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Stay With Me

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Abandoned - Liz Bradford
Police officer Zara Grant, new to Hazel Hill, struggles to let people close, however fellow officer Will Cooper is sneaking his way in. But will he abandon her like everyone else in her life? After all, he abandoned his dream of becoming a detective. Won't he give up on her too?
As the threats from a former arrestee turn into a break-in at Zara’s house while she’s gone, she’s left to wonder what the invader will do if he comes back? Can she trust Will to help protect her, or will he abandon her to face this alone?

Ascending Hope - Sara Blackard
Emmy's thirst for adventure takes her to new heights in Ascending Hope, a heart-stopping romantic suspense by Sara Blackard. As a product tester for a top mountaineering equipment company, Emmy's latest test is a perilous climb up a dangerous Alaskan mountain with her enigmatic boss, Bradley. As they face the sizzling heat and treacherous conditions, their attraction ignites, but the mountain has other plans. Will their love survive the deadly journey, or will their pasts come back to haunt them? Find out in this thrilling page-turner that's sure to leave you breathless.

Runaway - Jennifer Pierce
Ryan McGregor is on the run from a deadly family and hiding out in a small town thanks to extended family he's never met. Bethany Wilkinson always comes second but now she's number one on a hit list. Bethany will have to risk it all on a runaway and her faith in the plan God has for her if she's going to stay alive. And if Ryan can do the same, it might be the one shot he has to finally be free.

Rodeo Sabotage - Kari Trumbo
Jase Wheaton has one thing on his mind, a perfect 8 second ride—until someone in the crowd sends his bull into a fury. Twice. No one believes his life is in danger except the EMT who saved him. The clock is ticking before his final ride of the season, but will it be the last of his life? Everyone’s a suspect when the threat could come from anyone in the crowd. Even his best friend might be his worst enemy.

691 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2023

322 people are currently reading
152 people want to read

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Liz Bradford

22 books128 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
Profile Image for Kelly.
Author 10 books139 followers
July 3, 2023
4 novels. 4 authors. 1 volume. Amazing suspense.
Stay With Me has something for everyone! This series lets you read your favorite authors while discovering new ones. Jennifer Pierce, Kari Trumbo, Liz Bradford and Sara Blackard all have novels in this collection – and I like that these aren’t novellas, so readers get a full story from each author. Plus it’s on Kindle Unlimited. But these stories are all a nice blend of romance and suspense. I’m looking forward to the next volume!
531 reviews4 followers
June 10, 2023
Emmy Glenn loves her job testing outdoor equipment for Ascent Inc. Her boss is Bradley Jacob and he has OCD and of course Emmy is disorganized and carefree. Brad had a major fall from mountain climbing at Mt. Denali last year. He is in a major funk so Emmy decided to pull a prank on him to get him to loosen up. She had dyed snow all different colors and applied it to his Range Rover. He was not happy at all when he saw that prank. They were both scheduled to go on another mountain climb to test the suit Brad had developed. Brad struggled getting back on the mountainside but Emmy was there to support and challenge him.

Stephen had been Brad’s partner at one time but he was a weasel and had stole Brad’s design. He was doing the same mountaintop as Brad and Emmy, but unfortunately he had trouble. Who was the employee of Brad’s that helped Stephen get the design? Can Brad overcome his fears? Will Emmy get what she really wants?

This is the second novel in this book and I want more books out of these characters.

I received this ARC for free from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Beth .
188 reviews
June 12, 2023
I finished all four stories in this collection and have to say that I enjoyed them all. I have read several of Liz's and Sara's books previously but two authors were new to me. I have already downloaded one title of Kari's to my Kindle and will be checking out Jennifer as well.
I received this ARC for free from one of the authors, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Beth - ;)
in Calgary

704 reviews
June 11, 2023
Four books in one! Romantic mysteries at their finest. Well written stories to keep you turning the pages. I recommend this book to all who like romantic mystery.
Profile Image for Ethelann.
422 reviews
June 20, 2023
The Stay With Me collection was a great set of stories. Just the right length and action. All the stories kept you turning pages and guessing which is a plus for me. You won't be sorry reading this set. And I'm excited for the other 2 sets when they release.
I received this ARC free from the author(s), and I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Allyson Anthony.
1,141 reviews47 followers
June 5, 2023
Volume 1 of this series was so fantastic. Each story had a well crafted plot, romance, wonderful characters, and danger.
41 reviews
June 20, 2023
Abandoned by Liz Bradford
Zara Grant, a new police officer in Hazel Hill, has felt abandoned by people in her early life in Indianapolis including her father who locked her in her closet when fighting with her mother. Will Cooper wanted to be a detective but didn't finish college. Friends thought he was just a goof off who had great ideas but couldn't follow through on long term dreams. He is one of two police officers Zara bonds with, and he helps Zara become a stronger Christian in her faith walk. The attraction between Will and Zara and her faith will hopefully sustain her as she deals with abusers who seek to end her life. Will she accept new love in her life? Will she finally find her place in a family? A good book that deals will fear of being alone and following through with lifelong goals.

Ascending Hope by Sara Blackard
Emmy Glenn, who has ADHD, and her boss Brad Jacobs, who has OCD are complete opposites in behavior, Emmy is messy but extremely quick to help Ascent Inc. test new equipment products for mountaineering. Brad even organizes paper clips by size. But their love of mountain climbing especially in Alaska brings them together to conquer a new part of the Moose's Traverse mountain, test a new climbers suit, and continue to learn how to manage a new relationship together. But someone at Ascent is helping Brad's ex-partner by supplying information on new products being tested. Can all conquer the mountain and survive or will the mountain claim more lives for herself? A good book with lots of heart stopping action.

Runaway by Jennifer Pierce
Ryan McGregor came to Willowdale to hide from the Bellano Mob family after hearing damaging information and witnessing a situation that led to murder. Bethany Wilkinson, a nurse/receptionist to the only doctor in town, is confronted in the office by a hooded scarred man who attacks the doctor. Later at lunch, Ryan intervenes after witnessing the doctor grabbing her arm aggressively to keep her from contacting the police. When the doctor doesn't show up the next day for work, Bethany and Ryan go to the doctor's home and discover not the doctor but a body. Bethany and Ryan must trust the Lord while trying to not become victims. Will their faith in each other and the police prevent tragedy just when they have found each other? A good book with situations that could be deadly.

Rodeo Sabotage by Kari Trumbo
With one more win Jase Wheaton, a three time rodeo champion, will have enough money to help his family establish a ranch that will help rehabilitate former bull riders who have been injured. But someone is  determined to keep him from that goal. Kelly Laine, an EMT in Las Vegas, was at the rodeo and quickly rushes to help Jase when he is thrown from an out-of-control bull. She noticed something odd just moments before Jase is injured. Later she has a car accident which could have been fatal. Are these two things connected? Will the police believe them after several mishaps occur? Can Jase and Kelly protect each other and maybe find love? A good book that has several possible suspects capable of committing murder.

I am an ARC reviewer who received this box set free from one of the authors. This review is in my own words and expresses my own opinion of each book. Enjoy!
1,287 reviews
June 12, 2023
Stay With Me is a compilation of four Christian romantic suspense novels. This is the first book in the Summer Heat Series published by Two Dogs Publishing, LLC. This series contains 12 stories written by 12 different authors.

Each of the stories in Stay With Me are stories that are full of action, suspense, mystery with touches of romance. They are each well written and easy to imagine. They are hard to put down stories that are the perfect length to read in a long evening. I just loved how descriptive most of the stories are. The stories show the importance of prayer and faith.

Abandoned by Liz Bradford pulled me in right away. This is a high action story that is filled with twist and turns. I liked how the three childhood friends were able to put their past behind them to help keep Zara safe. I liked how Zara kept in touch and witnesses to a domestic dispute victim. I enjoyed seeing how Zara and Will’s relationship grew. This is a reminder of how powerful prayer is. And how turning to God can help heal long term scars.

Ascending Hope by Sara Blackard is a high energy story with humor written in it as well. I like how spunky and energetic Emmy is. Yet when she knows she’s gone to far, she is quick to make it right. I especially like the character of Bradley, her boss. He has overcome his mother abandoning him and feels great love for his adoptive parents. I appreciate how he turns to his father for advice with dealing with his OCD. I like how he put much thought into making sure he didn’t start a relationship that would not last.

Runaway by Jennifer Pierce is filled with suspense mystery and lots of twists and turns. I like how fast Bethany and Ryan become friends. When she needs help, he is there for her. I especially enjoy the deep faith she has and how she deals with feelings she has of her family. Just when Ryan feels he is safe, he pulled back into the mob he is running from.

Rodeo Sabotage by Kari Trumbo is definitely my favorite of these four stories. It is filled with action, suspense, mystery and growing friendship. I found it very hard to put this story down. The characters are such caring people and have the need to help others. I enjoyed learning of the myth behind red and bulls and what the truth really is. This story is so filled with twists and turns and so many bad things happening to Kelly and Jace. It is only by God’s protection that they were able to stay safe.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.
7 reviews1 follower
June 23, 2023
Stay with Me is a four books in one compilation. This is a wonderful way to discover new authors!! All 4 books are romantic suspense that are clean and well written.
Abandoned by Liz Bradford (Bk 1)
I enjoyed this book. The action starts right away and keeps you guessing throughout the entire book. As the title suggests, the book deals with abandonment issues and the effects of childhood neglect and trauma. Liz Bradford was a new author to me but I will be checking out other books of hers in the future!
Ascending Hope by Sara Blackard (Bk 2)
I have been looking forward to Emmy’s story ever since meeting her in Dax and Rory’s story in Wild About Rory. It was also nice to get to know Brad more, having met him in Meeting up with the Consultant. Once again, Sara Blackard did not disappoint! I have loved every book of hers that I’ve ever read (which is all of them in print). She creates fabulous characters and storylines that hook you from the very beginning and make it very difficult to put the book down. I love her way with words and how she weaves such intreging adventures. In this book, I really appreicated that real life issues of OCD and ADHD were tackled with honesty and humour. Ascending Hope was a wonderful blend of action and mystery combined with good conversation and introspection that allowed me to feel like I knew the characters. I didn’t want their story to end!! (And I am definitely hoping that more books are written to finish other stories that were introduced!) I highly recommed this book.
Runaway by Jennifer Pierce (Bk 3)
This book starts right into the action and carries readers through several twists and turns. While Ryan is knowingly on the run from powerful people that want him dead; Bethany soon finds herself surprisingly also on the run from the unknown as her entire life is upended. I enjoyed reading this book.
Rodeo Sabotage by Kari Trumbo (Bk 4)
As the title indicates, someone is trying to sabotage Jase’s chances of winning the bull riding championship. The EMT that jumps into the arena to help save him gets dragged into his chaos and together they are racing to stay alive. This book kept me guessing as to who the real culprit was which is something that I always appreciate and isn’t necessarily easy to do! I would read this author again.
Profile Image for Sarah.
575 reviews8 followers
June 22, 2023
FABULOUS SUMMER SUSPENSE SERIES‼️

The only thing better than one new romantic suspense is 4-in one book… and then x3!!! I was so excited when I saw this new series and the lineup of authors. And then I started reading Stay With Me, the 1st novel, Abandoned, by Liz Bradford… OH. MY. GOODNESS! It’s the next Hazel Hill book!! How did I totally miss that!?!? If, like me, you are already addicted to the series, and a HUGE fan, you are in for a treat. If you haven’t been to all of the wonderful elements of Hazel Hill, you will still enjoy Abandoned, but will probably be grabbing all of the previous books to read.

The book, or author, that I was most excited about was Sara Blackard’s Ascending Hope. And it lived up to ALL of my expectations. I love how all of her books are interconnected, including this new one. I always enjoy Sara Blackard’s characters, but Emmy and Bradley… they are just EXTRA special. They both totally stole my heart.

WHOAH!!!! Runaway! WOW! Jennifer Pierce is a new discovery for me. All of her books have been added to my TBR list! Fabulous characters and storyline-this book has it all!

Hang on to your hat-your COWBOY hat-for the final romantic suspense. Kari Trumbo always keeps me glued to the pages until the very end. And Rodeo Sabotage has as many twists and turns as the bulls that Jase rides!

I loved every romantic suspense novel in Stay With Me and am going RIGHT NOW to make sure that I have the next Summer Heat book on pre-order!
Profile Image for Esther Plant.
62 reviews2 followers
June 19, 2023
Abandoned by Liz Bradford
Refreshing to read a story about healing after it has already begun. Zara’s emotional and spiritual maturity, even as new traumas arise, is beautiful and uplifting. She is not without scars and the road to healing feels endless to her, but from the objective perspective of the reader it is easy to see how much she has already grown. Rather than being a heart breaking story of pain, it has me cheering her own with excitement and anticipation. I would love to hear more about the side characters, particularly the two best friends who clearly have a messy history. They would be an excellent focus for a sequel.

Ascending Hope by Sara Blackard
Always excited to read her work, Sara Blackard had me hook by the second chapter. ADHD has a crush on OCD, good luck folks! Its the sort of fire and ice pairing that is either doomed from the start, or gets past the initial hurdles and becomes an inseparable, unstoppable force. I’m already in love with them both!
I love the fact that Brad is an adventurous outdoorsy person, which defies the stereotype of people with OCD only existing in the 9-5, office-worker world. Although it might at first sound ridiculous for someone with OCD to not only survive the unpredictability of extreme sports but to thrive on them, Sara has done an excellent job of showing how Brad’s passion for mountain climbing coexists with (and in fact helps him manage) his need for orderliness and control.

The last two books in the collection really weren’t for me.
Profile Image for Sharon S.
985 reviews6 followers
June 15, 2023
Such a wonderful collection of mystery suspense stories.
Abandoned - Liz Bradford
This is a wonderful book in a series but can be read as a stand-alone.
Liz Bradford weaves a tender story for Zara and Will. Zara suffers from and abusive childhood and is a fairly new Christian. Will helps with her struggles as they grow closer as a couple even when things get dangerous for her.

Ascending Hope - Sara Blackard
This can be read as a stand-alone even though it is part of a series by Sara Blackard.
Emmy has a crush on her boss whose OCD has gotten worse since his accident. Neither wants to chance losing their friendship by trying for more. They are also trying to discover who the mole is that is giving information to the company’s rival.
Heartwarming story about taking chances and overcoming demons.

Runaway - Jennifer Pierce

Bethany works for Dr. Ramsey when a strange disfigured man comes in and assaults both of them, but he won’t let her call the police. Ryan is her neighbor and stops the doctor when he’s hurting her in the restaurant. Ryan is in hiding from the mob after seeing something he shouldn’t. Bethany’s side of the duplex is broken into and Ryan comes to her rescue.
When the mob come after them they have to join forces to try to stay alive.

Rodeo Sabotage - Kari Trumbo

Jase is a champion bull rider but someone is out to kill him. Kelly is a EMT working the rodeo when Jase gets hurt.
Things get complicated when her car is sabotaged, then more threats continue for both of them. They can’t figure out who and why they are being targeted.
*I received this book as an ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.
Profile Image for Amy.
1,477 reviews5 followers
June 22, 2023
stay with me …

Ascending hope by Sara Blackard
Loved the story of Emmy and Brad. The amount of trust they have in one another was so sweet. The thrill they got from scaling mountains and again trusting each other with their lives . Brad and Emmy were so endearing in this story. I enjoyed reading about them.

The rest of the stories in this collection were equally just as good. With danger lurking but always with a happy ending and always someone to lean on. All in all this anthology was great.
Profile Image for MaryEllen.
2,893 reviews29 followers
June 11, 2023
This is my voluntary review of a copy I received from the publisher.

As will all anthologies, there were some stories I liked more than others, but all four high-action suspenseful stories were well written. They all had wonderful characters and plots.

While the stories varied in their angst level, the underlying romances were all sweet and most of the characters professed a Christ-centered belief.
124 reviews3 followers
June 27, 2023
Must read!

If you are looking for a clean read with Christian undertones then this is a great choice! While the stories are not "related" the mesh together really well and you will not be able to put them down, at least I wasn't. Enjoy, and good job ladies!
827 reviews3 followers
June 28, 2023
Four books by separate authors.

Books 1&2 didn't draw me in and I almost didn't continue. The last three books drew me in immediately and kept my interest throughout. Well written with relatable characters, there was romance and plenty of suspense.
Profile Image for Bonnie Boord.
4 reviews
July 1, 2023
Good stories but ..

All four stories were good reads, but A sending Hope could barely be considered Christian, clean yes, but faith and Christ or Jesus seem ed to be left and unmarried people should not be purposely share a room
Profile Image for Diane Higgins.
652 reviews12 followers
June 22, 2023
"Stay With Me" is a collection of four novels written by four excellent authors. I enjoyed all of the stories. They were interesting and engaging. I look forward to reading more books by these authors.
Profile Image for Sherry Deatrick.
642 reviews24 followers
June 22, 2023
I definitely recommend this first book in the Summer Heat series! This review is mainly for Ascending Hope, the third in the four novels in Stay with Me, a Christian Romantic suspense collection. All of these novels were engaging, suspenseful, romantic and unique.

Ascending Hope by Sara Blackard involves Bradley (who has OCD) the boss of an outdoor equipment company and Emmy who works for him and who is unorganized and plucky. Bradley is having trouble getting back in the game after a climbing accident.
Bradley and Emmy end up climbing a very tough trek up a mountain in difficult weather conditions. Lots of heart stopping moments here!
Bradley’s OCD plays a large part in this story. I love how he goes to his dad for advice with it.
There is a mystery involved and some humorous moments. And I loved learning so much about mountain climbing and OCD.
Thank you to the author who provided me with the book. The opinions are entirely my own.
Profile Image for Anika.
662 reviews5 followers
June 19, 2023
This is a review for Sara Blackard's book 'Ascending Hope'.

Whoa!!! This was just awesome! It kept me riveting all the way through. You'll be swept away by the interesting storyline, captivating characters and heart-melting moments that'll leave you craving more.
This book got all I was looking for, such a good, beautiful and amazing romance. This book was such a joy to read and was impossible to put down.
342 reviews3 followers
June 26, 2023
Half good

The second and third story were very good. For me Jennifer Pierce’s story was the best. It had good intrigue and a nice romance. I’m not in rodeo stories at all. The first one need work. Sara Blackard’s story was good.
216 reviews4 followers
June 20, 2023
Four nice books in one volume. Four books that will keep you guessing. They all are well written and engaging. This collection introduced me to a couple new authors that I will be looking for more from in the future. I received an ARC of this book from one of the authors and am leaving this review voluntarily.
775 reviews6 followers
June 18, 2023
I've read the first story, Abandoned. It was a very captivating story about two people that are both trying to find themselves after some traumatic experiences in their lives. They're both working in trust issues and faith. I plan to read the other stories and update my review as I complete them.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
10 reviews
June 18, 2023
Suspense filled!

It was an honor to be an advance reader of this amazing book! I mean, what more can a Christian fiction suspense lover ask for but a book with not only one but four great authors??? I recommend you order this book right away!!!
1,619 reviews8 followers
June 18, 2023
Perfect summer reading! You get a collection of four stories from different authors all having story lines that pull you right in. As soon I finished the first book Abandoned I was hooked and continued with Ascending Hope and then Runaway and Rodeo Sabotage. Cannot wait for the next collection!
Profile Image for Lily.
Author 4 books16 followers
June 16, 2023
Each story had me turning the pages. A great start some great series.
Profile Image for Robin.
Author 3 books29 followers
September 6, 2023
Good Stories and Interesting Plots

In this lineup of inspirational, suspense, romance stories, I liked Sara Blackard's best for the intensity of the action. Kari Trumbo's story was probably the one that had me second-guessing the villain's identity the most. The romance was also sweet. Jennifer Pierce's story ties for second favorite with Kari's. I loved her characters and how the story rolled. Liz Bradford's story placed third for me. I've just had a hard time reading her books. The stories are written well, but there's just something about them that seems to be a struggle for me. I think, if you enjoy these kinds of stories, you'll enjoy this collection.
Profile Image for Jane.
283 reviews16 followers
August 24, 2023
meh…okay

I gave it this rating bc 3 of the novels were entertaining enough to read through to the end, but one of them I didn’t even finish (the one by Jennifer Pierce). They were okay, but that’s really all I can say about them. Not the best work of any of the other 3 authors.
227 reviews6 followers
June 20, 2023
I enjoyed each of the four books in the Stay with Me set. Some of them kept me reading late into the night more than others, but they were all enjoyable.

Abandoned by Liz Bradford – In this book, Will has to decide that there are some things worth sticking around for, and Zara has to learn that God will never abandon her and that she can trust Will to be there for her. In their journey, they deal with danger and attacks and decide that God is there for them and that they can trust each other.

Ascending Hope by Sara Blackard – This is such a good book with a lot of adventure and heart-pounding kisses, as well as a lot of laughs along the way! Emmy is somewhat scattered and laid back in her approach to things, although she does take her climbing and equipment seriously. Brad has OCD, so they are opposites in a lot of ways. However, they both love to climb and have always done well climbing together. They have been friends for several years, but they admit their feelings for each other before the big climb - and the kissing commences! This book has a lot of danger and adventure in their world of climbing - now to survive that big climb!

Runaway by Jennifer Pierce – Ryan is trying to lie low in a new small town, since the Mob is looking for him. Bethany has several things happen that put her in danger, and her next-door neighbor Ryan is having a hard time staying out of everyone’s notice as he tries to help Bethany. Ryan and Bethany have to learn that God knows what is going on, and He has a plan for them. This is a sweet romantic suspense as Ryan and Bethany try to navigate their way through the danger that keeps coming for them.

Rodeo Sabotage by Kari Trumbo – Oh, so very good! Jase apparently has someone who is trying to keep him from winning another bull-riding championship. Kelly is an EMT who helps Jase and manages to get in on the danger, as well. This is an exciting story of finding love while navigating the attempts against them. The story is well-written, and the author did a wonderful job of keeping my attention all the way through! Truly enjoyable!
775 reviews6 followers
June 23, 2023
I've read the first story, Abandoned. It was a very captivating story about two people that are both trying to find themselves after some traumatic experiences in their lives. They're both working in trust issues and faith. I plan to read the other stories and update my review as I complete them.
Ascending Hope is an epic story set in Alaska. Emmy and Bradley are avid mountain climbers. Bradley is also the owner of a mountaineering equipment company. Emmy does the testing of equipment submitted to them for worthiness. Brad has designed a new suit for climbers. He and Emmy are going to test it on some extremely rugged mountains in Alaska. A heart pounding climb makes it extremely hard to put the book down.
Runaway by Jennifer Pierce is also a great fast paced story. Ryan is in hiding as the mob is after him and wants him dead. He moves to a small town where his mom had close friends that were willing to help him out. He meets his next door neighbor Bethany. She is a nurse and receptionist for the local doctor. Surprises start popping up all over the place after that. The Dr is not who they thought he was and then all heck breaks out. A very suspense filled story.
Rodeo Sabotage by Kari Trumbo is a heart pounding story about rodeo bull riding. Jase is a champion bull rider. Kelly is an EMT that was part of the ambulance team at the current rodeo in Las Vegas. This is the second time someone was able to spook the bull he was on. The suspense builds as Kelly has an unexpected accident, somebody cut the brake line on her car. How could the two incidents be connected? All four of these stories will really pull you in making you feel like you're right there dealing with the situation along side them.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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