Running Scared by Lisa Jackson (Author)

If you’re looking for a romantic suspense novel that leans heavily into "dark secrets from the past," Lisa Jackson’s Running Scared is a classic example of why she’s a staple in the genre.

Here is a blog-ready review broken down by the essentials.

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The Plot: A Legacy of Secrets

The story follows Kate Summers, a woman who has spent years building a quiet, safe life for herself and her young son, Jon. But Kate’s life is built on a foundation of lies—specifically, a secret about Jon’s true parentage that she’s desperate to keep hidden.

When Kate’s past begins to catch up with her, she crosses paths with Daegan O'Rourke. Daegan has his own agenda, fueled by a thirst for revenge against the powerful family that Kate is running from. As their paths collide, they have to decide if they can trust each other long enough to survive a killer who is closing in.

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The Highlights

1. High-Stakes Tension

Jackson is a master of the "ticking clock." From the moment the book starts, there is a pervasive sense of dread. You truly feel Kate’s paranoia—every shadow and every phone call feels like a potential threat to the life she’s painstakingly built.

2. Complicated Protagonists

• Kate: Unlike many "damsels in distress," Kate’s motivations are rooted entirely in maternal protection. She isn’t always likable because she’s so guarded, but she is fiercely relatable.

• Daegan: He’s the quintessential brooding hero with a chip on his shoulder. His chemistry with Kate provides a necessary spark against the dark backdrop of the plot.

3. The "Jackson" Atmosphere

Set against the moody, often rainy Pacific Northwest, the setting becomes a character in itself. It’s claustrophobic, misty, and perfectly suited for a story about hiding.

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The Verdict

Category	Rating	Notes
Pacing	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Fast-moving with plenty of "just one more chapter" hooks.
Romance	⭐⭐⭐	Solid chemistry, though the suspense definitely takes center stage.
Twist Factor	⭐⭐⭐	Experienced mystery readers might spot some reveals, but the journey is still fun.
Overall	4 / 5	A must-read for fans of Sandra Brown or Iris Johansen.