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Port Aster Secrets #1
Deadly Devotion
Research scientist Kate Adams and her colleague Daisy are on the brink of a breakthrough for treating depression with herbal medicine when Daisy suddenly dies. Kate knows that if it hadn't been for Daisy's mentorship, she wouldn't have the job she loves or the faith she clings to. So when police rule Daisy's death a suicide, Kate is determined to unearth the truth.
Former FBI agent Tom Parker finds it hard to adjust to life back in his hometown of Port Aster. Though an old buddy gives him a job as a detective on the local police force, not everyone approves. Tom's just trying to keep a low profile, so when Kate Adams demands he reopen the investigation of her friend's death, he knows his job is at stake. In fact, despite his attraction to her, Tom thinks Kate looks a bit suspicious herself.
As evidence mounts, a web of intrigue is woven around the sleepy town of Port Aster. Can Kate uncover the truth? Or will Tom stand in her way?
Former FBI agent Tom Parker finds it hard to adjust to life back in his hometown of Port Aster. Though an old buddy gives him a job as a detective on the local police force, not everyone approves. Tom's just trying to keep a low profile, so when Kate Adams demands he reopen the investigation of her friend's death, he knows his job is at stake. In fact, despite his attraction to her, Tom thinks Kate looks a bit suspicious herself.
As evidence mounts, a web of intrigue is woven around the sleepy town of Port Aster. Can Kate uncover the truth? Or will Tom stand in her way?
Paperback
First published June 1, 2013
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About the author
Sandra Orchard
45 books282 followersSandra leaps off the garden trails of her herbal-researcher-turned-amateur-sleuth (Port Aster Secrets) series, to the museum corridors of her plucky FBI art crime agent Serena Jones, in A Fool and His Monet.
When not plotting crimes, Sandra plays make-believe with her grandchildren or hikes with her hubby along the escarpment, near their home in Niagara, Canada.
Her novels have garnered numerous awards, including the National Readers' Choice Award, a Holt Medallion Award of Merit, an RT Book Reviews Reviewers' Choice Award, the Daphne DuMaurier Award of Excellence and five national Canadian Awards.
Learn more about Sandra’s books and fun bonus features at www.sandraorchard.com
When not plotting crimes, Sandra plays make-believe with her grandchildren or hikes with her hubby along the escarpment, near their home in Niagara, Canada.
Her novels have garnered numerous awards, including the National Readers' Choice Award, a Holt Medallion Award of Merit, an RT Book Reviews Reviewers' Choice Award, the Daphne DuMaurier Award of Excellence and five national Canadian Awards.
Learn more about Sandra’s books and fun bonus features at www.sandraorchard.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 187 reviews
June 24, 2022
About this book:
“Research scientist Kate Adams and her colleague Daisy are on the brink of a breakthrough for treating depression with herbal medicine when Daisy suddenly dies. Kate knows that if it hadn’t been for Daisy’s mentorship, she wouldn’t have the job she loves or the faith she clings to. So when police rule Daisy’s death a suicide, Kate is determined to unearth the truth.
Former FBI agent Tom Parker finds it hard to adjust to life back in his hometown of Port Aster. Though an old buddy gives him a job as a detective on the local police force, not everyone approves. Tom’s just trying to keep a low profile, so when Kate Adams demands he reopen the investigation of her friend’s death, he knows his job is at stake. In fact, despite his attraction to her, Tom thinks Kate looks a bit suspicious herself.
As evidence mounts, a web of intrigue is woven around the sleepy town of Port Aster. Can Kate uncover the truth? Or will Tom stand in her way?”
Series: Book #1 in “Port Aster Secrets” series.
Spiritual Content- Many Prayers; Scriptures are read, remembered, quoted & mentioned; Witnessing; Talks about God & where God is; ‘H’s are not capital when referring to God or Jesus; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers; Mentions of faiths & sharing; Mentions of Heaven & eternity; Mentions of church & church going; Mentions of Bibles & Bible reading; A couple mentions of those in the Bible; A couple mentions of a minister; A mention of a godsend;
*Note: A mention of a “bat out of you-know-where”; A mention of not being in luck.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘darn’, a ‘dumb’, a ‘stinking’, four forms of ‘shut up’, four forms of ‘stupid’; A couple mentions of curses (said, not written); Sarcasm & smart alecks; All about a murder (which many believe it was a suicide), poisons, deaths, bodies & a killer (up to semi-detailed); An allergic reaction; Tom has a bit of PTSD after a car bombing; Many, many mentions of marijuana, drugs & dealers; Many mentions of bombs & terrorist theories; Many mentions of cons & con-artists; Mentions of blood & pain (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of threats; Mentions of criminals, victims & jail; Mentions of robberies, stealing, stolen items, & thieves; Mentions of cigarettes; Mentions of gossip & rumors; A few mentions of domestic violence & injuries; A few mentions of vomit; A few mentions of bad smells; A couple mentions of bruises; A couple mentions of a misunderstanding of thinking someone is a terrorist; A couple mentions of roadkill; A mention of a drive-by shooting; A mention of a mafia hit man; A mention of a man zipping his pants after using the restroom;
*Note: Mentions of car brands; A few mentions of brand names; A few mentions of a movie & actor (Australia & Hugh Jackman); A couple mentions of a Disney character; A couple mentions of Boy Scouts; A mention of GQ; A mention of looking like a zombie.
Sexual Content- Two fingers-to-lips touches; Touches & Nearness (barely-above-not-detailed); Blushes & Winks; Noticing & Smelling; two forms of ‘hot’; Mentions of boyfriends, girlfriends & acting like you’re dating; Mentions of betrayals; Mentions of a playboy, flirting, blushes, & reputations; A few mentions of miscarriages; A couple mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of crushes & being sweet on someone; A couple mentions of an out of wedlock pregnancy; A couple mentions of affairs; A mention of a first kiss; A mention of a girl necking with her boyfriend; A mention of a gossip asking if a guy and girl could possibly be doing “you know…in the middle of the day?” (they aren’t); Some love, falling in love & the emotions.
-Kate Adams, age 29-30
-Tom Parker
P.O.V. switches between them
358 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
Okay, I found this book completely fascinating. I’m totally kicking myself that I didn’t buy this trilogy all at once…now I have to wait to get my hands on the rest. I believe my fellow murder mystery fans will enjoy this one. With just a dash of romance and a lot of interesting facts about toxic plants, I’m hooked on this series and am eagerly awaiting to start the next book in the series.
{ So, a note to those interested in “Deadly Devotion”, when I read a couple other reviews I became concerned about the mystery not wrapping up like some reviewers were saying. Thankfully, the main mystery is wrapped up, but there are some smaller ones started in this first book that get carried on to the next. ;) }
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
“Research scientist Kate Adams and her colleague Daisy are on the brink of a breakthrough for treating depression with herbal medicine when Daisy suddenly dies. Kate knows that if it hadn’t been for Daisy’s mentorship, she wouldn’t have the job she loves or the faith she clings to. So when police rule Daisy’s death a suicide, Kate is determined to unearth the truth.
Former FBI agent Tom Parker finds it hard to adjust to life back in his hometown of Port Aster. Though an old buddy gives him a job as a detective on the local police force, not everyone approves. Tom’s just trying to keep a low profile, so when Kate Adams demands he reopen the investigation of her friend’s death, he knows his job is at stake. In fact, despite his attraction to her, Tom thinks Kate looks a bit suspicious herself.
As evidence mounts, a web of intrigue is woven around the sleepy town of Port Aster. Can Kate uncover the truth? Or will Tom stand in her way?”
Series: Book #1 in “Port Aster Secrets” series.
Spiritual Content- Many Prayers; Scriptures are read, remembered, quoted & mentioned; Witnessing; Talks about God & where God is; ‘H’s are not capital when referring to God or Jesus; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers; Mentions of faiths & sharing; Mentions of Heaven & eternity; Mentions of church & church going; Mentions of Bibles & Bible reading; A couple mentions of those in the Bible; A couple mentions of a minister; A mention of a godsend;
*Note: A mention of a “bat out of you-know-where”; A mention of not being in luck.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘darn’, a ‘dumb’, a ‘stinking’, four forms of ‘shut up’, four forms of ‘stupid’; A couple mentions of curses (said, not written); Sarcasm & smart alecks; All about a murder (which many believe it was a suicide), poisons, deaths, bodies & a killer (up to semi-detailed); An allergic reaction; Tom has a bit of PTSD after a car bombing; Many, many mentions of marijuana, drugs & dealers; Many mentions of bombs & terrorist theories; Many mentions of cons & con-artists; Mentions of blood & pain (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of threats; Mentions of criminals, victims & jail; Mentions of robberies, stealing, stolen items, & thieves; Mentions of cigarettes; Mentions of gossip & rumors; A few mentions of domestic violence & injuries; A few mentions of vomit; A few mentions of bad smells; A couple mentions of bruises; A couple mentions of a misunderstanding of thinking someone is a terrorist; A couple mentions of roadkill; A mention of a drive-by shooting; A mention of a mafia hit man; A mention of a man zipping his pants after using the restroom;
*Note: Mentions of car brands; A few mentions of brand names; A few mentions of a movie & actor (Australia & Hugh Jackman); A couple mentions of a Disney character; A couple mentions of Boy Scouts; A mention of GQ; A mention of looking like a zombie.
Sexual Content- Two fingers-to-lips touches; Touches & Nearness (barely-above-not-detailed); Blushes & Winks; Noticing & Smelling; two forms of ‘hot’; Mentions of boyfriends, girlfriends & acting like you’re dating; Mentions of betrayals; Mentions of a playboy, flirting, blushes, & reputations; A few mentions of miscarriages; A couple mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of crushes & being sweet on someone; A couple mentions of an out of wedlock pregnancy; A couple mentions of affairs; A mention of a first kiss; A mention of a girl necking with her boyfriend; A mention of a gossip asking if a guy and girl could possibly be doing “you know…in the middle of the day?” (they aren’t); Some love, falling in love & the emotions.
-Kate Adams, age 29-30
-Tom Parker
P.O.V. switches between them
358 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
Okay, I found this book completely fascinating. I’m totally kicking myself that I didn’t buy this trilogy all at once…now I have to wait to get my hands on the rest. I believe my fellow murder mystery fans will enjoy this one. With just a dash of romance and a lot of interesting facts about toxic plants, I’m hooked on this series and am eagerly awaiting to start the next book in the series.
{ So, a note to those interested in “Deadly Devotion”, when I read a couple other reviews I became concerned about the mystery not wrapping up like some reviewers were saying. Thankfully, the main mystery is wrapped up, but there are some smaller ones started in this first book that get carried on to the next. ;) }
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
February 2, 2018
This was so fun!
Somehow, Orchard's writing style always has me laughing . . . This author has a crazy fun way with words.
But what really makes her novels are her characters. Kate was so sweet, innocent, and naive. I loved how clueless she was. I'm frankly tired of the tough, I-can-do-it-all-myself, I'm-so-smart female MCs, so this was a refreshing change. Tom Parker was also a fabulous and well-rounded character, and I really liked him a lot. His backstory was great.
The mystery was fun, and kept you guessing. I grew a little tired of the frequent "false alarms", and a little more true action would have been nice, but I did like how it was more light hearted than your typical suspense book. The romance was very sweet.
The ending was a bit disappointing, if I'm being honest, but I enjoyed the rest of the book.
And as mentioned, Orchard's signature writing style made this book such a fun read!
All in all, I highly recommend this light-hearted suspense novel!
Recommended for ages 14+ for mild violence and romance.
Somehow, Orchard's writing style always has me laughing . . . This author has a crazy fun way with words.
But what really makes her novels are her characters. Kate was so sweet, innocent, and naive. I loved how clueless she was. I'm frankly tired of the tough, I-can-do-it-all-myself, I'm-so-smart female MCs, so this was a refreshing change. Tom Parker was also a fabulous and well-rounded character, and I really liked him a lot. His backstory was great.
The mystery was fun, and kept you guessing. I grew a little tired of the frequent "false alarms", and a little more true action would have been nice, but I did like how it was more light hearted than your typical suspense book. The romance was very sweet.
The ending was a bit disappointing, if I'm being honest, but I enjoyed the rest of the book.
And as mentioned, Orchard's signature writing style made this book such a fun read!
All in all, I highly recommend this light-hearted suspense novel!
Recommended for ages 14+ for mild violence and romance.
December 4, 2015
A typical mystery story. Tom, is an FBI, and Katie wants to prove that her friend was murdered...but too many people look suspicious.
The book doesn't quite finish as there is a sequel, but at least you get to know who killed Daisy. I thought there should have been a little more of a spiritual aspect to this book. The first half hardly even mentioned God at all, but the author brought in some good lessons at the end.
The book doesn't quite finish as there is a sequel, but at least you get to know who killed Daisy. I thought there should have been a little more of a spiritual aspect to this book. The first half hardly even mentioned God at all, but the author brought in some good lessons at the end.
July 17, 2022
LOVED this book!!!
First 5 star of the year. Yay!
This book had me guessing almost the entire way through and I loved that. Not many writers can do that for me. A modern, Christian Agatha Christie, if I do say so myself.
Light on the romance, but perfectly subtle! I loved Tom and his back story as well as Kate and hers. These are wonderfully relatable and authentic characters, which made this book come to life. Also the real and authentic picture of Tom's dad and the affects of grief on our lives was so tangible. Each side character was as vibrant as our mains.
I loved the play on herbs and tea!! I couldn't help but sip on some herbal concoctions during this book.
The book had great faith content and this quote summed up the heart of it so well, that I couldn't help fall in love with it and the book:
"Before I met Daisy, I saw God the way most people see marigolds--something pretty to admire now and again, unaware that one variety offers healing while the rest are counterfeits. Now that I know the truth, I won't settle for a counterfeit."
First 5 star of the year. Yay!
This book had me guessing almost the entire way through and I loved that. Not many writers can do that for me. A modern, Christian Agatha Christie, if I do say so myself.
Light on the romance, but perfectly subtle! I loved Tom and his back story as well as Kate and hers. These are wonderfully relatable and authentic characters, which made this book come to life. Also the real and authentic picture of Tom's dad and the affects of grief on our lives was so tangible. Each side character was as vibrant as our mains.
I loved the play on herbs and tea!! I couldn't help but sip on some herbal concoctions during this book.
The book had great faith content and this quote summed up the heart of it so well, that I couldn't help fall in love with it and the book:
"Before I met Daisy, I saw God the way most people see marigolds--something pretty to admire now and again, unaware that one variety offers healing while the rest are counterfeits. Now that I know the truth, I won't settle for a counterfeit."
May 4, 2023
I loved this book so much,🥰 and it was great the whole way through the book ☺️ I definitely recommend it! I rate this 4 / ⭐️!! So close to 5 ⭐️ !!!
November 4, 2024
2024 re-read: Same as before, I read this book in a day. 😅 Definitely the perfect mystery series for Fall.
This was a different style mystery than I'm used to reading, and I have to say, it was quite enjoyable! I liked Kate's dogged determination and Tom's sympathy towards the case at hand, even if they didn't always get along.
This was a different style mystery than I'm used to reading, and I have to say, it was quite enjoyable! I liked Kate's dogged determination and Tom's sympathy towards the case at hand, even if they didn't always get along.
tbr-1
June 7, 2022Free on Amazon (6.6.22)!
July 10, 2016
Oh my goodness, this book was SO good! I have to admit it was hard to get into at first. Kate seemed kind of dumb (she redeemed herself!) and the characters seemed confusing and I felt like there was a back story I was missing (there is one but it is going to unfold in the following books I'm sure) about halfway through it REALLY got good and I was so hooked! I am so glad I have book 2 ready to go!
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December 9, 2024Yeah, I'm sorry, I just . . . couldn't. 🙈
July 13, 2023
4.5⭐️
This was the toughest (but satisfying) mystery reads I’ve come across!
Characters: Trusting (except of law enforcement due to her past), kind, a bit of a chance taker, loyal to a fault—Kate is no “Nancy Drew” or super sleuth, but she is so down to earth and realistic—which I loved! Detective Parker aka Tom was also likable…after a couple chapters 😂 He grew on me. There were also several wonderful side characters that helped make this book especially interesting and also helped keep me perplexed in the mystery solving. Oh how I wish I could have met Daisy!
Plot: the first few chapters were a little slower for me, but not boring. I enjoy a good mystery, and as I said before, this one was exceptionally well written. I COULD NOT figure it out, and it really felt like that is how real life detective work would go—lots of leads, some confusing, some dead ends, other circumstances at play. The climax was very satisfying though 😉 The end was a little bit of a cliffhanger on some points, but overall this book wrapped up the “major” story line.
Faith content: Both leads are believers and sometimes they pray to themselves. They also attend church. The faith content was light in this one—I would have loved so have seen more growth in one or both characters through the difficulties… this was the reason for my half star reduction.
Romance: some noticing (but nothing awkward which I appreciated) and flirting. Super clean. This isn’t the focus of the story.
This book was a page turner, and I didn’t want to put it down! I am glad I have the second book and don’t have to wait 😊
Content: murder/attempted murder
This was the toughest (but satisfying) mystery reads I’ve come across!
Characters: Trusting (except of law enforcement due to her past), kind, a bit of a chance taker, loyal to a fault—Kate is no “Nancy Drew” or super sleuth, but she is so down to earth and realistic—which I loved! Detective Parker aka Tom was also likable…after a couple chapters 😂 He grew on me. There were also several wonderful side characters that helped make this book especially interesting and also helped keep me perplexed in the mystery solving. Oh how I wish I could have met Daisy!
Plot: the first few chapters were a little slower for me, but not boring. I enjoy a good mystery, and as I said before, this one was exceptionally well written. I COULD NOT figure it out, and it really felt like that is how real life detective work would go—lots of leads, some confusing, some dead ends, other circumstances at play. The climax was very satisfying though 😉 The end was a little bit of a cliffhanger on some points, but overall this book wrapped up the “major” story line.
Faith content: Both leads are believers and sometimes they pray to themselves. They also attend church. The faith content was light in this one—I would have loved so have seen more growth in one or both characters through the difficulties… this was the reason for my half star reduction.
Romance: some noticing (but nothing awkward which I appreciated) and flirting. Super clean. This isn’t the focus of the story.
This book was a page turner, and I didn’t want to put it down! I am glad I have the second book and don’t have to wait 😊
Content: murder/attempted murder
August 20, 2020
So, they say don't judge a book by it's cover, which if we are honest, we mostly do. The same with this book. When I picked it up, saw the cover and name, my expectation was a suspense, however, I would rather classify it as a cozy mystery - we have an amateur sleuth and a detective. Also, the events Kate found herself in was sometimes more humorous than suspenseful. And there was a lack of action.
I did like the plot and trying to, with Kate, find out who killed Daisy and had a few suspicions. The killer was not surprising but definitely the reason behind it. I hoped for a different ending, but maybe in one of the next books, the possible export flowers with more to the story will be picked up again.
This was my first read by this author and for me this was an enjoyable mystery (cozy) and I would continue this series. There was a mystery with Kate's dad hinted at that was not resolved and I still think there is more to Hank and his dad than what was revealed in book one.
I did like the plot and trying to, with Kate, find out who killed Daisy and had a few suspicions. The killer was not surprising but definitely the reason behind it. I hoped for a different ending, but maybe in one of the next books, the possible export flowers with more to the story will be picked up again.
This was my first read by this author and for me this was an enjoyable mystery (cozy) and I would continue this series. There was a mystery with Kate's dad hinted at that was not resolved and I still think there is more to Hank and his dad than what was revealed in book one.
October 13, 2023
Easy to read, enjoyable Christian romance mystery. Kate Adams is sure her best friend and co-worker in Herbal Research did not commit suicide. Can she and Detective Parker discover the real truth regarding her death and will Kate find she has become a victime herself? Or will Kate discover that her friend did commit suicide while Kate herself ends up falling in love with the detective.
This is somewhat of a cross between a cozy mystery and a fast moving suspense read, but I still enjoyed it. I plan to read the other two in the series to see how things continue developing between Kate and Parker.
This is somewhat of a cross between a cozy mystery and a fast moving suspense read, but I still enjoyed it. I plan to read the other two in the series to see how things continue developing between Kate and Parker.
June 14, 2015
Deadly Devotion is the first book in the Port Aster Secrets series and is also the first book that I have read by Sandra Orchard. I definitely enjoyed it and will be reading more of her books in the future.
The author had me, and the main characters, guessing and following different leads throughout the entire book! Kate and Tom truly had their hands full. There were so many people and potential motives that these two had to sort through.
Deadly Devotion really captured my interest. I was very surprised at the way the author kept the twists and turns going throughout the story. I did, eventually, figure out the culprit, but it was only a few pages before the reveal. She kept me guessing for almost the entire book.
Kate and Tom have the possibility of attraction and of a potential romance in Deadly Devotion. There was often angst between the two, as well. If only they can get over their suspicions of each other and learn to trust again. They both make some judgment errors about each other and that created some serious tension in portions of the story.
This storyline had a lot of interesting information about natural remedies and teas. I really enjoyed the extra details and I feel that those pieces of information enhanced the story and brought Kate’s passion for tinctures to life for me. I’m looking forward to book two and the continuation of this series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, through NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
The author had me, and the main characters, guessing and following different leads throughout the entire book! Kate and Tom truly had their hands full. There were so many people and potential motives that these two had to sort through.
Deadly Devotion really captured my interest. I was very surprised at the way the author kept the twists and turns going throughout the story. I did, eventually, figure out the culprit, but it was only a few pages before the reveal. She kept me guessing for almost the entire book.
Kate and Tom have the possibility of attraction and of a potential romance in Deadly Devotion. There was often angst between the two, as well. If only they can get over their suspicions of each other and learn to trust again. They both make some judgment errors about each other and that created some serious tension in portions of the story.
This storyline had a lot of interesting information about natural remedies and teas. I really enjoyed the extra details and I feel that those pieces of information enhanced the story and brought Kate’s passion for tinctures to life for me. I’m looking forward to book two and the continuation of this series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, through NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
May 10, 2014
This should've been a terrific read. The concept is unique and fresh. But the police procedure is completely unbelievable. And the heroine comes off as a spoiled ditz.
At the very start, researcher Kate Adams rushes into the police station and castigates Detective Tom Parker for allowing the local newspaper to print an insulting story about her deceased friend having committed suicide. Apparently this college educated, professional young woman doesn't understand the police department does not manage, or instruct the news media on what to put in print. Then she demands the detective reopen the case. She also has a penchant for believing nearly everyone int he town has killed her friend at one time or another and the detective takes this seriously. It's hard to believe, as is told to us, that he was a former FBI agent.
At the very start, researcher Kate Adams rushes into the police station and castigates Detective Tom Parker for allowing the local newspaper to print an insulting story about her deceased friend having committed suicide. Apparently this college educated, professional young woman doesn't understand the police department does not manage, or instruct the news media on what to put in print. Then she demands the detective reopen the case. She also has a penchant for believing nearly everyone int he town has killed her friend at one time or another and the detective takes this seriously. It's hard to believe, as is told to us, that he was a former FBI agent.
February 22, 2017
It has been a while since I have read this, but I remember enjoying it a lot! It was a good mystery with lots of twists. I do know there was something content wise, but I don't remember what. . . LOL! I know, super helpful review! :)
May 7, 2018
I don't understand why... I couldn't figure this one out! Although I had lots of suspects and suspicions. The author did a stupendous job with the spiritual, romance, and mystery aspect in this novel. Kate and Tom were so cute together! I recommend to any fellow murder mystery readers!
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August 19, 2022DNF - this type of suspense is just not my cup of tea.
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October 19, 2024
A reread…this book wasn’t bad. It just wasn’t for me. It was boring at times with all the things about plants. So unfortunately this was an okay read for me.
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June 12, 2013Deadly Devotion - A Review
Research scientist, Kate Adams, is shocked when her mentor dies suddenly in what the police have ruled as a suicide. Kate knows that Daisy didn't kill herself and is determined that the police re-open the case. Former FBI agent Tom Parker is reluctant to reopen the case. Yet when he discovers Kate investigating on her own, he unofficially reopens the case. As Kate and Tom investigate, someone feels that Kate has stumbled too close to the truth and wants her silenced - forever. Can Tom protect Kate before it's too late?
I'm not sure if this is the first book of Sandra Orchard's that I've read or not. I may have read some of her Love Inspired Suspense novels a while back, but I just don't know. I do know I enjoyed this book. I had my own list of suspects and one second I'd be like "oh such and such did it." Then the next chapter, I'd change my mind. So I really had no clue who was the guilty party, which was a good thing. I loved Tom's Dad. I think he was my favorite character in the book. This is a fast paced story. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received the Kindle version of the book from Revell Books via NetGalley for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of romantic suspense, Love Inspiried suspense, Irene Hannon
Rating - 4 stars
Available June 2013 at local bookstores from Revell Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group
Research scientist, Kate Adams, is shocked when her mentor dies suddenly in what the police have ruled as a suicide. Kate knows that Daisy didn't kill herself and is determined that the police re-open the case. Former FBI agent Tom Parker is reluctant to reopen the case. Yet when he discovers Kate investigating on her own, he unofficially reopens the case. As Kate and Tom investigate, someone feels that Kate has stumbled too close to the truth and wants her silenced - forever. Can Tom protect Kate before it's too late?
I'm not sure if this is the first book of Sandra Orchard's that I've read or not. I may have read some of her Love Inspired Suspense novels a while back, but I just don't know. I do know I enjoyed this book. I had my own list of suspects and one second I'd be like "oh such and such did it." Then the next chapter, I'd change my mind. So I really had no clue who was the guilty party, which was a good thing. I loved Tom's Dad. I think he was my favorite character in the book. This is a fast paced story. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received the Kindle version of the book from Revell Books via NetGalley for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of romantic suspense, Love Inspiried suspense, Irene Hannon
Rating - 4 stars
Available June 2013 at local bookstores from Revell Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group
November 26, 2013
I am a huge tea drinker, but Sandra Orchard’s latest suspense series, the Port Aster Secrets, now has me questioning every ingredient that fills my teabags. The titles of the teas on my canisters all sound delightful, but after reading the first book in Sandra’s series, Deadly Devotion, I have to question what exactly goes into my African Autumn Surprise teabags…eeeek!
Deadly Devotion is the first book in a three-book mystery series in which a romance arcs the series, along with an underlying suspense plot. The heroine of the series, Kate Adams, is a research scientist who knows her herbs. She knows which ones are deadly and which ones could go undetected in an autopsy. But knowing this doesn’t mean she’s safe from their poison–especially when she starts sniffing more than tea leaves. She’s putting her nose where it doesn’t belong, and her amateur sleuthing is going to get her into trouble. Will the handsome FBI agent-turned cop, Tom Parker, be able to help her out? All I will say is they make a great team, and I am looking forward to Book Two, Blind Trust, releasing in January.
Deadly Devotion is the first book in a three-book mystery series in which a romance arcs the series, along with an underlying suspense plot. The heroine of the series, Kate Adams, is a research scientist who knows her herbs. She knows which ones are deadly and which ones could go undetected in an autopsy. But knowing this doesn’t mean she’s safe from their poison–especially when she starts sniffing more than tea leaves. She’s putting her nose where it doesn’t belong, and her amateur sleuthing is going to get her into trouble. Will the handsome FBI agent-turned cop, Tom Parker, be able to help her out? All I will say is they make a great team, and I am looking forward to Book Two, Blind Trust, releasing in January.
July 31, 2017
This book went in circles. Kate suspects a person, follows or stalks that person, determines that person is innocent and then suspects that individual again. It got very tiresome after a while.
Tom is quite the bumbling detective, especially for a guy who used to be in the FBI. He's just not very good at crime fighting.
The mystery was not as thrilling as I thought it would be. I solved the crime almost immediately and it annoyed me that it took Kate and Tom so long to catch up.
I also didn't like the ending. It seemed like it left too much hanging. I'm not sure I'll bother reading the rest of the series.
Tom is quite the bumbling detective, especially for a guy who used to be in the FBI. He's just not very good at crime fighting.
The mystery was not as thrilling as I thought it would be. I solved the crime almost immediately and it annoyed me that it took Kate and Tom so long to catch up.
I also didn't like the ending. It seemed like it left too much hanging. I'm not sure I'll bother reading the rest of the series.
June 30, 2013
Deadly Devotion by Sandra Orchard is a book about the lengths one will go to in an effort to prove their friend did not commit suicide. Kate Adams is determined that her friend Daisy was murdered, but the police have labeled it accidental. She knows they're wrong and embarks on a search to prove it. In the process she needs help from Tom Parker, a former FBI agent who is trying to settle back into life in Port Aster. The book is filled with suspects, clue, and bits of romance. I had suspicious about who the killer was, but the reason surprised me. A very enjoyable romantic mystery.
July 6, 2023
This was an intriguing read. The mystery kept me guessing and even though I figured the likely bad guy, I couldn’t figure out motive.
There was a good, Christian theme woven through the entire book.
The romance is slow and almost an enemies-to-lovers (almost).
I loved that the mystery was hinged on herbs. That gave it a nice twist.
There was a good, Christian theme woven through the entire book.
The romance is slow and almost an enemies-to-lovers (almost).
I loved that the mystery was hinged on herbs. That gave it a nice twist.
August 6, 2015
Zero stars if I could have. Characters are unlikeable, jumping to stupid conclusions without trying to get any real information. There are good romantic suspense novels out there, but this isn't one of them.
February 16, 2016
Fun read
This book was a fun read. I loved learning about herbs as they delved into what killed Daisy. The story line reminded me of the old time damsel in distress but this time her distress is by her own making.
This book was a fun read. I loved learning about herbs as they delved into what killed Daisy. The story line reminded me of the old time damsel in distress but this time her distress is by her own making.
Read
July 31, 2015I have not finish this book -- gave up on it before the half-way point. I may try it again later, but right now it is just not keeping my interest.
March 25, 2025
(Clean Christian Fiction Mystery/Suspense)
*Full Review*
Another reread of mine!
I think this may have been my first suspense novel I have ever read.. it made me see a whole other world of fiction that I had no idea about.. why wasn’t I told about this?!!
I’ve had lots of recommendations of suspense; but if y’all have any favorites, do tell! What’s one genre that you had no idea about and now love to read?
Ok, so the mystery and suspense? Great!
The main characters? Awesome!
The hint of a romance brewing? Amazing!
This is an easy five stars for me.
I loved that this mystery was solved within the first book and that it’s not going to continue into the rest of the series. Although, it does start little mysteries at the end of this book that do continue into the second book; but I wouldn’t say that this was a cliffhanger.
The oh, so lovable spiritual content in this book was really refreshing.
I adore Kate and Tom. They are just so cute when they are trying to be professional! Kate, above all, in denial ;and Tom being all protective and gruff-like. And did I mention he’s a detective?! That’s an immediate yes for me, guys. Detective MMC’s are so fun!
I would totally recommend! All murder mystery girlies would love this book. Even if you don’t exactly love murder mysteries, I would 100% tell you to give it a try, at least!
⚠️ Age recommendation: 15+ ⚠️
My rating: 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
Ages 10-12 rating: ⭐️
Ages 13-14 rating: ⭐️⭐️
Ages 15-16 rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sexual Content:
Two thumbs to lips touches, some embraces, and light touches. Nearness, Noticing, Smelling, Blushing, and Winks.
Mentions of reputations and flirting. A gossip asks a man if a guy and a girl were doing “you know… in the middle of the day?” (They didn’t). Mentions of jealousy and a playboy. A couple forms of “hot”. A mentions of being sweet on someone and a mention of a man possibly liking Kate. Some love and falling in love.
Profanity:
Dumb and dumb are both said once. Four forms of stupid and shut up. Some unsaid cursing.
Violence:
All about toxic plants, poisons, and a murder. Quite a few mentions of marijuana, drugs, drugs-dealers, terrorist theories, and bombs. Death, blood, and pain are all mentioned. Many people thought the woman who was murdered committed suicide. An allergic reaction happened and Tom has some PTSD after a car bombing.
A mention of a person who threw up. Robberies, stealing, and thieves are mentioned. A mention of wanting to throw a punch at someone and actually doing it (self defense and trying to protect someone).
POV’s: Switch between-
Kate Adams and
Tom Parker
374 pages
I completely loved this book and am looking forward to reading reviewing the rest of the series!
*Full Review*
Another reread of mine!
I think this may have been my first suspense novel I have ever read.. it made me see a whole other world of fiction that I had no idea about.. why wasn’t I told about this?!!
I’ve had lots of recommendations of suspense; but if y’all have any favorites, do tell! What’s one genre that you had no idea about and now love to read?
Ok, so the mystery and suspense? Great!
The main characters? Awesome!
The hint of a romance brewing? Amazing!
This is an easy five stars for me.
I loved that this mystery was solved within the first book and that it’s not going to continue into the rest of the series. Although, it does start little mysteries at the end of this book that do continue into the second book; but I wouldn’t say that this was a cliffhanger.
The oh, so lovable spiritual content in this book was really refreshing.
I adore Kate and Tom. They are just so cute when they are trying to be professional! Kate, above all, in denial ;and Tom being all protective and gruff-like. And did I mention he’s a detective?! That’s an immediate yes for me, guys. Detective MMC’s are so fun!
I would totally recommend! All murder mystery girlies would love this book. Even if you don’t exactly love murder mysteries, I would 100% tell you to give it a try, at least!
⚠️ Age recommendation: 15+ ⚠️
My rating: 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
Ages 10-12 rating: ⭐️
Ages 13-14 rating: ⭐️⭐️
Ages 15-16 rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sexual Content:
Two thumbs to lips touches, some embraces, and light touches. Nearness, Noticing, Smelling, Blushing, and Winks.
Mentions of reputations and flirting. A gossip asks a man if a guy and a girl were doing “you know… in the middle of the day?” (They didn’t). Mentions of jealousy and a playboy. A couple forms of “hot”. A mentions of being sweet on someone and a mention of a man possibly liking Kate. Some love and falling in love.
Profanity:
Dumb and dumb are both said once. Four forms of stupid and shut up. Some unsaid cursing.
Violence:
All about toxic plants, poisons, and a murder. Quite a few mentions of marijuana, drugs, drugs-dealers, terrorist theories, and bombs. Death, blood, and pain are all mentioned. Many people thought the woman who was murdered committed suicide. An allergic reaction happened and Tom has some PTSD after a car bombing.
A mention of a person who threw up. Robberies, stealing, and thieves are mentioned. A mention of wanting to throw a punch at someone and actually doing it (self defense and trying to protect someone).
POV’s: Switch between-
Kate Adams and
Tom Parker
374 pages
I completely loved this book and am looking forward to reading reviewing the rest of the series!
November 12, 2021
This was an interesting read for sure! I’ve never really read a book about toxic plants so this was definitely different than what I typically read. I’ve always liked mysteries so I decided to give it a go.
I really liked Kate. She was a sweet character. I love how she wanted to believe the best in people even when they were all giving her reason to doubt them (like seriously, how on earth would you know how to trust anyone when they acted like that??) I was totally clueless!!
Tom was also a great guy. He’s more of a serious guy but I still liked him.
I really liked the faith content too. It wasn’t a lot but still there.
There were a few times I got a bit bored because things kept leading to dead ends. But overall, there was enough action and suspense to keep me reading. I think I’ll continue the trilogy since there’s still some things left unresolved and I’m interested in the rest of Kate and Tom’s story.
I really liked Kate. She was a sweet character. I love how she wanted to believe the best in people even when they were all giving her reason to doubt them (like seriously, how on earth would you know how to trust anyone when they acted like that??) I was totally clueless!!
Tom was also a great guy. He’s more of a serious guy but I still liked him.
I really liked the faith content too. It wasn’t a lot but still there.
There were a few times I got a bit bored because things kept leading to dead ends. But overall, there was enough action and suspense to keep me reading. I think I’ll continue the trilogy since there’s still some things left unresolved and I’m interested in the rest of Kate and Tom’s story.
December 14, 2019
3.5 rounded up.
I enjoyed this book while reading it. I hadn't guessed the ending and who had done it, but I'm not very good at that usually. I liked the main characters, though the main police man was not very good at his job (or at least it felt that way for most of the book, his retired police man Dad was much more convincing).
My main complaint was it felt too long. There were parts where the pacing felt off. The ending in particular felt very unsatisfying, though I'm guessing this same case in continued in the sequel and might be wrapped up better later.
Overall, it was enjoyable. I would probably recommend Sandra Orchard's Serena Jones series over this one so far.
I enjoyed this book while reading it. I hadn't guessed the ending and who had done it, but I'm not very good at that usually. I liked the main characters, though the main police man was not very good at his job (or at least it felt that way for most of the book, his retired police man Dad was much more convincing).
My main complaint was it felt too long. There were parts where the pacing felt off. The ending in particular felt very unsatisfying, though I'm guessing this same case in continued in the sequel and might be wrapped up better later.
Overall, it was enjoyable. I would probably recommend Sandra Orchard's Serena Jones series over this one so far.
May 25, 2020
This was ok. It very much leaves you hanging, which I didn't like. It felt like the last chapter was missing, not just "leaves you wanting more." Overall, it wasn't the best constructed mystery. There were LOTS of rabbit trails. I may or may not read the rest of the series.
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