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Angus Reid Mysteries #1
Jacob's Well
“A mother knows. At least, that’s what everyone told her. That she’d know when something was wrong. Feel it. Deep inside as if there was an invisible cord that had stayed behind the day she brought her son into this life.
Well, they were wrong. Dead wrong.
She didn’t know her son at all. But then, he didn’t know her either.”
©Urcelia Teixeira - Excerpt from Jacob's Well. All rights reserved.
Dark secrets swirl around the small coastal town of Weyport as Mary-Jean Foley discovers just how far she would go to protect her son.
Even with a new sheriff in town. Even when her husband doesn’t agree. Even when she thinks God isn’t looking.
But how far is too far and at what cost?
---
As newly appointed small-town Sheriff Angus Reid settles into Weyport, it doesn’t take him long to discover just how corrupt his new town is. With a desk full of suspicious open cases and too much to prove, he is determined to rid his town of crime and win the hearts of his people.
But when two teenagers suddenly go missing, it lays bare sinister secrets and emotional ties that threaten to derail his investigation.
And as the case untangles, the secrets buried deep within the coastal borders of the tight-knit community slowly bubble to the surface.
Determined to find justice for the missing boys and their families, he races against the clock to find them. Unbeknownst of the dark forces that rage against him.
Then he gets a call that a body has been found…
If you enjoy suspenseful, twisty secrets and lies mystery novels that are rooted in faith and leave your heart in your throat, you will have a hard time putting down this page-turning Christian mystery and suspense novel.
Get ready to be taken on an emotional journey through a town where it seems everyone has a secret.
Get the not-sold-in-stores prequel free today and join Angus Reid as he solves cases in this suspenseful secrets and lies series of mystery books that include faith and surprise endings sure to please any mystery lover.
Visit author website (urcelia dot com)
Well, they were wrong. Dead wrong.
She didn’t know her son at all. But then, he didn’t know her either.”
©Urcelia Teixeira - Excerpt from Jacob's Well. All rights reserved.
Dark secrets swirl around the small coastal town of Weyport as Mary-Jean Foley discovers just how far she would go to protect her son.
Even with a new sheriff in town. Even when her husband doesn’t agree. Even when she thinks God isn’t looking.
But how far is too far and at what cost?
---
As newly appointed small-town Sheriff Angus Reid settles into Weyport, it doesn’t take him long to discover just how corrupt his new town is. With a desk full of suspicious open cases and too much to prove, he is determined to rid his town of crime and win the hearts of his people.
But when two teenagers suddenly go missing, it lays bare sinister secrets and emotional ties that threaten to derail his investigation.
And as the case untangles, the secrets buried deep within the coastal borders of the tight-knit community slowly bubble to the surface.
Determined to find justice for the missing boys and their families, he races against the clock to find them. Unbeknownst of the dark forces that rage against him.
Then he gets a call that a body has been found…
If you enjoy suspenseful, twisty secrets and lies mystery novels that are rooted in faith and leave your heart in your throat, you will have a hard time putting down this page-turning Christian mystery and suspense novel.
Get ready to be taken on an emotional journey through a town where it seems everyone has a secret.
Get the not-sold-in-stores prequel free today and join Angus Reid as he solves cases in this suspenseful secrets and lies series of mystery books that include faith and surprise endings sure to please any mystery lover.
Visit author website (urcelia dot com)
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 2, 2023
318 people are currently reading
3923 people want to read
About the author
Urcelia Teixeira
34 books646 followersUrcelia Teixeira is an award-winning author of gripping Christian Mystery Thrillers.
You will enjoy her books if you like twisty mysteries tinged with clean action, page-turning suspense, and deep-rooted biblical truths.
All her books are free from profanity and unnecessary sexually suggestive scenes.
She made her writing debut in December 2017, kicking off her newly discovered author journey with her fast-paced archaeological adventure thriller novels that readers have described as ‘Indiana Jones meets Lara Croft with a twist of Bourne.’
But, five novels in, and nearly eighteen months later, she had a spiritual awakening, and she wrote the sixth and final book in her Alex Hunt Adventure Thriller series. She now fondly refers to The Caiaphas Code as her redemption book, her statement of faith.
And although this series has reached multiple Amazon Bestseller lists, she took the bold step of following her true calling and switched to writing what naturally flows from her heart and soul: Christian Suspense.
A committed Christian for nearly twenty years, she now lives by the following mantra:
“I used to be just a writer. Now, I am a writer with a purpose!”
For more on her and her books, please browse these pages or visit her website.
Sign up for updates, cover reveals, sneak peeks, and exclusive VIP reader discounts. https://newsletter.urcelia.com/signup
Never miss a new release! Follow her on BookBub
You will enjoy her books if you like twisty mysteries tinged with clean action, page-turning suspense, and deep-rooted biblical truths.
All her books are free from profanity and unnecessary sexually suggestive scenes.
She made her writing debut in December 2017, kicking off her newly discovered author journey with her fast-paced archaeological adventure thriller novels that readers have described as ‘Indiana Jones meets Lara Croft with a twist of Bourne.’
But, five novels in, and nearly eighteen months later, she had a spiritual awakening, and she wrote the sixth and final book in her Alex Hunt Adventure Thriller series. She now fondly refers to The Caiaphas Code as her redemption book, her statement of faith.
And although this series has reached multiple Amazon Bestseller lists, she took the bold step of following her true calling and switched to writing what naturally flows from her heart and soul: Christian Suspense.
A committed Christian for nearly twenty years, she now lives by the following mantra:
“I used to be just a writer. Now, I am a writer with a purpose!”
For more on her and her books, please browse these pages or visit her website.
Sign up for updates, cover reveals, sneak peeks, and exclusive VIP reader discounts. https://newsletter.urcelia.com/signup
Never miss a new release! Follow her on BookBub
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December 19, 2023I am so excited for you to all read this book. I was thrilled with how many of you asked for more of Deputy Sheriff Angus Reid after you read the now prequel, Little Boy Lost, that it was a super easy decision to create a brand new mystery series centered around Angus and the people of Weyport where it seems everyone has a secret...or two!
This book has everything I enjoy in a book. Murder mystery, twisty plots, secrets, heartfelt emotions, likable characters, a coastal setting, a little bit of forensics, you name it!
I absolutely loved creating the characters in this book and although I am always a little nervous about getting the faith message properly conveyed in the story, I am so pleased with how it all came together in the end. Even with all the plot twists that not even I saw coming!
Thank you for giving my books a chance. I cannot wait to see what you think, and I love reading all your reviews, good or bad.
Big hugs! I look forward to seeing you between my pages!
Preorder: https://books2read.com/JacobsWell
Jacob's Well: A Twisty Christian Mystery Novel
This book has everything I enjoy in a book. Murder mystery, twisty plots, secrets, heartfelt emotions, likable characters, a coastal setting, a little bit of forensics, you name it!
I absolutely loved creating the characters in this book and although I am always a little nervous about getting the faith message properly conveyed in the story, I am so pleased with how it all came together in the end. Even with all the plot twists that not even I saw coming!
Thank you for giving my books a chance. I cannot wait to see what you think, and I love reading all your reviews, good or bad.
Big hugs! I look forward to seeing you between my pages!
Preorder: https://books2read.com/JacobsWell
Jacob's Well: A Twisty Christian Mystery Novel
April 24, 2023
I liked this book with the new character Angus Reid. This is a good Christian novel and I’m looking forward to read more of the mysteries. I would recommend this book to all ages. I gave it 5 stars! Urcelia is one of my favorite authors.
April 19, 2023
Jacob’s Well is book 1 of Urcelia Teixeira’s new book series about Angus Reid, the new sheriff in a small coastal town. I( suggest you read Urcelia’s prequel, Little Boy Lost, which lays the foundation for Angus and the town he is now protecting.)
Sheriff Angus is a law enforcement officer who wants to do right. He wants his community safe. Yet, he’s battling a corrupt atmosphere his predecessor left him. Certain events in town bring Angus’ attention to Jacob, a teen in his town. Angus knows Jacob is in something way over his head, with possible disastrous consequences. Angus reaches out to help. Jacob runs (literally) from the help. Then the roller coaster begins.
Jacob’s Well grabbed my attention from the beginning. It is a well thought out plot with a lot of twists and turns. I’m a “who dun it” type person, and Jacob’s Well kept me wondering what will happen next.
My emotions were stirred. I wanted to yell at Jacob’s mom, MJ, for the naïve decisions (so I thought) she makes in the middle of the book. I became angry with her! “Yes, you are worried sick about your son, but why are you not involving Sheriff Angus in this situation?” I wanted to scream! (You did a good job of writing, Urcelia!) However, MJ redeems herself toward the end of the book. I calmed down. Smile….
I continue to appreciate the cleanness of Urcelia’s books. No swearing. No sex. No graphic violence. God is always part of every book. And with those missing (or added) elements, she writes a novel everyone can enjoy – from teen to grandparent.
I recommend you dive into Jacob’s Well. It’s a refreshing, inspirational piece of literature!
Sheriff Angus is a law enforcement officer who wants to do right. He wants his community safe. Yet, he’s battling a corrupt atmosphere his predecessor left him. Certain events in town bring Angus’ attention to Jacob, a teen in his town. Angus knows Jacob is in something way over his head, with possible disastrous consequences. Angus reaches out to help. Jacob runs (literally) from the help. Then the roller coaster begins.
Jacob’s Well grabbed my attention from the beginning. It is a well thought out plot with a lot of twists and turns. I’m a “who dun it” type person, and Jacob’s Well kept me wondering what will happen next.
My emotions were stirred. I wanted to yell at Jacob’s mom, MJ, for the naïve decisions (so I thought) she makes in the middle of the book. I became angry with her! “Yes, you are worried sick about your son, but why are you not involving Sheriff Angus in this situation?” I wanted to scream! (You did a good job of writing, Urcelia!) However, MJ redeems herself toward the end of the book. I calmed down. Smile….
I continue to appreciate the cleanness of Urcelia’s books. No swearing. No sex. No graphic violence. God is always part of every book. And with those missing (or added) elements, she writes a novel everyone can enjoy – from teen to grandparent.
I recommend you dive into Jacob’s Well. It’s a refreshing, inspirational piece of literature!
April 8, 2023
This was a hard to put down novel. The plot is well thought out and keeps you on edge. I love novels that are written with a Christian characters that are drawn back to their faith. This was one of those novels. MJ finally admits her need to trust in God more fully
April 12, 2023
It seemed to be a calm cozy book at first but turned out to be a really good clean suspense story! I enjoyed the conflicting emotions of the main characters.
April 7, 2023
Excellent. New characters and story line for this author. Waiting for next one.
April 16, 2023
WOW - what a start to the new series by Urcelia.
It seems she has waved her magic pen and created a brilliant new series for us to devour and enjoy.
In this series - main character is Sheriff Angus Reid and boy she doesn't disappoint - keeps you intrigued to the end, which is what I love with a good mystery.
If you can... read Little Boy Lost as this is like an short story intro to Angus Reid - but not mandatory.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review - all details above are my own opinions.
Thank you Urcelia for allowing me to read this book 🤗
It seems she has waved her magic pen and created a brilliant new series for us to devour and enjoy.
In this series - main character is Sheriff Angus Reid and boy she doesn't disappoint - keeps you intrigued to the end, which is what I love with a good mystery.
If you can... read Little Boy Lost as this is like an short story intro to Angus Reid - but not mandatory.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review - all details above are my own opinions.
Thank you Urcelia for allowing me to read this book 🤗
September 26, 2023
This was definitely different from my typical Christian read! There was lots of suspense and action. Lots of interpersonal issues too -- should the mom be more loyal to her son, or to her husband (who is the son's step-dad)? Where did Jacob disappear? You'll definitely want to keep reading "Jacob's Well" until the last page to find out what happens. I give the author kudos for the suspense she was able to build, as well as for leaving out profanity as would be typical in this type of book. The characters also pray and attend church, which is another thing I always like seeing normalized in books.
**Side note: After I finished the book, I brought it to a "little free library" outside the YMCA to donate. A group of teen girls came out, asking "Are books here free?" I said yes, and that I was adding this one. They asked what it was about, and I told them. "That sounds good! I want to read it!" one said, and she took it. I loved that it was moving on to another eager reader.
**Side note: After I finished the book, I brought it to a "little free library" outside the YMCA to donate. A group of teen girls came out, asking "Are books here free?" I said yes, and that I was adding this one. They asked what it was about, and I told them. "That sounds good! I want to read it!" one said, and she took it. I loved that it was moving on to another eager reader.
April 15, 2023
Jacob comes from a very religious family. His real father passed when he was a baby. His mother MJ had a very hard time financially, but she persevered. She met a very religious and good man named Joe, a church elder. He has a son named Teddy who has health issues resulting from a head injury. Jacob, a decides to help the family out financially. With the help of a school friend he enters the dark world of dealing drugs, cocaine. Dark events are sent into motion. His friend is murdered by their supplier and Jacob is kidnapped by him. What follows is a series of events that a deeply religious Sheriff, coroner and Jacob's mother rediscovering God. An excellent read!!! My highest recommendation!!! Enjoyed immensely!!
December 28, 2025
This is the first book in the Angus Reid Mysteries, and I was immersed in the characters, the unexpected twists, and the spiritual elements of the story. The story is mystery, danger, lies, and corruption. A teenager is missing and the new sheriff, Angus Reid, is searching but not finding many leads.
The book was non-stop action and kept me guessing. I admired Angus Reid's instinct for finding out the truth. He is my favorite character. The ending wrapped up everything but set me up for the next book in the series. I can't wait to see what happens next.
The book was non-stop action and kept me guessing. I admired Angus Reid's instinct for finding out the truth. He is my favorite character. The ending wrapped up everything but set me up for the next book in the series. I can't wait to see what happens next.
April 21, 2023
Great mystery and your going to stay up to finish this book ! As I just did .😁 All her books are edge of your seat situations and suspense.
April 30, 2023
This page turner is a must read for every believer. We all fall short and need to seek Gods will in whatever we do. The emotions are complex in every family but even more so when we seek our own way instead of relying upon God. Wonderful realistic characters with a lot of intrigue. I thoroughly enjoyed the first in this series and look forward to what comes next. I received this book as an advanced reader, but the review is my own opinion.
April 10, 2023
The road to hell is paved with good intentions. Jacob wanted a better life for his mother, his step father and brother but realised too late that the lure of quick money has its own pitfalls. Jacob leaves his home in a huff and is missing. Sheriff Angus Reid is a God fearing Christian and is determined to root out corruption and crime. Will he be able to find Jacob in time? A suspenseful thriller where a teenager who goes astray and nearly loses his life by pursuing a life of crime finds his way back to God. A touching story.
April 29, 2023
The road to hell is paved with good intentions. Jacob wants to support his mother, stepfather and brother by finding a new stream of income. The money is good but a life of crime is definitely not. Too many pitfalls and a guilty conscience. Sheriff Angus Reid is an upright Christian whose sole aim is to keep the town safe from crime. Can he help Jacob? A touching story of a teenager who goes astray but is led back to God after nearly losing his life.
August 7, 2023
I love the cover art of Jacob’s Well. With its atmospheric air, it represents the shady town and its dark secrets very well. The story starts out strong and the writing pulled me in.
I enjoyed becoming acquainted with this small town (small town stories are some of my favorites!) and connected with Angus Reid (the sheriff) so easily. He is a strong, faithful man, and I rooted for him on his uphill climb of trying to ‘straighten’ the crooked town.
There is so much to love about this book – mystery, suspense, family dynamics, corruption, and lots of secrets. This is a great book for those who enjoy a good mystery, and the message of faith is icing on the cake. A terrific start to a new series!
First Line: The Rhythmic ticking of the clock on Jake Foley’s nightstand slowly picked at his nerves as he waited for his parents to go to bed.
Series: Angus Reid book 1
Genre: Christian Mystery & Suspense
Author: Urcelia Teixeira
Page Count: 316
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
I enjoyed becoming acquainted with this small town (small town stories are some of my favorites!) and connected with Angus Reid (the sheriff) so easily. He is a strong, faithful man, and I rooted for him on his uphill climb of trying to ‘straighten’ the crooked town.
There is so much to love about this book – mystery, suspense, family dynamics, corruption, and lots of secrets. This is a great book for those who enjoy a good mystery, and the message of faith is icing on the cake. A terrific start to a new series!
First Line: The Rhythmic ticking of the clock on Jake Foley’s nightstand slowly picked at his nerves as he waited for his parents to go to bed.
Series: Angus Reid book 1
Genre: Christian Mystery & Suspense
Author: Urcelia Teixeira
Page Count: 316
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
October 2, 2023
This is my first book by this author and an impressive read it was. From the mysterious cover to all the hidden secrets in a small town you will become deeply engrossed. Sheriff Angus Reid has a tough job ahead as the new sheriff following in the steps of a corrupt one. I loved that amidst all the corruption and lies is a heart of people who love the Lord and pray for answers. This is a mystery novel that keeps you on your toes figuring it out and the reasoning behind why is that character hiding things. I may be late to the game reading this author but I highly recommend to others and I look forward to reading more.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
September 29, 2023
My Thoughts
Jacob’s Well is written by Urcelia Teixeira. This is book one in the Angus Reid Series. I love how this author writes. She draws you in immediately and doesn’t let go. The characters are well written and the storyline is packed full of suspense.
Sheriff Angus Reid settles into Weyport, it doesn’t take him long to discover just how corrupt his new town is. He soon realizes that everyone has secrets and it could cost someone their life.
Jacob has seen how much his younger brothers health has affected his mom and step dad. Drowning in medical debt he wants to help. However he gets caught up in some things that he finds out he’s soon over his head. His mother will risk everything to save her son.
Oh the suspense. So much of it. I could not turn pages fast enough.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
Jacob’s Well is written by Urcelia Teixeira. This is book one in the Angus Reid Series. I love how this author writes. She draws you in immediately and doesn’t let go. The characters are well written and the storyline is packed full of suspense.
Sheriff Angus Reid settles into Weyport, it doesn’t take him long to discover just how corrupt his new town is. He soon realizes that everyone has secrets and it could cost someone their life.
Jacob has seen how much his younger brothers health has affected his mom and step dad. Drowning in medical debt he wants to help. However he gets caught up in some things that he finds out he’s soon over his head. His mother will risk everything to save her son.
Oh the suspense. So much of it. I could not turn pages fast enough.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
May 28, 2025
This book is dubbed as a "twisty Christian mystery triller." I very much appreciate the fact that it has Christian elements in it and they were well presented too. Besides the police chief Angus Reid, the main characters were the Foley family, mom MJ, step-dad Joe, and sons Jacob and Teddy. 17-year old Jacob is a good boy with good grades when he veers to the dark side with the motivation of helping his family's financial difficulties. In the story, we watch as things spin out of control. We see Jacob's thoughts as well as those of his mother and the police chief. Sometimes you want to sit these individuals down and say, "Wait a minute! What are you doing?! This ain't right!" But, then, we don't know how individuals will react and behave when in certain circumstances. And so, we trust the author to take us to places we've never been. Anyway, it's a good story with some good Christian message that is not too heavy, but helpful.
January 26, 2026
I really enjoyed this read. It started off a little slow, but overall kept me hooked until the end. Excited to read the next in the series! A win for Christian fiction! 🥳
September 17, 2023
I liked this entertaining and thought provoking novel. Teixeira explores several issues in it. Marital stress while a son is missing is a big one. Keeping up appearances is another one. This is an ironic topic. The husband frequently comments about appearances and what the church people will think of what is happening. The wife criticizes him yet she hides evidence that might incriminate her son to keep up the appearance of his innocence. Perhaps the most serious issue is what it really means to have a relationship with Jesus, not just make it look like it when people are watching.
Teixeira's writing style is a pleasure to read. The plot includes a good deal of relationship drama as well as some suspense. While the end of this book does wrap up one aspect of the plot, full resolution will not come until the next novel. I'll be looking for it.
Teixeira's writing style is a pleasure to read. The plot includes a good deal of relationship drama as well as some suspense. While the end of this book does wrap up one aspect of the plot, full resolution will not come until the next novel. I'll be looking for it.
September 30, 2023
Wow what a great read and Faith filled a Christian suspence mystery novel that exciting and all you want from this shirt off book.
The days when great Christian writers were harder to find are gone however Urcelia is an excellent author and one that you will rely want to read I love her work, and Jacob's well is no exception. How Jacob's stepdad has unwittingly lead Jacob onto a dangerous path he may of known it was wrong but he wanted to prove himself to his stepdad so it was what it was.
All turns bad and the new local sheriff is looking for two missing teens and Jacob's Mum is desperate like all loving Mums would be to find her son. There are twists turns and well you will enjoy finding out. I highly recommend this novel and any of Urcelia's books for that matter this one is great I hope you looking out as much as i have.
The days when great Christian writers were harder to find are gone however Urcelia is an excellent author and one that you will rely want to read I love her work, and Jacob's well is no exception. How Jacob's stepdad has unwittingly lead Jacob onto a dangerous path he may of known it was wrong but he wanted to prove himself to his stepdad so it was what it was.
All turns bad and the new local sheriff is looking for two missing teens and Jacob's Mum is desperate like all loving Mums would be to find her son. There are twists turns and well you will enjoy finding out. I highly recommend this novel and any of Urcelia's books for that matter this one is great I hope you looking out as much as i have.
August 25, 2023
Edge of your seat suspense, kept me turning pages. A cliffhanger ending. Will be getting the next in the series asap.
February 11, 2024
I’m not a mother so I guess I can’t appreciate a lot of the activities in this book. It’s described as a Christian mystery novel, and I DID appreciate the spiritual content as well as lack of foul language and/or graphic sex. Plus it’s a pretty fast read. However, I feel that it was primarily written for female readers.
I had three main issues with “Jacob’s Well”:
1. I found it hard to believe that MJ would really run around thwarting the sheriff’s investigation to protect “her boy”.
2. I would expect that the writing that took this whole book would normally take 20-25% of other novels - it was pretty short; it seemed to be just a little longer than a short story
3. The book wasn’t finished; there were several people who had loose ends. I don’t know, but it appears that you have to buy the next book to see what happens. I don’t play that game.
Although I appreciate Christian novels and their clean writing, for the above three reasons, I won’t be buying more of Ms. Teixeira’s books.
I had three main issues with “Jacob’s Well”:
1. I found it hard to believe that MJ would really run around thwarting the sheriff’s investigation to protect “her boy”.
2. I would expect that the writing that took this whole book would normally take 20-25% of other novels - it was pretty short; it seemed to be just a little longer than a short story
3. The book wasn’t finished; there were several people who had loose ends. I don’t know, but it appears that you have to buy the next book to see what happens. I don’t play that game.
Although I appreciate Christian novels and their clean writing, for the above three reasons, I won’t be buying more of Ms. Teixeira’s books.
September 27, 2023
Time to put your big boy pants on!
Jake, a teenager, finds himself in a quandary or at least he seems to think so. His younger brother, Teddy, was badly injured in an accident. Unfortunately this requires a great deal of the family’s income, putting Jake’s college hopes in jeopardy. When a ‘friend’ suggests he has just the fix for this financial pinch, Jake takes the offer. Only problem with his secret - he can’t hide it from God.
Sheriff Angus Reid is the new law in a town that was used to the law turning a blind eye to many questionable practices. Will they ever come to trust him and believe he has the town’s best interests at heart?
This first book in the Angus Reid series is not to be missed. I am certainly looking forward to more edge-of-your-seat action with this sheriff. Received through Purpose Bound Press with no expectation of a positive review, these are my impressions.
Jake, a teenager, finds himself in a quandary or at least he seems to think so. His younger brother, Teddy, was badly injured in an accident. Unfortunately this requires a great deal of the family’s income, putting Jake’s college hopes in jeopardy. When a ‘friend’ suggests he has just the fix for this financial pinch, Jake takes the offer. Only problem with his secret - he can’t hide it from God.
Sheriff Angus Reid is the new law in a town that was used to the law turning a blind eye to many questionable practices. Will they ever come to trust him and believe he has the town’s best interests at heart?
This first book in the Angus Reid series is not to be missed. I am certainly looking forward to more edge-of-your-seat action with this sheriff. Received through Purpose Bound Press with no expectation of a positive review, these are my impressions.
May 29, 2025
This is a story of a boy who wants to help his family but chooses the wrong way to do it. This is about a mom who wants to help her son, and she chooses the wrong way to do it. This is about a sheriff who has to find out what happened to the boy's friend but the boy won't talk, then he gets in deeper trouble. The mom lies because she doesn't want to get her boy in trouble, so she has to do it by herself. In their lies and trying to do things their own way they make a mess of their family. The saddest thing about the story is that the ones totally messing up claim to be Christians. Instead of trusting God, they trust themselves. That is the thing that was the greatest disappointment to me. I liked the story itself and despite everything we do get a happyish ending.
There is no bad language and no romance involved, just suspense!
There is no bad language and no romance involved, just suspense!
October 25, 2025
Jacob’s Well is much more heart-wrenching than the prequel Little Boy Lost. I was actually considering quitting reading the book, but in hopes of having a good ending, I kept reading. The book has a lot of mentions of faith in God during hard times. God’s leading and guiding through the criminal cases. The sheriff, Angus Reid is a believer; how he practices his faith in everyday life as a sheriff is a big part of the book. That was a plus. Urcelia Teixeira is a great Christian, clean, no crude language mystery writer, though at times her books are a little eerie, making my heart skip a beat, with some intense scenes. Definitely keeps you on the edge of your seat!
***Spoiler Alert*** It's a story of a young boy named Jacob who was raised in a good family, with a mom named Mj who lost her husband to cancer when Jacob was young. The stepdad, named Joe; he also came into the marriage with a disabled child named Teddy. Jacob needed a father figure, and Teddy needed a mother to help with his disabilities. So Mj and Joe married; it was a marriage of convenience at the time. They were very involved in the towns church, struggling financially Jacob, wanting to help with expenses, decided he would help by selling drugs through a friend named Aaron, whom he met at school. (This is the part that made me want to put the book down. It can happen to anyone, but as a mother, I didn't know if I wanted to read something so heart-wrenching. This is every mom's worst nightmare come true.) It didn't take long for things to go wrong with the new sheriff in town and Jacob's illegal dealings. Sheriff Reid was on to him; he got close to the family through a church event, where Jacob's guilty behaviour caught the sheriff's attention. After Aaron's disappearance, Jacob was questioned, but instead of telling the truth, he ran straight into the drug lord's hands, putting his own life in danger. What surprised me was the mother's behaviour; she found her son's stash of money and drugs, and she hid it from the police, which made me angry that she was willing to add to the lies!!! But at the same time, I understood the temptation to want to protect your child. Later in the book, we learn of Mj’s spiritual depravity, how she had been faking her faith all those years with her second husband; she put up an act for the sake of the church. Mj never actually had a relationship with Jesus. Till she found her son, she didn't realize how angry she was at God for taking her first husband. It was her son who prayed that Jesus would help her find him. When Jacob told her that, that's when she realized how little she actually trusted Jesus. Mj realized she didn't know Jesus at all, and she hadn't been drinking from the spiritual well of His living water, and finding her son helped her realize that. Here, I’m guessing, is where the title of the book comes in “Jacob’s Well”. With a new determination, she decides to make things right with her husband and try harder. I was surprised that the book started out focused on the boy Jacob, but ended focused on the mom Mj, not having the strong faith that the town thought she had. Getting right with God was the highlight of the book. Well, getting Jacob back was good, having that relationship with Jesus is what makes life on earth great! I’m glad I kept reading!
Check out this website www.directions2heaven.com if you’d be interested in becoming a believer in the saving grace of Jesus.
***Spoiler Alert*** It's a story of a young boy named Jacob who was raised in a good family, with a mom named Mj who lost her husband to cancer when Jacob was young. The stepdad, named Joe; he also came into the marriage with a disabled child named Teddy. Jacob needed a father figure, and Teddy needed a mother to help with his disabilities. So Mj and Joe married; it was a marriage of convenience at the time. They were very involved in the towns church, struggling financially Jacob, wanting to help with expenses, decided he would help by selling drugs through a friend named Aaron, whom he met at school. (This is the part that made me want to put the book down. It can happen to anyone, but as a mother, I didn't know if I wanted to read something so heart-wrenching. This is every mom's worst nightmare come true.) It didn't take long for things to go wrong with the new sheriff in town and Jacob's illegal dealings. Sheriff Reid was on to him; he got close to the family through a church event, where Jacob's guilty behaviour caught the sheriff's attention. After Aaron's disappearance, Jacob was questioned, but instead of telling the truth, he ran straight into the drug lord's hands, putting his own life in danger. What surprised me was the mother's behaviour; she found her son's stash of money and drugs, and she hid it from the police, which made me angry that she was willing to add to the lies!!! But at the same time, I understood the temptation to want to protect your child. Later in the book, we learn of Mj’s spiritual depravity, how she had been faking her faith all those years with her second husband; she put up an act for the sake of the church. Mj never actually had a relationship with Jesus. Till she found her son, she didn't realize how angry she was at God for taking her first husband. It was her son who prayed that Jesus would help her find him. When Jacob told her that, that's when she realized how little she actually trusted Jesus. Mj realized she didn't know Jesus at all, and she hadn't been drinking from the spiritual well of His living water, and finding her son helped her realize that. Here, I’m guessing, is where the title of the book comes in “Jacob’s Well”. With a new determination, she decides to make things right with her husband and try harder. I was surprised that the book started out focused on the boy Jacob, but ended focused on the mom Mj, not having the strong faith that the town thought she had. Getting right with God was the highlight of the book. Well, getting Jacob back was good, having that relationship with Jesus is what makes life on earth great! I’m glad I kept reading!
Check out this website www.directions2heaven.com if you’d be interested in becoming a believer in the saving grace of Jesus.
September 25, 2023
Get ready for a thrilling suspense filled story that takes readers inside a small town where corruption is rampant. It is not easy for the new sheriff Angus as he realizes that the town is hiding secrets that could cost someone their life. I liked his deep faith and instincts as the investigation into a murder and missing person sends shivers down your spine. Angus is determined that he will find out who is behind the criminal activities that are spreading throughout the town.
Jacob is a good kid who has been raised in a Christian home. He has seen his mother and step father struggle with medical bills for his younger brother. He wants to help them financially but has no idea how to. When an opportunity arises he convinces himself that it will turn out good even though he is turning his back on his faith. I understood how much Jacob wanted to help his parents out as his lack of guilt starts to take over. The author delivers a fast pace world where Jacob is in over his head and danger consumes him.
My favorite character was the mother. She loves her children unconditionally and will do anything to protect them. When she discovers that Jacob is mixed up in something that could get him killed or sent to jail, she risks everything to protect him. How far would you go to protect your child? You can feel the turmoil she faces as she knows she is crossing the line in order to save Jacob. Her faith is shaky and her marriage is hanging by a thread. She calls out to God asking why isn’t he doing anything to help her. I thought about the times I felt the same way. Perhaps God is watching to see how you handle difficult choices and if you will still trust Him in your darkest moment.
It’s a race against time as Angus is desperate to find Jacob. The rollercoaster twists in the story bring an adrenaline rush as we follow the sheriff. I loved how the author heightened the ending with an exciting trip into the woods and on a boat. I was shocked at who was behind one criminal act. In fact it took me by surprise. Through everything that happened we still see how God was there to guide Angus and remind us that He is there at all times.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Jacob is a good kid who has been raised in a Christian home. He has seen his mother and step father struggle with medical bills for his younger brother. He wants to help them financially but has no idea how to. When an opportunity arises he convinces himself that it will turn out good even though he is turning his back on his faith. I understood how much Jacob wanted to help his parents out as his lack of guilt starts to take over. The author delivers a fast pace world where Jacob is in over his head and danger consumes him.
My favorite character was the mother. She loves her children unconditionally and will do anything to protect them. When she discovers that Jacob is mixed up in something that could get him killed or sent to jail, she risks everything to protect him. How far would you go to protect your child? You can feel the turmoil she faces as she knows she is crossing the line in order to save Jacob. Her faith is shaky and her marriage is hanging by a thread. She calls out to God asking why isn’t he doing anything to help her. I thought about the times I felt the same way. Perhaps God is watching to see how you handle difficult choices and if you will still trust Him in your darkest moment.
It’s a race against time as Angus is desperate to find Jacob. The rollercoaster twists in the story bring an adrenaline rush as we follow the sheriff. I loved how the author heightened the ending with an exciting trip into the woods and on a boat. I was shocked at who was behind one criminal act. In fact it took me by surprise. Through everything that happened we still see how God was there to guide Angus and remind us that He is there at all times.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
September 29, 2023
This was quite a story of a small coastal town with plenty of secrets, even from those you would not expect it. This story is told through the viewpoint of three people, and it touches on a teen's rebellion, a mother's unrelenting love, and a new sheriff trying to uncover his town's secrets and make the place safe again.
On the outside, Jake seems to be a good kid. His mother and stepfather are involved heavily in the church, he takes care of his handicapped stepbrother, and he gets passable grades. But Jake sees how his parents are struggling with finances, his prospects for college don't look great, and he really doesn't have a close relationship with his stepfather, even though he raised Jake. So, Jake gets offered an opportunity to make money and help his family out. Except it is illegal and very dangerous. But he kind of likes the rush, until he doesn't.
Mary-Jean, MJ for short, looks like a great mother and wife. And that perception really matters to her. It gives her life meaning, until her son Jake goes missing. Then everything she valued in life, or thought she did, shifts. Even her marriage comes under fire as she sees that she and her husband are just surviving. What will she sacrifice to get her son back?
Sheriff Angus Reid knows all about sacrifice, and what sacrificing the wrong stuff can do to a family, marriage, and life. He is the new sheriff in Weyport and is shocked with how corrupt the previous sheriff was and what he let the villains get away with. Now he has two missing teenagers and something nefarious is going on in his town and he needs to get to the bottom of it.
This is a riveting suspense that kept me turning those pages as lives and the lies they told are at stake.
I was provided a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
http://pausefortales.blogspot.com/202...
On the outside, Jake seems to be a good kid. His mother and stepfather are involved heavily in the church, he takes care of his handicapped stepbrother, and he gets passable grades. But Jake sees how his parents are struggling with finances, his prospects for college don't look great, and he really doesn't have a close relationship with his stepfather, even though he raised Jake. So, Jake gets offered an opportunity to make money and help his family out. Except it is illegal and very dangerous. But he kind of likes the rush, until he doesn't.
Mary-Jean, MJ for short, looks like a great mother and wife. And that perception really matters to her. It gives her life meaning, until her son Jake goes missing. Then everything she valued in life, or thought she did, shifts. Even her marriage comes under fire as she sees that she and her husband are just surviving. What will she sacrifice to get her son back?
Sheriff Angus Reid knows all about sacrifice, and what sacrificing the wrong stuff can do to a family, marriage, and life. He is the new sheriff in Weyport and is shocked with how corrupt the previous sheriff was and what he let the villains get away with. Now he has two missing teenagers and something nefarious is going on in his town and he needs to get to the bottom of it.
This is a riveting suspense that kept me turning those pages as lives and the lies they told are at stake.
I was provided a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
http://pausefortales.blogspot.com/202...
September 9, 2025
I have bookish friend Diane to thank for my introduction to new-to-me author Urcelia Teixeira. Friend recommendations are the best, aren’t they? Now here I am at the start of some epic reading because ‘Jacob’s Well’ is the first book in a gripping suspense series and now that I’ve started, I’ve gotta read them all!
The series centres around Angus Reid, who has just accepted a Sheriff position in a town known for its corruption. In fact, the previous Sheriff was crooked. So Angus has a lot of suspicious open cases to work his way through and it seems like half the town is harbouring secrets.
Like young Jake. We meet the teen in the opening chapter and follow him through an overwhelming web of treacherous secrets. Oh, the folly of youth! And then there’s his mother, desperate to do whatever she must to save her boy which involves even more secrets. And that leaves Angus trying to blindly put the pieces together all while under the pressure of searching for two missing teens.
Phew! This was a page turner! I read it in one sitting because there just wasn’t any other choice if I wanted to keep my sanity! I appreciate the way the multiple points of view offered different perspectives and amped up the suspense. As a reader, it was intriguing to know things Angus didn’t. But there were other times that I was just as much in the dark as the Sheriff which added to the drama and intrigue.
The author has a canny way of incorporating faith into the lives of these characters. It’s seamlessly done, never preachy, but sometimes pointed and very thought provoking.
I really enjoyed my first visit to Weyport and am anxious to get back there soon and see what’s in store for Angus next. Plus, there are some secondary characters that I think will be playing an important part in the good Sheriff’s life as he acclimatizes to his new position and the town in general. I can’t wait of find out more!
https://kavsbestreads.ca/2025/09/09/j...
The series centres around Angus Reid, who has just accepted a Sheriff position in a town known for its corruption. In fact, the previous Sheriff was crooked. So Angus has a lot of suspicious open cases to work his way through and it seems like half the town is harbouring secrets.
Like young Jake. We meet the teen in the opening chapter and follow him through an overwhelming web of treacherous secrets. Oh, the folly of youth! And then there’s his mother, desperate to do whatever she must to save her boy which involves even more secrets. And that leaves Angus trying to blindly put the pieces together all while under the pressure of searching for two missing teens.
Phew! This was a page turner! I read it in one sitting because there just wasn’t any other choice if I wanted to keep my sanity! I appreciate the way the multiple points of view offered different perspectives and amped up the suspense. As a reader, it was intriguing to know things Angus didn’t. But there were other times that I was just as much in the dark as the Sheriff which added to the drama and intrigue.
The author has a canny way of incorporating faith into the lives of these characters. It’s seamlessly done, never preachy, but sometimes pointed and very thought provoking.
I really enjoyed my first visit to Weyport and am anxious to get back there soon and see what’s in store for Angus next. Plus, there are some secondary characters that I think will be playing an important part in the good Sheriff’s life as he acclimatizes to his new position and the town in general. I can’t wait of find out more!
https://kavsbestreads.ca/2025/09/09/j...
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