"The Third Corner puts readers on the edge of their seats from the first page! Set in post-Civil War Washington, D.C. this book is filled with suspense, subterfuge, and a touch of the spiritual...Unusual elements are mixed together to make this book appealing to a variety of readers. The historical setting is well done and provides a touch of realism. Readers who enjoy suspense will appreciate the inner workings of the Dark Watch, as well as better understand the emotional toll espionage takes on the agents and their families. There is also romance, which softens the danger, while providing additional emotional appeal. As if all that wasn't enough, the author has ingeniously added a touch of the paranormal. The evil therefore leaps beyond the present and into a third dimension that is equally deadly. Main characters Kathryn Devereaux and Jared Bentley are superbly drawn and captivate readers completely. Their love for each other, their families, and their commitment to their country will have readers sympathizing as well as cheering for them. The story moves along at a rapid pace, and is propelled by descriptive action and powerful dialogue. Although there are gunfights and hard-edged moments of betrayal and espionage, the strong emotional appeal throughout the story makes a stunning contrast. The Dark Watch agents are more than hired guns, they are seen as people who love and laugh and value life. By highlighting the humanness of the agents, this book becomes richer, as it appeals to the heart as well as the head. The Third Corner is a straight line of masterful suspense from the first page to the last!"—Sharyn McGinty, In The Library Reviews

"Complex paradoxes and ethical conundrums...I confess to thoroughly enjoying Abbott's combination of metaphysics, history and villainy. The triangle formed by Kathryn, Jared, and Mae is absolutely fascinating. As Kathryn confronts the devastating necessities that result from her political service, she also confronts the darkest side of human nature and the most difficult of challenges. Kathryn and Jared's devotion to one another and to their commit to service to Dark Watch likewise explore the dark and the light, filling The Third Corner with complex paradoxes and ethical conundrums. The Third Corner comes highly recommended."—WordWeaving

"...An exciting novel weaving suspense, espionage and the paranormal into an unconventional romance. Abbott's skill in incorporating these disparate genres into a romance novel, creating the kind of book that will please a diverse group of readers, including those who haughtily claim not to read romance novels, is quite satisfying. The paranormal aspect of the novel is never fantastic or unrealistic; rather, it adds another dimension of drama and intensity to the action. With vivid character development, it's easy for the reader to get hooked on the story, wondering if Jared and Kathryn will ever get to enjoy a well-deserved happily ever after. Additional supporting characters are well placed and well defined, and provide excellent foils for both Jared and Kathryn, highlighting their professional capability, personal passion, and familial loyalty. Abbott takes her time setting the action in The Third Corner, carefully introducing the major players in the story and expertly setting the background scene for later plot developments of betrayal and espionage. Making use of descriptive language and dialogue, Abbott accelerates the pacing and action of the novel as the plot progresses. The drama heightens during the shocking conclusion and the suspense over the final outcome is intensified until the sudden, but solid ending leaves the reader breathless with anticipation for Abbott's next Dark Watch novel, The Bluecoat Affair."—Amy Brozio-Andrews, Inside The Cover Book Reviews

"...A fine blend of spy adventure and romance. The spirit of the post-Civil War period and its people is successfully evoked. The plot is well-constructed. The story is exciting and moves at a rapid pace. Let us hope there will be more adventures of these two lovers."—Barbara Buhrer, Reviewers Choice

"Highly recommended! An excellent read! Ms. Abbott tells an excellent tale. It is well paced and written with a sure knowledge of the period in which it is set. Any reader who likes mystery, paranormal adventure, romance, or thrillers will find this book to their taste. This book kept me reading and I was sorry when it was finished. Any reader who enjoys the battle of wits between good and evil with that something extra thrown into the mix will find this a very, very satisfying read."—Anne K. Edwards, eBook Reviews Weekly

"The Third Corner is beautifully written. The story idea is original and characters seem very believable. It is a book that captures your attention and makes you want to keep reading. Although the ending leaves you to your own imagination (I wanted it to go on and on), the book has a welcomed ending."—Cheryl McCann, Electronic Book Reviews

"Rogue agents, jealous females and the always-imminent danger of discovery propel the plot forward in The Third Corner, which never lacks for momentum. Rich in historical detail and wonderfully developed characters, this action/romance novel is a thrilling read. Ms. Abbott's skilled hand creates a smooth transition into a world of post Civil War intrigue and action, one that swept this reader along with relentless yet delightful attention to detail. The Third Corner is soon to be followed by another Dark Watch installment titled The Bluecoat Affair in 2003. Alas, patience is a virtue, isn't it?"—Denise M. Clark, The Road To Romance and Denise's Pieces Book Reviews

"In The Third Corner, J. L. Abbott weaves an intricate plot flavored with memorable characters. Katherine Devereaux is everything a heroine should be: strong, skilled, decent, and more than a match for a handsome, powerful hero who at times is governed by his emotions. Mae is a villain draped in intrigue with powers beyond the physical world, powers she uses to manipulate everyone around her. For readers who enjoy love, action, mystery, and a bit of the paranormal, this book is a must read."—Kate Hill, Parchment Symbols

"An author of soon-to-be realized distinction, J. L. Abbott has the unique ability to both utterly captivate and educate the fortunate reader of The Third Corner. Extraordinarily crafted period detail and a romantic thriller with enough twists and turns to intrigue a pretzel. Pull up the covers and settle in with the family pet. You won't be able to turn out the light."—Mary Monsell, author of Crackle Creek and Toohy and Wood.

"I couldn't put down The Third Corner, a compelling historical with a paranormal twist. J. L. Abbott deftly intertwines them both. Her depth of characterization will have you rooting for Kathryn and Jared all the way to the end."—Leanne Shawler, author of Redeemed Rake and Sable's Moonstone.

"...Suspenseful, surreal, and spiritual, The Third Corner seduces you with its symbolism and sympathy. Just try to put the book down! Abbott's deviation from the typical romance plot line is both believable and otherworldy. She deftly uses foreshadowing and the number three to lead the reader down the path toward The Third Corner. Amidst grand balls and back alleys, one can't help but follow Kathryn and Jared anywhere! Refreshingly human, these two spies will make you want to sign up for the C.I.A. Kathryn and Jared will steal your hearts."—Julie Singleton, Escape To Romance

"...A fascinating tale of espionage and suspense, and together with a satisfying dose of romance and the paranormal, ends up being utterly entertaining. Clearly knowledgeable about the Civil War and the political developments during the subsequent years, J. L. Abbott's historical detail provides a captivating backdrop for the love story between the two strong and thoroughly likable main characters. The secondary characters, in particular Mae and her nemesis, Strand, are well developed and substantially important in this intriguing tale that has a little bit of everything. A fast pace keeps the suspense level high, and will keep the reader turning the pages at a faster than average pace, and hoping for much more from this talented author in the future."—Astrid Kinn, Romance Reviews Today

"...A nice mix of spy adventure and romance in a well-realized setting. This is an admirably well-paced novel that keeps the plot boiling merrily and is just the thing for all those romance readers who like their novels with a bit more than just love. An entertaining and exciting read."—Rachel A. Hyde, Myshelf.com

"The Third Corner is a winner for those who like paranormal romance/intrigue...Snuggle before the fire with a cup of steaming spiced cider and submerge yourself in The Third Corner."—Nancy Arant Williams, Timeless Tales Reviews

"...An exciting tale of espionage and action. The unique setting for such a story only adds to the excitement. If you like action and suspense, if you like historical fiction, then The Third Corner is definitely the book for you."—Amy L. Turpin, Timeless Tales Reviews

...She took aim. And cursed. The two men were standing close together. It was a difficult shot under ideal circumstances. The wavering light made it impossible to get a clear fix on the man, not without risking a near-miss, spelling Jared's doom.

The echo of a raven's call tufted through the night. She grit her teeth against the raucous distraction as she played a deadly game of timing with the insurgent.

Jared had begun to move from her, forced away by the gun now pressed to his head.

Kathryn stroked the trigger of her shooting iron, keeping it steady, waiting in the murk. She began praying, begging Him to grant her a chance to save this man who owned her heart.

Suddenly, the clotted air dissolved into a balmy breeze. It rose around her, nudged the clouds, and freed the moon to light her destiny. She thanked God.