Sins of the Past: A Romantic Suspense Novella Collection
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Product Details
| ISBN-13: | 9780764217975 |
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| Publisher: | Baker Publishing Group |
| Publication date: | 05/03/2016 |
| Edition description: | Reprint |
| Pages: | 384 |
| Sales rank: | 222,771 |
| Product dimensions: | 5.50(w) x 8.30(h) x 1.20(d) |
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Customer Reviews
Most Helpful Customer Reviews
Sins of the Past: A Romantic Suspense Novella Collection
4.6 out of 5
based on
0 ratings.
31 reviews.
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This novella jumps out at me because of one of my favorite authors.
Missing by Dee Henderson pulls you into the the suspense from the first page. I feel like I am picking up the phone and finding a close friend on the other end of the line. You slip into the story and get acquainted with new and old friends instantly.
John's mother has disappeared. So John returns to Chicago to find her. Being a former gang detective and current Chief of Police in Wyoming only muddies the waters of who has taken his mother and why would they do it.
Sharon is the lead investigator for this case. She immediately impresses John with her professionalism and the team she puts together to work this problem. John and Sharon work to figure out where his mother is, and why was she taken. The story takes some unexpected twists, but that is what makes it suspenseful.
Shadowed by Dani Petry
A competitive long distance swimmer, swimming in the freezing waters of Alaska. Petry takes you back in time to the Cold War era with a timeless story. Libby is the swimmer, and Ben is the Alaskan fisherman, turned tour guide, turned defender. A dead body in the water opens up a world of intrigue for Libby and Ben. They are sucked into a world that turns crazy at every turn. They find their center in God and each other.
I was totally taken in by this story. I forgot that it was written in the past until Petry would bring out gentle reminders of a time gone by. Petry does a masterful job writing about the cold war era. Yet the relationships and problems are timeless. You end up caring for the characters and learn a little more about the Alaskan frontier.
Blackout by Lynette Eason
Macey Adams can't remember things and someone is trying to kill her. Her neighbor, Chad, is a homocide detective that is protective of this good looking woman.
The action starts form the first scream and doesn't let up until the last shot is fired. Eason takes you on a mysterious, action-filled thriller. Her use of flashbacks is masterful. I finished the story wanting more.
This is a great introduction into the world of romantic suspense by these three authors. I look forward to reading more from each of them.
My thanks to Netgalley and Bethany House Publishers for the complimentary e-book to read and review.
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All of these stories are fast-paced and full of suspense as the mysteries are worked out and solved. I liked the first story and the way it showed the methodical work of the police and detectives, leaving no stone unturned but having to prioritize certain leads before others. Sharon, the lead missing persons detective had a great rapport with John, the sheriff whose mother has gone missing, and I liked the friendship that developed there. The romance angle was kind of out of the blue because they are both so pragmatic and the focus was so much on the case, but friendship is always a good place to start ;)
I was so excited to read the second story since I'm a fan of the author's Alaskan Courage series. It was cool to get to know Ben and Libby and see how they met as young adults. It is set during the Cold War, and the politics with the Russians and espionage made for high tension as the murder is investigated. I would have liked more on the relationship and romance, but it was still a great story and had a full plot.
The last story Blackout had one of my favorite suspense tropes- amnesia of the victim. For me it automatically ramps up the anticipation and anxiety while the holes are being filled and not knowing where or when the danger will strike. A great conclusion to the collection.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
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My Take:
This review is loooooong overdue! I read the book and then forgot to review it! :/ So here it is at last!
To be honest the only reason I requested this book is because I really wanted to read Dani Pettreys SHADOWED!It was all I imagined it to be and more! It was so cool to finally get to know the 5 Mckennas parents! (If you haven't read her Alaskan Courage series I highly reccomend it!!) It was by far my favorite Novella of the 3! I also really enjoyed reading Dee Hendersons MISSING! I took me a while to get into it at first but I stuck with it and was happy I did because the ending was intriguing! All in all as far as Novellas go these three are really well written!
* I received a copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
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Overall review: I think that it must be difficult to write good romantic suspense in novellas because of the short amount of time that you have to do it. I thought that these authors did a good job combining both the romance and suspense. I received this book in a giveaway and was not required to give a positive review. Overall 4 1/2 stars - full review at my website.
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Secrets and Lies. Danger That Will Never Go Away.
Dee Henderson - "Missing" A Wyoming sheriff is called to Chicago when his elderly mother goes missing from her retirement community. Paired with a savvy Chicago cop, the two soon launch into a race against the clock when they realize something dark may lie at the heart of the disappearance.
My thoughts: I probably cut my teeth on Dee Henderson's romantic suspense, and with good reason. Her O'Malley series was the best. I haven't cared for her more recent books, and honestly quit reading her stories. I wanted this collection due to Dani Pettrey's and Lynette Eason's inclusion, two of my three very favorite romantic suspense writers. I did greatly enjoy "Missing" and getting to know John and Sharon. A very slow romance, a mystery about an abducted senior citizen, and yes, I did figure out "who-dun-it" before the end of the book, but not the why. I was definitely engaged enough to keep reading to find out why. Good to read this novella by an old favorite.
Dani Pettrey - "Shadowed" Adventure, romance, and danger collide when a young Alaskan fisherman nets the body of a Russian open water swimming competitor. Another swimmer, who'd been the dead woman's roommate years ago, is pulled into the search for answers as it grows more and more clear that something sinister is at play.
My thoughts: Dani Pettrey once again knocks the story out of the book. Larger than life, with realistic characters that I fell in love with. It was neat to meet the beginnings of the McKenna family with this not exactly modern story that happened in 1979. Contemporary enough that most readers would remember that era, but wow, what a difference 30+ years make in the world. I loved Libby and John and enjoyed getting to know them as well as some other characters that appeared in Ms. Pettrey's Alaskan books. Loved the Coast Guard appearances!
Lynette Eason - "Blackout" A young woman once implicated in a robbery gone wrong finds herself at risk years later when the real culprit is up for parole. The loot taken that night has never been found and he believes she knows where it's hidden--only her memory of that night has always been unreliable. Can she remember enough to find her way to safety?
My thoughts: Lynette Eason's Blackout has scary moments. I think it was the scariest of the three stories, and kept me riveted, I had to stay up until I finished it. I did figure out "Who-dun-it" with this book early, so that didn't surprise me. What did surprise me was the why.
Overall thoughts: If you love romantic suspense, absolutely don't miss this collection by three top authors. LOVED it. 5 stars. "I was provided a free PDF copy of this book. All opinions are my own."
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Deb’s Dozen: Romantic Suspense from three of the best: Henderson, Pettrey, and Eason rock!
Three of my favorite romantic suspense authors are Dee Henderson, Dani Pettrey, and Lynette Eason. I have read most, if not all, of their books. In Sins of the Past, they have teamed up to provide a collection of three stories that perfectly illustrate the mastery of the genre.
“Missing” by Dee Henderson takes a Wyoming police chief, John Graham, and teams him up with Lt. Sharon Noble, of the Riverside PD—a big city cop. Riverside is a suburb of Chicago. John’s mother is missing and Lt. Noble has the case. John is greatly impressed by what Lt. Graham and her team have already discovered about his mom’s case, but, of course, wants to retrace her steps himself. As the case progresses, John becomes drawn to Sharon and finds himself thinking of as other than a police officer.
Will the two of them contain their emotions to stay focused on the case? What will happen if Mrs. Graham isn’t found? What does an estranged old friend have to do with her going missing? You’ll love the byplay between John and Sharon and find the case intriguing with a very interesting twist. Four stars!
Dee Henderson is the author of numerous romantic suspense novels, including my favorites, the O’Malley Family series. Dee has been nominated for a number of prestigious awards and is a lifetime resident of Illinois.
“Shadowed” by Dani Pettrey is a prequel to her acclaimed Alaskan Courage series. I was fascinated to read how the parents of the McKenna’s met and interacted. Ben McKenna is a young fisherman who also does whale-watching tours. Libby Jennings is a long-distance swimmer in Alaska for a race. The day she picks for her tour is wet and rainy, and she is the only person to show up. Ben asks her if she’s noticed the weather and her quick retort is, “I doubt the whales mind the rain.” She’s intrigued from the start as Ben has named his boat I > Waves—I Greater Than Waves—who on earth says that?!
Out on the water, they run into a disgruntled fisherman, see a majestic humpback whale leap into the air, and find a pod of orcas feeding—wait, they’re not feeding. They’re pushing something to the surface—a body! Ben recovers the body and Libby blanches—she knows the person who died. The corpse is a rival Russian swimmer and Libby is instantly certain she did not drown but was murdered.
So starts a pursuit involving the beautiful Alaskan wilderness, spies, other swimmers, and lots of adventure. Will Ben and Libby solve the sinister plot? More than that, will they survive? And will they surmount the difficulties their careers present to their relationship? Another great yarn, Danni—four stars!
Dani Pettrey has won a host of awards, the Daphne du Maurier, two Holt Medallions, and Christian Retailing’s Best Award among others. She loves writing inspirational romantic suspense. She and her husband live in Maryland and enjoy spending time with their two daughters, a son-in-law, and “a super adorable grandson.”
“Blackout” by Lynette Eason involves a young woman, Macey Adams, once implicated in a robbery gone bad—and she’s now at risk because the real felon is being released from prison on parole. Can she find someone who believes her? She really doesn’t remember that night—her memory has always been missing of that time, but now is slowly returning.
Chad Latham, a neighbor and a detective, who has always cared for Macey, but has been careful to remain just
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The three ladies that wrote this book are some of my favorite suspense authors, so I had to jump at the chance to read this novella. I was not disappointed! All the stories were fantastic and held my attention.
I was so excited to read a bit about the McKenna family history in Dani Pettrey's novella. What a fun opportunity to see into their past and how the adventurous qualities of the parents were passed down to the children. This was probably one of my favorite of the three.
I also enjoyed Blackout by Lynette Eason in which Macey is slowly remembering an accident and the surrounding events of that night. But someone is not wanting her to remember, and someone is. She is facing danger from an unknown source and the suspense grows as her memories return.
One thing that I don't particularly like about novellas is that it seems like they fall in love overnight but in these books for the most part that did not necessarily happen. The couples had known each other for years even if they were not romantically involved or the romance was slow blossoming, or there was a spark, but they took their time getting to know each other. I enjoyed that. The mystery and suspense was appealing with plenty of twists.
I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not required to review the book positively.
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Sins of the Past***** by Dee Henderson, Dani Pettrey and Lynette Eason
Sins of the Past is a collection of three stories in which something from one of the main characters past has a major part in their present-day situations. Each story is different—connected by the title, not only the story-line but each author's unique writing style is evident. They kept me on the edge of my seat as I tried to figure out what was coming next and who was responsible for the lurking danger. Suspense, romance, intrigue, danger, drama and faith with well developed, real-to-life characters make this a captivating read.
-Missing by Dee Henderson
We follow Police chief John Graham, Lieutenant Sharon Noble and the police force as they search for John's missing mother. It was fascinating to watch the step-by-step process and the challenge of sifting through the clues—or apparent lack of clues in this case—in a missing person case. I especially liked the strong faith John had and how he held onto God for his strength and guidance. I enjoyed the budding romance between John and Sharon in the midst of searching every clue. Very interesting story.
-Shadowed by Dani Pettrey
I love the McKenna family series and it is exciting to return to Alaska and learn how Libby Jennings and Ben McKenna met and their love story. Libby and Ben were both a bit stubborn—I now see where the McKenna siblings got their stubbornness and sense of adventure—shared a strong faith and had learned to rely on God in everything—especially difficult times. It was great to watch them interact as they tried to figure out who the murder was and the sparks that flew between them. Great story!
-Blackout by Lynette Eason
I can certainly understand why Macy Adams had problems trusting others. It seemed danger followed her and people were hurt—seriously. I like the way her neighbor, Chad Latham who is a police detective, cares for Macy even though she tries to keep him at arms length. As suspense builds, twists and turns and some surprises I had not seen coming kept me glued to the book. The flashbacks gave some added background to the story. Very fast paced suspense story.
~I received a copy of this book from Dani Pettrey and the publisher, this is my honest review~
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An interesting title for a romantic suspense novella collection. In the first story, Missing by Dee Henderson, we read of a cop’s mother who is missing and the tremendous efforts to locate her and bring her home safely. John Graham, police chief of Cheyenne, Wyoming, works closely with Lieutenant Sharon Noble of the Riverside Police Department near Chicago to try to figure out what has happened to his mother. So often we read of law enforcement agencies at odds with each other over jurisdiction that it is refreshing to see how the Riverside PD involves John in the case.
Shadowed by Dani Pettrey is set in Alaska in 1979 and is an intriguing story about a Russian swimmer who is found dead off the coast of an island twenty miles from Yancey, Alaska. Ben McKenna, a boat captain, and Libby Jennings, an American swimmer, work diligently to stay alive while they try to solve the mystery of who murdered the swimmer and why. Libby and the Russian had been college roommates for a time and competed against each other in a number of swim meets but had no social contact.
Blackout by Lynette Eason tells a story of Macey Adams, a young woman who almost lost her life when she was in the wrong place with the wrong people several years earlier. Key elements of the event have been blanked from her memory since the accident but things are starting to come back and she is scared to tell anyone for fear they will get hurt. Her neighbor, Chad Latham, who is a police detective, comes to her rescue one night when her home is invaded. She eventually starts opening up to him about what has been happening in her life since the accident.
Each of the stories reveals a strong faith on the part of the main characters and a strong sense of justice and setting things right. This collection of novellas is very interesting. The only thing that would make them any better is for them to each be a full-length standalone book. I recommend this book to all who enjoy romance and suspense with characters who live their faith each day.
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Sins of the Past has three wonderful stories that brought things back from the past into the now. These three authors filled the pages with action, romance, and suspense that kept me turning the pages. From a Sheriff's missing elderly mother, to a robbery gone terribly wrong, to a Russian swimmer's body found by an Alaskan fisherman.. I found each book interesting and each had an ending that had that nice little twist that I thought brought the clues together just perfectly! I enjoyed all three of these authors books and will be reading more of their work...
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These three writers team up for a unique collection of romantic suspense novellas fueled by secrets from the past that just won't stay hidden.
Dee Henderson - "Missing"
A Wyoming sheriff is called to Chicago when his elderly mother goes missing from her retirement community. Paired with a savvy Chicago cop, the two soon launch into a race against the clock when they realize something dark may lie at the heart of the disappearance.
Dani Pettrey - "Shadowed"
Adventure, romance, and danger collide when a young Alaskan fisherman nets the body of a Russian open water swimming competitor. Another swimmer, who'd been the dead woman's roommate years ago, is pulled into the search for answers as it grows more and more clear that something sinister is at play.
Lynette Eason - "Blackout"
A young woman once implicated in a robbery gone wrong finds herself at risk years later when the real culprit is up for parole. The loot taken that night has never been found and he believes she knows where it's hidden--only her memory of that night has always been unreliable. Can she remember enough to find her way to safety?
I thoroughly enjoyed these novellas. The first one by Dee Henderson “Missing” was very good. The second one by Dani Pettrey “Shadowed” was so much better. The third one by Lynette Eason “Blackout” was the best. I already like anything Dee Henderson writes. The last two authors I am not familiar with but will look for more from them. These entertaining, fast-paced mysteries will keep readers guessing and engaged throughout. The stories work well together as collection of romantic suspense novellas and each novella is around 120 pages, and is perfect for reading on a day at the beach, on the porch of a mountain cabin, or in your favorite chair. If you're a fan of romantic suspense you need to tuck this one into your summer reading stash. You won't be disappointed!
I received a copy of the book from Bethany House Publisher for my review
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Sins of the Past
A Romantic Suspense Novella Collection
What more could a reader want in a book than three best-selling authors all in one spot? That’s exactly what Sins of the Past gives you. A smattering of everything. Let’s take a look at each novella separately. I will rate each of them and then the entire book as a whole.
Missing by Dee Henderson
Wyoming Police Chief, John Graham is called to the windy city to investigate his worst nightmare—his own mother’s disappearance. He’s paired with a female Chicago cop, but they can’t seem to catch a break in his mom’s missing case. Can they solve it before the clues become too bizarre to piece together and she’s gone forever?
As always, Ms. Henderson’s writing is top notch. Her characters are well-rounded, descriptions vivid, and her use of sensory is effective. However, her story did not capture my attention. I was disappointed and found myself skimming.
I can only give Missing three missing person milk cartons. It just came up short for me.
Shadowed by Dani Pettrey
Swimming competitor, Libby Jennings, boards a boat on a rainy day to go on a whale-watching excursion. However, what she discovers with the handsome sailor, Ben McKenna, was more than she expected. After discovering the body of her stiffest competition murdered, Libby and Ben find themselves in the race against time to track down the killer before Libby becomes the next victim. Can they do it and also realize their feelings for them are worth the investment?
This novella had me from the get-go! The action, romance, and suspense kept me turning the pages. I’ve only read one of Ms. Pettrey’s novels in the Alaskan Courage series before, but I understand Shadowed takes you to the beginnings—the parents of the McKenna family. It’s set in 1979 and will have you swooning over the couple. The plot is action-packed, the imagery is vivid (including the icy waters), and you’ll fall in love with the characters.
I give Shadowed 4.5 bathing caps. You’ll want to race those waters and get to the other side!
Blackout by Lynette Eason
Macey Adams can’t remember the sins haunting her past. She may die trying—at least that’s what someone keeps attempting. Her next-door neighbor, police detective Chad Latham, watched from a close distance, but when her screams tore him from his chair, he swore he’d do everything to protect her. Sinister suspects lurk nearby, ready to strike. Will Macey and Chad be able to uncover the clues to her past in order to have a future?
Ms. Eason has done it again!! Given us an edge-of-your-seat story! Get ready for lots of explosive scenes as soon as you turn that first page. I loved it. Out of the three, this was my fave. Bravo, Lynette! Her characters are believable, plots full of twists to keep you glued, vivid scenery, and delightful dialogue.
I give Blackout five flashlights. You may want to keep your nightlight on.
I give Sins of the Past – A Romantic Suspense Novella Collection 4 stars. It’s one collection you’ll want on your shelf!
**Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. in exchange for my honest review.
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This was a great romantic suspense collection! I have really enjoyed Dani Pettrey’s and Lynette Eason’s suspense books in the past, and this novella collection introduced me to the writing of Dee Henderson. It is one of the reasons I enjoy novella collections. There have been many times that I have found another author I like when their work is paired with those I already know.
In Missing by Dee Henderson, I really enjoyed the way the author walked me through the process of trying to find John Graham’s mother. It was interesting to see the clues as they unfolded and watch the way the case was handled. I also thought that the gentle, slow development of the romance between the two characters was realistic for the situation.
In Shadowed by Dani Pettrey, I loved getting to see how the McKenna parents, Libby and Ben, met. It was definitely a surprise to find out what they had been through and to see where their children got their sense of adventure from! I thought the author did a great job of building up the romantic tension between these two! Another thing I really enjoyed was the references to things of the time period, such as music, clothing styles, and brands that were popular.
In Blackout by Lynette Eason, I was terrified about the attempts on Macey’s life and mesmerized by the flashbacks she kept experiencing. This was such a suspenseful story! I loved the way the author gave us only little glimpses into the past a bit at a time, making the big reveal at the end of the story even more powerful. The romantic tension was great in this novella, as well.
This was such a fun collection to read! I liked how each story did, in fact, tie back to something in the past. In two of the stories, there was a link to an event in the past. In the other story, the novella was actually set in the past. It was a great tie-in between the novellas!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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Sins of the Past
Dee Henderson, Dani Pettrey and Lynette Eason
Book Summary: Three Novellas from Bestselling Authors
In Dee Henderson's "Missing," a Wyoming sheriff is called to Chicago when his elderly mother goes missing. Paired with a savvy Chicago cop, the two realize her disappearance is no accident, and a race against the clock begins.
Dani Pettrey returns to Alaska with "Shadowed," introducing readers to the parents of her beloved McKenna clan. Adventure, romance, and danger collide when a young fisherman nets the body of an open-water swimming competitor who may actually be a possible Russian defector.
Lynette Eason's "Blackout" delivers the story of a woman once implicated in a robbery gone wrong. The loot has never been found--but her memory of that night has always been unreliable. Can she remember enough to find her way to safety when the true culprit comes after her?
Review: Great set of authors that come together for an equally great story from each of them!!!
Missing - Intense beginning with an exciting adventure to find John’s mom. The speed of the story was fantastic! A lot happened in a the brief pages of this story. About two thirds of the way through the book his mom is found safe and sound. Than unravelling the mystery begins. From start to finish a great read and quite a fast one at that.
Shadowed - A blast from the past. Well captured in this story! The year is 1979 and Libby and Ben, the parents of the McKenna clan are meeting for the first time. A bit of nostalgia, without having to wear the clothes or live through the time again - or perhaps for some the first time. Laying the ground work for the McKenna house and excitement of Alaska rolled into one.
Blackout - Heart pounding and intense story. From the first line to the end this roller coast caps off the book with a true grand finally. The lead characters were flawed and realistic. Macey was not the straight arrow most lead characters are portrayed. Chad was a great lead with some shyness showing throughout. It was well written garnering sympathy for those who died and root for justice to be done. Loved Lilly and want to know when her mystery and romance will happen!
I would like to thank Net Galley and Bethany House Publishing for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy and I was never asked to write a favorable review by anyone. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
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Three of the best authors of Christian Romantic Suspense! I can't say enough good about Dee Henderson, Dani Pettrey and Lynette Eason. I've never read a book by any of them that I couldn't say was fantastic. I usually find novellas too short, so I often steer away from them unless they are a prequel to a series. However, with Sins of the Past being written by three of my favorite authors, it was a must read for me. I was delighted to find each novella a nice length - I'd say about half the length of a regular novel...so this is actually a good deal too. Each story is absolutely a page-tuner with a lot of twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat. The characters are well-written with a depth that you don't always get in a novella. If you haven't read any of these authors yet, this is a great introduction to their wonderful talents. If you are a fan of one or all three of them, you won't feel "cheated" that these are novellas and not full novels. Really a wonderful book!
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Wow! These three authors emanate the definition of romantic suspense. When I say I was on the edge of my seat the entire book, I mean it. This is a fast-paced, page turning, suspenseful novella collection full of faith and love.
Each author brings a unique style to the table. I've never read Dee Henderson or Lynette Eason before, but after these novellas I will definitely be reading more. I am very familiar with Dani Pettrey and I was so excited to read about the McKenna siblings parents, that I started the Alaskan Courage series all over again! While their writing styles are different, these stories flow together seamlessly.
I loved that each story focused on a different message, but they were all related to letting go of the past. Each character was "stuck" in their past in some way, shape, or form, and had to learn to deal with the past and move on to embrace God's future for them. Overall, I highly recommend this collection of Romantic Suspense novellas to anyone looking for mystery, love, and faith!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through the Bethany House blogging program in exchange for my honest review, which I have given.*
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Three well known authors have written suspense novellas to make this wonderful book. Each story is tied together solely by the title. Each author brings her own authentic writing style and creates a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat, infuse you with faith, and give you a small taste of their excellent writing skills. Intrigue, suspense, drama, faith, and a touch of romance are all combined to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Two of these authors were already favorites, so I was excited to read this book. But now I've added another favorite to my list. They were all outstanding. I loved how they incorporated faith into a difficult or dangerous situation. Each story had a touch of romance, but the main theme was suspense. The characters were well fleshed out, the plots were perfectly suspenseful, and the faith was not overwhelming. Overall, I loved this book and would highly recommend it.
I received this book free of charge from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
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I’m not usually a fan of novellas, in a collection or otherwise, but when I saw this one with three of my favorite suspense authors, I couldn’t resist giving it a go and I definitely enjoyed it! Bethany House is building a reputation for creating great novella collections that maybe allow readers to be introduced to new-to-them authors, or maybe just build on characters from said authors previous works. I’m generally fairly leery of novellas, even from my favorite authors, because I love long books. It’s a statement of fact and I often find novellas far too short for my tastes, or they simply feel rushed. I can very happily say that I didn’t find that to be the case with any of the stories in this collection!
The first book in the collection is “Missing” by Dee Henderson. I’m a huge fan of her work, so I was both thrilled and a little nervous to read this story. I didn’t know if I’d like the shortened tale or if I could accept the fact it would be a little over 100 pages long, instead of the now familiar 400+ pages. Thankfully, these questions were quickly put to rest as I easily became engrossed in the search for John’s mother and the mystery of what happened. I was rather sorry that it ended so quickly, but everything was tied up well, without any loose threads or the sense of it being rushed. The characters were easy to get to know and like, and I enjoyed that Ms. Henderson was able to weave in some important wisdom, even with the mystery taking dominance.
The second book is “Shadowed” by Dani Pettrey, which is something of a prequel to her Alaskan Courage series. It follows the story of Ben McKenna and Libby Jennings (parents to the McKenna siblings that are the focus of the aforementioned series) and how they met. I enjoyed this glimpse into the past and getting to know the parents of the siblings I so fell in love with! You don’t have to have read the books to love this story, though you may find yourself snatching them up as soon as you’ve finished it! It’s filled with her now-trademark suspense and kept me guessing! I also have to say that I did appreciate slowing down for a moment here and there to see Ben and Libby getting to know one another and falling in love. I also really enjoyed the epilogue at the end that tied it up well and kept the romance between them from feeling rushed.
The final book in the collection is “Blackout” by Lynette Eason. This story may have been my favorite of those here, though I did enjoy them all. I think it’s my favorite because I very much love Ms. Eason’s way with suspense. If the others kept me hooked, then this one also had me on the edge of my seat! I wanted to know what would happen next, and of course, whodunnit! I really liked Macey and Chad’s characters, as well as Lilly, who I’m hoping may have a story of her own, at some point (hint, hint). This story did feel a tad rushed compared to the others, but it actually worked well, with the story and how everything was playing out so quickly.
Overall, I really can’t think of anything that I didn’t like about this collection, except you know, that these weren’t individual full length novels. But they were all great reads and I have to highly recommend them to anyone who enjoys suspense. And I’m so excited for the next work each of the authors has releasing, hopefully soon!
Thanks to the publisher for my copy of this book! This is my honest review and all opinions expressed are my own.
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Three authors of Christian, romantic suspense fiction contributed novellas for this set. You’ve likely heard the saying, ‘Put the past behind you,’ but in these stories, it’s hard to leave the past in the past when it comes back to bite.
1. ‘Missing’ by Dee Henderson. Cheyenne’s police chief, John Graham, is in Chicago, because his mother is missing. Leads are almost nil. John believes that the unsub is someone from his past as an undercover cop. The case is in the highly capable hands of Lieutenant Sharon Noble. As the hours progress with their lack of progress, John and Sharon will feel a connection to the other, but will God fashion something good out of a dark valley (p. 127)?
2. ‘Shadowed’ by Dani Pettrey. As if it isn’t shocking enough to find a dead body, Libby Jennings, a champion open-water swimmer, also recognizes her. The deceased has been murdered. Libby retrieves the gal’s few personal items, and someone wants them. Someone who is willing to kill. Ben is drawn to Libby and wants to protect her. Libby is also surprised by her feelings for Ben McKenna. For those who’ve followed Pettrey’s ‘Alaskan Courage’ series, you won’t want to miss this short story!
3. ‘Blackout’ by Lynette Eason. She didn’t do it. But Macey Adams doesn’t fully remember what happened six years ago. The memories are coming, but in short, often painful bursts. Her returning memory is putting her in danger. Chad Latham is Macey’s detective-neighbor right next door. It is quite obvious that someone means her harm, and his concern for her is only compounded by his feelings for her. She intrigues him. He wants to get her through the darkness and keep her safe. With Chad and his coworker, Lilly, on the case, surely they can help Macey find her way to safety. Right?
Overall: I enjoyed each story. Each author painted a picture with words that brought us strong characters – both main and supporting, protagonists and antagonists – sturdy plots and satisfying conclusions. This enabled each short story to contain a rich storyscape immersed in mystery, intrigue, suspense and faith.
Unlike with the previous novella collection I read, I did rank the stories. My favorite was Dani Pettrey’s. She’s the one author of these three whose stories I’d read, but I didn’t choose her story as my favorite based on the author. No. I favored it because (1) I didn’t correctly guess who the bad guy was, but what catapulted it to the top for me was (2) that this is the pivotal story of how the McKenna siblings’ parents in her Alaskan Courage series met. Next in line was Lynette Eason’s. Hers was a fast-paced story as well, and I also incorrectly guessed who the bad guy was. But once I found out who it was, I was kicking myself for not realizing it sooner. Unfortunately, with Dee Henderson’s story, I guessed who the abductor was pretty early on, and that was disappointing to me. But that was the only disappointment of this 378-page book, so that’s not bad at all! Throughout all of the stories, certain themes are present. First, that God brings comfort and understanding. Also that, no matter how impossible it is to forget the sins of the past, they ‘…are just that. In the past. As far as the east is from the west. Gone.’
-- Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions are expressly my own.
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Sins Of The Past
A Romantic Suspense Novella Collection
Missing By: Dee Henderson
John Graham is police chief for Cheyenne, Wyoming. He once did undercover work. So he knows to remain calm in a crisis- except this time it’s his family. Will he be able to remain calm or will he forget how to remain calm and go off half cocked?
So as you travel with Chief Graham to Chicago as he will now be on a case of a family member. He flies to Chicago and there waiting at the airport is a Chicago cop. John will be paired with a Lieutenant to find out just what took place. The Chicago cop called the case missing persons but they are fighting against time. As the investigation goes on John find this Lieutenant from Riverside P.D is very smart and great to work with. As time is running out will they find her in time to see the Holiday Season that she loves so much?
With all the twist and turns and the mystery just gets more mysterious with each turn of the pages you won’t want to put this books down.
Shadowed By: Dani Pettrey
AS I read this book I am trying to figure out if this is part of the Alaskan Courage Series., ( that series is great by the way).
As you travel to Alaska with Libby a lady that is there for open water swimming completion the water is 42 degrees, as chills runs up my spine just reading about the ice cold water Libby is practicing in and the so later all the ladies will be competing and the danger in those waters.
Libby is waiting on the prier as the rain is pouring and she sees no one else there for the Humpback whale tour. Then here comes Ben McKenna the tour guide and still no one else is there still Libby is determined to go on that tour regardless of no one else being there and the pouring rain after all she swims in that cold water what’s a little rain? As you travel with Ben and Libby the tension starts to mount very quickly and their live are in danger no matter where they seem to go. As they travel and the chase gets hotter and more mysterious. As you travel with Ben and Libby you’ll meet a lot of interesting people and not so nice people.
The twist and turns will have you turning the pages and not wanting to put the book down.
Blackout By: Lynette Eason
Now you’ll be traveling with a lady that can’t remember 6 years ago. She was implicated in a robbery gone wrong but she still finds herself in danger years later. Her memory of that night starts to come back slowly the bad part is her memory of that night isn’t reliable. Things start to happen to her and the migraines get a lot worse. Chad her neighbor wants to help her only she doesn’t trust and one. Will she find safety or will they find her first? As she starts to remember more things get more dangerous and things are heating up pretty fast. Her friend Chad maybe her only help to stay safe will she let him get close enough to help her?
I loved this book and all three stories are great. I recommend this book highly. I read it in one day.
I received this book free from BethanyHouse for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review just an honest one. The opinions are entirely mine and no one else’s
Happy Adventure!!!!!!!!
5 Stars
ISBN 978-0-7642-1797-5
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In Dee Henderson's Missing, a Wyoming sheriff is called to Chicago when his elderly mother goes missing. Paired with a savvy Chicago cop, the two realize her disappearance is no accident, and a race against the clock begins.
Dani Pettrey returns to Alaska with Shadowed, introducing readers to the parents of her beloved McKenna clan. Adventure, romance, and danger collide when a young fisherman nets the body of an open-water swimming competitor who may actually be a possible Russian defector.
Lynette Eason's Blackout delivers the story of a woman once implicated in a robbery gone wrong. The loot has never been found--but her memory of that night has always been unreliable. Can she remember enough to find her way to safety when the true culprit comes after her?
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Sins of the Past is a fast paced compilation of three exciting novellas by Dee Henderson, Dani Pettrey and Lynette Eason. I enjoyed all the stories, especially Shadowed and Blackout. I liked the era set in Shadowed (1979), and the story line of Blackout was intriguing, and just plain addictive. This book is fantastic because three of the best Christian suspense writers ban together and create this masterpiece. Two big thumbs up!
I was sent a free copy of Sins of the Past by Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.
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Sins of the Past is a book of stories by some of my favorite authors. When I first saw this book I was immediately intrigued even before I knew what it was about. The book consists of three novellas . The first one is titled "Missing" by Dee Henderson and is the perfect opener for the book. Dee's story is a page turner as always .The second one is called "Shadowed" by a Dani Pettrey. If you have read Dani's other books you will recognize the main characters of this one being from the well-known McKenna family. Just like all of her other books, Pettrey has the reader hooked from the beginning. The last book in the series is called "Blackout" by Lynette Eason and takes the reader on a journey of Macy's past and what she experience when she was a teenager. This book is a must read for those who enjoy romantic suspense.
I was given this book by Bethany House and Netgalley in exchange for my review.
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This was a nice complilation if mystery, suspense and romance.
In Missing, John Graham's mother goes missing. He works with Lt. Sharon Noble to help find his mother and why she was taken. Who, Why and How? It was so out of character for his mother. Was it something he had done in his past that had come back to haunt him? Was it someone he had put away who had vowed revenge on him and was taking it out on his mother? These are questions he needed to answer before it was too late.
What had Libby Jennings in her past that had come back to haunt her or for that matter Macey Adams. Join them in their walk down memory lane as they search for answers.
I received a complimentary copy for this review.
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This collection of romantic suspense novellas from a trio of best-selling authors is the perfect read for those days you can't commit to a full-length novel. Each novella is around 120 pages, and is the perfect bite size for reading on a day at the beach or on the porch of a mountain cabin. I'm also hard-pressed to pick a favorite. Dee Henderson's Missing focuses on finding a sheriff's missing mom with the lightest sprinkling of future romance. Eason's Blackout is a very satisfying story of the past catching the present in a twist of deadly stalking and romance. Pettrey's Shadowed is an equally satisfying dip into frigid Alaskan waters with a murder to solve and a romance to pursue. Each is a fully complete story, separate from the rest, and a satisfying read. If you have a vacation coming up and want a book that will capture your attention without stealing your time, Sins of the Past should climb in your suitcase. Or if you love romantic suspense, but can't commit to a full book, take Sins of the Past for a read. You won't be disappointed.
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