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The King Legacy #1
Girl Lost
Luna Rosati found acceptance and a family during childhood, but when she became pregnant at seventeen, she gave the baby up for adoption and left without a word. Now a CIA counterintelligence officer, Luna wants to reconcile her fractured sense of self by finding the only blood family she has left--the teenage daughter she's never met. Her mentor, Stryker, promises to reveal her daughter's identity, but first Luna must meet him in the old neighborhood, the last place she wants to be. Then Stryker is captured.
Special Agent Corbin King changed his surname to escape the shadow of his convicted father serving a life sentence. When he runs into Luna, the object of his failed teenage romance, the two must put their pasts aside and work together toward a greater mission. But when they encounter a kidnapping, missing bodies, and murder, the secrets Corbin and Luna are keeping from one another are only the beginning of the threat they face with more than their own lives at stake.
Special Agent Corbin King changed his surname to escape the shadow of his convicted father serving a life sentence. When he runs into Luna, the object of his failed teenage romance, the two must put their pasts aside and work together toward a greater mission. But when they encounter a kidnapping, missing bodies, and murder, the secrets Corbin and Luna are keeping from one another are only the beginning of the threat they face with more than their own lives at stake.
336 pages, Paperback
Published September 23, 2025
93 people are currently reading
14479 people want to read
About the author
Kate Angelo
17 books560 followersThanks for stopping by! I'd love for you to subscribe to my newsletter so we can stay in touch! Bonus, all newsletter subscribers are automatically entered into all my giveaways! Visit my website to join: https://kateangelo.com/
A LITTLE ABOUT KATE...
Kate Angelo once sold a lion to a circus in Shreveport after her mom realized lions weren’t great house pets. Growing up, Kate was a bookworm, dog groomer, exotic pet wrangler, horse trainer, cowgirl, and teenage pool shark. After aging out of foster care, Kate cultivated her inner computer nerd and worked as a web programmer. It was during a visit to Australia that Kate encountered Jesus and left the corporate world to pursue a life in ministry.
From her home in Southwest Missouri, Kate serves alongside her husband, strengthening and encouraging marriages and families as the Vice President of their nonprofit. After raising their 5 children, Kate and her husband are now fluent in both sarcasm and eye rolls—a language they plan to teach their grandkids.
Kate is a Romantic Suspense author, coffee addict, tech guru, productivity enthusiast, expert knitter, avid boater, dog lover, prayer warrior, and known klutz. With Willow the long-haired chihuahua taking up half her desk space, Kate writes thrilling stories with flawed characters who encounter hope and healing while ducking danger along the way.
A LITTLE ABOUT KATE...
Kate Angelo once sold a lion to a circus in Shreveport after her mom realized lions weren’t great house pets. Growing up, Kate was a bookworm, dog groomer, exotic pet wrangler, horse trainer, cowgirl, and teenage pool shark. After aging out of foster care, Kate cultivated her inner computer nerd and worked as a web programmer. It was during a visit to Australia that Kate encountered Jesus and left the corporate world to pursue a life in ministry.
From her home in Southwest Missouri, Kate serves alongside her husband, strengthening and encouraging marriages and families as the Vice President of their nonprofit. After raising their 5 children, Kate and her husband are now fluent in both sarcasm and eye rolls—a language they plan to teach their grandkids.
Kate is a Romantic Suspense author, coffee addict, tech guru, productivity enthusiast, expert knitter, avid boater, dog lover, prayer warrior, and known klutz. With Willow the long-haired chihuahua taking up half her desk space, Kate writes thrilling stories with flawed characters who encounter hope and healing while ducking danger along the way.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 239 reviews
August 18, 2025
Within a few pages, new-to-me author Kate Angelo had captured my interest and her fast-paced, gripping storyline had my heart racing and skipping beats! I knew then that this was going to be my next favourite series.
Angelo’s focus is on finding our way home. She highlights the baggage from her characters’ past and how it affects their present decisions. She introduces us to Luna Rosati and Corbin King who have a shared past full of heartache and shows us the value of forgiveness and redemption.
Building on this thread, Angelo adds kidnapping, ethical issues involving medical technology, and a race against time search for a missing person. As if that weren’t enough, she blends in themes of forgiveness, redemption, and grace. The result is a 5-star pacey read worthy of all the stars. I’m so excited to continue with this fantastic series, The King Legacy series.
(Insert quotes post publication)
Waiting for the next installment is the worst part.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Angelo’s focus is on finding our way home. She highlights the baggage from her characters’ past and how it affects their present decisions. She introduces us to Luna Rosati and Corbin King who have a shared past full of heartache and shows us the value of forgiveness and redemption.
Building on this thread, Angelo adds kidnapping, ethical issues involving medical technology, and a race against time search for a missing person. As if that weren’t enough, she blends in themes of forgiveness, redemption, and grace. The result is a 5-star pacey read worthy of all the stars. I’m so excited to continue with this fantastic series, The King Legacy series.
(Insert quotes post publication)
Waiting for the next installment is the worst part.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
October 13, 2025
This is a well-written, fast paced, entertaining suspense novel which has Christian themes of forgiveness, faith and hope, a touch of romance, supportive friends, and a gratifying conclusion. Many thanks to author Ms. Denise Hunter, whose newsletter I subscribe to, who featured this novel as a recommended read. I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator, Ms. Connie Shabshab, does an excellent job voicing the characters. I am looking forward to reading the next installment in this series with great anticipation.
September 12, 2025
I was drawn into Girl Lost right away. The south Florida beach setting near the Everglades is the perfect backdrop for all that went on. The story revolves around a group of friends who have been together since they were mentored by Stryker King as at risk teens. He brought them into his gym, taught them martial arts, self defense, love, and faith in God. Now he is missing. Luna, just leaving the CIA, and Corbin, FDLE agent loved each other until events tore them apart. Now, Corbin is searching for the daughter of the FDLE Commissioner with Luna's help. And the friends, all trained in law enforcement or related areas, are all working to find Stryker. What they find is sick, twisted, larger than expected situation with lots of surprises and layers. This does has a satisfying ending and I am looking forward to reading more about the friends.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These are my thoughts.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These are my thoughts.
dnf
September 26, 2025I had to set this one aside around 43%. This has nothing to do with the writing style or anything, but because some of the thriller elements, particularly the crime threads involving more gruesome discoveries - mentions organ harvesting of a teen killed and possible other victims were a bit too gruesome for my personal taste. The author clearly does a great job creating an intense, high-stakes atmosphere, and I can see how readers who enjoy darker thrillers will be fully gripped by this story. Please take me with a grain of salt on this one! I also didnt fully connect with the characters as I have in other romantic suspense books.
What drew me in initially was Luna’s backstory and the second chances as she searches for the daughter she gave up for adoption many years ago and reconnecting with Corbin. There’s a lot of emotional depth here, balanced with action and suspense, which many readers will love.
Even though I couldn’t finish, I’d recommend this one to fans of gritty thrillers who don’t mind a bit more graphic crime details. This does have a faith thread and no language, which makes this a great alternative to readers of secular thrillers who want something similar but cleaner than typical secular thrillers.
Other content considerations pulled from another review by Brandi Raae (thank you for this!) for clarity: Content considerations: Violence, kidnapping, nons*xual child trafficking and experimentation, mu*der, teenage pregnancy
Thank you to the publisher for a copy to read and review. All thoughts are my own.
What drew me in initially was Luna’s backstory and the second chances as she searches for the daughter she gave up for adoption many years ago and reconnecting with Corbin. There’s a lot of emotional depth here, balanced with action and suspense, which many readers will love.
Even though I couldn’t finish, I’d recommend this one to fans of gritty thrillers who don’t mind a bit more graphic crime details. This does have a faith thread and no language, which makes this a great alternative to readers of secular thrillers who want something similar but cleaner than typical secular thrillers.
Other content considerations pulled from another review by Brandi Raae (thank you for this!) for clarity: Content considerations: Violence, kidnapping, nons*xual child trafficking and experimentation, mu*der, teenage pregnancy
Thank you to the publisher for a copy to read and review. All thoughts are my own.
August 15, 2025
First off, look at that cover! It gives off suspenseful vibes right off the bat. Secondly, the storyline captures the reader's attention from the beginning. Luna, our heroine, is to meet her mentor when her first-ever and lost love comes waltzing into the restaurant while she is waiting, thus drawing me into the story and not letting me go. Lastly, the way the author develops the story, with its suspenseful twists and turns, plus a great cast of characters, kept me riveted until the last page. *I was given a copy of this book by the publisher, and this is my honest opinion.*
September 1, 2025
What a wild and intense ride! When Luna returned to town, she definitely got more than she bargained for. This missing persons case was full of twists and turns that left me reeling. Just when I thought I had it figured out, another layer was revealed, leaving me stunned all over again.
Stryker has been a father figure in the community for years, so when he’s taken in broad daylight, Corbin and Luna refuse to stop until they bring him back. Their bond with him is deeply personal as he’s been in their corner since childhood. While their professional duty pushes them to act, this case hits closer to home than most.
The story also explores some heavy themes, including childhood trauma and the power of forgiveness—not only forgiving others, but also ourselves, while facing inner demons. I especially loved the underlying romance between Corbin and Luna. Their love-hate dynamic had me swooning, and I was rooting for them to finally figure things out because their chemistry was undeniable.
At times, the action felt so vivid and high-stakes that it was like watching a movie unfold. Kate Angelo’s descriptive writing really brought those scenes to life. Overall, this was a solid, engaging read that I truly enjoyed. I’d definitely recommend it and look forward to diving deeper into the author’s catalogue. Thank you to Baker Publishing Group, Justread tours & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy- all opinions are my own!
Stryker has been a father figure in the community for years, so when he’s taken in broad daylight, Corbin and Luna refuse to stop until they bring him back. Their bond with him is deeply personal as he’s been in their corner since childhood. While their professional duty pushes them to act, this case hits closer to home than most.
The story also explores some heavy themes, including childhood trauma and the power of forgiveness—not only forgiving others, but also ourselves, while facing inner demons. I especially loved the underlying romance between Corbin and Luna. Their love-hate dynamic had me swooning, and I was rooting for them to finally figure things out because their chemistry was undeniable.
At times, the action felt so vivid and high-stakes that it was like watching a movie unfold. Kate Angelo’s descriptive writing really brought those scenes to life. Overall, this was a solid, engaging read that I truly enjoyed. I’d definitely recommend it and look forward to diving deeper into the author’s catalogue. Thank you to Baker Publishing Group, Justread tours & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy- all opinions are my own!
September 13, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for this #gifted book!*
Title: Girl Lost
Author: Kate Angelo
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Synopsis: Luna Rosati has been running from her past for a long time, but after working as an undercover agent, it’s time to find her roots again. With the help of Stryker—who became like a father to her, she goes back to her hometown to search for her daughter who she hasn’t seen since she gave her up for adoption at the hospital. But when Stryker is kidnapped, Luna finds herself working with Corbin King—the boy (now man) who got her pregnant. When Corbin’s missing persons case collides with Luna’s search, they must overcome their histories and work together to find the truth in front of them. With kidnappings and murders on the rise, the desperate search for their daughter becomes a desperate search for the only one with answers to her past.
Analysis: If you’re looking for a mystery/thriller that you can’t put down, this is the book for you! Angelo weaves a story of intimate characters and gripping plot that will keep turning the pages for more. I loved that this book had all the crime investigation intensity without the gore. There are riveting discoveries, mind blowing twists, and intense fighting, but all done from a careful lens. Angelo also poses questions of God’s love for all and the ethics of modern science. I loved the layers covered in the characters and the plot. Plus a second chance romance?! Yes, please 😍 there are also themes of deep faith and healing from the past. If you’re looking for twisty, fast-paced, romantic suspense that keeps you staying up to finish, this is definitely the perfect book to add to your TBR!
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Title: Girl Lost
Author: Kate Angelo
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Synopsis: Luna Rosati has been running from her past for a long time, but after working as an undercover agent, it’s time to find her roots again. With the help of Stryker—who became like a father to her, she goes back to her hometown to search for her daughter who she hasn’t seen since she gave her up for adoption at the hospital. But when Stryker is kidnapped, Luna finds herself working with Corbin King—the boy (now man) who got her pregnant. When Corbin’s missing persons case collides with Luna’s search, they must overcome their histories and work together to find the truth in front of them. With kidnappings and murders on the rise, the desperate search for their daughter becomes a desperate search for the only one with answers to her past.
Analysis: If you’re looking for a mystery/thriller that you can’t put down, this is the book for you! Angelo weaves a story of intimate characters and gripping plot that will keep turning the pages for more. I loved that this book had all the crime investigation intensity without the gore. There are riveting discoveries, mind blowing twists, and intense fighting, but all done from a careful lens. Angelo also poses questions of God’s love for all and the ethics of modern science. I loved the layers covered in the characters and the plot. Plus a second chance romance?! Yes, please 😍 there are also themes of deep faith and healing from the past. If you’re looking for twisty, fast-paced, romantic suspense that keeps you staying up to finish, this is definitely the perfect book to add to your TBR!
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
September 6, 2025
Um, Wow! I completely binge read this book, and honestly, just a few chapters in, I knew I was hooked on the King Legacy series. I can’t wait for book 2!
This story is so layered, and I’m not going to spoil anything, but I will say it’s a second chance romance for the ages. Prepare for plenty of twists, turns, and mysteries that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Luna is returning home to reconnect with her mentor Stryker and uncover the truth behind the adoption of her daughter years ago. But when Stryker is kidnapped, Luna is forced to rely on the only family she has left, those from the Warrior Project. And worst of all, Corbin, the man who broke her heart and the father of her lost child, is the one she must work with. As they join forces to find Stryker, they quickly realize that nothing is as it seems. What started as a mission to find Luna’s daughter quickly unraveled into a dangerous web of criminal activity, much deeper than they could have ever expected. The stakes are higher than ever, and the forced proximity between Corbin and Luna only complicates their emotions. Can they find a future together? Will they locate their daughter? And who took Stryker and why?
This was a total page turner... I couldn't read it fast enough. I am totally invested in the rest of this series now. I was so deeply immersed in the suspense and criminal activity that I had to know how it all ended. Now, how am I supposed to wait for book 2?! I will try to be patient. try.
I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
This story is so layered, and I’m not going to spoil anything, but I will say it’s a second chance romance for the ages. Prepare for plenty of twists, turns, and mysteries that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Luna is returning home to reconnect with her mentor Stryker and uncover the truth behind the adoption of her daughter years ago. But when Stryker is kidnapped, Luna is forced to rely on the only family she has left, those from the Warrior Project. And worst of all, Corbin, the man who broke her heart and the father of her lost child, is the one she must work with. As they join forces to find Stryker, they quickly realize that nothing is as it seems. What started as a mission to find Luna’s daughter quickly unraveled into a dangerous web of criminal activity, much deeper than they could have ever expected. The stakes are higher than ever, and the forced proximity between Corbin and Luna only complicates their emotions. Can they find a future together? Will they locate their daughter? And who took Stryker and why?
This was a total page turner... I couldn't read it fast enough. I am totally invested in the rest of this series now. I was so deeply immersed in the suspense and criminal activity that I had to know how it all ended. Now, how am I supposed to wait for book 2?! I will try to be patient. try.
I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
September 24, 2025
The romance and the suspense are fantastic, and that alone had me loving this story. But this story is more than excellent romantic suspense....it's about how with God's grace, scars from the past can be redeemed and used to help others. I could not put "Girl Lost' by Kate Angelo down. This story of "found family, fierce women, and fast plots" will keep you turning pages way past bedtime!
Themes of second chances, medical suspense, how far will people will go for their loved ones (for good or for evil), and found family made this an unputdownable story!
I can't wait to see more of Corbin, Luna, Tori, Blade, Stryker, Jett, Harlee, Trinity, and Summer in the next King Legacy story.
I highly recommend Girl Lost! Thank you to the publisher Revell, and Net galley for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.
I cannot wait for book 2 in the series.
Themes of second chances, medical suspense, how far will people will go for their loved ones (for good or for evil), and found family made this an unputdownable story!
I can't wait to see more of Corbin, Luna, Tori, Blade, Stryker, Jett, Harlee, Trinity, and Summer in the next King Legacy story.
I highly recommend Girl Lost! Thank you to the publisher Revell, and Net galley for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.
I cannot wait for book 2 in the series.
October 2, 2025
This was good! I was pulled in to Luna's story right away...she's trying to find the daughter given up for adoption nearly 20 years ago. Her mentor is attacked right in front of her just as she was about to learn details about her daughter. Luna teams up with her old misfit crew to try and figure out what happened to their beloved mentor.
Loved the twists in story. And the background of the cover is subtle and well done.
Can't wait to read the next in this series.
Loved the twists in story. And the background of the cover is subtle and well done.
Can't wait to read the next in this series.
June 25, 2025
12,000 stars? 🤩 Best read of 2025! Review to come.
January 10, 2026
loved it! can't wait for the next one
September 28, 2025
Girl Lost was a story full of faith, healing, redemption, and mystery. Each storyline was layered with endless questions that had me on an endless spiral of confusion until the very end. There were unknowns I wasn't even expecting the story to include but by the end I came away completely satisfied with not only the questions answered but the happily ever after of our couple. The romance was amazing but didn't overshadow the rest of the plot. They all flowed together beautifully.
This was my first Kate Angelo book and I can't wait to read more from this author.
*I was gifted an early copy of this book but all opinions are my own*
This was my first Kate Angelo book and I can't wait to read more from this author.
*I was gifted an early copy of this book but all opinions are my own*
September 23, 2025
Be prepared to be mesmerized from the start! I love when an author kicks into full throttle action within the first few pages.
And I’m astonished when paper people wedge themselves in my heart from the first meeting. Seeing Stryker get violently attacked and taken jarred me down to the bone and I barely knew his name!
Kate Angelo has the right stuff for nerve wracking and mind bending suspense. Her gift of character development and knowing just when to toss in a jaw dropping twist is uncanny.
And I don’t know how you’ll feel, but I wanted to crawl inside the pages and knock some sense into a few characters! Here’s the real gem of the story though….
The crime is unique and unimaginable, but rooted in enough fact to chill you all the way through to your marrow. And you won’t see the reveal coming, which will knock you breathless.
Which is why I’m thrilled a strong message of faith and hope counteracts the deep darkness in the story. I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited. Very highly recommend!
And I’m astonished when paper people wedge themselves in my heart from the first meeting. Seeing Stryker get violently attacked and taken jarred me down to the bone and I barely knew his name!
Kate Angelo has the right stuff for nerve wracking and mind bending suspense. Her gift of character development and knowing just when to toss in a jaw dropping twist is uncanny.
And I don’t know how you’ll feel, but I wanted to crawl inside the pages and knock some sense into a few characters! Here’s the real gem of the story though….
The crime is unique and unimaginable, but rooted in enough fact to chill you all the way through to your marrow. And you won’t see the reveal coming, which will knock you breathless.
Which is why I’m thrilled a strong message of faith and hope counteracts the deep darkness in the story. I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited. Very highly recommend!
dnfs
October 25, 2025DNF 5%
I'm over the "teen mom gave up baby, now wants to find said baby and will get back with dad after YEARS apart" trope. The couple has been a part for 18 years... yet MMC wants to pursue her because she's the only woman he's ever loved despite the very obvious and rude signs she wants nothing to do with him. But the straw that broke the camels back was a LEO explaining to a friend LEO that "2 dudes" got out of a car when explaining a crime. No LEO is ever going to say that, even to a friend. I'm picky with my romantic suspense/thriller for the realistic component.
Also, I later learned from a reviewer friend that there's a scene described of organ trafficking from teens...yeah thats a no for me.
I'm over the "teen mom gave up baby, now wants to find said baby and will get back with dad after YEARS apart" trope. The couple has been a part for 18 years... yet MMC wants to pursue her because she's the only woman he's ever loved despite the very obvious and rude signs she wants nothing to do with him. But the straw that broke the camels back was a LEO explaining to a friend LEO that "2 dudes" got out of a car when explaining a crime. No LEO is ever going to say that, even to a friend. I'm picky with my romantic suspense/thriller for the realistic component.
Also, I later learned from a reviewer friend that there's a scene described of organ trafficking from teens...yeah thats a no for me.
August 26, 2025
What an edge of your seat, thrilling suspense! Filled with a lovely second chance romance, an intriguing mystery, & themes of finding the lost sheep, Kate Angelo starts this series off with a bang. It’s the fantastic start to a new King Legacy series & I can’t wait for more.
When her mentor, Stryker King is kidnapped right in front of her, CIA counterintelligence officer Luna Rosati is determined to save the only man who knows the whereabouts of her only remaining relative, the baby girl whom she placed for adoption 17 years ago. But, the last person she expects to work with is the man who broke her teenaged heart, & the father of her long lost daughter.
Special Agent Corbin King carries a past of regrets. He never got over Luna, but his abusive childhood leading to his father’s incarceration made him leery of becoming a father himself at such a young age. Now he has the opportunity to make things right with Luna & perhaps find all they lost.
Against this backdrop, is a ripped from the headlines mystery that delves into the most complex bioethical quandaries concerning new technological advances & medicine. With missing persons, an arson attempt, & murder, it’ll take everything Luna & Corbin have to solve the mystery & find Stryker before it’s too late.
This story was a non-stop action suspense filled with twists & turns. I found myself quickly turning the pages as each new secret was unraveled. The mystery was intriguing & just when I thought I had things figured out there was a new twist. I loved the bioethical questions presented & the question of the worth of souls.
Luna’s & Corbin’s romance was such a sweet reconciliation story. I enjoyed Corbin’s faith journey & finding forgiveness & redemption. I love second chance romance, & this was so well done. The romance was expertly balanced with the thrilling suspense. I also loved themes of found family, finding the lost, & the influence of good mentors.
Highly recommend! I’m so excited to read Tori’s story next. I received an advanced copy from the publisher with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are completely my own & provided voluntarily. 4.5-5 stars!
When her mentor, Stryker King is kidnapped right in front of her, CIA counterintelligence officer Luna Rosati is determined to save the only man who knows the whereabouts of her only remaining relative, the baby girl whom she placed for adoption 17 years ago. But, the last person she expects to work with is the man who broke her teenaged heart, & the father of her long lost daughter.
Special Agent Corbin King carries a past of regrets. He never got over Luna, but his abusive childhood leading to his father’s incarceration made him leery of becoming a father himself at such a young age. Now he has the opportunity to make things right with Luna & perhaps find all they lost.
Against this backdrop, is a ripped from the headlines mystery that delves into the most complex bioethical quandaries concerning new technological advances & medicine. With missing persons, an arson attempt, & murder, it’ll take everything Luna & Corbin have to solve the mystery & find Stryker before it’s too late.
This story was a non-stop action suspense filled with twists & turns. I found myself quickly turning the pages as each new secret was unraveled. The mystery was intriguing & just when I thought I had things figured out there was a new twist. I loved the bioethical questions presented & the question of the worth of souls.
Luna’s & Corbin’s romance was such a sweet reconciliation story. I enjoyed Corbin’s faith journey & finding forgiveness & redemption. I love second chance romance, & this was so well done. The romance was expertly balanced with the thrilling suspense. I also loved themes of found family, finding the lost, & the influence of good mentors.
Highly recommend! I’m so excited to read Tori’s story next. I received an advanced copy from the publisher with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are completely my own & provided voluntarily. 4.5-5 stars!
September 1, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for an e-ARC copy and Revell for a paperback copy of this book! Definitely 3.5 stars! I was gripped by this action-packed book. Angelo really knows how to write a riveting, suspenseful book. Her action scenes had my heart racing. Also, the mystery aspect of the book was educational, spooky, and intense. I was certainly hooked by this! I can’t say much about the mystery itself because of spoilers, but I was impressed by the facts Angelo used and how she clearly educated the reader while also creating an intriguing mystery.
Next, the faith content/themes were touching. I appreciated the redemptive aspects! This was an important piece of the book, and I think she highlighted God’s grace and forgiveness well.
In reference to what was not my cup of tea, I struggled with the characters. This is likely a me thing! I did really appreciate their humanness and struggles. I think I personally felt that these characters used a lot of telling versus showing, so it was a bit hard for me to get into their heads. I think others would like/relate to these characters, but I just had a bit of a struggle connecting with them.
Readers might enjoy this engaging beach read with twists and turns!
Happy reading,
Bethany the Bookworm Girl
Next, the faith content/themes were touching. I appreciated the redemptive aspects! This was an important piece of the book, and I think she highlighted God’s grace and forgiveness well.
In reference to what was not my cup of tea, I struggled with the characters. This is likely a me thing! I did really appreciate their humanness and struggles. I think I personally felt that these characters used a lot of telling versus showing, so it was a bit hard for me to get into their heads. I think others would like/relate to these characters, but I just had a bit of a struggle connecting with them.
Readers might enjoy this engaging beach read with twists and turns!
Happy reading,
Bethany the Bookworm Girl
August 4, 2025
Suspense on suspense! This read had me tense, guessing, and living for every twist. It played out in my mind like a movie — one of those you stay up late to finish. If you love thrillers with just enough unpredictability to keep you locked in, this is it.
#GirlLost #KateAngelo #BookReview #SuspenseJunkie #RootedInFiction
#GirlLost #KateAngelo #BookReview #SuspenseJunkie #RootedInFiction
October 13, 2025
3.5 stars
This is a tricky one to review. It had super good faith elements: forgiveness, redemption, second chances, pursuing those who are lost spiritually. I loved that, and I enjoyed seeing the growth the characters each had throughout the story. They started broken, but healed and reconciled by the end and I liked that a lot.
Some things I struggled with:
-the story lacked a bit of complexity. I didn’t feel like it got truly interesting until the 75/80% point.
-some of the plot felt too convenient like the author was just leading you on an easy path to figuring out the big reveal. It felt a little disjointed too because it moved from one step to the next fairly quickly and without a lot of lead up.
-there were a few parts that felt unbelievable. Like diving to the floor while healing from 16 stitches. Also their little secret team trying to solve the kidnapping/missing persons cases felt a little wishful and not likely.
- calling the participants of their mma gym “assets” felt impersonal and like a weird word choice for a program that’s supposed to see these kids as people.
I don’t usually nitpick, but I have read a fair amount of crime thrillers so I think my bar was a bit high. Overall I was a little disappointed, but still enjoyed the book!
This is a tricky one to review. It had super good faith elements: forgiveness, redemption, second chances, pursuing those who are lost spiritually. I loved that, and I enjoyed seeing the growth the characters each had throughout the story. They started broken, but healed and reconciled by the end and I liked that a lot.
Some things I struggled with:
-the story lacked a bit of complexity. I didn’t feel like it got truly interesting until the 75/80% point.
-some of the plot felt too convenient like the author was just leading you on an easy path to figuring out the big reveal. It felt a little disjointed too because it moved from one step to the next fairly quickly and without a lot of lead up.
-there were a few parts that felt unbelievable. Like diving to the floor while healing from 16 stitches. Also their little secret team trying to solve the kidnapping/missing persons cases felt a little wishful and not likely.
- calling the participants of their mma gym “assets” felt impersonal and like a weird word choice for a program that’s supposed to see these kids as people.
I don’t usually nitpick, but I have read a fair amount of crime thrillers so I think my bar was a bit high. Overall I was a little disappointed, but still enjoyed the book!
October 20, 2025
What a ride! The beginning was a little slow paced for me but once I got into the story I couldn't put it down even if I tried. I loved the characters and the storyline was great! If you enjoy books from Jessica R. Patch, then you will love Girl Lost by Kate Angelo. Murder, kidnapping and intrigue will have you glued to seat and turning every page to find out what happens.
*thank you to the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book to read, all thoughts are my own.
*thank you to the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book to read, all thoughts are my own.
July 6, 2025
Wow, what a story! This one drew me into the action right from the start and I found myself at the edge of my seat, wondering what was going to happen. Corbin and Luna were both such interesting characters--- having both experienced difficult childhoods and then a teenage romance that ended with an unplanned pregnancy and a child put up for adoption. Years later, they come face to face again and find themselves having to search for their missing mentor and the identity of their daughter... which all seemed to be wrapped up in a sinister threat beyond what they would have imagined. There were so many twists and turns to keep me guessing. I don't want to say too much and give anything away, but this one truly was an intriguing story that was absolutely not what I was expecting--- in the very best way possible. I think this is one of the best suspense reads that I've read recently, and one that is certain to stick with me for quite some time... and that ending? Well, I certainly cannot wait to see what is going to happen in the series next. If you enjoy Christian romantic suspense, this is definitely one not to be missed.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
August 30, 2025
4.5 ⭐️s — Okay, this page turner had me in a chokehold! I couldn’t stop reading until I finished.
Former CIA operative Luna Rosati never thought she’d return to Millie Beach. Her hometown held too many painful memories—a troubled childhood, a teenage pregnancy, a shattered dream of a family, and a baby given up for adoption. Yet she returns to meet with her mentor, Stryker, who knows where her daughter is. But when Stryker is kidnapped in front of her eyes, she’s forced to form an unlikely alliance with the one who shattered her dreams decades before.
Police officer Corbin King is fighting for his job. He’s been tasked with finding the police commissioner’s missing daughter, but when he witnesses his mentor Stryker’s kidnapping, his focus is split. But seeing Luna again after all these years is even more disorienting. When they’re paired together to work both cases, they begin to see how twisted, dark, and dangerous the forces they’re up against are.
Y’all, this story was layered and loaded! It took me the first handful of chapters to really get into it, but there was never a dull moment once the story took off. I loved the depths of the MCs and their backstories. I also enjoyed the organic way the author wove a faith thread throughout the story.
This is Christian romantic suspense at its best! Full of page-turning intrigue without graphic violence or explicit details. If you enjoy found family, redemption, second chance romance and suspense is a genre you enjoy or have wanted to try, add this one to your TBR!
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from NetGalley. This is my voluntary honest review.
Former CIA operative Luna Rosati never thought she’d return to Millie Beach. Her hometown held too many painful memories—a troubled childhood, a teenage pregnancy, a shattered dream of a family, and a baby given up for adoption. Yet she returns to meet with her mentor, Stryker, who knows where her daughter is. But when Stryker is kidnapped in front of her eyes, she’s forced to form an unlikely alliance with the one who shattered her dreams decades before.
Police officer Corbin King is fighting for his job. He’s been tasked with finding the police commissioner’s missing daughter, but when he witnesses his mentor Stryker’s kidnapping, his focus is split. But seeing Luna again after all these years is even more disorienting. When they’re paired together to work both cases, they begin to see how twisted, dark, and dangerous the forces they’re up against are.
Y’all, this story was layered and loaded! It took me the first handful of chapters to really get into it, but there was never a dull moment once the story took off. I loved the depths of the MCs and their backstories. I also enjoyed the organic way the author wove a faith thread throughout the story.
This is Christian romantic suspense at its best! Full of page-turning intrigue without graphic violence or explicit details. If you enjoy found family, redemption, second chance romance and suspense is a genre you enjoy or have wanted to try, add this one to your TBR!
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from NetGalley. This is my voluntary honest review.
September 9, 2025
Fast-paced, gripping, and full of heart-pounding moments, this book hooked me right away. The mystery kept me guessing, the tension stayed high, and the characters had real depth that made me care about what happened next.
I loved how it balanced action and emotion so well—it never felt too heavy, but it still packed a punch when it needed to. A suspenseful and totally binge-worthy read that keeps you on your toes until the very end.
I loved how it balanced action and emotion so well—it never felt too heavy, but it still packed a punch when it needed to. A suspenseful and totally binge-worthy read that keeps you on your toes until the very end.
August 1, 2025
3.5 stars
Girl Lost by Kate Angelo gives me mixed feeling vibes. What I mean by this is the characters have a hurt that goes from their initial families and then bleed into a teenage relationship. Because of these two things happening during their transformative years, the two characters have tried to run and hide from their troubles their entire lives. Makes well-rounded characters. But of course, I'm a little curious, if when the relationship does come from and center, what foundation are they building their relationship on: Teenage love, hurts, or the new reality of themselves? So the romance kept the story moving, but I'm a little off about it. However, as for the suspense, it is a futuristic idea with science of why the girl has gone missing. There was plenty of chasing down leads to find where the missing girl is. I liked the concept of why the girl was taken. Plus, the story took roughly 40 percent to get started with searching for the reality of why the girl is missing. It is hinted at during the first part. Angelo spends a lot of time setting up the back story between the two main characters. Overall, Girl Lost by Kate Angelo did not keep me on the edge of my seat, and I am a little wondered about the two main characters starting a relationship again. They should have just put their toes into the waters to start the story.
I received a complimentary copy of Girl Lost by Kate Angelo from Revell Publishing through JustRead Tours, but the opinions stated are all my own.
Girl Lost by Kate Angelo gives me mixed feeling vibes. What I mean by this is the characters have a hurt that goes from their initial families and then bleed into a teenage relationship. Because of these two things happening during their transformative years, the two characters have tried to run and hide from their troubles their entire lives. Makes well-rounded characters. But of course, I'm a little curious, if when the relationship does come from and center, what foundation are they building their relationship on: Teenage love, hurts, or the new reality of themselves? So the romance kept the story moving, but I'm a little off about it. However, as for the suspense, it is a futuristic idea with science of why the girl has gone missing. There was plenty of chasing down leads to find where the missing girl is. I liked the concept of why the girl was taken. Plus, the story took roughly 40 percent to get started with searching for the reality of why the girl is missing. It is hinted at during the first part. Angelo spends a lot of time setting up the back story between the two main characters. Overall, Girl Lost by Kate Angelo did not keep me on the edge of my seat, and I am a little wondered about the two main characters starting a relationship again. They should have just put their toes into the waters to start the story.
I received a complimentary copy of Girl Lost by Kate Angelo from Revell Publishing through JustRead Tours, but the opinions stated are all my own.
July 10, 2025
One of my favorite books that I have read this year! Riveting suspense, danger, and romance that kept me reading long into the night. The gripping storyline kept me guessing and took turns I did not expect. It is full of great characters that feed my series loving heart! I loved Luna and Corbin’s story and can’t wait to read the stories of the other friends in the group.
Difficult realities are expertly written to help you see deeper into the characters and who they are. Ms. Angelo tackles some difficult subjects with grace and empathy making the reader feel and experience what the characters do.
This book is a must read! I cannot wait for the next book in the series!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are completely my own.
Difficult realities are expertly written to help you see deeper into the characters and who they are. Ms. Angelo tackles some difficult subjects with grace and empathy making the reader feel and experience what the characters do.
This book is a must read! I cannot wait for the next book in the series!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are completely my own.
July 14, 2025
“God revealed his purpose in his own timing. It was up to each person to remain obedient, so he was standing right where he was supposed to be when God’s timing lined up.”
I have enjoyed Kate Angelo’s previous books from Sunrise Publishing and the author has clearly stepped it up with this book. From the first page, Luna and Corbin had me spellbound with their shared past, chemistry, and how they worked together. I loved Luna’s fierce independence, intelligence, and loyalty. Corbin’s tenacity, street smarts, and dedication to justice made him a fantastic hero. The plot was a fast-paced, adrenaline-pumped ride with tons of twists and turns. I totally did not expect the story to end up where it did and was floored by the intricate plot line. The theme of forgiveness and grace through faith ran strong throughout the story. How God turns ashes of mistakes and regrets into beauty was another major theme I loved. I can’t wait to read the next book about Tori and Blade.
If you enjoy romantic suspense, this is a must read. I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Revell via JustRead Tours and NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
I have enjoyed Kate Angelo’s previous books from Sunrise Publishing and the author has clearly stepped it up with this book. From the first page, Luna and Corbin had me spellbound with their shared past, chemistry, and how they worked together. I loved Luna’s fierce independence, intelligence, and loyalty. Corbin’s tenacity, street smarts, and dedication to justice made him a fantastic hero. The plot was a fast-paced, adrenaline-pumped ride with tons of twists and turns. I totally did not expect the story to end up where it did and was floored by the intricate plot line. The theme of forgiveness and grace through faith ran strong throughout the story. How God turns ashes of mistakes and regrets into beauty was another major theme I loved. I can’t wait to read the next book about Tori and Blade.
If you enjoy romantic suspense, this is a must read. I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Revell via JustRead Tours and NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
September 19, 2025
Another good read!
And another strange happening for me… I’ve never heard the name ‘Blade’ before.. and now it was in 2 of the 3 books I just read! 😮😮😮
Luna is a young woman with a big history. She’s had a rough childhood, but she’s made a name for herself… and is now looking to resign from the CIA. She has a niggling need, and needs to get to the bottom of it… and so she contacts the ONE PERSON who she believes might be able to help her… her old friend, and mentor, Stryker. He vows to help her, but, she must come to him! Which means she must return to the one place she does NOT want to go back to…
Too many old memories. Too many regrets… Too much history. But, off she goes.
As she goes to meet him, she runs into the only person she does not want to see! Corbin.
Her young love. The one that got away. The one she had so much history with. The one she can never go back to… forgive… forget…or anything. And yet, here he is! And just as he’s coming to talk to her, Stryker pulls up!
BUT, as Stryker gets out of his car, he is abducted… by three big thugs in black masks and clothing… and off they go!
Now, Luna AND Corbin owe just about everything they have to Stryker. So… they must find him!
And this is only just THE OPENING! There’s so much more going on in here…
The author gives background and depth to each of the characters, and once again, I feel like I was cheering them all on!
#GirlLost by @KateAngelo and narrated by @ConnieShabshab.
Although I liked the narrator, I wish there were multiple for this one… as there were a lot of characters, and I feel like the book would’ve benefitted from additional voices.
This is the start of a new series, with this being book #1.
4 🌟🌟🌟🌟 for me!
Please keep your eyes 👀 open for this one!!!
*** IT HAS NOT YET BEEN RELEASED!!! Please look for it on Tuesday, 9/23/25! ***
Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #TantorMedia and #TantorAudio for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Insta @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
And another strange happening for me… I’ve never heard the name ‘Blade’ before.. and now it was in 2 of the 3 books I just read! 😮😮😮
Luna is a young woman with a big history. She’s had a rough childhood, but she’s made a name for herself… and is now looking to resign from the CIA. She has a niggling need, and needs to get to the bottom of it… and so she contacts the ONE PERSON who she believes might be able to help her… her old friend, and mentor, Stryker. He vows to help her, but, she must come to him! Which means she must return to the one place she does NOT want to go back to…
Too many old memories. Too many regrets… Too much history. But, off she goes.
As she goes to meet him, she runs into the only person she does not want to see! Corbin.
Her young love. The one that got away. The one she had so much history with. The one she can never go back to… forgive… forget…or anything. And yet, here he is! And just as he’s coming to talk to her, Stryker pulls up!
BUT, as Stryker gets out of his car, he is abducted… by three big thugs in black masks and clothing… and off they go!
Now, Luna AND Corbin owe just about everything they have to Stryker. So… they must find him!
And this is only just THE OPENING! There’s so much more going on in here…
The author gives background and depth to each of the characters, and once again, I feel like I was cheering them all on!
#GirlLost by @KateAngelo and narrated by @ConnieShabshab.
Although I liked the narrator, I wish there were multiple for this one… as there were a lot of characters, and I feel like the book would’ve benefitted from additional voices.
This is the start of a new series, with this being book #1.
4 🌟🌟🌟🌟 for me!
Please keep your eyes 👀 open for this one!!!
*** IT HAS NOT YET BEEN RELEASED!!! Please look for it on Tuesday, 9/23/25! ***
Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #TantorMedia and #TantorAudio for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Insta @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
September 27, 2025
This is a haunting story of a group of young adults who share a mentor and a common past and who are trying to find out what happened to Stryker when he is suddenly kidnapped from a local street. The pasts of each of them is connected to Stryker and his MMA gym where he takes troubled and discarded youth and trains them to be independent and law-abiding. Luna has returned to town to find out information about the daughter that she gave up for adoption, but before she can contact Stryker, he is taken. Luna then joins forces with Corbin, a member of the Federal Law Enforcement agency who is looking for a missing teen for his boss. The story is complex, with a lot of surprises and unexpected twists that were head-spinning at times. There are multiple layers to the story, too, including relationships that failed and promises that were broken. The most important parts of the story are in the secrets that are revealed as the story progresses. In searching for Stryker, Luna, Corbin and other former students of the gym find an evil that they were not prepared for and some really strange uses of medical technology. This story was fascinating, realistic and well researched. I was quickly drawn into the plot and the intersecting lives of the characters. I felt so much sympathy for Luna and her desperation to find out information about her daughter. The fast-paced plot was compelling and made the book hard to put down. The book was cleverly written, edgy and a satisfying page-turner. I certainly hope to read more about the King family in the future and look forward to more intense intrigue and a tightly written plot with gritty and believable drama.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
October 18, 2025
I liked the characters, they seemed decently mature which is refreshing.
I loved the action. I thought the pacing was pretty strong as well. It was a good plot and the romance wasn’t annoying.
I really liked the set-up and ensemble cast of characters. I’ll definitely continue the series once it’s written.
Another solid Christian fiction!
Matthew 18:12-15 ❤️
I loved the action. I thought the pacing was pretty strong as well. It was a good plot and the romance wasn’t annoying.
I really liked the set-up and ensemble cast of characters. I’ll definitely continue the series once it’s written.
Another solid Christian fiction!
Matthew 18:12-15 ❤️
November 4, 2025
This book started out slow, and I wasn't sure at first. However, it really sped up and I really enjoyed it! I found myself wanting to jump into the next book, which won't be available until September of 2026!
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