Tactical Revival

Coastal Hope #4

by Jessica Ashley

A detective struggling to put down roots. A single mother fighting to make ends meet.

Former homicide detective Jaxson Payne knows a thing or two about starting over. His marriage imploded after he broke his back serving as a Marine overseas. He was told he’d never walk again. However, he was back on his feet within months, proving his resilience is only outmatched by his faith.

After moving to Hope Springs for a fresh start, he’s hoping to finally close the door on his past. But it seems the ghosts that still haunt Jaxson have followed him here, bringing danger to his front door.

Margot Anderson had her entire life planned out. Then her husband left her and their thirteen-year-old son. She’s spent the last year holding their lives together with prayers and a positive outlook, and then a former Marine moves into her B&B.

Jaxson Payne is everything she should avoid. He’s handsome. Strong. And her older brother’s best friend. But as danger sets its sights on her, Jaxson is her shield, making it clear that there is nothing he won’t sacrifice for her and her son.

If you are looking for a sizzling (but not spicy!) romantic suspense, with a protective Christian hero, a small town that protects their own, and a team of wounded veterans turned private security officers, then Tactical Revival is for you!

This Christian Romantic Suspense deals with:
-Coping with trauma
-Discovering your worth
-Seeking God in everything
-Healing from your past

The Coastal Hope series can be enjoyed in any order!

Genres: Audiobook, Christian Fiction, Christian, Romance, Suspense, Romantic Suspense, Mystery Thriller

344 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 26, 2024

About the author

Jessica is an Army veteran who lives in Texas with the love of her life and their three children.

After spending nearly a decade writing spicy paranormal and fantasy romance as a USA Today bestselling author, she felt the desire to do something completely different.

She will still tell heartbreakingly beautiful stories with strong women and protective men, but this time they will also feature the joy of faith, and the importance of following God in whatever journey He sets you on.

Reviews

[DevotedToHope · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Tactical Revival, Jessica Ashley delivers a dynamic blend of suspense, faith, and heartfelt romance, where the stakes are high, and the journey to healing is as intense as the danger lurking around every corner. It’s an immersive experience that makes you feel every twist and turn as Jaxson and Margot navigate their complex pasts and uncertain futures. With every challenge they face, their connection deepens, but so do the threats.

The character development in this novel is as layered as it is powerful. Jaxson’s journey from brokenness to redemption is both relatable and inspiring. His inner struggles with forgiveness and faith echo so many of our own battles. The quote, “God has always been there for me. Even during the darkest moments of my life, when I felt like I was walking the road alone, I knew He was there…”, resounded with me on a deeply personal level. It’s not just about the fight for survival but the fight for spiritual peace—a theme Jessica Ashley beautifully weaves throughout the narrative.

Margot’s strength as a single mother and her determination to shield her son from the world’s harsh realities make her a character you root for from the start. Despite everything life throws at her, she clings to hope and faith, a testament to the God-honoring truths that Jessica Ashley infuses into the story. The moment when Margot cries out, “Jesus please help me. I can’t do this. I can’t carry this alone,” is raw and real—a cry that so many of us have felt so many times.

Jessica Ashley crafts a dynamic blend of raw emotion, gripping action, and deep faith that radiates through it all. She doesn’t shy away from the grittiness of life’s struggles, but she also doesn’t leave her characters in the darkness. The narrative is fast-paced, yet it allows for reflective moments that make the characters' journeys even more profound. The descriptive passages pull you into the scenes, making Hope Springs feel like a place you’ve visited, full of people you know and care about … and don’t want to leave.

The themes of forgiveness and healing are central to the story, and Jessica Ashley tackles them with grace and depth. The line, “None of us deserve the forgiveness we receive… but Jesus loved us so much, He died for it,” encapsulates the heart of this novel. No matter how dark the path may seem, there is always hope and redemption waiting …

Tactical Revival is a story of second chances, faith renewed, and the unyielding love of a protective hero. If you’re looking for a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat while simultaneously uplifting your spirit, this is it. Whether you’re new to the series or a returning fan, this book stands strong on its own and leaves a lasting impact.
It’s a story that not only entertains but also invites readers to reflect on the profound intersections of faith and adversity in your own life.

While I’m excited to see where the series goes next, I’ll be reflecting on the rich insights into faith and resilience that Tactical Revival has shared.

I received a digital copy of Tactical Revival from the author. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

[Melmo2610 · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 rounded up to 5 for Goodreads. I am a firm fan of Jessica Ashley’s books and this one is fabulous. I love the way Jessica weaves her stories that make them near impossible to put down. I devoured this one! Margot and Jaxson are wonderful and the mystery they find themselves embroiled in was all kinds of intriguing. I am super stoked for Silas’s story!

I received a copy of this book from the author and it was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

[Lissa Ruck · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved Jaxson & Margot's heartachingly beautiful, sweet, caring, intense, loving, swoony story!!

[Kathie N · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finished in under 24 hours and I'm happy yet sad about it, I love this world and these people so much I just can't get enough and this book is no exception. I love the romance fix I get while also the Scripture being applied in real life scenarios and somtimes the connection I feel with what someone in the book is going through, I don't think I've ever read or connected with a series until I came across these, The way Margot handles being a single mom, and the way Jaxon goes through his emotions with his dad and ex wife is just so real! I can't wait to read the next and final book of this series, but saying goodbye to these people is just a bit heart breaking, I'm grateful I can reread these and revisit them though😊 10/10 would read again....and again😆

[Sarah Kessler · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved how this story showed the power and strength of forgiveness and how God can use it for our good to heal something we thought was too shattered to be repaired.
The characters feel alive and real. Their struggles and the mystery Jaxson is racing to solve before the clock runs out keep the story engaging and made it hard to put the book down for real life! Who needs to make dinner anyway?!?
I would highly recommend this story if you are looking for a thrilling story that will keep you entertained but also speak to your heart.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great plot, but a couple of name mix-ups later in the story line. I almost guessed the antagonist exactly, but not close enough to have it spoil things. I was still surprised at how the plot unfolded. If you’re looking for a clean, inspirational, suspense romance, then check this one out.

[Barbara Campbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

This continues to be one of my favorite series and I really loved Jaxson andMargot‘s story.

[Joanna White · Rating 4 out of 5]

Best of the series so far but disappointing ending?
I don’t know if I’m binge reading the series too much lately or what, but I called the bad guy from this one from the start, and so the ending was disappointing for me, more so than how the ending of book two was for me. But I LOOOOOOVED the characters in this one even better than the previous ones and I’ve really loved all of them. But for me, the characters in this, Margot and Jaxon being in the previous books so much really attached me to them. Their stories are also really touching, especially how they’re both divorced and have had their hearts broken, and I love Margot’s son. On top of that, Jaxon’s back story was absolutely heart wrenching, and being a child of two divorced parents who also saw the affects of divorce, I related to a lot of that stuff. I really do appreciate and have enjoyed these books.
For me, though the suspenseful plotline had the potential to be more thrilling but the author took it a different direction that made it feel so much less dramatic. The endings are still predictably the same—focusing on the same events and patterns the other books do.
Also, side note, but I found it odd that none of the Christians in this story EVER talked about the divorces Biblically. Everyone all seemed happy that Margot and Jaxon wanted to get together and even “expected it” but most Christians see divorce as bad and especially remarrying. I know one man who ended up divorced and got remarried and he and his new wife were literally kicked out of a church and not allowed in there because they were living in sin according to what that church said. Even for the two reasons listed in the Bible as okay to get a divorce, you still aren’t supposed to get remarried. I wouldn’t have cared what stance the author took on this, but for me, the part I didn’t like was that not one Christian character in this town even brought it up. No one debated, no one discussed it, no one read the Scripture about it. It was just … not mentioned, which came across as very odd. That didn’t dock a star for me, especially since I did relate to a lot of the divorce stuff in this and I appreciated the theme, but it was still weird.
I’m looking forward to the final book and it’s the one I wanted to read when I first started this series; I just genuinely hope the suspense is a bit more thrilling/exciting and not as predictable at the end!
Still, I do enjoy this author and this series, even if it seems like I’m complaining. As I said, the characters in this were the highlight for me – best characters so far and that’s saying a lot because I have LOVED all of them!
4.5 stars for me.

[Lettie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Margot's husband walked away from her and their son Matty a year ago, and now he's back, wanting to be back in their lives. Jaxson is new to town, living in her B&B, helping out with various maintenance projects around the place, and working with Margot's brother Michael and the team at Knight Security.
(I can't believe I didn't write this review once I finished...I'll do a quick read-through again tonight or tomorrow so I can finish this up for you guys! 7 February 2025)
Here's the REAL Review (I can't believe I didn't write this out earlier this week!!!)

OK. So we have Margot (sister of Michael from Knight Security) and Jaxson. They are both divorced: she from her husband who left her and Matty a year earlier, he from his wife who left him shortly after he returned from duty with a broken back. Jaxson has been living in Margot's B&B, and he CLEARLY has some feelings for her, but he isn't ready to figure them out (don't worry, Margot's got the same feelings going on but is all worried about Matty and what he would think).
As luck would have it, trouble once again comes to the quiet (well...not so quiet) town of Hope Springs, Maine...Jaxson is getting texts and calls from his long-lost dad, his brother, and his ex-wife and Chad, Margot's ex, comes back to town.
Jaxson is a former LAPD Detective, and there are suddenly several cases in town of missing girls/women, with a specific calling card being left at the scene. This is a clear reference to the serial killer he helped put away, but is it him or a copycat?
Then we have Lanetti, a young woman who works at the diner and CLEARLY is obsessed with Jaxson. When she goes missing, he's torn between helping to find her (even though he's uncomfortable with her affection toward him and doesn't want to ruin things with Margot), but he is also worried about her being killed.
I figured out who the bad guy was right away, although Jessica Ashley tried to keep me guessing as the story went on.
In the end, I'm glad to see how it turned out, and I think you will be too.

[Courtney Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tactical Revival by Jessica Ashley is a gripping Christian romantic suspense that beautifully blends heart-pounding action with deep faith and redemption. Jaxson Payne, a former homicide detective and Marine, is starting fresh in Hope Springs after a painful divorce and the trauma of being told he’d never walk again. His resilience and faith are tested once more when danger from his past follows him to the small town, threatening the peace he’s desperately trying to build.

Enter Margot Anderson, a single mother trying to hold her world together after her husband’s departure. She’s been through hell and back, but when Jaxson moves into her B&B, their worlds collide in ways neither of them expects. As the two navigate their undeniable chemistry, they are forced to confront their pasts, face deep-seated fears, and find healing through their faith.

I absolutely loved Tactical Revival, and it’s no surprise—I will read whatever Jessica Ashley writes. The Coastal Hope series has been such a favorite of mine, and Tactical Revival was no exception. I listened to it on audio and was captivated the entire time. Ashley’s books are incredibly bingeable, filled with relatable characters and sweet romances that tug at your heartstrings. The faith content is beautifully woven throughout, and I love the glimpses we get of past couples, which adds a wonderful sense of continuity to the series.

The romance in Tactical Revival is sweet, simmering with chemistry, but it doesn’t rely on spice to make it meaningful. Instead, it’s the characters’ emotional and spiritual growth that makes this book so powerful. The themes of forgiveness, trauma recovery, and seeking God through every struggle are woven seamlessly into the story, offering messages that resonate long after the last page.

This book is a page-turner with a protective hero, a strong faith foundation, and a small-town charm that makes it impossible not to root for these characters. If you’re looking for a compelling, uplifting read that will keep you hooked and leave you reflecting on faith and healing, this is it.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Jacquelyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘Tactical Revival’ was thrilling. Its plot involved a missing person, gathering clues, a detective struggling to put down roots, a single mother fighting to make ends meet, meeting with the cheating or ex, meeting with an ailing and alcoholic father, an attempted break-in, receiving a calling card of a serial killer supposedly in prison, developing feelings for the B&B owner, spirituality, offering to help with the financial situation, calling cards being left by a serial killer currently in prison, a confrontation in church with the ex, a veiled threat, a not-so-good blast from the past, getting run off a road, attempting to get pullled from the vehicle, a major escape, on the hunt for the culprit, taking care of a loose pipe, dinner with a friend, hearing about very sad past adversity, arson, oh no…not the person missing again, being presented with riddles, major tension on the beach, oh no…, more spirituality, committing to needed AA meetings, a change in plans, on the lookout for one last victim, placing all trust in the Lord, the big reveal, a long overdue apology, and reconciliation.
Moreover, Margot and Jaxson, the protagonists, tried hard to reach their HEA. In addition, I liked the author’s vivid descriptions that created a tension-filled tone. Overall, I liked the riveting narrative, my first audiobook without any printed words.
I received a copy for free and am voluntarily giving my honest review.

[Chelsey Zarraga · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ THE KNIGHT SECURITY IS BACK AND STRONGER THAN EVER

Here we go again, can we take a moment to appreciate Jessica’s amazing work? I’ve said many times and I’ll keep saying it: Her writing is spectacular! You can tell that she loves writing and our Father, creator of the universe.

This book will be special to those who have trouble forgiving others and blaming themselves for their past mistakes. Here we see Jaxson struggling to forgive people who have hurt him in the past, and Margot blaming herself for some of the choices she made after her divorce.

You’ll find: love, forgiveness, trust, faith, and PLOT TWISTS
The suspense and mystery were astounding. I could not guess what was coming 😨
THE ENDING. I. LOVED. IT. 😭🥺 They both deserve a fresh start with amazing people with faith strong enough to be there to support them. I pray that some day, The Lord will bring me the right people to support me.

Also, can we appreciate Jessica giving us the Knight in tactical gear - Bringing them all together ready to face whatever danger and the wives together? Ooof I LOVED those scenes! 🤍

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fast, beautiful read. Jaxson and Margot have been through a lot emotionally (and physically throughout this book because it is fast and action packed)! Right after I finished this book, the sermon at church was about forgiveness. It was amazing how perfect that timing was. I have enjoyed this series overall and I love the message of God throughout. Life is not perfect, much is wrong in the world today, but that does not mean that faith will not pull us through. I have found a lot of peace through church in the last couple of years, but I also love books with strong characters and fast paced action. The small coastal town has definitely had it's share of danger through the series, so we get plenty of external issues, but it also highlights faith in the good humans that exist in the world that fight against evil. I am thoroughly enjoying the entire series and this is the best installation yet. Maybe because the characters worked so hard to find peace in their little slice of the world.

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 4th book this author has put out, and she keeps getting better with each book. I read this one as soon as it came from Amazon, and it was an awesome read. Jaxon and Margot were great and likable characters with their own pasts of hurt and betrayal, and made such a perfect pair. Jaxon was protective of Margot and her son Matty, and was happy to be there for them.

I so did not see the identity of the guilty party. When the masks were pulled off - literally - I was shocked. The author did a great job on keeping that a secret.

The topic of forgiveness was a main thread of the story. Jaxon had to forgive his ex-wife and his father, and Margot and Matty had to forgive their husband and father.

All of the characters from the other books were in this one, which made the book all the better.
Totally awesome read.

[Tesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow another amazing book! Just loving this series.

Ex military Jaxson on forced retirement from the service goes home and moves into a B&B run by Margot and her 13 yr old son, but when danger comes Jaxson will do anything he can to protect them both.

Fast paced, romantic and a little emotional. Margot is a strong gutsy lady who has had to rely on herself mostly in the past and having Jaxson there who is strong and brave is like a breath of fresh air for her. They have a strong chemistry just the two of them but it's a developing family dynamic that makes the story.

Well done on every part of this book. The banter, the characters and the great plot make this a book I really enjoyed. Can't wait for more! So good!!

[Leigh Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Suspense. Romance. Forgiveness. Redemption.

Suspense. Romance. Forgiveness. Redemption.

Tactical Revival by Jessica Ashley delivers all four in perfect balance. From the first chapter, readers are pulled into a world of danger and devotion where faith and forgiveness intertwine with heart-pounding suspense. The characters are authentic—flawed yet full of hope—and their journeys toward redemption feel deeply personal. Jessica Ashley masterfully blends action and emotion, creating a story that keeps you turning the pages while reminding you that grace can rise from even the darkest moments.

[It's Sunrise Again · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tactical Revival is the latest book in the coastal hope series, and it is another fantastic story.

Jaxson and Margot were both previously married, and as both relationships ended badly, neither is interested in romance again. However, when a ghost from Jaxson past appears in Hope Springs, they are thrown together.

I was provided an ARC by the author, but this doesn't impact my opinion on this book.

[Sandra Hartzel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had a free copy of this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Jaxson Payne, a former marine is now living in Hope Springs and living at the local bed and breakfast owns by Margot Anderson the sister of his good friend. When people begin to be abducted and clues left similar to a former police case he worked, Jaxson has to figure out what is happening before someone dies. A thrilling tale of love, suspense, and working together.

[Joni · Rating 5 out of 5]

I appreciate how author is not afraid to mention real life stuff in her books like premarital sex. Copy cat crimes are happening and former detective MMC is doing his best to solve before MFC is the next victim. Faith and forgiveness are strong themes. Well written. I truly enjoy this author’s stories a lot.

[Kyliegh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fantastic addition to the series. I loved Margot and Jaxson’s story. It will keep you guessing until the end. It was fast paced, full of romance, found family, mystery, suspense, faith, and forgiveness. Clear your schedule because once you start reading, you won’t want to stop!

[Rhonda's Reading Nook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jaxon has admired Margot from afar, but when her life is in danger, will he tell her how he feels about her?
This book had me on the edge of my seat. I love the Knight Security Team.
Jessica Ashley fills the pages with suspense, love, and Godly relationships. She is my new favorite author.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

This romantic suspense audio book kept my interest enough to help me complete some disliked cleaning chores. The romance was believable and there was enough action. I had suspected the culprit but not the accomplice. I enjoyed the characters and the book.

[Theresa Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book by Jessica! I am binging her books. I loved this story as much as the others; catching up with everyone from previous books. Always hard to shut off audible with one of Jessica’s books!

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautifully written story of hope and love that warms your heart. An ex marine and a woman trying to put their life back together Perhaps there’s a chance for the two of them. Don’t miss out.

[Rebecca White · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an exciting book that is filled with protection for Margot from her brother as well as the protector who is living in her B&B. Lots of twists and turns as we wondered who was behind all the problems and why the people were targeted.

[Linda Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great action-packed audiobook. Great narrators. An exciting mix of suspense and mystery, with intriguing romance, and faith, trust and forgiveness. Interesting characters. Thoroughly enjoyable. Highly recommend.

[Kat Schmoyer · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked it!! I really enjoyed Margot but I wanted more of the single mom / Jaxson getting to know Matty vibe of the story. It felt like Matty was such a backseat.

As far as the suspense, I had a hunch and was proud of myself for being right 😂

[Heidi Morrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fantastic Contemporary Christian fiction book. The story was believable and the characters were heartwarming. I was able to listen to an audio version of this book via Bookfunnel, but it did not in any way affect my review. All opinions are my own.

[Mary Lindsey Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

So sweet!!!

The first 3 books were enemies to lovers (which I enjoyed)…but this book was just so sweet!! I loved how it was different. It is also so great having the characters from the other novels be a part of this!

[Miranda Summerset · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5/5 STARS! Fun & intense action packed Christian thriller. I liked the romance & the plot was fast paced & interesting. Really liked how everything played out. The ending is so cute. Liked how faith played a part throughout the story. Really nice way to do a Christian fiction book.