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Shadow Lake Survival #1
High-Stakes Inheritance
"Leave Logan Lake now or you will pay!"
Despite the threatening warning, Mia Blackburn won't let anyone scare her from the rustic resort she inherits from her beloved uncle. But when a fire traps her in a burning barn, she fears that she won't get out alive. Just in time her ex-boyfriend volunteer firefighter Ryan Morgan rescues her from the deadly blaze. He had once broken her heart, yet she still has feelings for him. With Ryan insisting on keeping a close eye on her, Mia feels safer--and closer to Ryan than ever before. Yet the threats haven't stopped, and soon Mia's high-stakes inheritance includes a murder--and Mia could be the next victim.
Despite the threatening warning, Mia Blackburn won't let anyone scare her from the rustic resort she inherits from her beloved uncle. But when a fire traps her in a burning barn, she fears that she won't get out alive. Just in time her ex-boyfriend volunteer firefighter Ryan Morgan rescues her from the deadly blaze. He had once broken her heart, yet she still has feelings for him. With Ryan insisting on keeping a close eye on her, Mia feels safer--and closer to Ryan than ever before. Yet the threats haven't stopped, and soon Mia's high-stakes inheritance includes a murder--and Mia could be the next victim.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2010
423 people are currently reading
573 people want to read
About the author
Susan Sleeman
129 books804 followersSUSAN SLEEMAN is the bestselling author of over sixty romantic suspense and mystery novels with more than two million books sold. She writes romantic suspense novels that are clean with inspiring messages of faith. Readers love her series for the well-drawn characters and edge-of-your-seat action. She graduated from the FBI and local police citizen academies, so her research is spot-on and her characters are real.
In addition to writing, Susan also hosts The Suspense Zone. She has lived in nine states but now calls Oregon home. Her husband is a retired church music director, and they have two beautiful daughters, two special sons-in-law, and four amazing grandsons
In addition to writing, Susan also hosts The Suspense Zone. She has lived in nine states but now calls Oregon home. Her husband is a retired church music director, and they have two beautiful daughters, two special sons-in-law, and four amazing grandsons
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
August 2, 2023
Shadow Lake Survival Book 1 was just as exciting as the rest of author Susan Sleeman's suspense books! Mia's uncle has left her Evergreen Resort on the condition that she live there for one full year before she inherits it. His one exception was that she could leave the property if her life was in danger. Ryan Maddox, Mia's ex-boyfriend and his family runs the Shadow Lake Survival camp next door to Mia. Mia left Ryan trying to get away from a father who had hated her from the time her mother died years before. When Mia starts receiving threats to leave Evergreen she assumes her father is trying to get rid of her. But would he stoop so low as to try and harm her? Now Ryan and Mia are working together trying to discover who is threatening Mia and why.
This was a great introduction to the Shadow Lake Survival series. I can tell that I am going to fall in love with all of the Maddox family just as I have with all of the author's characters. One of the Maddox brother's irritates me to no end but I won't tell you who! You'll have to read the book for yourself and form your own opinions. As always, I can't wait for the next book in the series!
This was a great introduction to the Shadow Lake Survival series. I can tell that I am going to fall in love with all of the Maddox family just as I have with all of the author's characters. One of the Maddox brother's irritates me to no end but I won't tell you who! You'll have to read the book for yourself and form your own opinions. As always, I can't wait for the next book in the series!
December 11, 2010
Susan Sleeman in her new book, "High-Stakes Inheritance" published by Steeple Hill brings us to the sleepy town of Logan Lake, Oregon to discover that it is anything but sleepy.
When I was a kid I loved Saturday morning, no school, cartoons aplenty and, my favorite, the Saturday morning serial. There were two TV stations that would take the serials from the 40's and 50's and air them on Saturday mornings and that is where I learned about action and suspense. Blow up something, give a little plot, beat up someone, little more plot, put them in a deadly situation and see you next week. Great fun!
What would you do if you received a note reading, "Leave Logan Lake Now or You Will Pay!"? Me, I might just go back to Atlanta, Georgia where I came from but Mia Blackburn cannot. She has come to Logan Lake to fulfill the conditions in her Uncle's will and thus inherit the rustic resort he left her. Mia really should have heeded the message's warning as she is soon trapped in a raging barn fire and only escapes due to the heroic rescue of fireman Ryan Morgan, her old boyfriend
Ms. Sleeman has crafted a page turner worthy of the old serials, an exciting event, some story, another exciting event, more story. And the mystery is terrific. You want to figure out who us behind everything but you just can't seem to and so you flip another page hoping for an answer which doesn't come until the satisfactory end. Susan Sleeman is a fun author that makes reading enjoyable even if you are sitting on the edge of your chair. Don't bother bringing a beverage to drink while you read because you will forget it is there the story is that intense. Ms. Sleeman batted a thousand on this one. I highly recommend it.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station http://www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from The Suspense Zone. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
When I was a kid I loved Saturday morning, no school, cartoons aplenty and, my favorite, the Saturday morning serial. There were two TV stations that would take the serials from the 40's and 50's and air them on Saturday mornings and that is where I learned about action and suspense. Blow up something, give a little plot, beat up someone, little more plot, put them in a deadly situation and see you next week. Great fun!
What would you do if you received a note reading, "Leave Logan Lake Now or You Will Pay!"? Me, I might just go back to Atlanta, Georgia where I came from but Mia Blackburn cannot. She has come to Logan Lake to fulfill the conditions in her Uncle's will and thus inherit the rustic resort he left her. Mia really should have heeded the message's warning as she is soon trapped in a raging barn fire and only escapes due to the heroic rescue of fireman Ryan Morgan, her old boyfriend
Ms. Sleeman has crafted a page turner worthy of the old serials, an exciting event, some story, another exciting event, more story. And the mystery is terrific. You want to figure out who us behind everything but you just can't seem to and so you flip another page hoping for an answer which doesn't come until the satisfactory end. Susan Sleeman is a fun author that makes reading enjoyable even if you are sitting on the edge of your chair. Don't bother bringing a beverage to drink while you read because you will forget it is there the story is that intense. Ms. Sleeman batted a thousand on this one. I highly recommend it.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station http://www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from The Suspense Zone. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
August 2, 2023
Shadow of Deceit is book one in Susan Sleeman’s new romantic suspense series, Shadow Lake Survival.
This was an exciting second chance romance between two high school sweethearts. With the past between them, and danger around them, Mia and Ryan have a lot to work through. I was rooting for them to overcome their personal challenges, especially because they seemed so perfect for each other. And the mystery had lots of twists and turns. Without giving spoilers, I loved the climax and how the solution all came about.
If you enjoy mystery, suspense, and second chances, then give this book a read! I can’t wait for the rest of the series!
---
I received a complimentary copy of this book.
I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC guidelines.
This was an exciting second chance romance between two high school sweethearts. With the past between them, and danger around them, Mia and Ryan have a lot to work through. I was rooting for them to overcome their personal challenges, especially because they seemed so perfect for each other. And the mystery had lots of twists and turns. Without giving spoilers, I loved the climax and how the solution all came about.
If you enjoy mystery, suspense, and second chances, then give this book a read! I can’t wait for the rest of the series!
---
I received a complimentary copy of this book.
I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC guidelines.
September 19, 2023
Shadow of Deceit is the first installment in this new series by Susan Sleeman. This story will captivate you from the start and won't let you go until the final page. Mia Blackburn returns to Shadow Lake after her uncle's death. She has to live on her uncle's resort for a year before receiving her inheritance. The only exception is that she can leave due to a natural disaster.
Mia's ex high school boyfriend Ryan Maddox is there when someone sends her a threatening letter and starts attacking her in order to make her leave. Is it her estranged father? Is it her brother?
Both Mia and Ryan have to figure out who the attacker is and why. I enjoyed this second chance at love and the cast of characters. The storyline was engaging with suspense, danger, tension, and romance.
I'm looking forward to reading the next installment in this series.
Mia's ex high school boyfriend Ryan Maddox is there when someone sends her a threatening letter and starts attacking her in order to make her leave. Is it her estranged father? Is it her brother?
Both Mia and Ryan have to figure out who the attacker is and why. I enjoyed this second chance at love and the cast of characters. The storyline was engaging with suspense, danger, tension, and romance.
I'm looking forward to reading the next installment in this series.
September 25, 2023
Great Christian Romantic Suspense
This was a very good book filled with tons of twists and turns. I loved seeing people reconcile their Faith in God in everyday life.
This was a very good book filled with tons of twists and turns. I loved seeing people reconcile their Faith in God in everyday life.
July 13, 2023
Wow, what a start to this newest book series by Susan Sleeman!
When I pick up a book by this author, I know I’m going on a ride for my life. She doesn’t disappoint with this newest book!
This new team of guys owns Shadow Lake Survival. They help people learn the ins and outs of survival in the outdoor wilderness.
This story helps introduce us to the guys and get to see a little bit of each of their personalities.
The way Susan Sleeman has written this book will keep you on the edge of your chair. I was captivated from the very first page until the end and I thought I knew who the bad guy really was, but NO, I was wrong. Boy, can this author twist things around so you really must finish the story just to breathe!
I am loving reading Susan Sleeman's books!
She also weaves beautiful truths and lessons of God’s love in such a way that it isn’t offensive or preachy.
I’m looking forward to reading all the other books in this series and learning how they work through their quirks. As well as see how they let God lead them.
This book not only has action, tension, and suspense but there is a bit of romance . . . well, maybe a little more than a bit.
If you love action, suspense, and intrigue, I highly recommend you pick this book and start reading! However, I need to warn you, once you start reading, you won’t be able to stop! I stayed up way too late to finish this book. WOW!
I was given this book by the publisher which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
When I pick up a book by this author, I know I’m going on a ride for my life. She doesn’t disappoint with this newest book!
This new team of guys owns Shadow Lake Survival. They help people learn the ins and outs of survival in the outdoor wilderness.
This story helps introduce us to the guys and get to see a little bit of each of their personalities.
The way Susan Sleeman has written this book will keep you on the edge of your chair. I was captivated from the very first page until the end and I thought I knew who the bad guy really was, but NO, I was wrong. Boy, can this author twist things around so you really must finish the story just to breathe!
I am loving reading Susan Sleeman's books!
She also weaves beautiful truths and lessons of God’s love in such a way that it isn’t offensive or preachy.
I’m looking forward to reading all the other books in this series and learning how they work through their quirks. As well as see how they let God lead them.
This book not only has action, tension, and suspense but there is a bit of romance . . . well, maybe a little more than a bit.
If you love action, suspense, and intrigue, I highly recommend you pick this book and start reading! However, I need to warn you, once you start reading, you won’t be able to stop! I stayed up way too late to finish this book. WOW!
I was given this book by the publisher which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 11, 2023
WHO CAN SAVE HER? WILL SHE BE THE NEXT VICTIM?
“He’d come for her. Full throttle.” With these opening lines, author Susan Sleeman sets the thrilling pace for her latest release, Shadow of Deceit. Sleeman puts her writing foot to the pedal and does not let up from start to finish! She seeks to answer, “Can Mia Blackburn go home to Shadow Lake again, or will she become the next victim?” Sleeman has created believable characters by placing them in realistic situations where they face tests and their worth is proven. Her plot is impressive in that it integrates threads of dysfunctional family drama, child endangerment, the importance of counseling, survival camps, malicious mischief, mayhem, multiple murder attempts, and lost and possibly found love.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Edge of Your Seats, Inc. and the author. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own and without influence.
“He’d come for her. Full throttle.” With these opening lines, author Susan Sleeman sets the thrilling pace for her latest release, Shadow of Deceit. Sleeman puts her writing foot to the pedal and does not let up from start to finish! She seeks to answer, “Can Mia Blackburn go home to Shadow Lake again, or will she become the next victim?” Sleeman has created believable characters by placing them in realistic situations where they face tests and their worth is proven. Her plot is impressive in that it integrates threads of dysfunctional family drama, child endangerment, the importance of counseling, survival camps, malicious mischief, mayhem, multiple murder attempts, and lost and possibly found love.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Edge of Your Seats, Inc. and the author. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own and without influence.
December 12, 2014
Pretty good story. Only problem was that throughout the book it seemed like scenes were cutoff and not finished. Most disturbing being when the criminal was captured and (the way written) seemed as if everyone just turned their back the murderer without any thought to the criminal. Gee...if I was the criminal I would have just gotten up and walked away. Hey maybe he did.
July 15, 2014
Oh man, this was so good and suspenseful!! And great characters!! Little book but not fluff! I can't wait to read the next two books in this series!!
August 6, 2023
Eeeepppppp!!!! Squeeeealllll!!!!! Squeeeaaapppp! This is me shrieking like a banshee while I perform my New Release Happy Dance. And not just any new release — a Susan Sleeman first book in a new series release!!! I can’t even….
The Shadow Lake Survival series features six men (eep, that means six books!) who are either ex-military or ex-law enforcement and work as a team to run a wilderness survival camp, which is all kinds of cool. The Maddox brothers own the company and, if you’ve read any books in the author’s previous series, Steele Guardians, you’ll already be acquainted with Ryan, Russ and Reid.
I do so love the way Sleeman creates that bond of brotherhood, complete with teasing and banter and kidding around. Of course, these brothers (and their friends) are also quick to lend a hand when needed – no matter how dangerous or dastardly the situation. In Shadow of Deceit, it’s Ryan who needs the support — both emotionally and physically — as he finds himself embroiled in his ex-girlfriend’s tumultuous return.
Mia has come back to Shadow Lake in order to fulfill the terms of her uncle’s will. The last person she want to see is the man she walked away from a decade ago. (Oy, Mia, you stomped all over my bruised heart before you finally learned to trust again!) But, Ryan is more concerned about keeping Mia safe than hashing out their past. At least, that’s what he keeps telling himself. 🙂
So, be prepared for an emotional Reunion Romance with just the right amount of angst and humour and swoony moments. Sleeman does an excellent job of balancing Ryan and Mia’s love story with the suspense. Mia is under siege from an unknown assailant who has some very creative ways of warning her off. I had fun trying to figure out the who and the why and love the way the tension slowly built towards the spectacular conclusion. I was on tenterhooks all the way through.
I listened to the audible edition of Shadow of Deceit, expertly narrated by Whitney Dykehouse. She does all of Susan Sleeman’s audio books and it’s a great partnership!
https://kavsbestreads.ca/2023/08/06/s...
The Shadow Lake Survival series features six men (eep, that means six books!) who are either ex-military or ex-law enforcement and work as a team to run a wilderness survival camp, which is all kinds of cool. The Maddox brothers own the company and, if you’ve read any books in the author’s previous series, Steele Guardians, you’ll already be acquainted with Ryan, Russ and Reid.
I do so love the way Sleeman creates that bond of brotherhood, complete with teasing and banter and kidding around. Of course, these brothers (and their friends) are also quick to lend a hand when needed – no matter how dangerous or dastardly the situation. In Shadow of Deceit, it’s Ryan who needs the support — both emotionally and physically — as he finds himself embroiled in his ex-girlfriend’s tumultuous return.
Mia has come back to Shadow Lake in order to fulfill the terms of her uncle’s will. The last person she want to see is the man she walked away from a decade ago. (Oy, Mia, you stomped all over my bruised heart before you finally learned to trust again!) But, Ryan is more concerned about keeping Mia safe than hashing out their past. At least, that’s what he keeps telling himself. 🙂
So, be prepared for an emotional Reunion Romance with just the right amount of angst and humour and swoony moments. Sleeman does an excellent job of balancing Ryan and Mia’s love story with the suspense. Mia is under siege from an unknown assailant who has some very creative ways of warning her off. I had fun trying to figure out the who and the why and love the way the tension slowly built towards the spectacular conclusion. I was on tenterhooks all the way through.
I listened to the audible edition of Shadow of Deceit, expertly narrated by Whitney Dykehouse. She does all of Susan Sleeman’s audio books and it’s a great partnership!
https://kavsbestreads.ca/2023/08/06/s...
August 24, 2023
"The irony . . . She'd summoned all her courage to return to Shadow Lake and face the people who'd hurt her the most, only to die in a fire in her first hour in town."
Mia Blackburn guessed this was where the note reading, "Evergreen Resort will never be yours. Leave town now or you will pay" came in to play . . . she just didn't expect to be locked inside a burning barn with a young child . . . . or to be rescued by . . . none other than Ryan Maddox in full turn-out gear. She couldn't leave; as stipulated in Uncle Wally's will, the beautiful property would be hers within a year's time if she stayed. In the interim, who had a motive to harm her, thereby gaining access to Evergreen, it made no sense.
Full of terse family dynamics, regrets, and suspicions, this story is primarily about rebuilding relationships, learning to walk by faith, enjoying a second opportunity to love . . . and of course, solving more than a few crimes.
"'Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding'. .. . . Letting God be in charge . . . makes the living so much easier."
Mia Blackburn guessed this was where the note reading, "Evergreen Resort will never be yours. Leave town now or you will pay" came in to play . . . she just didn't expect to be locked inside a burning barn with a young child . . . . or to be rescued by . . . none other than Ryan Maddox in full turn-out gear. She couldn't leave; as stipulated in Uncle Wally's will, the beautiful property would be hers within a year's time if she stayed. In the interim, who had a motive to harm her, thereby gaining access to Evergreen, it made no sense.
Full of terse family dynamics, regrets, and suspicions, this story is primarily about rebuilding relationships, learning to walk by faith, enjoying a second opportunity to love . . . and of course, solving more than a few crimes.
"'Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding'. .. . . Letting God be in charge . . . makes the living so much easier."
September 14, 2023
A lot can happen in 10 years! That's how long it's been since Mia and Ryan had been apart after their breakup. When Mia returns to Shadow Lake to inherit her uncle's property, she hopes she won't be running into Ryan any time soon. But that didn't work. On her very first day, fire traps her inside of a burning barn and Ryan rescues her from near death.
"Shadow of Deceit" is an exciting romantic suspense by one of my favorite authors. The book starts out running and doesn't let up. Danger, suspense, twists, and murder kept me glued to the pages. I loved how the H and h are given a second chance at love while running to catch up with the stalker and save lives. Their faith is challenged along the way as Mia questions how God can allow bad things to happen to His people. I agree with Ryan's opinion: "Bad things happen for a variety of reasons. For me it's often a wakeup call. To get my attention and draw me closer to [God]." Amen!
I highly recommend Shadow of Deceit! It's an exciting clean romantic suspense that will be difficult to put down once you start!
"Shadow of Deceit" is an exciting romantic suspense by one of my favorite authors. The book starts out running and doesn't let up. Danger, suspense, twists, and murder kept me glued to the pages. I loved how the H and h are given a second chance at love while running to catch up with the stalker and save lives. Their faith is challenged along the way as Mia questions how God can allow bad things to happen to His people. I agree with Ryan's opinion: "Bad things happen for a variety of reasons. For me it's often a wakeup call. To get my attention and draw me closer to [God]." Amen!
I highly recommend Shadow of Deceit! It's an exciting clean romantic suspense that will be difficult to put down once you start!
September 8, 2023
I can always count on Susan Sleeman for clean romantic suspense books. Shadow of Deceit is the first book in her new Shadow Lake Survival series. Mia Blackburn and Ryan Maddox get a second chance at love as they work together to find out who is threatening Mia and warning her away from the resort property she inherited from her uncle. It’s always interesting to learn more about law enforcement and criminology from Sleeman’s books, as she is knowledgeable about them and includes a lot of intriguing tidbits in her stories.
It took me a little while to connect with the main characters, and there were a couple of spots in the story that were a bit confusing to me, but I still felt that it’s a solid start to the series. Lots of action, suspense, inspiration, and a little romance combined to keep it interesting and me guessing.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
It took me a little while to connect with the main characters, and there were a couple of spots in the story that were a bit confusing to me, but I still felt that it’s a solid start to the series. Lots of action, suspense, inspiration, and a little romance combined to keep it interesting and me guessing.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
July 29, 2023
This clean Christian suspense romance is the first in a new series belongs that belongs to the Maddox brothers. Brothers who were introduced in the author’s latest book, Edge of Steele. This story belongs to Ryan Maddox.
Ryan is co-owner with his family of Shadow Lake Survival and former HS boyfriend of Mia Blackburn. She left him behind heartbroken and has not returned in ten years. Her memories of the town that turned their backs to her, and her unloving father, have kept her away.
Now a woman, she’s back for a year as per the inheritance left by her uncle. A rustic resort, the place she has fond memories of.
Ryan and Mia meet again when he rescues her and his niece from a fire in one of her barns. A fire that seems to be arson. The sparks are still there, but each harbors pain and distrust and have been hurt before more than once.
When some believe that Mia is either the target or the one causing the fire and shooting, Ryan is determined to keep her safe.
Will the real culprit be discovered before anyone else gets hurt? Why is someone after her? Will these two give love a second chance or end up going their separate ways? Will Mia realize that God is always there for her?
This was a good introduction to the series. We get a chance to meet the other members of the Maddox family, as well as “visit” with Sierra Rice, one of Veritas Center extraordinary forensics researchers.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Ryan is co-owner with his family of Shadow Lake Survival and former HS boyfriend of Mia Blackburn. She left him behind heartbroken and has not returned in ten years. Her memories of the town that turned their backs to her, and her unloving father, have kept her away.
Now a woman, she’s back for a year as per the inheritance left by her uncle. A rustic resort, the place she has fond memories of.
Ryan and Mia meet again when he rescues her and his niece from a fire in one of her barns. A fire that seems to be arson. The sparks are still there, but each harbors pain and distrust and have been hurt before more than once.
When some believe that Mia is either the target or the one causing the fire and shooting, Ryan is determined to keep her safe.
Will the real culprit be discovered before anyone else gets hurt? Why is someone after her? Will these two give love a second chance or end up going their separate ways? Will Mia realize that God is always there for her?
This was a good introduction to the series. We get a chance to meet the other members of the Maddox family, as well as “visit” with Sierra Rice, one of Veritas Center extraordinary forensics researchers.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
March 11, 2024
I'm either slacking a LOT or these kinds of books are getting even trickier to guess. I had NO CLUE what the resolution would be!
This was a solid book but I didn't really find myself connecting to either MC. A lot of books I've been reading lately have dealt with major trust issues, which is relatable and great to explore, but I guess I just am seeing too much of it maybe? That's not the book's fault.
Honestly, Jessie was my favorite part of this story. Mia and Ryan were good characters, I like the camaraderie of the brothers/team, and I'm always a fan of second-chance romance.
I think I'd maybe give it more like 3.5/3.75 stars????
This was a solid book but I didn't really find myself connecting to either MC. A lot of books I've been reading lately have dealt with major trust issues, which is relatable and great to explore, but I guess I just am seeing too much of it maybe? That's not the book's fault.
Honestly, Jessie was my favorite part of this story. Mia and Ryan were good characters, I like the camaraderie of the brothers/team, and I'm always a fan of second-chance romance.
I think I'd maybe give it more like 3.5/3.75 stars????
September 10, 2023
I needed a time to slip into someone else's life for a while and Susan Sleeman can always provide the perfect way! The suspense, fear, past family pain and current grief for Mia doesn't seem too much like a good escape but the magical story swept me up. A trip to a lodge in Oregon and maybe rekindling a lost high school love while helping counsel teens in trouble is a good start. There is a lot of action, a choice of bad guys, unending suspense yet the goodness of people and small towns shines through. Wish KU didn't take so long to offer new books.
November 24, 2023
Susan Sleeman does it again
Another story that grabs your attention from the very beginning and doesn't let go. Action packed, well written with mystery and suspense. Yes, there's love, faith and personal struggles written into the action, mystery and suspense creating a perfect balance of elements. At no point was I pulled from the story by errors or inconsistencies. I can always count on an edge of your seat experience from this excellent author. Thank you, Susan Sleeman for sharing your talent and making it available on Kindle Unlimited!
Another story that grabs your attention from the very beginning and doesn't let go. Action packed, well written with mystery and suspense. Yes, there's love, faith and personal struggles written into the action, mystery and suspense creating a perfect balance of elements. At no point was I pulled from the story by errors or inconsistencies. I can always count on an edge of your seat experience from this excellent author. Thank you, Susan Sleeman for sharing your talent and making it available on Kindle Unlimited!
January 13, 2024
4.5 Stars, Really
While this was a good story, there were a few things that bothered me. One thing was the conflict of ‘yes or no to love’ which felt forced in places. The other thing was how the heroine was adamant in her belief about God but does an about face so quickly at an answered prayer. It just seemed abrupt to me.
Other than that, the setting was easy to picture. The plot was interesting and I didn’t guess the culprit right away.
If you enjoy inspirational, suspense romance, then you might like this one.
While this was a good story, there were a few things that bothered me. One thing was the conflict of ‘yes or no to love’ which felt forced in places. The other thing was how the heroine was adamant in her belief about God but does an about face so quickly at an answered prayer. It just seemed abrupt to me.
Other than that, the setting was easy to picture. The plot was interesting and I didn’t guess the culprit right away.
If you enjoy inspirational, suspense romance, then you might like this one.
October 1, 2023
Faster moving than some of her other books, still a great mystery with some very scary moments. Ryan and Mia knew each other before she got out of the small town for good, but it seems she can't rid herself of the connection. They do reconnect and good things happen as well as.some.bad, including fire, a severed hand, bullets, and finding a body. Clean Christian romantic suspense. Definitely interested in more in the series.
November 21, 2023
Lots of excitement and intrigue. Some surprises in store also.
Mia Blackburn returns to Shadow Lake to honor her late uncle's wishes. To inherit his property she must reside there a year. When she arrives she is caught in a barn fire and threatened with some dire notes! What is going on? Why? What could someone be after? Ryan Maddox her ex-boyfriend rescues her from the fire and determines to keep her safe! Will he be able to? Will they discover what is going on in time?
Mia Blackburn returns to Shadow Lake to honor her late uncle's wishes. To inherit his property she must reside there a year. When she arrives she is caught in a barn fire and threatened with some dire notes! What is going on? Why? What could someone be after? Ryan Maddox her ex-boyfriend rescues her from the fire and determines to keep her safe! Will he be able to? Will they discover what is going on in time?
February 26, 2024
Can Love survive 10 yrs apart? Loved this book
Mia comes back to her home town when she inherits property. But someone is trying to kill her and she doesn’t know who to trust. But her old boyfriend Ryan is by her side. Can she believe in him and God again. As they try to solve the mystery of who is trying to kill her and why, old feelings return and Mia has to learn to trust in God again. Good mystery so many twists and turns.
Mia comes back to her home town when she inherits property. But someone is trying to kill her and she doesn’t know who to trust. But her old boyfriend Ryan is by her side. Can she believe in him and God again. As they try to solve the mystery of who is trying to kill her and why, old feelings return and Mia has to learn to trust in God again. Good mystery so many twists and turns.
August 5, 2023
hurts and heroes
This is the best of romantic suspense. Absolutely perfect in its pacing and suspense, plenty of joy, angst and romance, and a culprit I never expected. Faith elements were part of the story without being preachy. Classic Susan Sleeman—can’t wait for the next in the series.
This is the best of romantic suspense. Absolutely perfect in its pacing and suspense, plenty of joy, angst and romance, and a culprit I never expected. Faith elements were part of the story without being preachy. Classic Susan Sleeman—can’t wait for the next in the series.
September 26, 2023
Loved the way they were able to help others and grow together trusting in God!
I love mysteries but also love books that include religious beliefs. This book has it all and I love reading Susan Sleeman's books because they have great mysteries with Christian lessons we can learn from.
I love mysteries but also love books that include religious beliefs. This book has it all and I love reading Susan Sleeman's books because they have great mysteries with Christian lessons we can learn from.
January 4, 2024
Awesome read!
The characters stood solid to their personalities that they had when they were introduced in the other books. Being able to see these characters fulfill their destiny that was introduced in other books by this author. I can't wait to see the other Maddox brothers find the loves of their lives.
The characters stood solid to their personalities that they had when they were introduced in the other books. Being able to see these characters fulfill their destiny that was introduced in other books by this author. I can't wait to see the other Maddox brothers find the loves of their lives.
March 7, 2024
This is my first read by Susan Sleeman and it definitely won’t be my last! Although I found Mia’s attitude frustrating at times, the baggage both she and Ryan dealt with was realistic. The story was gripping and complex, the suspense was riveting, and the family relationships were at times both aggravating and touching. I very much enjoyed this book and had a hard time putting it down.
July 15, 2024
thrilling from start to finish!
Mai and Ryan were always in love, but had to grow into the persons that God had intended for them to be. Sometimes it takes a trashy for a person to let God have control as it did with them. One trashy after another and kidnapping of a child woke both of them up. They didn't fight God anymore.
Very good book, can't wait to start book two!
Mai and Ryan were always in love, but had to grow into the persons that God had intended for them to be. Sometimes it takes a trashy for a person to let God have control as it did with them. One trashy after another and kidnapping of a child woke both of them up. They didn't fight God anymore.
Very good book, can't wait to start book two!
March 20, 2025
Action-packed
Loved this action-packed, intense, suspenseful story, and I had no idea who the villain was until the very end. Mia experiences so many crazy things, and Ryan is right there with her, attempting to protect Mia. Both Ryan and Mia have to deal with fear from their pasts.
So good!
Loved this action-packed, intense, suspenseful story, and I had no idea who the villain was until the very end. Mia experiences so many crazy things, and Ryan is right there with her, attempting to protect Mia. Both Ryan and Mia have to deal with fear from their pasts.
So good!
August 3, 2023
Excellent Christian suspense, romance
This book has a variety of wonderful characters and great suspense. Their struggles in life and in their faith are well written and resolved in a lovely way. The suspense pulls me through the story to a happy ending. This is a very entertaining book!
This book has a variety of wonderful characters and great suspense. Their struggles in life and in their faith are well written and resolved in a lovely way. The suspense pulls me through the story to a happy ending. This is a very entertaining book!
August 8, 2023
great book
I can’t wait for book 2. I love to read mysteries and a good clean romance. These 2 things were in this book. When you Read a Susan Sleeman’s book, you know it is going to be great. Thanks Susan for another great book!!!
I can’t wait for book 2. I love to read mysteries and a good clean romance. These 2 things were in this book. When you Read a Susan Sleeman’s book, you know it is going to be great. Thanks Susan for another great book!!!
October 6, 2023
Shadow of Deceit
Great first book in the new series. Enjoyed seeing Sierra and Chade from the Veritas Center. Lots of action, intrigue, & adventure. Can’t wait for book two in the series
Great first book in the new series. Enjoyed seeing Sierra and Chade from the Veritas Center. Lots of action, intrigue, & adventure. Can’t wait for book two in the series
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