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Global Guardians #2
Never Say Goodbye
He has 24 hours to find the woman he loves in the wilds of Siberia.
When politics goes south and the leaders of a Russian coup decide to oust all foreigners, former Russian Cobra Captain Roman Novik discovers the woman he loves--whose heart he broke--is out of touch in the backwoods of Siberia. But if he doesn't find her before the authorities do, she'll be arrested...and he'll be branded an enemy of the state.
But American medical missionary Dr. Sarai Curtiss is not about to leave--not with an epidemic on her hands that is taking the lives of Russia's children. Faced with a corrupt government, the military elite tasked with tracking them down, and an out-of-control medical crisis, it will be a race against time--and wills--to save lives, including their own. And the biggest casualty of all just might be their hearts.
Continue the exciting adventures of the Global Guardians series!
Previously published as Sands of Time, Mission: Russia
When politics goes south and the leaders of a Russian coup decide to oust all foreigners, former Russian Cobra Captain Roman Novik discovers the woman he loves--whose heart he broke--is out of touch in the backwoods of Siberia. But if he doesn't find her before the authorities do, she'll be arrested...and he'll be branded an enemy of the state.
But American medical missionary Dr. Sarai Curtiss is not about to leave--not with an epidemic on her hands that is taking the lives of Russia's children. Faced with a corrupt government, the military elite tasked with tracking them down, and an out-of-control medical crisis, it will be a race against time--and wills--to save lives, including their own. And the biggest casualty of all just might be their hearts.
Continue the exciting adventures of the Global Guardians series!
Previously published as Sands of Time, Mission: Russia
264 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2006
168 people are currently reading
417 people want to read
About the author
Susan May Warren
230books3,450followersI can't help be amazed at the gifts God has delighted me with - a wonderful husband, four amazing children, and the opportunity to write for Him.
I've been writing as long as I can remember - I won my first book writing contest in first grade! Over the years, writing has become, for me, a way to praise God and see Him at work in my life.
Although I have a degree in Mass Communications from the University of MN, my real writing experience started when I penned the The Warren Report - a bi-monthly newsletter that detailed our ministry highlights.
Living in Russia meant I never lacked for great material - and those experiences naturally spilled out first into devotionals and magazine articles and finally into my first published story, "Measure of a Man," in the Tyndale/HeartQuest, Chance Encounters of the Heart anthology.
Susan and husbandI grew up in Wayzata, a suburb of Minneapolis, and became an avid camper from an early age. My favorite fir-lined spot is the north shore of Minnesota - it's where I met my husband, honeymooned and dreamed of living. The north woods easily became the foundation for my first series, The Deep Haven series.based on a little tourist town along the shores of Lake Superior. I have to admit - I'm terribly jealous of Mona, the heroine of my first full-length book, Happily Ever After, a Christy Award Finalist published in 2004 with Tyndale/Heartquest.
Our family moved home from the mission field in June 2004 -- and now we live in the beautiful town I'd always dreamed of! God has amazed me anew with His provision, and blessings -- and allowed me a season when I can write full time for Him.
I 'm delighted you've stopped in to visit. My hope is that you'll be blessed and encouraged by soul-stirring stories of regular people interacting with a God who loves them.
I'd love to hear from you! I love getting mail, especially from readers and I welcome your questions and comments. Write to me at [email protected]. And, if you're interested, sign up for my newsletter, a quarterly sneak peek into upcoming releases and projects. Thank you for your interest and support.
God Bless and Happy Reading!
In His Grip,
Susan May Warren
I've been writing as long as I can remember - I won my first book writing contest in first grade! Over the years, writing has become, for me, a way to praise God and see Him at work in my life.
Although I have a degree in Mass Communications from the University of MN, my real writing experience started when I penned the The Warren Report - a bi-monthly newsletter that detailed our ministry highlights.
Living in Russia meant I never lacked for great material - and those experiences naturally spilled out first into devotionals and magazine articles and finally into my first published story, "Measure of a Man," in the Tyndale/HeartQuest, Chance Encounters of the Heart anthology.
Susan and husbandI grew up in Wayzata, a suburb of Minneapolis, and became an avid camper from an early age. My favorite fir-lined spot is the north shore of Minnesota - it's where I met my husband, honeymooned and dreamed of living. The north woods easily became the foundation for my first series, The Deep Haven series.based on a little tourist town along the shores of Lake Superior. I have to admit - I'm terribly jealous of Mona, the heroine of my first full-length book, Happily Ever After, a Christy Award Finalist published in 2004 with Tyndale/Heartquest.
Our family moved home from the mission field in June 2004 -- and now we live in the beautiful town I'd always dreamed of! God has amazed me anew with His provision, and blessings -- and allowed me a season when I can write full time for Him.
I 'm delighted you've stopped in to visit. My hope is that you'll be blessed and encouraged by soul-stirring stories of regular people interacting with a God who loves them.
I'd love to hear from you! I love getting mail, especially from readers and I welcome your questions and comments. Write to me at [email protected]. And, if you're interested, sign up for my newsletter, a quarterly sneak peek into upcoming releases and projects. Thank you for your interest and support.
God Bless and Happy Reading!
In His Grip,
Susan May Warren
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
September 22, 2012
This was a fast paced book with interesting twists and turns in it. The one problem I had with the book was the main character's reasoning behind doing the things she did or even her thought process sometimes (You must not be that into God because you aren't doing what I'm doing). I understand it is part of her personality, but it was annoying. Plus she held onto her mindset for 13 years and then changes in one little afternoon, just in time to save the guy, how convenient.
July 28, 2021
I rarely give this author less than 4-stars, her writing is just that good. This 3-star also has nothing to do with the writing and suspense plot - there was danger, action, a handsome brooding hero. For me, the lower rating had all to do with the leading lady, Sarai. She just came across as naïve and not making smart choices, for a doctor and one who has spend years in Russia. Also, her outlook on life and God's calling on people's life seemed a bit immature.
I'm looking forward to the final book in this series as the suspense and intrigue was still as expected by one of my favourite authors.
*I've read this on Kindle Unlimited.*
I'm looking forward to the final book in this series as the suspense and intrigue was still as expected by one of my favourite authors.
*I've read this on Kindle Unlimited.*
July 27, 2014
I enjoy books by this author. This was not my favorite that she has written. Sarai drove me crazy but I loved Roman. When reading a story I really need to like the characters. Sarai was difficult to like and many times I wondered why a guy like Roman even bothered. I did enjoy the ending and how the author wraped everthing up and tied it all together.
October 23, 2018
Honestly I didn’t like this book it was rather frustrating. The female lead is stubborn and obnoxious and hard to get behind. Honestly if she had some redeeming qualities it would have helped but she was selfish and self righteous. I was actually relieved when it was over.
March 3, 2024
Actual Rating: 4.5
After reading Vicktor's story, I was excited to continue on with this series. I quickly picked up the sequel, but admit I wasn't convinced I'd enjoy Roman's story quite as much as Victor's. Not anything against Roman, I loved his role in In Sheep's Clothing as Victor's friend, and as a Christian who tried to do the right thing and was always there to support his friends along with David (Preach)'s help when issues arose that needed prayer or advice. He struck me as the fun more carefree one of the group, well if there is such a thing in a group of Russian FSB (formally KGB) members and American soldiers. But, still.... He's the one with the jokes and always trying to make light of a dark situation when his friend need the hope and a loyal companion.
That said, his story, and character, are drastically different from Vicktor's. Whereas Vita is the 'tall, dark, and handsome, Russian cop, take no prisoners type tough-guy who things women are either cursed or all crazy, and is hard set on revenge to atone for past sins, with or without the help of his Believing friends. Roman is different. Coming from a very different background, Roman is just trying to prove himself worth and good enough as a man of God, trying desperately to avoid his father's failures, while struggling to find his place in God's will in the harsh Siberian reality.
Much to my surprise, I ended up loving this one! More so even than book 1, which blew me away and snuck up on my toward the end! I loved seeing Roman and Sarai's story unfold, but also loved how the truths they discovered, about themselves, each other, and God's will were relevant in my life today, and how they even had the chance to display their newfound knowledge before the story ended, which was a satisfying addition to the story.
I also must mention Genye and Anya! I enjoyed meeting them early on in the book, and loved their role more as the story plays out. They serve several purposes, missionaries, mentors, friends, and a sort of adopted/found family for Sarai for a time along with others. I loved their wisdom and guidance, from Genye's silent knowing and protective kindness, to Anya's talk in the kitchen and her guidance as a medical missionary alongside Sarai.
I also loved seeing the duel POV as Roman and Sarai's relationship grows and develops. I always love duel POV for romances and similar stories, but this one was extra important and enjoyable amidst all the twists and surprises, sometimes even the character themselves made a new discovery of self realization that changes things in how they react to each other in the future, and I loved seeing that progression, and the thought processes that lead to those new turns!
After reading Vicktor's story, I was excited to continue on with this series. I quickly picked up the sequel, but admit I wasn't convinced I'd enjoy Roman's story quite as much as Victor's. Not anything against Roman, I loved his role in In Sheep's Clothing as Victor's friend, and as a Christian who tried to do the right thing and was always there to support his friends along with David (Preach)'s help when issues arose that needed prayer or advice. He struck me as the fun more carefree one of the group, well if there is such a thing in a group of Russian FSB (formally KGB) members and American soldiers. But, still.... He's the one with the jokes and always trying to make light of a dark situation when his friend need the hope and a loyal companion.
That said, his story, and character, are drastically different from Vicktor's. Whereas Vita is the 'tall, dark, and handsome, Russian cop, take no prisoners type tough-guy who things women are either cursed or all crazy, and is hard set on revenge to atone for past sins, with or without the help of his Believing friends. Roman is different. Coming from a very different background, Roman is just trying to prove himself worth and good enough as a man of God, trying desperately to avoid his father's failures, while struggling to find his place in God's will in the harsh Siberian reality.
Much to my surprise, I ended up loving this one! More so even than book 1, which blew me away and snuck up on my toward the end! I loved seeing Roman and Sarai's story unfold, but also loved how the truths they discovered, about themselves, each other, and God's will were relevant in my life today, and how they even had the chance to display their newfound knowledge before the story ended, which was a satisfying addition to the story.
I also must mention Genye and Anya! I enjoyed meeting them early on in the book, and loved their role more as the story plays out. They serve several purposes, missionaries, mentors, friends, and a sort of adopted/found family for Sarai for a time along with others. I loved their wisdom and guidance, from Genye's silent knowing and protective kindness, to Anya's talk in the kitchen and her guidance as a medical missionary alongside Sarai.
I also loved seeing the duel POV as Roman and Sarai's relationship grows and develops. I always love duel POV for romances and similar stories, but this one was extra important and enjoyable amidst all the twists and surprises, sometimes even the character themselves made a new discovery of self realization that changes things in how they react to each other in the future, and I loved seeing that progression, and the thought processes that lead to those new turns!
November 23, 2023
Ok, this would be a solid 4 ⭐book for me... really entertaining, suspenseful, romantic, great character development but Wow. I have never been so furious with one character throughout the entirety of a book! It's not poor writing, Sarai was written as a specific type of personality. Her character lends itself well to the very good spiritual elements but... But Sarai was so judgemental towards Roman, had history with him and knew in her heart she loved him--yet, she had so much anger towards him, for what? Being a hero? Being in a noble profession?? She was so rude and selfish whenever she interacted with him. He was beyond loving, patient and self-sacrificing. She was self-righteous and arrogant and hypocritical. I was basically fuming throughout the entire book.
The ending for me was not enough to undo my outrage towards Sarai. I literally woke up in the middle of the night annoyed with her. I needed to finish this book ASAP so I could feel better.
Despite my intense disgust for Sarai, this book was really good otherwise. Lol.
The ending for me was not enough to undo my outrage towards Sarai. I literally woke up in the middle of the night annoyed with her. I needed to finish this book ASAP so I could feel better.
Despite my intense disgust for Sarai, this book was really good otherwise. Lol.
May 3, 2021
American medical missionary, Sarai Curtiss, has watched 2 young patients die with liver failure, and she can't determine the cause. She is afraid there is an epidemic on her hands, but Russia is in the midst of a violent coup. She is forced to join forces with Roman Novik the rebel Cobra captain in a race against time to determine what is happening.
This is book 2 in an early series of Susan May Warren's suspense writing. I couldn't turn pages fast enough to see what would happen next to Sarai and Roman and if they would find out what was causing the deaths before they perhaps lost their own lives. Well written intrigue that is not a stand alone but rather continues characters from one book to the next.
This is book 2 in an early series of Susan May Warren's suspense writing. I couldn't turn pages fast enough to see what would happen next to Sarai and Roman and if they would find out what was causing the deaths before they perhaps lost their own lives. Well written intrigue that is not a stand alone but rather continues characters from one book to the next.
December 26, 2015
This book follows on from In Sheep's Clothing with the same characters of law enforcement. Roman who was trying to lead Viktor to Jesus this his story with Sarai, David's missionary sister out in a village. Roman n Sarai met 13 years before hand during summer but Sarai returned to America believing Roman wasn't being lead by God. She has to learn that God had wanted Roman to be like David a warrior not a preacher/healer. One Russian man had planned through years to return his part of Russia how he believes would be best but using underhanded methods. Letting go n Letting God work is to trust. Read this years ago now its on kindle yeah!
August 4, 2011
This book was exciting and filled with adventure set in Russia. Missionary doctor Sarai Curtiss and FSB captain Roman Nokiv meet again when Roman is given the task of making sure his former love Sarai gets out of Russia before she is imprisoned! With her stubborn refusal to leave, she finds herself mixed up in a plot much greater than she or Roman had imagined. With their faith in God, Roman and Sarai must work together and solve the mystery to save lives. Along the way, they discover, understand, and accept that their own plans for serving God may not always be His plan for their lives.
April 11, 2016
Full of Action, Intrigue and Clean Romance
Wow!
This book was full of action and suspense. It kept me on the edge of my seat and up late at night! I loved the words pictures the author used. She made it seem as if you were right there with the characters. Many times my heart would stop and I'd find myself holding my breathe. I also LOVED how the author brings in the true Gospel message. She doesn't shy away but presents it in such a tender way.
Wow!
This book was full of action and suspense. It kept me on the edge of my seat and up late at night! I loved the words pictures the author used. She made it seem as if you were right there with the characters. Many times my heart would stop and I'd find myself holding my breathe. I also LOVED how the author brings in the true Gospel message. She doesn't shy away but presents it in such a tender way.
March 27, 2016
Missionary and Russian FSB agent renew old love while defeating criminals. An interesting read with good suspense.
The editing could have been better--I noticed at least a dozen spots where words were missing, including in a key quotation on the last page! And this is in the printed edition, so it's not excusable as the typical Kindle conversion glitch.
The editing could have been better--I noticed at least a dozen spots where words were missing, including in a key quotation on the last page! And this is in the printed edition, so it's not excusable as the typical Kindle conversion glitch.
September 24, 2009
Wasn't as good as the others in this series. I like the Russian setting though.
March 3, 2011
I liked it...a clean, yet action-packed, thriller. Now I just need to back track and find the first book!
September 12, 2014
2.5 stars Russian missionary and police officer trying to stay alive. Fast paced.
May 10, 2016
I really loved the first book in this series but I was disappointed by this one. There seemed much more romance than plot. A good read but not nearly as good as "In Sheep's Clothing".
July 13, 2016
Loved it!
Another great story! I gauge a book on if it will make me cry! This story did! Kept me on the edge of my seat!
Another great story! I gauge a book on if it will make me cry! This story did! Kept me on the edge of my seat!
March 23, 2025
Thirteen years ago, Roman Novik and Sarai Curtiss met and fell in love while she was visiting her brother in Moscow. When Roman chose to be a cop over mission work like herself, she broke up with him and returned to the States to get her medical degree.
With a military coup happening near Sarai's clinic and an order for all foreigners to leave or be arrested, Roman, now an FSB agent, travels to the region to bring the American medical missionary to safety. Only Sarai refuses to leave.
Never Say Goodbye is the second book in the Global Guardians series by Susan May Warren. It was previously published as Sands Of Time, Book 2 in Mission: Russia. I liked Roman and admired the profession he chose to live out his faith. Sarai was difficult to like, believing the only way to serve God was as a missionary. I was disappointed that Vicktor and Gracie were not part of the story.
I purchased a paperback copy of this book.
With a military coup happening near Sarai's clinic and an order for all foreigners to leave or be arrested, Roman, now an FSB agent, travels to the region to bring the American medical missionary to safety. Only Sarai refuses to leave.
Never Say Goodbye is the second book in the Global Guardians series by Susan May Warren. It was previously published as Sands Of Time, Book 2 in Mission: Russia. I liked Roman and admired the profession he chose to live out his faith. Sarai was difficult to like, believing the only way to serve God was as a missionary. I was disappointed that Vicktor and Gracie were not part of the story.
I purchased a paperback copy of this book.
July 15, 2024
4�
Net als deel 1 weer een goed boek, in het begin moest ik er ook echt wel ff goed inkomen maar het is heel leuk dat het een vriendengroep is en dat de personages uit deel 1 ook terugkomen in dit boek.
Dit boek gaat over Roman en Sarai.
Ze hebben 13 jaar geleden een relatie gehad, maar Sarai was weggelopen. Roman is politie en Sarai zendelingen en arts. Ze wilde dat Roman ook zendeling zou worden en mensen naar God zou brengen. Maar Roman denkt dat dit de baan is die God voor hem in gedachte heeft. Eigenlijk zijn ze allebei nog steeds verliefd op elkaar maar Sarai is bang dat Roman in haar armen zou sterven. Sarais broer David is Romans beste vriend en zo ontmoeten ze elkaar telkens weer, omdat Sarai in de problemen komt.
Net als deel 1 weer een goed boek, in het begin moest ik er ook echt wel ff goed inkomen maar het is heel leuk dat het een vriendengroep is en dat de personages uit deel 1 ook terugkomen in dit boek.
Dit boek gaat over Roman en Sarai.
Ze hebben 13 jaar geleden een relatie gehad, maar Sarai was weggelopen. Roman is politie en Sarai zendelingen en arts. Ze wilde dat Roman ook zendeling zou worden en mensen naar God zou brengen. Maar Roman denkt dat dit de baan is die God voor hem in gedachte heeft. Eigenlijk zijn ze allebei nog steeds verliefd op elkaar maar Sarai is bang dat Roman in haar armen zou sterven. Sarais broer David is Romans beste vriend en zo ontmoeten ze elkaar telkens weer, omdat Sarai in de problemen komt.
July 29, 2017
This series sends you to your knees...
There's something about strong characters whose weaknesses illuminate your own. Sarai & Roman are both on G-d's path for their lives, laying down their lives and picking up their individual crosses..
Aren't they?
The story was a real eye opener that readers might need a bible, a journal, a couple boxes of tissue and an entire weekend retreat to process completely!
There's something about strong characters whose weaknesses illuminate your own. Sarai & Roman are both on G-d's path for their lives, laying down their lives and picking up their individual crosses..
Aren't they?
The story was a real eye opener that readers might need a bible, a journal, a couple boxes of tissue and an entire weekend retreat to process completely!
March 29, 2019
Outside of finding a main character insanely infuriating, I couldn't get enough of this story. The plot screams traditional Russian government subterfuge with great action and a reunited-at-last love story that will make your heart ache. The practical application of spiritual truths had me reexamining my life and cultivated an overwhelming desire to follow the plan God has for me. This is a truly gripping story that has the crazy power to change your whole perspective on life.
November 16, 2020
I have enjoyed every book by Susan May Warren that I have ever read and this was no exception. Although I read the first book, In Sheep’s Clothing, a very long time ago and had mostly forgotten the characters that are in this book it didn’t take away from the nail-biting situations that the characters found themselves. The hardest thing for me is trying to pronounce all the Russian names. However all in all I loved the book.
July 12, 2017
I really wanted to give the heroine a good shake. so stubborn with very backwards thinking and also to full of pride
September 19, 2018
This was really good but I found the female character annoying and whiny.
March 21, 2020
A good story. Plenty of action and suspense, as well as romance, for those of you who are into that kind of thing.
September 6, 2022
Overall a good read, but I agree with other reviews that Sarai is not the most likable character.
February 19, 2024
Nothing like some pride getting in the way! And boy are these 2 people stubborn. Lots of action.
July 17, 2024
This was a wonderful Christian romantic suspense. A best friend’s little sister trope taking place in Russia. A Russian FSB cop and an American missionary doctor get a second chance amid a harrowing coup with betrayal and danger around every corner. Winter and more surround them as they question each other and their faith, risking their lives for each other and more. A thrilling read and I can’t wait for more.
May 28, 2023
Never Say Goodbye was such a great read. American medical missionary Sarai Curtiss fears that there is an epidemic after 2 young children died of liver failure. Sarai's brother David asks Roman Novik to get her out of Russia because of a coup before she gets arrested.
Sarai ended things between her and Roman 13 years earlier because she believed that Roman needed to be a missionary instead of a FSB agent. The analogy between David, a warrior who fought battles, and Paul, a martyr, is a great example of how both of them were the men God called them to be and they did what He asked them to do. Sarai also struggles with trusting God with the ministry at the clinic and Roman's life.
Roman is trying to prove his worth as a man of God because he doesn't want to end up like his father.
This story was fast paced, action packed, and suspenseful.
Sarai ended things between her and Roman 13 years earlier because she believed that Roman needed to be a missionary instead of a FSB agent. The analogy between David, a warrior who fought battles, and Paul, a martyr, is a great example of how both of them were the men God called them to be and they did what He asked them to do. Sarai also struggles with trusting God with the ministry at the clinic and Roman's life.
Roman is trying to prove his worth as a man of God because he doesn't want to end up like his father.
This story was fast paced, action packed, and suspenseful.
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