Christmas Under Threat

Unsolved Case Files #4

by Maggie K. Black

Investigating a cold case
could have fatal consequences.

Single father Patrick Craft’s world is shaken when his son, Tristan, is abducted…after learning Tristan’s mother was the victim of a cold case serial killer. Someone is targeting Patrick and his son—but who? Could it be the Noëlville serial killer, back after all these years, or the dangerous armed men gunning for Patrick? And who has been sending letters and Christmas gifts to Tristan, posing as his mother? With a dark web to untangle, Patrick turns to private investigator Gemma Locke, who’s in town investigating his ex’s murder. Can they uncover a ruthless criminal agenda and save Tristan…before it’s too late?

From Love Inspired Courage. Danger. Faith.

Unsolved Case Files

Book 1: Cold Case Tracker
Book 2: Christmas Cold Case
Book 3: Dangerous Arson Trail
Book 4: Christmas Under Threat

Genres: Harlequin, Christmas

Audible Audio

Published November 25, 2025

About the author

Maggie K. Black is an award-winning journalist with a thirst for adventure. She's lived in the American South, Europe and Middle East, and left a piece of her heart in each. She now makes her home in Canada, where she writes stories that make her heart race, chases her dog around the park and shares her adventures with her one true love and and their two daughters.

Reviews

[DevotedToHope · Rating 5 out of 5]

Snow. Silence. And that small tightening in the chest that tells you something isn’t right. That’s how Christmas Under Threat began for me … a quiet chill that settled in and stayed close. Maggie K. Black writes danger with such clear edges that every moment felt watched, and I found myself listening with a kind of alertness I wasn’t expecting.

Patrick and his son moved through the early scenes with a tenderness that met me unexpectedly, stirring something deep before the danger even took shape. And Gemma Locke steps into their unraveling with a calm strength … the kind of steadiness that feels rooted in prayer and lived experience. The three of them move through a winter world where Christmas lights glow warm and bright, yet something in the background keeps the air sharp. That mix of beauty and threat made hope feel even more needed.

The pacing matched the story perfectly. No rush. No drift. Just a steady pull that kept my heart leaning forward. I could almost feel the cold at the edges of the scenes, the kind that makes you brace a little. Even the quiet moments carried weight; the atmosphere shifted, and I could sense the danger tightening before anyone spoke.

The faith moments meant a lot to me. Simple. Honest. The kind of trust you reach for when fear brushes close and you need the Lord to steady your breath. Those gentle threads of faith anchored the story in a way that felt real and needed.

Abby Craden’s narration brought everything forward with clarity … the emotion, the urgency, the tenderness in the middle of the danger. She made the story feel close enough to touch. And the presence of the son… and the dog… added warmth in all the right places.

This story felt like walking through a Christmas night where the snow shines bright, yet something out there keeps you alert. A search. A plea. A determination to protect what matters.

For listeners who want a winter suspense shaped by heart, steady faith, real danger, and characters worth caring about, this story delivers in a meaningful way.

I received a digital audio ARC of this book from HarperCollins via NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this review are my own. I focused on its faithfulness to Christian themes, the writing style, the pacing, the characterization, and the quality of the narration, ensuring transparency and reliability.

[Elaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet. Relatively short. Somewhat shocking too. And... Christian Based and Themed.

Emma is a PI. She is out on a case with her K-9... investigating what appears to be a resurgence of the Noelville Serial Killer. This time, she is looking for a man who is believed to be the next of kin for a woman who was killed... a long time ago.
But, when she finds him and starts questioning him, she realizes that he has NOT been in contact with her, and was not really very close with her at all. BUT, they do have a son together. Tristan.
He is a bit edgy at first, but as time goes on he warms up to her. So much so that they begin working together as the tables turn and more and more threats are unveiled with the looming danger of death for all of them!!!

This one has quite a few twists and turns that I didn't see coming. And, there are dogs! K-9's that help with the cases as they arise. And I just love all of them!

I also appreciate the fact that these books are Christian Based and at any given time one of the characters is saying a quick prayer, and/or asking God for guidance or help!

4 bright, beautiful. loving, inventive, creative stars for me!!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

#ChristmasUnderThreat by @MaggieKBlack and narrated nicely by @AbbyCraden.

This one has already been released, so look 👀 for it on shelves now!

Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #HarlequinAudio for an ALC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Instagram: @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!! 📚⭐️

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas Under Threat by Maggie K. Black

(Unsolved Case Files Book 4)
Book 4 of 4: Unsolved Case Files
Investigating a cold case
could have fatal consequences.

Single father Patrick Craft’s world is shaken when his son, Tristan, is abducted…after learning Tristan’s mother was the victim of a cold case serial killer. Someone is targeting Patrick and his son—but who? Could it be the Noëlville serial killer, back after all these years, or the dangerous armed men gunning for Patrick? And who has been sending letters and Christmas gifts to Tristan, posing as his mother? With a dark web to untangle, Patrick turns to private investigator Gemma Locke, who’s in town investigating his ex’s murder. Can they uncover a ruthless criminal agenda and save Tristan…before it’s too late?
My favorite quote is
She was about ten feet away from the door when she heard Simcoe growl.
Gemma froze. It was a low, warning sound that came from the back of the dog’s throat. The kelpie sniffed the air, and Gemma suddenly realized that the K-9 was alerting. Simcoe sensed that something was wrong and was waiting for the instruction to pursue it. The sense of approaching danger prickled at the nape of Gemma’s neck.
Lord, help me see what I need to see.
From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.
I recommend this book.
Christmas Under Threat by Maggie K. Black
is a 5 - star book..
I am looking forward to reading more books by Maggie K. Black
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.

[Nikki · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christmas Under Threat by Maggie K. Black is the 4th book in the Unsolved Case Files collection. This book can enjoyed as a standalone mystery or as part of the collection. I have not read the other books yet and now, I really want to!

I truly enjoyed this book! I thought the characters were fascinating and the story was amazing! It was fast paced and had me on the edge of my seat! This was a fast read that I did not want to end!

One of the things that made this book so special is that the characters prayed throughout the book. It wasn’t just a quick drop of “I’m a Christian” and then moving on….these characters embodied Christian living, and it was woven through the whole book and I loved it!

I loved the narration by Abby Craden. I thought this was a wonderful production!

I definitely recommend reading Christmas Under Threat!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Christmas Under Threat (Unsolved Case Files#4) by Maggie K. Black
Narrated by Abby Craden
Publisher: Harlequin Audio
Genre: Christian; Romance
Published: November 25, 2025

[Yvonne Cruz · Rating 4 out of 5]

P I Gemma Locke and her K-9 are in town digging into a cold case . The victim was the ex of single dad Patrick Craft. He and his son Tristan thought she had left them over ten years ago. Now it seems she was a possible victim of a serial killer.
This is all confusing and worrisome to Patrick. Someone has been sending Tristan gifts making them believe it’s his mother.
When Tristan is kidnapped and they claim Patrick has taken something from them, Gemma involves her policeman brother and his team so they can not only rescue Tristan, but also find out why they are after Patrick and Tristan.
This clean, Christian suspense story, with a little romance thrown in, was engaging and action packed from beginning to end.
It’s a story about family, faith, never giving up hope, and new beginnings in life and love.
The narrator, Abby Craden, brings the story to life.
I was entrusted a copy of this audiobook by Netgalley and Harlequin Audio. The opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Rosemarie Grainer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Never-ending action and a super K-9

Gemma and her K-9 partner Simcoe are meeting Patrick to talk to him about his son Tristen's mother. But then Patrick is run off the road and Tristen runs back to get Gemma's help. 3 men are looking for their stash, and they don't care who they hurt in their quest to find it. So after rescuing Patrick they have to go on the run. But the hits keep coming. Can they manage to keep everyone safe while figuring out what is going on?

The pace is breakneck and the tone is intense with an action and character centered storyline that has a few kisses and no steam. The characters are vibrant and engaging, especially Simcoe. The Christian ideals are a part of the story. You can read this on its own, but I think you would get more out of it if you read the series in order. Enjoy this action packed adventure of a Christian romance!

[Kelsey Warren · Rating 3 out of 5]

So, I want to preface and say this was my first book and after reading I feel it may be part of a Christian or religious series (?) Normally not something I would reach for or intenially read .

I thought this was well written and overall enjoyed it but the praying or praising of higher powers for me was a bit… redundant in my opinion. Like it’s mentioned serval times in each chapter and both main characters do it. It threw me off quite a bit.

I also got a bit annoyed with the kid as I think by the time I got got to Ch 5 or 6 he was lost or kidnapped twice. Again, just a bit- overboard.

But overall I thought it was compelling and for the right reader- I’m sure they would enjoy it but it just wasn’t a fit for my reading tastes.

Thank you for much to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the ALC.

[Wenona · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas Under Threat by Maggie K. Black is book #4 in the Unsolved Case Files series. I did not read this in order, however, I didn't feel like I was missing out - so that is a plus!

Private investigator Gemma Locke and her semi retired service dog, are on assignment to investigate the murder victim that is tied to the Noëlville serial killer. Patrick Craft’s world is shaken when his son, Tristan, is abducted and it looks like his ex (Tristian's mom) was murdered and Gemma was there to help figure everything out.

Now Gemma is being targeted and everywhere they go, someone is there and they are in a fight for their lives. This was a non-stop action read that held your attention at every turn!

[Tracie Wallace · Rating 3 out of 5]

Christmas Under Threat by Maggie K. Black
Gemma Locke is in town investigating a cold case, the murder of Patrick Craft’s Ex’s murder.
A serial killer is on the loose, there is someone impersonating Patrick’s Ex and sending letters and gifts to his son Tristan, and then the abduction of Tristan, pushes Gemma and Patrick to the edge.
This one is full of danger, courage, love, and faith.
Overall, the story was good. Although, I didn’t realize this was a series. I felt kind of disconnected to the characters. The characters must have developed more in previous volumes? I think I would have enjoyed it more if I had listened to or read the other novels in the series first.
The narration was very soft spoken at times and I often had to adjust my volume to understand the narrator and catch everything.
It was good but not great. 3/5⭐
I would like to Thank NetGalley for the opportunity to review an ARC of the audiobook for this novel. I was provided a complimentary copy and the opinions expressed in this review are my own.

[Michelle Castaneda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas Under Threat by Maggie K. Black, Narrated by Abby Craden was such a fun read setting in Canada. This book really brought winter police work to life in a thriller format. I really enjoy this book because I thought the pacing was great. It really kept the readers attention well. Every chapter kept the excitement going. I listened to the audiobook version and just loved it in this format. The narrator did an excellent job and I thought the story was perfect for the audiobook format. I highly recommend this book. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.

[Diane Jewell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christmas under Threat by Maggie K. Black ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Apparently this is book 4 and can stand alone, however I would have known the back story if I read them in order. That's my opinion, you choose how you want/when to read it.

A enjoyable Christian suspense romance with no spice. With a twist I didn't see coming.

Tristan is Abducted after learning that his mother was a victim of a serial killer. Patrick, a single father is fighting to save his son. Even relying on faith.

Hope you decide to read this book, you'll be happy you did. I did. Now I'll back track and read books 1-3

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just finished this Love Inspired romantic suspense and WOW. A single father’s fight to save his son, a chilling cold case, and a PI determined to uncover the truth—it all comes together in a gripping, faith-filled story. The twists kept me guessing, and the characters stole my heart. Highly recommend for cozy mystery Christmas romance reads!!!

Thank you Harlequin Audio, Maggie Black and NetGalley for the ALC!

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas Under Threat by Maggie K. Black, narrated by Abby Craden is #4 in her Unsolved case files series. Can be read as a stand alone. This was a quick read. Wholesome, inspirational romantic suspense. With some twists and turns. Can this single dad save his son with the help of private investigator Gemma Locke. Thank you to #NetGalley and #HarlequinAudio good this Arc. This is my honest review. Released Nov 25 2925

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another enthralling suspense novel from Maggie K. Black! And brrrrr, but you'll feel the winter chill in this cat and mouse race through blizzard conditions. My weather cooperated with the fictional climate so I got a double chill thrill. :-) Love that the Cold Case Task Force is back together again. Though this is definitely Patrick and Gemma's story, there are some nice cameo appearances from the rest of the team, which added to the fun. Intense and unputdownable.

[M A · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a sweet, suspenseful book.

The narrators did a great job.

Patrick & Gemma had a sweet chemistry from the beginning & I enjoyed their story.

There was a lot of suspense & drama & I was on the edge of my seat waiting to hear how it played out. Well written, enjoyable book.

Thanks to the author, publisher & Netgalley for the ARC read. All opinions are my own.

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a Christmas Romantic Suspense, and this is the fourth book in the Unsolved Case Files series. I have read two of the other books in this series before picking up this book. I read this book by listening to the audiobook for this book, and I did enjoy the audiobook. I found this book had a lot of winter and Christmas stuff in it. This book is fast paced with a ton of action, but I found that the drama sometimes took away from the story. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.

[Laramee · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic cold case Christmas suspense. The narrator does a wonderful job bringing this story to life! A delightful blend of suspense, romance and inspiration!

I received an audio ARC through Netgalley and all opinions are my own.

[Patty Austin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love It

Gemma came a long way and Patrick was hee match in every way. They fought for each other and gave strength to one another. Tristan was the voice of reason. And I Love the entire cold case family.

[Brenda Bumford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maggie writes a great story!

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Maggie kept the ride going which I love in a book! The characters have real fears and work to solve them. The storyline gets twisted and that makes a book more interesting! I'd definitely recommend this book.

[Harlequin Books]

Inspirational Suspense, Wholesome Romance, Suspense, Private Investigators, Romantic Suspense
Miniseries
Unsolved Case Files (Book #4)

[Harlequin Books]

Inspirational Suspense, Wholesome Romance, Suspense, Private Investigators, Romantic Suspense
Miniseries
Unsolved Case Files (Book #4)

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great suspense! The story kicks off right away. This is a quick read set during Christmastime.

[Tami Willard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can be read as a standalone but some of the characters overlap throughout the series. Best if read in order.
Mistaken Identity
Single father
Shared friends
Con artist
Multiple k-9 heroes

[Sheri Jesse · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick easy enjoyable read

[Ethelann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas Under Threat is a fantastic wrap up to this awesome series. This can be read as a standalone, but you really should read the whole series.

[Michaela · Rating 3 out of 5]

story line was good. I am not a religious person so the religious references were a bit much for my preference but I didn't really research this one before I bought it 😅

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome read