice, where faith, love, and danger collide in a thrilling blend of inspirational romantic suspense! Irene Hannon’s beloved trilogy follows tenacious private investigators unraveling dark mysteries, each book weaving standalone tales of redemption and second chances that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Perfect for fans of heart-racing suspense with a touch of divine hope, this series has carved a special place in Christian fiction.
With its gripping plots and relatable characters, Private Justice invites you to explore a world where justice isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. From a reporter chasing a ghostly figure to a grieving mother uncovering a shocking truth, Hannon’s stories captivate with unexpected twists and heartfelt romance. Ready to dive into this unforgettable journey?
How Private Justice Began
Irene Hannon, a former corporate communications executive turned full-time author, launched the Private Justice series in 2013 with a vision to blend her signature inspirational themes with high-stakes suspense. Drawing on her knack for crafting complex characters, Hannon created a trilogy centered on Phoenix Inc., a St. Louis-based private investigation firm. Her goal? To deliver clean, faith-driven stories that thrill without graphic violence, earning her the title of “queen of inspirational romantic suspense.”
Hannon’s inspiration stemmed from her love for exploring moral dilemmas and the resilience of the human spirit. With over 65 novels and multiple RITA Awards under her belt, she crafted Private Justice to appeal to readers craving suspenseful yet uplifting narratives. The series’ St. Louis setting adds a grounded, relatable backdrop to its chilling mysteries.
The Heart of Private Justice
The Private Justice trilogy kicks off with Vanished (2013), where reporter Moira Harrison hits a figure on a stormy rural road, only to find no trace of the incident. Teaming up with PI Cal Burke, she uncovers a sinister cover-up, blending heart-pounding suspense with a budding romance. Trapped (2013) follows librarian Laura Griffin as she enlists ATF-agent-turned-PI James “Dev” Devlin to find her missing teenage sister, revealing a deadly plot in a race against time.
Deceived (2014) closes the trilogy with Kate Marshall, a grieving mother who spots a child resembling her presumed-dead son. PI Connor Sullivan digs into the case, unraveling a web of lies that threatens their lives. Each book stands alone but shares recurring characters, like the Phoenix Inc. team, tying the series together. Themes of faith, forgiveness, and second chances shine through, with Hannon’s crisp prose and surprising villains keeping readers hooked.
Set in St. Louis, the series balances gritty investigations with tender moments, appealing to fans of both suspense and inspirational fiction. Hannon’s ability to craft villains who feel human—yet chilling—adds depth, while her focus on healing through faith resonates deeply.
Why Private Justice Resonates
Private Justice has left a lasting mark on the Christian romantic suspense genre, earning accolades like the RITA Award for Deceived and nominations for Vanished and Trapped. Fans praise Hannon’s knack for balancing heart-stopping tension with uplifting messages, making the series a go-to for readers seeking clean yet thrilling reads. Its exploration of moral complexities—such as whether the ends justify the means—sparks reflection, while its romantic arcs satisfy without overshadowing the suspense.
The series’ enduring appeal lies in its relatable characters and universal themes of hope and redemption. By showcasing ordinary people facing extraordinary challenges, Hannon inspires readers to find strength in faith and love, cementing Private Justice as a beloved staple in inspirational fiction.
- Publication Years: 2013–2014
- Number of Books: 3 (Vanished, Trapped, Deceived)
- Awards: RITA Award (Deceived), multiple nominations for all three books
- Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense
Grab Vanished and dive into Private Justice’s world of faith-fueled suspense today! Whether you’re a suspense junkie or a romance enthusiast, Hannon’s trilogy promises a thrilling ride with heart.