Watch Your Back

by Kristen Hogrefe Parnell

You can’t watch your own back.
Private Investigator Avery Reynolds leads the charge to expose Tampa's supposedly “extinct” mob. The crime boss responsible for her foster brother’s death is within her grasp—until she hits a wall in the form of Ethan Bridger, a Coast Guard veteran who unknowingly derails her sting operation. When the elusive “Big Eddie” comes out of hiding, he targets their mutual friends about to tie the knot.

Avery sets aside her angst toward Ethan to focus on ending the crime boss’s reign of terror. But working together exposes her trust issues and his PTSD stemming from a comrade's tragedy. When Avery goes solo into a prisoner exchange operation, she discovers her vulnerability too late—and must lean on Ethan and the God she thought had abandoned her. But will that help reach her in time?

Genres: Christian Fiction, Inspirational

270 pages, Paperback

Published February 5, 2025

About the author

Kristen Hogrefe Parnell writes suspenseful fiction from a faith perspective for women and young adults. Her own suspense story involved waiting on God into her thirties to meet her husband, and she desires to keep embracing God’s plan for her life when it’s not what she expects. Kristen’s books have won the Selah Award and the Grace Award, among others. An educator at heart, she also teaches English online and enjoys being a podcast guest. Kristen lives in Florida with her husband and young son. Visit her online at kristenhogrefeparnell.com

Reviews

[Carrie Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you like a suspenseful story that keeps you guessing, if you can't resist an unlikely couple finding love, this story is for you. This couple made me smile on their somewhat bumpy road to love and the author did such a good job of keeping those twists coming. Readers of this series will not be dissappointed :) Good job, Kristen!

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Watch Your Back is a fast-paced, tension-filled suspense that will hold your breath. One action scene after another will take you on a wild ride, not knowing what will happen next.

The characters are interesting, with many layers and a secret past, making them both flawed. Despite that, they have courage and determination. Theirs is a story of redemption and spiritual growth. The slow-building romance between Avery and Ethan is a sweet one.

I loved the ending, which filled me with inspiration. Be sure to have lots of time to read before you start, as you won't be able to put it down. It's a must-read!

I received an arc from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This faith-filled and compellingly suspense-filled novel had me on the edge of my seat and kept me totally engrossed in the story. The basic plot had lots of elements that made it entertaining and realistic, including a kidnapped child, a powerful crime boss, and a team of private investigators who are doggedly determined to carry out their responsibilities. Avery Reynolds is on the trail of “Big Eddie” but cannot quite catch him when he turns the tables on her by kidnapping her godchild. All bets are off when Ethan Bridger, a security specialist, finds out what is happening and makes it his personal mission to keep Avery safe and to help her capture the crime king. The characters were perfectly portrayed, especially Avery and her reluctance to accept the Lord as her Savior. Ethan and Avery are both on the same road, seeking salvation, kind of, but mostly just wanting to live their lives without interference. The action is non-stop with a quick pace and an amazing attention to details in the main plot as well as the sub-plots. I enjoyed the wedding scenes at the beginning that introduced the characters and allowed me to get to know them again. So, even if I had not read the previous books in the series, this one could have been enjoyed as a standalone. I like the way faith is included in the book and all of the loose ends are tied up, including bringing refugees from Cuba. There were a lot of twists and some really surprising developments as the story progressed. This is Christian romantic suspense at its best.
Disclaimer
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Jeanette Durkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an amazing faith filled suspense novel! There's intrigue, kidnappings, and danger lurking around every corner. There's also a sweet love story!!

The characters are written brilliantly! There are some familiar ones and some new ones. Avery is a no nonsense, no frills kind of girl. She had a difficult past and it's hard for her to trust. Ethan is dependable, a protector and he never gives up! Miss Martha is my favorite! She says it like it is but with love! She's generous and passionate about her ministry.

My favorite parts were when Ethan and Avery discovered their need for God in their lives! It was inspiring to read how God "called" them to him. Each in different and unique ways!

This is the 3rd book in the Crossroads Suspense series. I've read the other two and I highly recommend them!

[Ethelann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Watch Your Back was literally an edge of your seat story from beginning to end. I enjoyed Avery and Ethan's story and how they worked through Avery's major trust issues and Ethan's PTSD. All the while, a drug lord is after Avery to kill her and even goes after her friends. Ethan, with the help of the security firm he works for, is determined to protect her and their mutual friends. The ending to this was totally unexpected!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, and this is my honest review

[Christian Shelves · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s a good thing that Watch Your Back is book three in the Crossroads Suspense series because the suspense kept me riveted in guessing how everything would wrap up! I loved meeting Avery and Ethan and getting to see their faith journeys progress as they reluctantly join forces to take down a nebulous mob. Though I haven’t read the first two books in this series, this book acts as a great standalone and make you want to read the previous titles where you can get to know some of the side characters even better. I enjoyed seeing how well-supported Avery and Ethan are by their wonderful friends and family who watch their backs and how they take the time to give back through their volunteer efforts. This is a book that contains just as much soul as it does action, making it both a heartwarming and a heart-stopping reading experience.

When it comes to Christian content, the scenes are top-notch in that they flow so naturally between the characters. In between the chases and the tension, Avery and Ethan take the time to reflect on what they’ve been learning about the Gospel from others, which contributes to the overall richness of the book. Miss Martha is a formidable figure to behold as she loves others well through her faith in Jesus Christ. I appreciated how the author addressed issues of morality as a subplot in this book and how things were resolved. If you are looking for a romantic suspense that will keep you on your toes as you root for the characters to experience God’s life-changing love, Kristen Hogrefe Parnell will be a name to seek out!

Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...

I am grateful to the publisher, Mountain Brook Ink, for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

[Laura Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in Florida, this is an edge-of-your-seat read with a delightful slow-burn romance and a relatable faith element—perfect for fans of Christian romantic suspense!
Avery Reynolds is a private investigator with a promise she needs to keep and a drug lord she needs to see behind bars. Ethan Bridger is a coast guard veteran suffering from PTSD, whose genuine act of heroism backfires when he first meets undercover Avery...
Prickly, independent Avery and tender-hearted-family-man Ethan are an unlikely couple, yet danger and faith draw them together.
A wedding, a kidnapping, shootings, and a race against time—this is one thrilling adventure!
The third book in the Crossroads Suspense series, Watch Your Back can be read as a stand alone—or enjoyed even more after reading the other two page-turners.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Interviews and Reviews.

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Thoughts


Watch Your Back is book three in the Crossroads Suspense Series that is written by Kristen Hogrefe Parnell While while is part of a series, this can be read as a standalone. I was captivated by this book.

PI Avery Reynolds is leading an investigation that she is hoping will expose the mob. She’s had a vendetta against them since her foster brothers death that the mob was responsible for. When she sets up a sting, it’s derailed by Coast Guard Vet turned security specialist, Ethan. Both of our characters have some deep flaws and are real feeling. Both have some issues they need to work around.

I loved the non stop action. The author has done a great job in keeping readers in suspense throughout the book. I loved seeing our characters evolve. I loved the slow build romance between the two.

Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.

[Wendy Andrus]

Since the setting for Watch Your Back partly takes place just down the road from me (Tampa isn't far from where I live), I wanted to give this a read. I find it full of suspense, which will keep one reading. I know a bit about a form of PTSD, as well as knowing what it's like to have trust issues. This story captured my attention from the beginning.

If you enjoy suspense, faith, and a touch of romance, you will want to grab your own copy.

I received a complimentary copy. These opinions are my own.

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Avery and Ethan’s story of redemption drew me in from the first page. Seeing God work in their lives through the hard circumstances surrounding them was encouraging and reminded me to keep praying for those around me.

I love seeing characters from the previous two books again.

Great work Kristen!

[Dinah_HGirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has been such a great read. I could not put it down, especially when I was in the last few chapters. The title of the book is subtly woven throughout the story. A few times while reading, I felt the need to watch my own back because I felt so immersed in the story.
This is a must-read and re-read that will have you on the edge of your seat until the last page!

*I was given an ARC by the author, but I was not required to give a positive review (I honestly liked the book).

[Deana Dick · Rating 4 out of 5]

I will recommend that if you haven’t read the other books in this series, you need to go back and read them first. This book picks up from the last one so it is important to familiarize yourself with the back story. I’m glad that I did, because it helped me follow the characters better and understand what they had gone through.

Avery is a tough character who wants to stop “Big Eddie.” A threat surrounds Avery and any friends or family that she is around. She does have a sense of failure when unexpected “accidents” happen around her. Who knew that going to a wedding would be dangerous?

Ethan is fierce, compassionate and carries the burden of PTSD. He tries to help Avery but at times they don’t always agree on everything. I think they both have pride to deal with and trusting God in every part of their lives. I was shocked when Avery became upset that Ethan had gone to the front of the church they were visiting to get prayer. Such bitterness could be felt just by her mannerisms. She was upset that she had stayed at the meeting forever just to see Ethan praying with the Pastor.

Poor Avery is feeling alone now that Ethan has stepped away from helping her. He tries to explain why, but all she sees is that the bad guy is winning now. She doesn’t understand that we live in a broken world. The bad guys may , “win on this side of eternity , but when Jesus returns, He will have the final victory over evil.”

There is a struggle going on within Avery as she doesn’t understand why God is allowing bad things to happen to her. I love when Ethan decides that he is going to help Avery in her struggle with God. The author provides characters with flaws and illustrates how faith guides them toward trusting God. With lots of action, danger and unforgettable faith elements this book is a must read.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Christi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finding redemption in the most difficult of circumstances adds such beauty to the intense and suspenseful plot of Watch Your Back.

Ethan and Avery are two flawed characters that are easy to get behind. We see personal struggles with trust issues, PTSD, and the seemingly impossible fight to take down a drug lord. It’s clear that Avery is intense and seems to have a big chip on her shoulder. She seems to take her frustrations out on Ethan, which did become burdensome after a while, though I could understand and empathize with her reasoning.

Though quite suspenseful, there were a few moments that did bog down the overall pace, and I would’ve loved a little more action, but what I felt was lacking from the narrative was made up for by moments that were truly touching. The friendships that are highlighted in this novel show what strength, encouragement, and love should look like, and I enjoyed these moments most of all.

While part of a series, this novel can easily be read as a standalone, as I never once felt lost and easily adapted to this world. The ending was hands down the best part of this novel, with a beautiful celebration that was truly deserved and very satisfying. I do plan on going back and reading the rest of the series, as there is something special here, and I recommend this series for anyone who is needing a good Christian suspense fix.

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romantic Suspense novels are a favorite genre of mine. Watch Your Back by Kristen Hogrefe Parnell is Book 3 in the Crossroads Suspense series. I have read the other books in this series and I was excited to see that Book 3 in now available.

WOW, this storyline is probably my favorite in the series. The 2 main charcters in this book are Avery Reynolds and Ethan Bridger. Avery is a Private Investigator and she has been trying to solve the case of her Foster Brother's death. She almost has "Big Eddie" but her case takes a turn when "Big Eddie" kidnaps Avery's godchild, the young son of her friends. Ethan, who is a Coast Guard Veteran steps in to help get the young boy back and to protect Avery and the friends. I really LOVE how protective Ethan is and how he wants to make sure everyone remains saft throughout the ordeal. The relationship between Avery and Ethan is interesting. They both have some "baggage" that needs to be addressed and they rely on their faith and God to get them through. I really LOVE that Ethan is very strong in his faith and helps Avery come back to the faith. I was absolutely thrilled with this book and encouraged by the faith in this book. The book has many twists and turn that also keep me intrigued to keep reading. The book is packed full of Action, Romance, Mystery, and Faith. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Romantic Suspense Novels! AMAZING BOOK!

[Wren · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fab thriller! PI Avery Reynolds and security specialist Ethan Bridger bump heads (almost literally) when he swoops in to save her. Oops. She didn't actually need saving, she was running a sting operation!

You wouldn't think that would be a recipe for romance. And indeed, Avery is not in the market. But she and Ethan keep crossing each other's paths, in nearly disastrous ways. And when they inadvertently end up in the crosshairs of the mob (in Tampa, no less), it seems that working together might be the only thing that saves both of their lives. Their individual skill sets are impressive; but combining them makes them even more so. Ethan is definitely interested (yet not in a stalker-y way). And Avery might just be warming up to him. But before they can investigate a potential new relationship, there's a rescue to complete. An inmate to keep behind bars. And a promise that Avery is determined to keep. So yes, maybe there's some love ahead of them...if they can stay alive.

I loved reading Kristen Hogrefe Parnell's thriller! Fabulous characters, captivating turns of events, and more. Highly recommend!

I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions shared here are my own.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Watch Your Back by Kristen Hogrefe Parnell is the third book in the Crossroads Suspense series. It can be read as a standalone book. This Christian Romantic Suspense novel is an excellent continuation of this series.

Private Investigator Avery Reynolds aims to expose and eliminate Tampa’s supposedly extinct mob. She also wants to discover the truth about her foster brother’s death while also fulfilling his last request. But her determination puts those she is close to at risk.

Ethan Bridger, a Coast Guard veteran who unknowingly derails her sting operation. He suffers from PTSD but works in Security. When “Big Eddie” comes out of hiding, he targets their mutual friends at a wedding. Ethan finds himself working to keep Avery and their mutual friends safe.

They learn they need to trust God and overcome their issues. I loved the characters and storylines in this book.

The danger, twists, and turns will keep you reading. I wanted a positive outcome for Aver and Ethan.

So, if you want a Christian Romantic Suspense novel to read, check out Watch Your Back by Kristen Hogrefe Parnell.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Avery Reynolds is out to bring down the crime boss, Big Eddie. But every time she gets close, something happens to prevent her from doing so. One of those things being Ethan Bridger. He mistakenly rescued her during one of her sting operations. This was an awkward situation and one that I bet both hoped to never see one another again. But, little did they realize how important that meeting would be in their relationships, both professionally and personally.

I always enjoy a story where the villain is brought to justice and the crime organization is affected. With Avery and Ethan and their colleagues, Big Eddie didn’t stand a chance of succeeding. There was plenty of action and a nail-biting scene that I really enjoyed. This is a Christian book, and the faith of the characters is throughout the story. This is the third book in the Crossroads Suspense series, but it can be read as a standalone. I hadn’t read the other books and didn’t think it affected the plot in any way.

* kidnapping, human trafficking (no details), murder

I received a complimentary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own. A positive review was not required.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Woah! Loved it! This is book three in a series and yes, you absolutely must read these in order. Do not, I repeat do not, just pick up this book thinking you can start with it.

We meet Avery in book one of the series. She’s a detective on a case involving the main characters of that one. And then in book two she’s a private detective and involved in that case too. Now, book three is focused on her and you get to learn the rest of her story.

This book and series definitely keep you on your toes. You’re going to be wondering who’s doing what and who the ringleader is. Avery knows that the mob is still in effect in their community and she is determined to take down Big Eddie if it’s the last thing she does. He’s responsible for the death of someone close to her.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Joan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an action packed novel. While it does read relatively well on its own, much of the action comes as a result of events in earlier books in this series. In order to fully appreciate this novel, the earlier ones should be read first. There is an interesting side plot of helping Cubans which must come from an earlier novel. There is a good potential romance although the journey to it is quite rocky.

There is a very good faith message included in the plot with a clear presentation of the gospel. Additional faith issues include a past tragedy that causes doubt about God as well as guilt for past behavior. Potential readers should be aware there are abductions and human trafficking references in the plot but not specifically described.

This is a good inspirational romantic suspense. Parnell's writing style is good and the plot pace moves along consistently.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Mary Hake · Rating 4 out of 5]

A suspenseful thriller, this story ramps up in the latter half. At first, I didn’t feel much connection with the characters but I’m glad I kept going because the tale grew increasingly exciting with so much at stake. The novel bursts with twists and surprises as Private Investigator Avery Reynolds attempts to capture a crime boss known as Big Eddie. Coast Guard veteran Ethan Bridger now works for a security firm. The two get thrown together whether they like it or not. The characters seem quite real, and the bad guy truly heartless. Both main characters have baggage to work through and painful pasts to overcome. I appreciate the faith element as both character struggle with spiritual matters and trusting the Lord. The riveting plot will keep readers tuned into the unfolding terror. This book can stand alone. Back story is filled as necessary. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Watch Your Back is the third book from the Crossroads Suspense series by Kristen Hogrefe Parnell. I have read the previous books and was excited to get my hands on this one. I was not disappointed. It was full of mystery and suspense and one that I could not predict from scene to scene. I had to keep reading to find out how it would all end. I loved taking this adventure with the duo Avery and Ethan. It was great.

I am going to give Watch Your Back five stars. I highly recommend it for readers who love to read clean romantic suspense. I hope to read more from Kristen Hogrefe Parnell in the future.

I received a digital copy of Kristen Hogrefe Parnell's Watch Your Back from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Watch Your Back" by Kristen Hogrefe Parnell kept me turning the pages. There is Spiritual truth in this novel as part of the story line. This is the third novel in this set of books. I was able to follow along pretty well without reading the second book and I have read the first one, but it has been a long time ago that I forgot what it was about, but I think I am going to reread the first one and then read the second one as soon as I can just to get the complete story. There is imply violence (gun pointed at her head) with a picture of a young girl that is kidnapped. This a book about God's Redemption.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

[Holly Bleggi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this Christian Romantic Suspense. I have read the other books in the series so I knew that the story would be well told and that the characters would go on a faith journey. I loved how Avery and Ethan came to know the Lord through the case they were involved in. I liked how Avery learned that she couldn’t keep doing things alone and needed help from others and the Lord. I liked how the bad guy was brought down. I thought the story was fast paced and engaging. I liked that the story can be read as a stand alone, although it is better if you read the other books first. I would highly recommend this book and this series.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

[Denise Barela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow! This was thrilling tale! This author did a great job of weaving together a story that really kept you on your toes. I had no problems following along despite not having read previous books. I did struggle a bit at first just because Avery rubbed me the wrong way a lot at the beginning. By the end, I came to really like both her and Ethan and was rooting for them. I think if you're a lover of Christian Romantic Suspense, you should read this book. It has everything you want in a good Christian Romantic Suspense story!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Harriet Flowers · Rating 5 out of 5]

God will never leave us

While this is the third book in this series, it's the first that I have read, both in the series and by this author. I won this book in a drawing. I'm so thankful that I did!! This is one of the most intense books that I have read in awhile!! Who would have thought that an investigator or a security specialist would need anyone other than themselves. While in a rush to free a child from a dangerous mob syndicate, these heroic characters come to terms with not only needing others but is there really a God that can forgive someone as damaged as they are? A must read!!!

[Suzanne Montgomery · Rating 5 out of 5]

“You can’t watch your own back.” But Avery Reynolds wouldn’t acknowledge that Ethan Bridger might be right. “Why not? I’ve been doing it my whole life.”
After both parents broke her trust, Avery resisted letting anyone help her—not Ethan or even God.
This fast-paced clean romantic suspense by Kristen Hogrefe Parnell kept me turning pages until the very end. I loved the first two books in this series and this one did not disappoint. If you haven’t read “Take My Hand” or “Hold Your Breath” yet, purchase all three. But get ready to stay up half the night anxious to find out what happens next!

[Kelli · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fast-paced Christian suspense!

Book 3 is Avery's story - she is bent on finding and capturing Big Eddie. But her heart is hard and she doesn't allow anyone close to her. This is her task and she aims to do it all by herself. What she doesn't count on is an ex-military security interfering with a sting and working his way into her life. When things begin to escalate out of control, will Avery allow Ethan and his company to help? The final conclusion to this series is pulse- pounding!

[Pascale’s*ARC,Unwind,Read,Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aw, man! I’ve loved this author’s past books but I just couldn’t connect as well with this one. I don’t know if it was just bad timing, or if I wasn’t focused enough, but it was a drag for me to get through this one. Eventually, I gave up and I didn’t finish it.

[Bibliophile · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent wrap up

It's not often you read a series and find ALL the loose ends wrapped up when it's over. So satisfying. This is my first exposure to this author, and I look forward to reading more from her in the future.

[Josie Siler · Rating 4 out of 5]

A satisfying conclusion to this series.