What do you think?
Rate this book
The Game Masters #1
The Puzzle Within
A missing girl. A deadly puzzle. And a game someone is determined to win.
FBI agent Arizona “Ari” Powers is desperate for a second chance after a case nearly destroyed her career. Hoping to prove she still belongs in the field, she accepts what should be a simple help protect the ambassador’s rebellious teenage daughter.
But simple isn’t in Ari’s vocabulary.
Nick Trueheart, a former escape artist turned Diplomatic Security Service analyst, has his own demons. Since his wife’s murder, he’s devoted his life to uncovering the truth behind her death. Babysitting a volatile FBI agent and a spoiled diplomat’s daughter is the last thing he needs.
Then the girl vanishes.
When Bridgette disappears from a pop-up escape room, Ari and Nick are thrown into a chilling mystery game where every riddle uncovers another dangerous secret. Cryptic clues lead them across the city, drawing them deeper into a sinister plot tied to a decades-old betrayal.
Someone is forcing them to play.
With Bridgette’s life hanging in the balance, Ari and Nick must decipher riddles, chase hidden codes, and confront the painful truths buried in their pasts. But the mastermind behind the deadly puzzle has planned every move, and failure could cost far more than their careers.
In this gripping Christian suspense thriller, faith may be the only key powerful enough to unlock the truth.
Can Ari and Nick solve the puzzle before time runs out, or will the final move of the game cost them everything?
Perfect for fans of Lynette Eason, Dani Pettrey, and Irene Hannon who enjoy puzzle-driven Christian suspense filled with danger, secrets, and faith under fire.
FBI agent Arizona “Ari” Powers is desperate for a second chance after a case nearly destroyed her career. Hoping to prove she still belongs in the field, she accepts what should be a simple help protect the ambassador’s rebellious teenage daughter.
But simple isn’t in Ari’s vocabulary.
Nick Trueheart, a former escape artist turned Diplomatic Security Service analyst, has his own demons. Since his wife’s murder, he’s devoted his life to uncovering the truth behind her death. Babysitting a volatile FBI agent and a spoiled diplomat’s daughter is the last thing he needs.
Then the girl vanishes.
When Bridgette disappears from a pop-up escape room, Ari and Nick are thrown into a chilling mystery game where every riddle uncovers another dangerous secret. Cryptic clues lead them across the city, drawing them deeper into a sinister plot tied to a decades-old betrayal.
Someone is forcing them to play.
With Bridgette’s life hanging in the balance, Ari and Nick must decipher riddles, chase hidden codes, and confront the painful truths buried in their pasts. But the mastermind behind the deadly puzzle has planned every move, and failure could cost far more than their careers.
In this gripping Christian suspense thriller, faith may be the only key powerful enough to unlock the truth.
Can Ari and Nick solve the puzzle before time runs out, or will the final move of the game cost them everything?
Perfect for fans of Lynette Eason, Dani Pettrey, and Irene Hannon who enjoy puzzle-driven Christian suspense filled with danger, secrets, and faith under fire.
372 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 3, 2025
About the author
Gina Holder
17 books516 followersGina Holder is a Christian award-winning author of romantic suspense and cozy mysteries filled with faith, intrigue, danger, romance, and epic twists you'll never see coming.
She’s had an infatuation with books for as long as she can remember. She loves sharing uplifting messages from God’s Word and introducing readers to new and new-to-them authors on her blog.
When she’s not writing, Gina enjoys playing the piano, cooking, reading, watching Hallmark mysteries, and solving “escape room” puzzles.
Gina lives in Wyoming with her husband and daughter.
https://linktr.ee/storiesbygina
She’s had an infatuation with books for as long as she can remember. She loves sharing uplifting messages from God’s Word and introducing readers to new and new-to-them authors on her blog.
When she’s not writing, Gina enjoys playing the piano, cooking, reading, watching Hallmark mysteries, and solving “escape room” puzzles.
Gina lives in Wyoming with her husband and daughter.
https://linktr.ee/storiesbygina
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
June 2, 2025
This was a great romantic suspense novel by Gina Holder! This is the first book in her new Game Masters series and it took off! Though I wouldn't say it "hit the ground running" as the first couple of chapters set up the characters, it wasn't long before we were drawn into the mystery and suspense elements as Ari and Nick try to uncover the identity of the mysterious "Enigma" and recover a missing young woman. Will they find her before it's too late?
This one had a really good mystery/suspense element that kept me turning pages. There were lots of puzzles and ciphers to solve to get to who Enigma was and I was kept guessing throughout the story. And I enjoyed the elements that Ari's past played into the mystery itself as well. There was a solid faith element as well as Ari has to come to terms with who God is and Nick has to grow deeper in his faith as well. The romance moved a little quickly for me, but that is often the case with romantic suspense. There were some time gaps that helped it feel "less fast" as well. I enjoyed the realism of this story that while everything was tied up nicely at the end and we receive closure, the ending wasn't happy for everyone. But it was a satisfying ending for the main characters and the reader. Special thanks to the author and publisher for an advance e-copy of this novel. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
This one had a really good mystery/suspense element that kept me turning pages. There were lots of puzzles and ciphers to solve to get to who Enigma was and I was kept guessing throughout the story. And I enjoyed the elements that Ari's past played into the mystery itself as well. There was a solid faith element as well as Ari has to come to terms with who God is and Nick has to grow deeper in his faith as well. The romance moved a little quickly for me, but that is often the case with romantic suspense. There were some time gaps that helped it feel "less fast" as well. I enjoyed the realism of this story that while everything was tied up nicely at the end and we receive closure, the ending wasn't happy for everyone. But it was a satisfying ending for the main characters and the reader. Special thanks to the author and publisher for an advance e-copy of this novel. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
June 9, 2025
Ms. Holder's impressive storytelling talent shines through in this promising start to her The Game Masters series. This well-paced, masterfully plotted romantic suspense story, filled with baffling mystery and intense suspense, had me hooked from the first chapter and kept me guessing at the outcome. I love solving all kinds of puzzles, so I was fully immersed in the deciphering element of the story and totally enjoyed Nick and Ari's determined efforts to solve a variety of puzzles with life-or-death stakes. I could feel their trepidation over the consequences as they struggled with personal difficulties as well. Nick and Ari's slow burn romance enhances the story's appeal. I greatly appreciate the seamlessly integrated faith messages with reminders of God's divine sovereignty. I devoured this well-written, entertaining story and highly recommend it!
I read an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via JustRead Tours with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I read an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via JustRead Tours with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 5, 2026
The Puzzle Within is the first book I've read by Gina Holder and I loved it! This is the first book in The Game Masters series, and I wanted to read it before book two comes out later this spring. I actually had this book slated to be read closer to the release of book two, but I gave into the temptation and picked it up to check it out. And, well, I couldn't put it down. Awesome suspense with twists and danger and faith woven in. And we can't forget the possible romance.
Arizona Powers is an FBI agent who recently had a mental breakdown and has been out on leave. She feels she is ready to come back to work, but her boss isn't quite sure. She ends up being requested for an assignment protecting the teenage daughter of an ambassador. She is partnered with Nick Trueheart, a former escape artist-turned DSS risk analysist. Together they attempt to protect the ungrateful, spoiled teen. However, this assignment goes horribly wrong from the get-go, and they find themselves off the case. Except, the villain doesn't WANT them off the case and they are forced to play his or her deadly game. A game filled with mystery and cyphers, twists, and sinister clues. Clues that dig into Ari's memories and dreams.
Both of our main characters have issues they need to work through. They are quite opposite each other in some ways. Ways that make it tricky to work together. I loved seeing their relationship develop through their quest to find the truth.
This was an awesome book and I can't wait to read book two.
Arizona Powers is an FBI agent who recently had a mental breakdown and has been out on leave. She feels she is ready to come back to work, but her boss isn't quite sure. She ends up being requested for an assignment protecting the teenage daughter of an ambassador. She is partnered with Nick Trueheart, a former escape artist-turned DSS risk analysist. Together they attempt to protect the ungrateful, spoiled teen. However, this assignment goes horribly wrong from the get-go, and they find themselves off the case. Except, the villain doesn't WANT them off the case and they are forced to play his or her deadly game. A game filled with mystery and cyphers, twists, and sinister clues. Clues that dig into Ari's memories and dreams.
Both of our main characters have issues they need to work through. They are quite opposite each other in some ways. Ways that make it tricky to work together. I loved seeing their relationship develop through their quest to find the truth.
This was an awesome book and I can't wait to read book two.
June 14, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
“I’m not a villain. I did what I had to do. And I’ll do it again if that’s what it takes to bring Bridgette home.”
After a breakdown from a case, FBI Agent Arizona (Ari) Powers, is determined to gain back her credibility by being responsible for the ambassador’s teenage daughter, Bridgette.
Since his wife’s passing, former escape artist Nick Truehart accepts a job with DSS in an attempt to move on with his life and bury the painful memories that continue to plague him.
When Nick and Ari are assigned to watch Bridgette together and find themselves in an escape room gone horribly wrong when Bridgette goes missing, the clock is rapidly ticking.
Puzzles, riddles, clues, and secrets come to a head in this fast paced romantic suspense. But can Nick and Ari find Bridgette before it’s too late?
WOWZA!🤯
Y’all, this book seriously had me in its grasp and made it so hard to put down.
I absolutely love escape rooms, so when I saw this ARC, I knew I had to read it😍
This book was full of so many twists, turns, plot twists, puzzle, riddles, and everything that you think of when you hear the words “escape room.” I was constantly guessing throughout the book, but still didn’t guess who the antagonist was!😱
Nick and Ari’s relationship was really interesting to watch develop! Ari struggled with anger and resentment, while Nick fights his battles of grief and guilt. Nick continued to trust that God had a purpose for everything, good and bad. I loved seeing the progression of how he continued to share his faith with Ari even when they were both struggling❤️
The ending in this book had me on the edge of my seat! It was absolutely amazing and I was definitely not expecting it at all!🤯
I am SO excited to get my hands on the next book in the series!🔥
I’d recommend this book if you like:
🧩 Puzzles and riddles
⛓️💥 Escape rooms/escape artists
🤫 Compounding secrets
❤️🔥 Coworkers to more romance
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“I’m not a villain. I did what I had to do. And I’ll do it again if that’s what it takes to bring Bridgette home.”
After a breakdown from a case, FBI Agent Arizona (Ari) Powers, is determined to gain back her credibility by being responsible for the ambassador’s teenage daughter, Bridgette.
Since his wife’s passing, former escape artist Nick Truehart accepts a job with DSS in an attempt to move on with his life and bury the painful memories that continue to plague him.
When Nick and Ari are assigned to watch Bridgette together and find themselves in an escape room gone horribly wrong when Bridgette goes missing, the clock is rapidly ticking.
Puzzles, riddles, clues, and secrets come to a head in this fast paced romantic suspense. But can Nick and Ari find Bridgette before it’s too late?
WOWZA!🤯
Y’all, this book seriously had me in its grasp and made it so hard to put down.
I absolutely love escape rooms, so when I saw this ARC, I knew I had to read it😍
This book was full of so many twists, turns, plot twists, puzzle, riddles, and everything that you think of when you hear the words “escape room.” I was constantly guessing throughout the book, but still didn’t guess who the antagonist was!😱
Nick and Ari’s relationship was really interesting to watch develop! Ari struggled with anger and resentment, while Nick fights his battles of grief and guilt. Nick continued to trust that God had a purpose for everything, good and bad. I loved seeing the progression of how he continued to share his faith with Ari even when they were both struggling❤️
The ending in this book had me on the edge of my seat! It was absolutely amazing and I was definitely not expecting it at all!🤯
I am SO excited to get my hands on the next book in the series!🔥
I’d recommend this book if you like:
🧩 Puzzles and riddles
⛓️💥 Escape rooms/escape artists
🤫 Compounding secrets
❤️🔥 Coworkers to more romance
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
June 6, 2025
4.5 stars
Oh my goodness, y’all. If you love twisty thrillers, sweet romance (with a couple of great kisses), naturally-incorporated faith themes, layered character growth, and puzzles, then you definitely need to make sure The Puzzle Within is at the top of your TBR!
Our family loves playing games of all kinds – strategy, card, board, even video games. I’m known on my side of the family as the aunt that will almost always play Fortnite with you, and we have a weekly board/card game night with my husband’s side of my family. I also personally love solving puzzles – word puzzles or jigsaw puzzles – in what little down time I have. All of that to say that The Puzzle Within was right up my alley. My mind whirred from beginning to end, fully engrossed as FBI Agent Arizona Powers and former escape artist Nick Trueheart try to solve a madman’s high-stakes clues in time to save an ambassador’s daughter – and themselves. Holder’s writing is clear and smooth, evoking the right mood at the right time and often making me forget I wasn’t out there dodging bullets and other dangers along with Ari and Nick. Not to mention several stunning twists that I was not expecting at all but loved (so much for my puzzle solving skills haha!).
Bottom Line: The Puzzle Within by Gina Holder is a cleverly-plotted and intense suspense novel with a sweetly swoony romance, elements of a psychological thriller, and meaningful explorations of faith. Specifically, of surrendering our illusion of control and putting our trust in the God who holds the outcome in His capable hands. This is something I’ve struggled with in various seasons of my life, and the author did a great job of showing us what that looks like – the struggle and the surrender – in Ari and Nick’s respective experiences. These two characters are easy to love and relatable, and Holder keeps them engaging even as she gives them deep layers for us to discover. I also absolutely loved the way The Puzzle Within is like an escape room game in novel form with a variety of riddles and clues and a very complex villain manipulating the players. The presence of the latter means that the stakes are much higher for Ari and Nick and the setting much more far-spread than a ‘mere’ escape room would provide, and my pounding pulse testifies to how invested I was in this story. I am so excited for the other books in this series!
(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I read via Kindle Unlimited.)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Oh my goodness, y’all. If you love twisty thrillers, sweet romance (with a couple of great kisses), naturally-incorporated faith themes, layered character growth, and puzzles, then you definitely need to make sure The Puzzle Within is at the top of your TBR!
Our family loves playing games of all kinds – strategy, card, board, even video games. I’m known on my side of the family as the aunt that will almost always play Fortnite with you, and we have a weekly board/card game night with my husband’s side of my family. I also personally love solving puzzles – word puzzles or jigsaw puzzles – in what little down time I have. All of that to say that The Puzzle Within was right up my alley. My mind whirred from beginning to end, fully engrossed as FBI Agent Arizona Powers and former escape artist Nick Trueheart try to solve a madman’s high-stakes clues in time to save an ambassador’s daughter – and themselves. Holder’s writing is clear and smooth, evoking the right mood at the right time and often making me forget I wasn’t out there dodging bullets and other dangers along with Ari and Nick. Not to mention several stunning twists that I was not expecting at all but loved (so much for my puzzle solving skills haha!).
Bottom Line: The Puzzle Within by Gina Holder is a cleverly-plotted and intense suspense novel with a sweetly swoony romance, elements of a psychological thriller, and meaningful explorations of faith. Specifically, of surrendering our illusion of control and putting our trust in the God who holds the outcome in His capable hands. This is something I’ve struggled with in various seasons of my life, and the author did a great job of showing us what that looks like – the struggle and the surrender – in Ari and Nick’s respective experiences. These two characters are easy to love and relatable, and Holder keeps them engaging even as she gives them deep layers for us to discover. I also absolutely loved the way The Puzzle Within is like an escape room game in novel form with a variety of riddles and clues and a very complex villain manipulating the players. The presence of the latter means that the stakes are much higher for Ari and Nick and the setting much more far-spread than a ‘mere’ escape room would provide, and my pounding pulse testifies to how invested I was in this story. I am so excited for the other books in this series!
(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I read via Kindle Unlimited.)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
June 9, 2025
This new-to-me author drew me in from the first chapter and I couldn't put this novel down! I loved all the twists and turns, just when I thought I knew which way things were going BAM! I was caught off guard. Gina Holder weaves a suspense tail so riveting I was spellbound. Intense suspense, psychological bends, and a very present spiritual dimension - absolutely loved it! If you want to be mesmerized, grab this NOW! A definite must-read for 2025 😍
June 8, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. We are an escape room family, and have successfully completed a bunch of different rooms. The idea of an escape room mystery is so fun to me. Arizona Powers and Nick Trueheart both have a past filled with trauma and loss. The two are thrust together on a mission to keep a diplomat's daughter safe from recent threats, and their first day goes horribly wrong. As they work to track her down, Arizona is faced with memories and connections to her unknown past that she cannot deny and the serach goes deeper. Both risk their lives for their charge, for truth and for each other. I love the family secret trope too, so this book was right up my alley. It is a quick read, with good character development, fun adventure and a satisfying ending. I would recommend.
May 18, 2025
This story certainly has the action and keeps you guessing until the end. With clever puzzles to solve because their lives, and the life of the one they are asked to protect are at stake, Ari and Nick pull out all the stops to solve those puzzles.
Ari has a past that haunts her and wonders if her nightmares could mean something more. But she is determined to see justice served. Nick has not stopped looking for the one who murdered his wife and seeks to do his job by the book. These two characters balance each other, and eventually come to be more than colleagues, with Nick adding to Ari growing spiritually by his godly examples.
The escape room was a great setting, and was a very tense situation. Likewise, the puzzles were- well puzzling and made you think about the implications. I like that there were several interpretations of those puzzles, and that they led to significant local places. And the way all of it fit together was quite something!
I am anxious to read the subsequent novels to see how the author uses puzzles and escape rooms in them.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Scrivenings Press on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
Ari has a past that haunts her and wonders if her nightmares could mean something more. But she is determined to see justice served. Nick has not stopped looking for the one who murdered his wife and seeks to do his job by the book. These two characters balance each other, and eventually come to be more than colleagues, with Nick adding to Ari growing spiritually by his godly examples.
The escape room was a great setting, and was a very tense situation. Likewise, the puzzles were- well puzzling and made you think about the implications. I like that there were several interpretations of those puzzles, and that they led to significant local places. And the way all of it fit together was quite something!
I am anxious to read the subsequent novels to see how the author uses puzzles and escape rooms in them.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Scrivenings Press on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
June 14, 2025
This was one twisty book! Imagine an escape room turned novel, filled with danger and intrigue and that’s what you get with this book.
Gina Holder’s mind must be a fascinating place to dwell because she puts it to work crafting a story that captures you from the first page and doesn’t let go until the very end.
I’m excited there are more of these puzzle-y, twisty novels coming our way soon. I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited.
Gina Holder’s mind must be a fascinating place to dwell because she puts it to work crafting a story that captures you from the first page and doesn’t let go until the very end.
I’m excited there are more of these puzzle-y, twisty novels coming our way soon. I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited.
May 25, 2025
Daughters are life’s greatest gift. TIme with yours has ended. - Enigma
What sort of game starts with a threat? Arizona Powers FBI and Nicholas Trueheart DSS are tasked with security for the daughter of an Ambassador. After all, the threat might be real. Not caring about her safely, Brigette plans to visit an escape room with her friends - a choice with life changing consequences.
The author has done an incredible job of creating a puzzle or an escape room for the reader to solve. Will Nick and Ari manage to work their way through the labyrinth of clues before someone dies? Nightmares, a music box, puzzle pieces and more will keep you trying to figure out an escape. This first book in The Game Masters series was received through Scrivenings Press. These thoughts are my own and were in no way solicited.
What sort of game starts with a threat? Arizona Powers FBI and Nicholas Trueheart DSS are tasked with security for the daughter of an Ambassador. After all, the threat might be real. Not caring about her safely, Brigette plans to visit an escape room with her friends - a choice with life changing consequences.
The author has done an incredible job of creating a puzzle or an escape room for the reader to solve. Will Nick and Ari manage to work their way through the labyrinth of clues before someone dies? Nightmares, a music box, puzzle pieces and more will keep you trying to figure out an escape. This first book in The Game Masters series was received through Scrivenings Press. These thoughts are my own and were in no way solicited.
June 3, 2025
Engaging, compelling, and very well written.
May 5, 2026
“Something in his gut warned this would be unlike anything he’d ever faced before. Were they up to the challenge?”
Whew! I am never going to be able to do another escape room! The Escape Game, bk 2 of The Game Masters series, by Gina Holder, kept me spellbound and enthralled. This gripping, romantic suspense novel of chilling proportions stands well on its own. I had not read the first book, but now, of course, it’s on my TBR pile!
I was reminded of a Shakespearean tragedy set in current times as I read through this nail-biting suspense. Poor grown-up Demi, puzzle solver extraordinaire with an IQ off the charts, desperately seeking the love and affirmation that she missed all her life. Her father disappears when she is younger, and she feels abandoned by any who may get close to her. Her intelligence level and social awkwardness allow her few friends. Then her best friend, Maddie, gives her unsettling news. As she meets Liam, a daring missionary and escape room solver expert, she develops a tenuous bond as they search for his sister. Yet, she realizes as their dangerous search of an unknown real-life escape experience escalates, Liam, too, has future plans that don’t include her, should they be so fortunate to escape alive.
“Trust—the word hit like a gut punch. It hurt to trust—people always let her down. Abandoned her when she needed them.”
Liam is great, noble, selfless, brave, daring, and handsome young man who is frantically searching for his missing sister. Joining forces with Demi, the two form an attraction which Liam realizes will not last, given Demi’s lack of true belief in God. He shares his faith with Demi whenever he can, but Demi has learned to protect her heart and believes her intellect and self-sufficiency will eventually save her.
There are some great twists involved in the story, that threaten to rewrite the narrative. A great look into different kinds of relationships and how they affect the human behavior. And how God is willing to step in and re-direct our stories, forgiving the unthinkable, IF we will let him!
Don’t miss this book!! I know I won’t miss another of Gina Holder’s in this series!
I received a copy of the book from the author through JustRead Tours. I also bought my own ecopy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“This was not the lost-and-found box. These were trophies. And someone was still collecting.”
“You can’t win by playing smarter. You need a Savior, not a strategy.”
“Pride is the monster; humility is the key.”
“My IQ would make Einstein jealous.”
“The eagle does not fight the snake on the ground. It changes the battlefield.”
“Because forgiveness doesn’t mean pretending it didn’t hurt.”
Whew! I am never going to be able to do another escape room! The Escape Game, bk 2 of The Game Masters series, by Gina Holder, kept me spellbound and enthralled. This gripping, romantic suspense novel of chilling proportions stands well on its own. I had not read the first book, but now, of course, it’s on my TBR pile!
I was reminded of a Shakespearean tragedy set in current times as I read through this nail-biting suspense. Poor grown-up Demi, puzzle solver extraordinaire with an IQ off the charts, desperately seeking the love and affirmation that she missed all her life. Her father disappears when she is younger, and she feels abandoned by any who may get close to her. Her intelligence level and social awkwardness allow her few friends. Then her best friend, Maddie, gives her unsettling news. As she meets Liam, a daring missionary and escape room solver expert, she develops a tenuous bond as they search for his sister. Yet, she realizes as their dangerous search of an unknown real-life escape experience escalates, Liam, too, has future plans that don’t include her, should they be so fortunate to escape alive.
“Trust—the word hit like a gut punch. It hurt to trust—people always let her down. Abandoned her when she needed them.”
Liam is great, noble, selfless, brave, daring, and handsome young man who is frantically searching for his missing sister. Joining forces with Demi, the two form an attraction which Liam realizes will not last, given Demi’s lack of true belief in God. He shares his faith with Demi whenever he can, but Demi has learned to protect her heart and believes her intellect and self-sufficiency will eventually save her.
There are some great twists involved in the story, that threaten to rewrite the narrative. A great look into different kinds of relationships and how they affect the human behavior. And how God is willing to step in and re-direct our stories, forgiving the unthinkable, IF we will let him!
Don’t miss this book!! I know I won’t miss another of Gina Holder’s in this series!
I received a copy of the book from the author through JustRead Tours. I also bought my own ecopy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“This was not the lost-and-found box. These were trophies. And someone was still collecting.”
“You can’t win by playing smarter. You need a Savior, not a strategy.”
“Pride is the monster; humility is the key.”
“My IQ would make Einstein jealous.”
“The eagle does not fight the snake on the ground. It changes the battlefield.”
“Because forgiveness doesn’t mean pretending it didn’t hurt.”
June 14, 2025
Ari has failed before and people died - she's not going to allow that to happen again. So when a girl she's guarding is kidnapped from under her nose, she'll let nothing stand in the way of her attempts to track down the kidnapper - definitely not being suspended from her job, nor her partner on the job, Nick, who's always wanting to slow down and assess before tackling things. But it soon becomes apparent that the kidnapper, Enigma, has plans for them, in the shape of a series of puzzles leading to an unknown end. Can they discover who this Enigma is and stop them before it's too late?
A definite page-turner that kept me guessing throughout. The 'scavenger hunt' was intriguing but only at the end could I finally see that the Enigma did have a point in doing things that way. As for the romance, it largely felt backgroundish, but there was clearly interest simmering under the surface for most of the book. I enjoyed getting to know both Ari and Nick and loved watching them overcome their respective demons and face life from a new perspective. And the interwoven threads of mystery and suspense were very well done. The one exception was a puzzle with a (to me) very obvious meaning which the apparent genius and puzzle expert completely ignored, to their cost - which left me befuddled. The result is a book that would be great for anyone who likes trying to puzzle out riddles and puzzles for themselves, but is also good for those (like me) who are too lazy/ignorant/uninterested to invest much thought and are just eager to go along for the ride. A good read and I look forward to more in the series. 4.5 stars.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
A definite page-turner that kept me guessing throughout. The 'scavenger hunt' was intriguing but only at the end could I finally see that the Enigma did have a point in doing things that way. As for the romance, it largely felt backgroundish, but there was clearly interest simmering under the surface for most of the book. I enjoyed getting to know both Ari and Nick and loved watching them overcome their respective demons and face life from a new perspective. And the interwoven threads of mystery and suspense were very well done. The one exception was a puzzle with a (to me) very obvious meaning which the apparent genius and puzzle expert completely ignored, to their cost - which left me befuddled. The result is a book that would be great for anyone who likes trying to puzzle out riddles and puzzles for themselves, but is also good for those (like me) who are too lazy/ignorant/uninterested to invest much thought and are just eager to go along for the ride. A good read and I look forward to more in the series. 4.5 stars.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
April 29, 2026
Oh, boy. I expected to like this book--love it even. Truth told, I was eager to read it but mostly because I was crazy eager to read her next book coming out soon. Ahem. What an idiot I can be.
Fast-paced, crazy characters, twisty mystery, nerve-wracking suspense. What doesn't this book have?
How about one boring second? Nope. Sorry, can't give you that. What I can give you is a suspense novel that starts with someone disappearing from a locked room and ending with everything going wrong that can go wrong. Okay, so there's an ending after that ending, but getting to that... whoa.
The story wrestles with God's sovereignty, His goodness, and our value in and to Him in the half-breaths we get between the legs of a wild scavenger hunt of a ride.
So excited for the next one.
Fast-paced, crazy characters, twisty mystery, nerve-wracking suspense. What doesn't this book have?
How about one boring second? Nope. Sorry, can't give you that. What I can give you is a suspense novel that starts with someone disappearing from a locked room and ending with everything going wrong that can go wrong. Okay, so there's an ending after that ending, but getting to that... whoa.
The story wrestles with God's sovereignty, His goodness, and our value in and to Him in the half-breaths we get between the legs of a wild scavenger hunt of a ride.
So excited for the next one.
Read
June 11, 2025What a ride! If you're a puzzle or escape room fan (or even if you loved "National Treasure: Book of Secrets"), this is a book you'll want to pick up. FBI Agent Arizona Powers and her new partner DSS officer Nick Trueheart are tasked with protection detail for an ambassador's daughter, because of alarming messages the family keeps discovering in their home. All threatening the ambassador or his daughter. Despite their protection, Bridgette still disappears...with clues (and worse) left behind.
Ari and Nick are led on a clue-by-clue, location-by-location search; accompanied, at each stop, by more danger. They haven't located Bridgette yet and time is passing by. Their faith is being tested; and is that, perhaps, some mutual interest each is developing in the other? A relationship might be in the works, if they can overcome their personal traumas AND survive the hunt...and the clues.
Very interesting mystery with twists and turns you won't predict. Worth a read!
I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions stated here are my own.
Ari and Nick are led on a clue-by-clue, location-by-location search; accompanied, at each stop, by more danger. They haven't located Bridgette yet and time is passing by. Their faith is being tested; and is that, perhaps, some mutual interest each is developing in the other? A relationship might be in the works, if they can overcome their personal traumas AND survive the hunt...and the clues.
Very interesting mystery with twists and turns you won't predict. Worth a read!
I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions stated here are my own.
June 12, 2025
*I received a gifted copy of this book. Thank you to the author and publisher! All thoughts and opinions are my own!*
This book gripped me! From the very first chapter I was hooked and the story kept me that way until the very end. This was my first Gina Holder book, but it definitely will not be my last!
This mystery was absolutely intriguing. There were many puzzles and ciphers throughout this book that gave it such a “classic” mystery style, which I really loved. I found myself trying to figure out what happened to Bridgette right alongside Arizona and Nick.
And speaking of Nick and Arizona, I absolutely loved their chemistry! The romance was swoony and perfectly paced without overshadowing the mystery at hand. I also appreciated Ari’s back story and the honesty and vulnerability that came with it.
Overall I really enjoyed The Puzzle Within. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves mystery novels!
This book gripped me! From the very first chapter I was hooked and the story kept me that way until the very end. This was my first Gina Holder book, but it definitely will not be my last!
This mystery was absolutely intriguing. There were many puzzles and ciphers throughout this book that gave it such a “classic” mystery style, which I really loved. I found myself trying to figure out what happened to Bridgette right alongside Arizona and Nick.
And speaking of Nick and Arizona, I absolutely loved their chemistry! The romance was swoony and perfectly paced without overshadowing the mystery at hand. I also appreciated Ari’s back story and the honesty and vulnerability that came with it.
Overall I really enjoyed The Puzzle Within. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves mystery novels!
June 6, 2025
The Puzzle Within is the first book I have read written by Gina Holder and I look forward to reading more. If you love puzzles, if you love Sherlock Holmes, this is the book for you. This book was dripping with puzzles, mystery, and suspense. I am excited to see where the next book will take us.
The character development is great. Arizona/Ari has a lot to unpack. She unearths a secret about her childhood that she didn’t know about, and as she and Nick are trying to find out who Enigma is, they uncover even more secrets. Nick is trying to overcome the grief and guilt of his wife’s death. There are a lot of characters in this story and a lot that we don’t even begin to touch the surface on.
The storyline was fantastic. There were so many moving parts to this story. At times my brain was overwhelmed. Trying to figure out who is Enigma? What do all these secret codes mean? What is the bigger picture? There was a lot, and it made for a fun puzzle, putting all the pieces together. I had quite the time trying to figure out Enigma and who it might be and what the motive was.
The romance between Arizona and Nick was low-spice, kisses-only romance.
Gina Holder did a great job intertwining faith throughout the book.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.
The character development is great. Arizona/Ari has a lot to unpack. She unearths a secret about her childhood that she didn’t know about, and as she and Nick are trying to find out who Enigma is, they uncover even more secrets. Nick is trying to overcome the grief and guilt of his wife’s death. There are a lot of characters in this story and a lot that we don’t even begin to touch the surface on.
The storyline was fantastic. There were so many moving parts to this story. At times my brain was overwhelmed. Trying to figure out who is Enigma? What do all these secret codes mean? What is the bigger picture? There was a lot, and it made for a fun puzzle, putting all the pieces together. I had quite the time trying to figure out Enigma and who it might be and what the motive was.
The romance between Arizona and Nick was low-spice, kisses-only romance.
Gina Holder did a great job intertwining faith throughout the book.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.
June 11, 2025
FBI agent Arizona Powers finds herself reinstated to help protect an ambassador’s teen daughter, only to lose her in an escape room. This kicks off an captivating mystery with puzzle pieces and rhyming clues and danger as she and her colleague Nick Trueheart, a former escape artist, try to track down the missing girl. Wrapped up in the intrigue are connections to Ari’s troubling past. The intricate, fast-paced plot won’t let you go as you scramble to try to figure out where the clues lead and who is behind it all. Filled with twists and surprises, this suspense novel is a winner. I look forward to the next in this series. I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
January 8, 2026
Fast-paced romantic suspense with a unique premise. I look forward to the rest of the series!
August 1, 2025
This is an interesting mystery where the sleuths must solve a riddle to find the next clue. Readers may have difficulty following the riddles as they are centered on locations near a particular town. I am not familiar with the area so the riddles meant nothing to me. We do get the idea the killer is after revenge from actions some time ago.
Ari is a flawed heroine as she has deep emotions and is unable to separate her feelings from her work. She has the opportunity to grow through the experiences of this case. Nick is a good counterpart. As one who assesses risks, he encourages thoughtful action. Both characters are developed well. The mystery plot moves along well and there is a twist half way through. There is also a clear presentation of the gospel included.
This is the first novel in a new series from Holder. I enjoyed it so will be watching for the next one.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Ari is a flawed heroine as she has deep emotions and is unable to separate her feelings from her work. She has the opportunity to grow through the experiences of this case. Nick is a good counterpart. As one who assesses risks, he encourages thoughtful action. Both characters are developed well. The mystery plot moves along well and there is a twist half way through. There is also a clear presentation of the gospel included.
This is the first novel in a new series from Holder. I enjoyed it so will be watching for the next one.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
March 29, 2026
This book was truly an enigma! I really loved how this story kept me guessing all the way through. I thought I had figured things out but I was wrong. I especially love how the author presented the true Gospel throughout the book...that we are ALL sinners in need of a Savior. So very well done!
May 7, 2026
What a puzzle!
This mystery is action-packed and fast-paced! Ari and Nick barely have time to solve one puzzle before they're smack dab in another one! I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
This mystery is action-packed and fast-paced! Ari and Nick barely have time to solve one puzzle before they're smack dab in another one! I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
June 13, 2025
If you like mystery and suspense, I highly recommend giving this novel a try! It’s the first book in Gina Holder’s new series The Game Masters.
Nick and Arizona were given one job. Protect the ambassador‘s daughter, Bridgette. But when a night at an escape room goes terribly wrong, they follow a set of puzzles and ciphers to try to find the missing teen before it’s too late.
But this isn’t just any puzzle. As the duo tries to decipher the masterminds clues, they quickly come to realize this high stakes game, is a matter of life or death.
Romance and faith weaved throughout, this fast paced novel was a great read and one I highly recommend!
*I received an ARC of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are completely my own.
Nick and Arizona were given one job. Protect the ambassador‘s daughter, Bridgette. But when a night at an escape room goes terribly wrong, they follow a set of puzzles and ciphers to try to find the missing teen before it’s too late.
But this isn’t just any puzzle. As the duo tries to decipher the masterminds clues, they quickly come to realize this high stakes game, is a matter of life or death.
Romance and faith weaved throughout, this fast paced novel was a great read and one I highly recommend!
*I received an ARC of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are completely my own.
June 16, 2025
Are you a fan of escape rooms? Then this is the book for you. This is an escape room with in a book and boy will you get submerged and you will not want to get out. You are pulled right in and keep asking for more!
FBI agent Arizona has been scarred by her traumatic past and it still haunts her. She takes an assignment with Nick, a risk analyst, and they do not know what they have gotten into. There job is to protect an ambassador’s daughter, but she is not up for this. She will escape and they are on the hunt to find her. This may mean that someone or someone’s are going to stop them even if it means they make take their lives. They will have to play the “game” to unleash the clues and hope they live to find her.
Suspense readers, this book will keep you gasping and questioning who is it to the very end. I have to say this is Gina Holder’s finest work and I am a huge fan! This is just the first book of a series and Ms. Holder cannot write them fast enough for me!
If I could give this more than five stars, I sure would. One of the greatest books of 2025!
FBI agent Arizona has been scarred by her traumatic past and it still haunts her. She takes an assignment with Nick, a risk analyst, and they do not know what they have gotten into. There job is to protect an ambassador’s daughter, but she is not up for this. She will escape and they are on the hunt to find her. This may mean that someone or someone’s are going to stop them even if it means they make take their lives. They will have to play the “game” to unleash the clues and hope they live to find her.
Suspense readers, this book will keep you gasping and questioning who is it to the very end. I have to say this is Gina Holder’s finest work and I am a huge fan! This is just the first book of a series and Ms. Holder cannot write them fast enough for me!
If I could give this more than five stars, I sure would. One of the greatest books of 2025!
July 9, 2025
"You’ll encounter a series of perplexing riddles, hidden clues, and challenging puzzles that will test your teamwork and problem-solving skills. Communication and collaboration are key to your success. Don’t hesitate to think outside the box and explore unconventional solutions."
As an FBI agent, Arizona Powers is used to solving crimes. But after taking a job break due to mental health concerns, she did not expect protective detail. Or for the case to go horribly wrong so quickly. Yet she is determined to find the answers even if it means going outside the bounds.
Nick Trueheart has had his own share of tragedy. As an analyst, he is not sure how he ended up on protective detail. Or what lengths he should go to try to find his own answers.
This book was an incredibly creative suspense book with a bit of romance. I thoroughly enjoyed it! The fact that the author designed it to be "an escape room in a novel" added so many twists and turns and interesting elements. I definitely want to read the next book in the series.
As an FBI agent, Arizona Powers is used to solving crimes. But after taking a job break due to mental health concerns, she did not expect protective detail. Or for the case to go horribly wrong so quickly. Yet she is determined to find the answers even if it means going outside the bounds.
Nick Trueheart has had his own share of tragedy. As an analyst, he is not sure how he ended up on protective detail. Or what lengths he should go to try to find his own answers.
This book was an incredibly creative suspense book with a bit of romance. I thoroughly enjoyed it! The fact that the author designed it to be "an escape room in a novel" added so many twists and turns and interesting elements. I definitely want to read the next book in the series.
August 8, 2025
Imagine an Escape Room or a Mystery Murder Game being more than just a fun game to play with friends, but a real “cat and mouse” crime playing out in real time with real lives at stake. That’s what you get when you read Gina Holder’s latest release The Puzzle Within. The Puzzle Within is the first book in Ms. Holder’s The Game Master’s Series. The Puzzle Within takes Readers on a high throttle, highly suspenseful ride with FBI Agent Ari Powers who has one last chance to make a go of her career by being hand picked to protect an Ambassador’s Daughter from the threat of Enigma, an individual who wants to harm the Ambassador’s Daughter’s life. Nick Trueheart, Circus Magician turned Diplomatic Security Services Agent (DSS), is also put on the detail protecting the Ambassador’s Daughter because of his ability to analyze threat assessments. Nick and Ari are like oil and water, causing their job of protecting the Ambassador’s Daughter easier said than done. Ari has a reputation to jump in with both feet, sometimes breaking the rules, and dealing with the consequences later, whereas Nick goes through every scenario, weighing the options before making the right decision. When it comes to catching Enigma, it turns into a wild game of multiple layers and theories, forcing the oil and water that is Ari and Nick to use their skill sets together for a chance to win.
Gina Holder’s The Puzzle Within was a delightful, mysterious surprise to read! The level of intrigue that Ms. Holder packed into The Puzzle Within reminded me of a book by Lynette Eason or Irene Hannon. What excited me the most about the plot of The Puzzle Within was the aspect of having an Escape Room being a corner stone of the plot and various puzzles games being a constant thread throughout the story. I also love how Ms. Holder weaved the suspense and Faith elements into the plot, making the Faith element just as important as the suspense, but more so. Meeting Ari and Nick was a breath of fresh air, simply for how they approached their Faith. Ms. Holder made Ari and Nick’s Personal Faith rawly sticky from the get-go, holding nothing back in terms of their respective struggles and doubts with their Faith. I love Ari’s struggles with Faith in God the most. To me, Ms. Holder created a True Vividness with Ari in the way Ari grappled with how a Gracious God can let Evil run rampant in a world He Created, and by the looks of it, letting the Evil get away with it. I love the conversations that Ari had with her Aunt Sheila and Nick about Evil in the world. I found those conversations in the book to be very thought provoking and they opened my eyes and heart in a new way to God’s Character and His Way of Revenge. My favorite conversation that truly impacted me was the conversation that Ari and Nick had in regards to what would happen if you saw a convicted criminal in Heaven, because I have often wondered that myself. (Please read The Puzzle Within for all of the details!) I love how Nick approached his Faith as a Young Christian and mingled it with his high IQ. Nick’s insight on God and his reasoning on why God allows things is exactly what Ari needed to hear, and me too. I highly recommend The Puzzle Within by Gina Holder! It’s an encouraging, suspenseful read that you won’t be able to put down! I’m excited to see what Ms. Holder does next with The Game Master’s Series!
Have you read The Puzzle Within? What did you think of the book?
I would like to thank the Publisher and Celebrate Lit Blogging Tours for giving me a copy of The Puzzle Within to review, for letting me be a part of the The Puzzle Within Celebration Tour, and for providing the information needed for this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
My review is also on Amazon and blog Leslie's Library Escape.
Gina Holder’s The Puzzle Within was a delightful, mysterious surprise to read! The level of intrigue that Ms. Holder packed into The Puzzle Within reminded me of a book by Lynette Eason or Irene Hannon. What excited me the most about the plot of The Puzzle Within was the aspect of having an Escape Room being a corner stone of the plot and various puzzles games being a constant thread throughout the story. I also love how Ms. Holder weaved the suspense and Faith elements into the plot, making the Faith element just as important as the suspense, but more so. Meeting Ari and Nick was a breath of fresh air, simply for how they approached their Faith. Ms. Holder made Ari and Nick’s Personal Faith rawly sticky from the get-go, holding nothing back in terms of their respective struggles and doubts with their Faith. I love Ari’s struggles with Faith in God the most. To me, Ms. Holder created a True Vividness with Ari in the way Ari grappled with how a Gracious God can let Evil run rampant in a world He Created, and by the looks of it, letting the Evil get away with it. I love the conversations that Ari had with her Aunt Sheila and Nick about Evil in the world. I found those conversations in the book to be very thought provoking and they opened my eyes and heart in a new way to God’s Character and His Way of Revenge. My favorite conversation that truly impacted me was the conversation that Ari and Nick had in regards to what would happen if you saw a convicted criminal in Heaven, because I have often wondered that myself. (Please read The Puzzle Within for all of the details!) I love how Nick approached his Faith as a Young Christian and mingled it with his high IQ. Nick’s insight on God and his reasoning on why God allows things is exactly what Ari needed to hear, and me too. I highly recommend The Puzzle Within by Gina Holder! It’s an encouraging, suspenseful read that you won’t be able to put down! I’m excited to see what Ms. Holder does next with The Game Master’s Series!
Have you read The Puzzle Within? What did you think of the book?
I would like to thank the Publisher and Celebrate Lit Blogging Tours for giving me a copy of The Puzzle Within to review, for letting me be a part of the The Puzzle Within Celebration Tour, and for providing the information needed for this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
My review is also on Amazon and blog Leslie's Library Escape.
August 4, 2025
A multi layered mystery that comes together piece by piece. I love doing puzzles that require placing each piece in the correct place. I always start at the edges and work towards the middle. It fascinates me to see how one piece can change the entire puzzle.
In this story the key to solving the mystery is deciphering the codes or puzzle to figure out the answer. An escape room starts us off on a journey where each clue leads to another. I have always wanted to go to an escape room and try to solve the mystery. I like how the author leaves breadcrumbs for readers to join the characters as a race to rescue someone is hidden in a series of puzzles.
I really enjoyed the conversation between Ari and Nick about God. Ari believes what she did to someone was justified but Nick sees it differently. God gives us free will and Ari thinks that if she was God she would , “ create mankind without a will, so she could control them.” Interesting that Ari is very bitter and won’t let go of something that has cost her so much. I couldn’t wait to see where their relationship would go.
Step by step Ari and Nick follow clues to rescue Bridgette. The author is clever as she takes the characters to places where they seem to be close to solving the clues but will they be in time to save Bridgette?
I loved the way Ari starts to trust Nick and grows close to God as they both search for answers. The Enigma is deceitful, dangerous and revengeful. I paid special attention to see where the story would go as I continued to want this evil person exposed. I love a good suspenseful book with faith in the mix and the author delivers both in this heart pounding story. The past catches up with our main characters which add a depth of raw emotions.
Be sure to give yourself time to read this book in one setting because there is no way you will be able to put it down. I love this author’s ability to keep readers guessing and allowing them to be part of the story as clues and riddles start to get personal.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
In this story the key to solving the mystery is deciphering the codes or puzzle to figure out the answer. An escape room starts us off on a journey where each clue leads to another. I have always wanted to go to an escape room and try to solve the mystery. I like how the author leaves breadcrumbs for readers to join the characters as a race to rescue someone is hidden in a series of puzzles.
I really enjoyed the conversation between Ari and Nick about God. Ari believes what she did to someone was justified but Nick sees it differently. God gives us free will and Ari thinks that if she was God she would , “ create mankind without a will, so she could control them.” Interesting that Ari is very bitter and won’t let go of something that has cost her so much. I couldn’t wait to see where their relationship would go.
Step by step Ari and Nick follow clues to rescue Bridgette. The author is clever as she takes the characters to places where they seem to be close to solving the clues but will they be in time to save Bridgette?
I loved the way Ari starts to trust Nick and grows close to God as they both search for answers. The Enigma is deceitful, dangerous and revengeful. I paid special attention to see where the story would go as I continued to want this evil person exposed. I love a good suspenseful book with faith in the mix and the author delivers both in this heart pounding story. The past catches up with our main characters which add a depth of raw emotions.
Be sure to give yourself time to read this book in one setting because there is no way you will be able to put it down. I love this author’s ability to keep readers guessing and allowing them to be part of the story as clues and riddles start to get personal.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
June 11, 2025
It was clear from the start that The Puzzle Within wasn’t going to be your typical procedural fiction. Two characters thrust together to help solve a case and catch the bad guys isn’t unique, but when you realize they’re playing a twisted mind game that they didn’t even know they were playing, now that’s a twist that will pique your curiosity.
I am one of those people that loves a good mind game, and The Puzzle Within not only has that aspect but it also has you questioning if what you’re even reading is real. I love that!! The suspense is top-notch and unrelenting as we go on this twisted scavenger hunt with Nick and Ari, playing the perverse game right along with them, as secrets come to light and faith is tested.
What really made this story unique was the puzzles that the characters had to figure out during their investigation. The author made it to where the reader could try to figure out the cyphers right along with the characters if you so choose. This refreshingly unique idea is like an escape room in story format which is so awesome!
I adored this novel, as it fed my love of riddles and puzzles while providing a suspenseful plot and easy-to-get-behind characters. I appreciated the faith aspect and the reminder to keep faith even in uncertainty and just let God be God. An entertaining and engaging with a nice flow and overall magnetic vibe, this was one of my favorite novels so far this year. Such a fun read!
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
I am one of those people that loves a good mind game, and The Puzzle Within not only has that aspect but it also has you questioning if what you’re even reading is real. I love that!! The suspense is top-notch and unrelenting as we go on this twisted scavenger hunt with Nick and Ari, playing the perverse game right along with them, as secrets come to light and faith is tested.
What really made this story unique was the puzzles that the characters had to figure out during their investigation. The author made it to where the reader could try to figure out the cyphers right along with the characters if you so choose. This refreshingly unique idea is like an escape room in story format which is so awesome!
I adored this novel, as it fed my love of riddles and puzzles while providing a suspenseful plot and easy-to-get-behind characters. I appreciated the faith aspect and the reminder to keep faith even in uncertainty and just let God be God. An entertaining and engaging with a nice flow and overall magnetic vibe, this was one of my favorite novels so far this year. Such a fun read!
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
August 12, 2025
This was an intriguing, sometimes creepy read of an almost real life scenario of an escape room. I have yet had the pleasure of doing an escape room game, but I certainly wouldn't want it to follow me into real life.
FBI agent Arizona Powers is trying to get back into her job after she had a nervous breakdown, even though others doubt her abilities now. She is given an assignment to protect Bridgette, a young socialite and daughter of an ambassador who is receiving threats. Ari, Arizona, is being paired up with a risk analyst, Nick Trueheart.
Nick also is an interesting character with a different background. Originally being an entertainer as an escape artist till the sudden death of his wife. His story put me in the mind of one of my favorite shows, The Mentalist due to their unique capabilities. So, that is also how my mind pictured him.
Ari is even beginning to doubt her own sanity when nightmares, or so she thought they were nightmares, start manifesting themselves in real life. Thankfully she has Nick to rely on as he is experiencing the same. The Enigma, as the villain is calling themselves, is quite fascinated with both Ari and Nick and likes playing games with them. Will Ari and Nick be able to figure out this dangerous puzzle and save Bridgette and themselves? And what does any of this have to do with Ari's past? What about Nick's? Great read to keep you up at night and this is just the first in a series.
I was provided a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
FBI agent Arizona Powers is trying to get back into her job after she had a nervous breakdown, even though others doubt her abilities now. She is given an assignment to protect Bridgette, a young socialite and daughter of an ambassador who is receiving threats. Ari, Arizona, is being paired up with a risk analyst, Nick Trueheart.
Nick also is an interesting character with a different background. Originally being an entertainer as an escape artist till the sudden death of his wife. His story put me in the mind of one of my favorite shows, The Mentalist due to their unique capabilities. So, that is also how my mind pictured him.
Ari is even beginning to doubt her own sanity when nightmares, or so she thought they were nightmares, start manifesting themselves in real life. Thankfully she has Nick to rely on as he is experiencing the same. The Enigma, as the villain is calling themselves, is quite fascinated with both Ari and Nick and likes playing games with them. Will Ari and Nick be able to figure out this dangerous puzzle and save Bridgette and themselves? And what does any of this have to do with Ari's past? What about Nick's? Great read to keep you up at night and this is just the first in a series.
I was provided a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
June 3, 2025
Thanks to the publisher for my review copy.
This is a great read full of twists and turns. Ari (Arizona) is a FBI agent and has been on leave after suffering a breakdown. Nick works with DSS. The two are teamed up to protect Bridgette the Ambassadors daughter. Things take a dangerous turn when Bridgette goes missing. Ari and Nick have clues to a puzzle to solve in hopes of saving Bridgette. At the same time trying to work through personal issues.
This book is action packed from page one and so much danger. There are so many twists and turns that I was kept guessing. The villain is taunting them with puzzle to solve and has an agenda, and nothing is what it seems. Both Ari and Nick have demons they are dealing with, and we see a lot of personal growth. I also enjoyed the faith element and how although both are Christians they still had to deal with uncertainty. The way the author tackles these issues is well done.
I would love to talk more about the story and think it would be a great book club read. Being able to talk about this book with other readers would be great. I can't wait for the next book in the series. I only found Gina Holder's books this year and she is becoming a favourite author.
If you enjoy suspense with a slow building romance element, give this book a go. The romance is very much in the background. This book would be one of my top reads for the year.
This is a great read full of twists and turns. Ari (Arizona) is a FBI agent and has been on leave after suffering a breakdown. Nick works with DSS. The two are teamed up to protect Bridgette the Ambassadors daughter. Things take a dangerous turn when Bridgette goes missing. Ari and Nick have clues to a puzzle to solve in hopes of saving Bridgette. At the same time trying to work through personal issues.
This book is action packed from page one and so much danger. There are so many twists and turns that I was kept guessing. The villain is taunting them with puzzle to solve and has an agenda, and nothing is what it seems. Both Ari and Nick have demons they are dealing with, and we see a lot of personal growth. I also enjoyed the faith element and how although both are Christians they still had to deal with uncertainty. The way the author tackles these issues is well done.
I would love to talk more about the story and think it would be a great book club read. Being able to talk about this book with other readers would be great. I can't wait for the next book in the series. I only found Gina Holder's books this year and she is becoming a favourite author.
If you enjoy suspense with a slow building romance element, give this book a go. The romance is very much in the background. This book would be one of my top reads for the year.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews