What do you think?
Rate this book
Love in Blackwater #6
Love Undercover
He once saved her life. Now she needs him to help save someone else.
Zach Wilson never meant for things to go so far. Abducting Lauren Vincent was supposed to get him answers—until his brother took things too far. Sparing Lauren was the only right thing Zach had ever done, but one good decision couldn't erase a lifetime of bad ones. So when he gets out of prison, he never expected to find the woman he hurt most waiting for him with forgiveness in her eyes.
Lauren has spent years haunted by that night and the man who saved her. She doesn't understand why Zach protected her, but she's never forgotten he's the reason she's still breathing. Now her cousin has been missing for years, and Zach is the only one with the connections to find him.
Living next door while helping with repairs, Zach tries to keep his distance, but Lauren sees glimpses of the honorable man he's fighting to become. Despite his reluctance to risk her safety, she's determined to find her cousin—even if it means trusting her heart to the man who once held her life in his hands.
As danger closes in and old enemies resurface, will they find answers, love, and redemption before it's too late?
If you loved the Blackwater Ranch series and the Wolf Creek Ranch series, get ready to fall in love all over again in Blackwater, Wyoming.
Zach Wilson never meant for things to go so far. Abducting Lauren Vincent was supposed to get him answers—until his brother took things too far. Sparing Lauren was the only right thing Zach had ever done, but one good decision couldn't erase a lifetime of bad ones. So when he gets out of prison, he never expected to find the woman he hurt most waiting for him with forgiveness in her eyes.
Lauren has spent years haunted by that night and the man who saved her. She doesn't understand why Zach protected her, but she's never forgotten he's the reason she's still breathing. Now her cousin has been missing for years, and Zach is the only one with the connections to find him.
Living next door while helping with repairs, Zach tries to keep his distance, but Lauren sees glimpses of the honorable man he's fighting to become. Despite his reluctance to risk her safety, she's determined to find her cousin—even if it means trusting her heart to the man who once held her life in his hands.
As danger closes in and old enemies resurface, will they find answers, love, and redemption before it's too late?
If you loved the Blackwater Ranch series and the Wolf Creek Ranch series, get ready to fall in love all over again in Blackwater, Wyoming.
454 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 16, 2026
About the author
Mandi Blake
44 books884 followersMandi Blake was born and raised in Alabama where she lives with her husband and daughter, but her southern heart loves to travel. Reading has been her favorite hobby for as long as she can remember, but writing is her passion. She loves a good happily ever after in her sweet Christian romance books and loves to see her characters' relationships grow closer to God and each other.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
February 24, 2026
“You’re holding onto a life that hasn’t done you any favors. Your first thirty years have been about survival. Wouldn’t you like to spend the next thirty actually living?”
Oh. My. Goodness. This is a fantastic conclusion, and hands down my favourite, to end the series. I absolutely loved the intensity and emotional depth, the brokenness, the hero with a dangerous past and the redemption arc.
Lauren Vincent and Zach Wilson are without a doubt my favourite literary couple right now. I loved seeing how they healed each other and refused to let their mistakes or their past define them.
The line that had me in tears: “I’m messed up, but … please don’t give up on me. Everyone else has.”
The line that had me almost spraying my coffee: “Church was for people who had their act together.” (I certainly don’t and that’s why I go!)
The oh-my-gosh-let-me-gush: He brought her an emotional support donut!
This one is worthy of ALL the stars!!!!
Oh. My. Goodness. This is a fantastic conclusion, and hands down my favourite, to end the series. I absolutely loved the intensity and emotional depth, the brokenness, the hero with a dangerous past and the redemption arc.
Lauren Vincent and Zach Wilson are without a doubt my favourite literary couple right now. I loved seeing how they healed each other and refused to let their mistakes or their past define them.
The line that had me in tears: “I’m messed up, but … please don’t give up on me. Everyone else has.”
The line that had me almost spraying my coffee: “Church was for people who had their act together.” (I certainly don’t and that’s why I go!)
The oh-my-gosh-let-me-gush: He brought her an emotional support donut!
This one is worthy of ALL the stars!!!!
February 17, 2026
Love Undercover by Mandi Blake
Book 6 in the Love in Blackwater Series
Christian Romance Series
WHAT AN ENDING TO AN AWESOME CHRISTIAN FICTION SERIES! FRIENDS! READ. THIS. SERIES! 👏👏👏👏 Mandi brings SOOO much to the table in this series and she ended it so beautifully. Loved reading with my friend Melissa!
Blog Post: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
Read if you love:
- Redemption in Christ in Books
- Clean, Christian Romance
- Suspense, Going Undercover Thread
- Found Family
- Great Friend Group
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Opposites Attract
We follow Zach and Lauren. Zach saved her life years ago, his brother abducted her and he never wanted to be involved in it as far as it went. He saved Lauren and ended up still going to prison for 4 years for his crimes. She visits him in prison over the years, showing him there is hope for him again. When he gets out, she helps him back on his feet and he helps her work through some repairs at her rental place and she gives him a second chance at life to start over. He's a bit grumpy but she isn't going to let that stop her from showing him God's true love.
But when trouble arises...what are they going to do? Go undercover of course....
I loved how Mandi took this in a suspense direction! Anytime she adds that type of storyline to her books, I love it! Zach and Lauren - I loved how Jesus really worked in this situation. Lauren felt that prompting from the Lord in her helping Zach.
This book kept me on edge, engaged, connected to the characters with the best friend group - all in all, a GREAT Christian Romance series! I highly recommend! Her books are always those feel good reads for me, and when she has some mild heavier topics, she handles them with care and with the redemptive love of Jesus. I appreciate it so much.
OH and I loved the bonus epilogue! We got to see everyone together from the series, it was AMAZING.
Thank you Mandi for sending me a copy to honestly read for review. All thoughts are my own.
content: clean romance, kisses only, mention of trafficking victim but brief and handled with care, mild violence, going undercover, brief drinking but shown as bad situation
Book 6 in the Love in Blackwater Series
Christian Romance Series
WHAT AN ENDING TO AN AWESOME CHRISTIAN FICTION SERIES! FRIENDS! READ. THIS. SERIES! 👏👏👏👏 Mandi brings SOOO much to the table in this series and she ended it so beautifully. Loved reading with my friend Melissa!
Blog Post: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
Read if you love:
- Redemption in Christ in Books
- Clean, Christian Romance
- Suspense, Going Undercover Thread
- Found Family
- Great Friend Group
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Opposites Attract
We follow Zach and Lauren. Zach saved her life years ago, his brother abducted her and he never wanted to be involved in it as far as it went. He saved Lauren and ended up still going to prison for 4 years for his crimes. She visits him in prison over the years, showing him there is hope for him again. When he gets out, she helps him back on his feet and he helps her work through some repairs at her rental place and she gives him a second chance at life to start over. He's a bit grumpy but she isn't going to let that stop her from showing him God's true love.
But when trouble arises...what are they going to do? Go undercover of course....
I loved how Mandi took this in a suspense direction! Anytime she adds that type of storyline to her books, I love it! Zach and Lauren - I loved how Jesus really worked in this situation. Lauren felt that prompting from the Lord in her helping Zach.
This book kept me on edge, engaged, connected to the characters with the best friend group - all in all, a GREAT Christian Romance series! I highly recommend! Her books are always those feel good reads for me, and when she has some mild heavier topics, she handles them with care and with the redemptive love of Jesus. I appreciate it so much.
OH and I loved the bonus epilogue! We got to see everyone together from the series, it was AMAZING.
Thank you Mandi for sending me a copy to honestly read for review. All thoughts are my own.
content: clean romance, kisses only, mention of trafficking victim but brief and handled with care, mild violence, going undercover, brief drinking but shown as bad situation
April 27, 2026
This is my favourite Mandi Blake book so far! 😍🥹😭
Mandi took situations that would usually have me nervous and crafted a stunning story of redemption, healing, and finding Jesus.
Lauren and Zach are precious. They both have issues to work through and overcome, but I love their journey. And I love how even though this was a romance, it wasn’t a missionary dating plot. Zach doesn’t know Jesus for most of the book, and Lauren isn’t compromising her convictions to start a relationship before he does. But Zach is so in awe of Lauren’s character and how different she is that he’s drawn to that Hope for himself. (Also, LOVE a smart bookish heroine and a protective “touch her and die” hero 🤭)
I cried a few times. Held my breath when the suspense kicked in during the last few chapters. And above all, smiled at a beautiful love story about broken people finding redemption in Jesus and love along the way. 💛
Content: some violence; kidnapping; smuggling; mentions of human trafficking
Mandi took situations that would usually have me nervous and crafted a stunning story of redemption, healing, and finding Jesus.
Lauren and Zach are precious. They both have issues to work through and overcome, but I love their journey. And I love how even though this was a romance, it wasn’t a missionary dating plot. Zach doesn’t know Jesus for most of the book, and Lauren isn’t compromising her convictions to start a relationship before he does. But Zach is so in awe of Lauren’s character and how different she is that he’s drawn to that Hope for himself. (Also, LOVE a smart bookish heroine and a protective “touch her and die” hero 🤭)
I cried a few times. Held my breath when the suspense kicked in during the last few chapters. And above all, smiled at a beautiful love story about broken people finding redemption in Jesus and love along the way. 💛
Content: some violence; kidnapping; smuggling; mentions of human trafficking
Review of advance copy
Yep... I did it guys, I finished the entire book in one day- and now I want to cry for hours that this series has officially ended😭😭😭😭
that being said it was ABSOLUTELY AMAZING, and I cant wait to work on my full review!!!
that being said it was ABSOLUTELY AMAZING, and I cant wait to work on my full review!!!
February 8, 2026
This contemporary Christian romance with suspense was amazing. When Lauren was abducted at the end of book one of this series by Zach and his brother, I never could have expected that she would get matched up with Zach. This book is full of redemption and faith and forgiveness. After Zach gets out of prison, Lauren comes to pick him up and helps him reintegrate into society. However, the pull of his life before is strong and he stumbles. I devoured this book. While Lauren and Zach both had troubled childhoods, Lauren went the opposite way as Zach and is a straight-laced librarian with multiple degrees. This opposites attract, slowburn romance was super sweet to see. Zach is such a protector and they had so many sweet moments together. I am sad to see this series end. I am hoping we will see these characters and some new friends we made in the next series. The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 2.
I received an eARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an eARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
March 2, 2026
An Unexpected Romance
Wow! What an incredibly powerful story of forgiveness and redemption!
Lauren is one of those people who takes the bull by the horns even though she seems to be a rather quiet person. She's determined to not let great hold her down.
Zach, on the other hand, would rather fight the bull! He's tough because he had no other choice, but Lauren gets past his defenses before he realizes it and it's sweet and tender (and at moments, painful) to watch.
Both characters show that letting someone in can be extremely difficult when you've lived through abuse. Walking alongside the sight them as God heals them was powerful. I appreciated that Lauren, though struggling with her own distance from the Lord, it's able to shine His light for Zach!
Having all of the little "catch ups" at the end of the story was bittersweet! I felt like I was saying goodbye to friends!
This series has been so fun to journey with all of the characters! I'll always be ready to go back to Blackwater!
Wow! What an incredibly powerful story of forgiveness and redemption!
Lauren is one of those people who takes the bull by the horns even though she seems to be a rather quiet person. She's determined to not let great hold her down.
Zach, on the other hand, would rather fight the bull! He's tough because he had no other choice, but Lauren gets past his defenses before he realizes it and it's sweet and tender (and at moments, painful) to watch.
Both characters show that letting someone in can be extremely difficult when you've lived through abuse. Walking alongside the sight them as God heals them was powerful. I appreciated that Lauren, though struggling with her own distance from the Lord, it's able to shine His light for Zach!
Having all of the little "catch ups" at the end of the story was bittersweet! I felt like I was saying goodbye to friends!
This series has been so fun to journey with all of the characters! I'll always be ready to go back to Blackwater!
May 6, 2026
Lauren and Zach’s story was so beautiful. The redemption arc was tearjerking. Zach’s transformation melted my heart. This whole series was a wonderful ride.
March 26, 2026
As always, this was a wonderful read by Mandi Blake! I love her Christian fiction romance books with that slight suspense! This one was super intriguing from page 1 and I was so curious to see how it all unfolded. There was so much mystery to both the MCs and I loved getting to know them better through the story.
Zach and Lauren had this great enemies to more, grumpy/sunshine dynamic going and I loved how Lauren pushed through Zach's walls no matter how much he tried to stop her. Lauren was smart, persistent, and kind. Zach was hard-working and protective. I loved how the reader could see Zach has a soft spot when it comes to Lauren but no one else sees it yet. He had this internal struggle that played out on the page that was so relatable. Watching him open up to God was so sweet. Lauren learned so much about herself as well and I really enjoyed watching her growth.
There were so many layers to their story. The redemption theme throughout his character development was great and the theme of trust in Lauren's side of the story was well-thought out. The faith elements were done so well and were relatable as well. I’m loved the story of redemption, forgiveness, slowing down to be in the Word. Even when they things you are slowing down in love serving Christ’s people. Something so many of us can relate to.
The suspense really picked up towards the end and I couldn't put the book down. I loved reading the story come together and play out, the romance, the character development, and the faith elements. Those undercover scenes really gave you a glimpse into the world Zach came from. Made you appreciate his growth so much more. And I loved how Blake wrapped up everything in the end, especially the series bonus epilogue. Ending this series is bittersweet, but I have many more books by Blake to read!
Zach and Lauren had this great enemies to more, grumpy/sunshine dynamic going and I loved how Lauren pushed through Zach's walls no matter how much he tried to stop her. Lauren was smart, persistent, and kind. Zach was hard-working and protective. I loved how the reader could see Zach has a soft spot when it comes to Lauren but no one else sees it yet. He had this internal struggle that played out on the page that was so relatable. Watching him open up to God was so sweet. Lauren learned so much about herself as well and I really enjoyed watching her growth.
There were so many layers to their story. The redemption theme throughout his character development was great and the theme of trust in Lauren's side of the story was well-thought out. The faith elements were done so well and were relatable as well. I’m loved the story of redemption, forgiveness, slowing down to be in the Word. Even when they things you are slowing down in love serving Christ’s people. Something so many of us can relate to.
The suspense really picked up towards the end and I couldn't put the book down. I loved reading the story come together and play out, the romance, the character development, and the faith elements. Those undercover scenes really gave you a glimpse into the world Zach came from. Made you appreciate his growth so much more. And I loved how Blake wrapped up everything in the end, especially the series bonus epilogue. Ending this series is bittersweet, but I have many more books by Blake to read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Y'all, this book was incredible. I was rooting for Lauren and Zach from the first chapter. I wanted them both to succeed, grow, learn to love. I was 1000% in!
Zach was a softie under a hardened outer shell. I loved watching him learn that there was more to life than the criminal family he had been born into. I loved seeing him learn how to love, to let people care about him AND to find a home in Lauren.
Lauren was an incredibly special character. I loved how strong she is and how she leads with love in everything she does. I doubt I could have been as brave and forgiving as she was toward Zach and I admire her for that!
All in all, this book has everything! The suspense, the faith, the found family and the love! It was a spectacular end to this Blackwater series. And OMG do not miss the epilogue! It was perfect!!!
Zach was a softie under a hardened outer shell. I loved watching him learn that there was more to life than the criminal family he had been born into. I loved seeing him learn how to love, to let people care about him AND to find a home in Lauren.
Lauren was an incredibly special character. I loved how strong she is and how she leads with love in everything she does. I doubt I could have been as brave and forgiving as she was toward Zach and I admire her for that!
All in all, this book has everything! The suspense, the faith, the found family and the love! It was a spectacular end to this Blackwater series. And OMG do not miss the epilogue! It was perfect!!!
April 14, 2026
What an ending!!! I loved it!
Lauren needed her story told and I loved the way I played out for her. But man was I biting my nails there for a second.
One thing I especially loved about this book was the growth for both our main characters. I love that they didn't rush into things. I loved that it took time and they had to show actual growth before the relationship happened. It was so good.
I'm grateful for this book and it's reminder to turn hardships over to God and trust Him. That's been a reminder through this whole series and it's so poignant. I feel like this was the perfect way to end it. ❤️
Lauren needed her story told and I loved the way I played out for her. But man was I biting my nails there for a second.
One thing I especially loved about this book was the growth for both our main characters. I love that they didn't rush into things. I loved that it took time and they had to show actual growth before the relationship happened. It was so good.
I'm grateful for this book and it's reminder to turn hardships over to God and trust Him. That's been a reminder through this whole series and it's so poignant. I feel like this was the perfect way to end it. ❤️
February 17, 2026
Hands down my most anticipated read of the whole series! I love a good redemption character arc and we get that in this sweet story! I love the contrasts of light and dark portrayed throughout this story! Definitely don't want to miss this series!
I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
May 5, 2026
Zach & Lauren
Let me just start by saying this was the best finale to this series!! I absolutely loved Zach & Lauren.. the unlikely pair. They are without a doubt opposites and I never would have put these two together but wow they surprised me! Lauren sees something in Zach as time passes and she’s determined to not give up on him.
Zach will literally watch everything burn around him in order to keep this angel safe. The friendships in this one was super special too. Your friend group matters, people!
This was an amazing story & the bonus prologue at the end was perfection! 🥹
Bonus quote ✨
“You put an end to my nightmares, and I woke up to a life that was better than my wildest dreams.”
*No foul language, kissing only.
Let me just start by saying this was the best finale to this series!! I absolutely loved Zach & Lauren.. the unlikely pair. They are without a doubt opposites and I never would have put these two together but wow they surprised me! Lauren sees something in Zach as time passes and she’s determined to not give up on him.
Zach will literally watch everything burn around him in order to keep this angel safe. The friendships in this one was super special too. Your friend group matters, people!
This was an amazing story & the bonus prologue at the end was perfection! 🥹
Bonus quote ✨
“You put an end to my nightmares, and I woke up to a life that was better than my wildest dreams.”
*No foul language, kissing only.
February 17, 2026
On Lauren Vincent's worst day ever, Zach Wilson was there. At first, he participated in her abduction but then he saved her. Three years later, when he is released from prison, she is there to pick him up and take him back home; to her home. Zach doesn't know what Lauren wants from him but he isn't worthy of her forgiveness or her help. He is a bad guy and will always be a good guy even if Lauren thinks there is good in him. When danger finds her again, Zach is determined to protect her again and disappear from her life. He is certain she would be better without him in her life.
This story was so beautiful. I loved how forgiving Lauren was and even after such horrible, traumatizing experiences, she trusts and has faith that God will lead her in her life. Zach doesn't believe in God and because of the horrible things that he has done, he is convinced he can't be redeemed or forgiven.
Mandi's stories are always wonderful and full of faith. They are real and emotion-filled and a wonderful way to spend a few hours to escape to a beautiful world created by a wonderful storyteller.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
This story was so beautiful. I loved how forgiving Lauren was and even after such horrible, traumatizing experiences, she trusts and has faith that God will lead her in her life. Zach doesn't believe in God and because of the horrible things that he has done, he is convinced he can't be redeemed or forgiven.
Mandi's stories are always wonderful and full of faith. They are real and emotion-filled and a wonderful way to spend a few hours to escape to a beautiful world created by a wonderful storyteller.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
February 17, 2026
This book definitely doesn’t start out with a meet-cute, but it’s a great book about healing, redemption, and forgiveness. As with all of Mandi Blake’s books, it’s a well-written, clean Christian romance that you’ll want to read in one sitting. I’m sad this is the last book in the series. I highly recommend this and the entire series.
March 27, 2026
I can’t believe this series has come to an end… I have completely enjoyed being in Blackwater with these characters and going through each situation with them. If you haven’t read books by Mandi Blake then you are missing out. She writes characters that are flawed but redeemed by God and in the process takes you at times in this suspenseful adventure that at one point you are holding your breath to see what is going to happen and in another you are tearing up.
Love Undercover did not disappoint. Zach and Lauren brought a story of forgiveness and redemption that was incredible. I must admit I had my qualms about how Zach and Lauren’s story was going to develop after all Zach has just come out of jail for kidnapping Lauren (yep, you read that right…) so I definitely had some reservations but man Mandi just developed this wonderful story of forgiveness. I absolutely loved seeing both of these character growth throughout the story and how they let God break through their defenses.
I also enjoyed the epilogue / wrap-up of all the characters in the series and having one last glimpse of where they are at now! It’s crazy to have these big feeling but these characters in the series truly were amazing and it’s hard to let them go!
I can’t wait to see what Mandi comes up with next! And again if you haven’t read the series start in book 1 and enjoy!
I received a copy of the book for review. All views are my own.
Love Undercover did not disappoint. Zach and Lauren brought a story of forgiveness and redemption that was incredible. I must admit I had my qualms about how Zach and Lauren’s story was going to develop after all Zach has just come out of jail for kidnapping Lauren (yep, you read that right…) so I definitely had some reservations but man Mandi just developed this wonderful story of forgiveness. I absolutely loved seeing both of these character growth throughout the story and how they let God break through their defenses.
I also enjoyed the epilogue / wrap-up of all the characters in the series and having one last glimpse of where they are at now! It’s crazy to have these big feeling but these characters in the series truly were amazing and it’s hard to let them go!
I can’t wait to see what Mandi comes up with next! And again if you haven’t read the series start in book 1 and enjoy!
I received a copy of the book for review. All views are my own.
February 17, 2026
I read Love in the Wild a while back and really enjoyed it. I'm not big on reading a whole series, so I hop around to stories that have a synopsis that pulls me in. Both Love in the Wild and this one had "morally grey" MMCs/ heavy redemption arc MMCs...big shocker there, lol
I really enjoyed this story. Lauren was sweet, though seemingly naive (even though people kept telling me how smart she was. Ugh, this happened twice already in stories I've read this year) for her more mature age (somewhere in her 30s) and background. It didn't deter me from liking her, thankfully.
Zach was harder to warm up to, as he is just so sarcastic and so biting with his words. With Gage, you got a feeling he didn't fit in with his background. With Zach you totally believe it.
This makes what Lauren does feel stupid, even though it worked out. In real life he carries ALL the red flags.
All in all though, this was a sweet story that was fun to read on a road trip. I love a good baddie redemption arc and this gave it to me!
I really enjoyed this story. Lauren was sweet, though seemingly naive (even though people kept telling me how smart she was. Ugh, this happened twice already in stories I've read this year) for her more mature age (somewhere in her 30s) and background. It didn't deter me from liking her, thankfully.
Zach was harder to warm up to, as he is just so sarcastic and so biting with his words. With Gage, you got a feeling he didn't fit in with his background. With Zach you totally believe it.
This makes what Lauren does feel stupid, even though it worked out. In real life he carries ALL the red flags.
All in all though, this was a sweet story that was fun to read on a road trip. I love a good baddie redemption arc and this gave it to me!
February 16, 2026
4.8/5
🚨TW: mentions about being abducted/kidnapped, mentions of drug overdosed, accident, almost die
Favourite Moments
🕶 She visited him and fetch him when he just got out of prison (can’t spoil it)
🕶 He helped her to fix her house and also, she let him stay rent free the house that she wants to rent out. (can’t spoil it)
🕶 She believe that he can change and also, she leading him to God and telling him that God loves him.
🕶 Moments with her friends.
🕶 They opened up to each other and show their vulnerable side to each other.
🕶 They protect each other.
🕶 Them going undercover trying to find out about Anthony and also catching the head of the illegal organization. (can’t spoil it)
(lots more)
Swoony Moments
🕶 He loves, cares and protects her.
🕶 He tries his best to fix her house and also try his best to learn how to cook .
🕶 He makes sure that she is alright and always there for her when she needs him.
🕶 He will do whatever to keep her safe.
🕶 He listens to her telling him about how God loves and cares for him.
🕶 He shows his vulnerable side to her.
Synopsis
Lauren
A sweet woman who is finding her missing cousin. She is smart, good at what she does and always see the good in people. At times she had nightmares of the day that she is abducted and also her childhood days that she was abused.
Zach
A man who previously abducted Lauren along with his brother but he tried to talk it out with his brother to let Lauren go because she is innocent.
Though Lauren still had nightmares of that day, she overheard the conversation of Zach and his brother on that day and knew that he wants to save her. When he was in jail, she often go and visit him. Things gets interesting when she came and fetch him on the day of his release and asked him to work for her to fix her home and even let him stay for free. Will he accept? Or will he go back to his old ways? Will she able to help him to see that he can change? What? They even need to go undercover for something? Read Love Undercover to find out.
Review
Love this couple so much. Love how Lauren always sees the good side of people and also always believe that people deserve another chance in live and believe that a person can change. The way she encourage Zach and lead Zach to God who loves him very much. Love that Zach also is opened to listening to her telling him about God.
Love that they opened up to each other and be there for each other when they need each other. And love Lauren relies on God and eventually Zach too. They worked together along with Asa and Dawson in finding Anthony, her cousin who is missing.
I relate to Lauren especially the part where she is reading the Bible. For me is that there is one part of my life I couldn’t get the verses into my brain but I know that God is with me all the time but it’s just so hard to get it to my brain. I’m grateful to the members in my church who prayed for me. Well, my mental health is still healing but it is better now because God is with me.
Love that the people around them who are always worried for them and also prayed for them even helping to lead Zach and Anthony in Bible study to help them understand more.
There are suspense and action in this story which make you not want to put down the book.
What I learn?
As humans in this fallen world, we still do mistakes in life doesn’t mean that we are Christians that means our life is a bed of roses. At times we will fall into sin but with God’s help we will sin lesser.
God is a forgiving God and He give us chances just like He gave Jonah (the story of Jonah and the Big Fish from the Bible) chances too and also, we also should love the unlovable and also see the good in them just like Lauren who see good in Zach and Anthony.
P.S Anthony and his sister Zoe are a great pair of siblings hopefully Mandi will write their happily ever after too.
I was gifted complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own. Thanks @mandi_blake_author for the ARC.
This is the 6th book of Love in Blackwater Series. If you haven’t read the previous books of the series please do.
You can purchase this book on Amazon and it is available in KU.
🚨TW: mentions about being abducted/kidnapped, mentions of drug overdosed, accident, almost die
Favourite Moments
🕶 She visited him and fetch him when he just got out of prison (can’t spoil it)
🕶 He helped her to fix her house and also, she let him stay rent free the house that she wants to rent out. (can’t spoil it)
🕶 She believe that he can change and also, she leading him to God and telling him that God loves him.
🕶 Moments with her friends.
🕶 They opened up to each other and show their vulnerable side to each other.
🕶 They protect each other.
🕶 Them going undercover trying to find out about Anthony and also catching the head of the illegal organization. (can’t spoil it)
(lots more)
Swoony Moments
🕶 He loves, cares and protects her.
🕶 He tries his best to fix her house and also try his best to learn how to cook .
🕶 He makes sure that she is alright and always there for her when she needs him.
🕶 He will do whatever to keep her safe.
🕶 He listens to her telling him about how God loves and cares for him.
🕶 He shows his vulnerable side to her.
Synopsis
Lauren
A sweet woman who is finding her missing cousin. She is smart, good at what she does and always see the good in people. At times she had nightmares of the day that she is abducted and also her childhood days that she was abused.
Zach
A man who previously abducted Lauren along with his brother but he tried to talk it out with his brother to let Lauren go because she is innocent.
Though Lauren still had nightmares of that day, she overheard the conversation of Zach and his brother on that day and knew that he wants to save her. When he was in jail, she often go and visit him. Things gets interesting when she came and fetch him on the day of his release and asked him to work for her to fix her home and even let him stay for free. Will he accept? Or will he go back to his old ways? Will she able to help him to see that he can change? What? They even need to go undercover for something? Read Love Undercover to find out.
Review
Love this couple so much. Love how Lauren always sees the good side of people and also always believe that people deserve another chance in live and believe that a person can change. The way she encourage Zach and lead Zach to God who loves him very much. Love that Zach also is opened to listening to her telling him about God.
Love that they opened up to each other and be there for each other when they need each other. And love Lauren relies on God and eventually Zach too. They worked together along with Asa and Dawson in finding Anthony, her cousin who is missing.
I relate to Lauren especially the part where she is reading the Bible. For me is that there is one part of my life I couldn’t get the verses into my brain but I know that God is with me all the time but it’s just so hard to get it to my brain. I’m grateful to the members in my church who prayed for me. Well, my mental health is still healing but it is better now because God is with me.
Love that the people around them who are always worried for them and also prayed for them even helping to lead Zach and Anthony in Bible study to help them understand more.
There are suspense and action in this story which make you not want to put down the book.
What I learn?
As humans in this fallen world, we still do mistakes in life doesn’t mean that we are Christians that means our life is a bed of roses. At times we will fall into sin but with God’s help we will sin lesser.
God is a forgiving God and He give us chances just like He gave Jonah (the story of Jonah and the Big Fish from the Bible) chances too and also, we also should love the unlovable and also see the good in them just like Lauren who see good in Zach and Anthony.
P.S Anthony and his sister Zoe are a great pair of siblings hopefully Mandi will write their happily ever after too.
I was gifted complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own. Thanks @mandi_blake_author for the ARC.
This is the 6th book of Love in Blackwater Series. If you haven’t read the previous books of the series please do.
You can purchase this book on Amazon and it is available in KU.
February 26, 2026
Beautiful in every way!
Zach Wilson never meant for the kidnapping to spiral out of control, but when his brother took things too far, Zach chose to save Lauren Vincent, one good choice in a life full of bad ones.
After serving time, he’s stunned to find Lauren doesn’t hate him, especially when she needs his help to track down her missing cousin. Living next door and working together as old threats resurface, they’re both forced to face their past and decide if they’re brave enough to risk their hearts for a second chance.
What you'll love:
redeemed criminal & librarian
dual pov
second chances
he falls first
grumpy/sunshine
protective MMC
moments of suspense
beautiful faith thread
emotional healing
This story completely stole my heart! It’s a sweet and swoony romance between two people who deserve a second chance at love and happiness, but it is so much more than that! It is a powerful story of redemption and forgiveness, of choosing light over darkness, and of daring to believe that broken pieces can be made whole again. It left me in tears in the very best way
Lauren is the very definition of kindness, grace, and refusing to judge someone by their worst mistake. She doesn’t see Zach only as the man who once kidnapped her; she sees beyond his past to the man he truly is underneath the guilt and hardened exterior, and even more importantly, the man he has the potential to become.
Zach is drawn to Lauren not only because of her beauty, but because of the warmth and light she carries so naturally. She represents everything he fears he doesn’t deserve, yet longs for with his whole heart. Watching their relationship evolve from uncomfortable and uncertain, to tentative friendship, and then to a deep and abiding love gave me ALL. THE. FEELS. Their journey was rough and every step was earned, but that's what makes it so powerful.
This Christian romance with a hint of suspense kept me turning pages long past my bedtime. The threads of faith are beautifully woven into the story, never preachy but deeply heartfelt. As the finale to an unforgettable series, this story delivers everything I hoped for! You do not have to read the other books first, but there is no way to read just one Mandi Blake book. Once you start, you will want to read them all.
If you love stories of faith, redemption, and hard-won happily ever afters, this book absolutely belongs on your shelf!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
CW: kisses only, mentions of abuse and trauma (past), kidnapping (past)
Zach Wilson never meant for the kidnapping to spiral out of control, but when his brother took things too far, Zach chose to save Lauren Vincent, one good choice in a life full of bad ones.
After serving time, he’s stunned to find Lauren doesn’t hate him, especially when she needs his help to track down her missing cousin. Living next door and working together as old threats resurface, they’re both forced to face their past and decide if they’re brave enough to risk their hearts for a second chance.
What you'll love:
redeemed criminal & librarian
dual pov
second chances
he falls first
grumpy/sunshine
protective MMC
moments of suspense
beautiful faith thread
emotional healing
This story completely stole my heart! It’s a sweet and swoony romance between two people who deserve a second chance at love and happiness, but it is so much more than that! It is a powerful story of redemption and forgiveness, of choosing light over darkness, and of daring to believe that broken pieces can be made whole again. It left me in tears in the very best way
Lauren is the very definition of kindness, grace, and refusing to judge someone by their worst mistake. She doesn’t see Zach only as the man who once kidnapped her; she sees beyond his past to the man he truly is underneath the guilt and hardened exterior, and even more importantly, the man he has the potential to become.
Zach is drawn to Lauren not only because of her beauty, but because of the warmth and light she carries so naturally. She represents everything he fears he doesn’t deserve, yet longs for with his whole heart. Watching their relationship evolve from uncomfortable and uncertain, to tentative friendship, and then to a deep and abiding love gave me ALL. THE. FEELS. Their journey was rough and every step was earned, but that's what makes it so powerful.
This Christian romance with a hint of suspense kept me turning pages long past my bedtime. The threads of faith are beautifully woven into the story, never preachy but deeply heartfelt. As the finale to an unforgettable series, this story delivers everything I hoped for! You do not have to read the other books first, but there is no way to read just one Mandi Blake book. Once you start, you will want to read them all.
If you love stories of faith, redemption, and hard-won happily ever afters, this book absolutely belongs on your shelf!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
CW: kisses only, mentions of abuse and trauma (past), kidnapping (past)
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ahh, I loved this one! It was a lovely story about redemption and learning to trust God. I am so sad to see that this series has come to an end but I am so excited to see what is to come. Love Undercover is the last book in Mandi Blake’s Love in Blackwater series.
I loved both Lauren and Zach! They were so sweet together and I loved the growth of their relationship. Lauren’s faith had been tested through the years but I love how she continually trusted God. Life had not been kind to Zach and he honestly was just trying to survive. But Lauren shook up his life and helped him see that God could use everything for good.
I adored Lauren! She saw the good in the world and strove to do good. I also love how we got to see that although she trusted God, she still struggled at times with her faith and finding hope. She was such a sweet character who wanted to help Zach and find her cousin. She had been through a lot but she could also see God’s faithfulness. Throughout the book, she was challenged to rely more on God and continually love others. It was cute how Zach became her person and helped be her protector.
Poor Zach, he had been through a lot. He was hardened by life and honestly didn’t see how good could ever happen to him. But I loved his growth throughout the book as he learned to choose good over evil. He was such a sweetheart to Lauren and although he was still figuring himself out, I loved how he tried to protect her in his own way. It was cool to see Zach grow to see the good in others and himself, choosing to trust God.
This was such a wonderful book! I didn’t want to put it down. I loved the blend of romance, faith, and action. There were so many different parts and the characters were just lovely. I loved that we got to see old characters and it made me want to re-read their stories. We also got to meet some new characters who I hope get their own stories. I would totally recommend this book! Love Undercover is a clean Christian romance.
I received a complimentary copy
I loved both Lauren and Zach! They were so sweet together and I loved the growth of their relationship. Lauren’s faith had been tested through the years but I love how she continually trusted God. Life had not been kind to Zach and he honestly was just trying to survive. But Lauren shook up his life and helped him see that God could use everything for good.
I adored Lauren! She saw the good in the world and strove to do good. I also love how we got to see that although she trusted God, she still struggled at times with her faith and finding hope. She was such a sweet character who wanted to help Zach and find her cousin. She had been through a lot but she could also see God’s faithfulness. Throughout the book, she was challenged to rely more on God and continually love others. It was cute how Zach became her person and helped be her protector.
Poor Zach, he had been through a lot. He was hardened by life and honestly didn’t see how good could ever happen to him. But I loved his growth throughout the book as he learned to choose good over evil. He was such a sweetheart to Lauren and although he was still figuring himself out, I loved how he tried to protect her in his own way. It was cool to see Zach grow to see the good in others and himself, choosing to trust God.
This was such a wonderful book! I didn’t want to put it down. I loved the blend of romance, faith, and action. There were so many different parts and the characters were just lovely. I loved that we got to see old characters and it made me want to re-read their stories. We also got to meet some new characters who I hope get their own stories. I would totally recommend this book! Love Undercover is a clean Christian romance.
I received a complimentary copy
February 17, 2026
Finally!! How I waited for Lauren’s and Zach’s story - and it was absolutely worth the wait!
I love Lauren so much, she is an amazing character. Sweet and caring, loyal and brave, honest and forgiving.
While Zach was one of the men involved in her kidnapping, he was also one of the reasons her life was spared years before. So he spent the last years in prison where Lauren at one point started to visit him.
The reasons for why she visited him or why she offered him a place to stay didn’t 100% convince me, especially after Zach categorically denied helping her to search for her cousin, but I could quickly look past that and just enjoy seeing how their connection grew.
They were amazing together. Zach desperately needed someone to believe in him, to give him a second chance where he didn’t even believe in himself. And so Lauren was the only one who even could point him to Jesus (he wouldn’t listen to anybody else) and I really appreciated that she put her relationship with God before her growing feelings for Zack.
To be completely honest - the first kiss came too early and too sudden for my personal taste and it didn’t align with my picture of Lauren, but I loved how she handled everything AFTER this first kiss. There was definitely chemistry between the two of them, but also a very sweet emotional connection between two people who had been deeply hurt in the past.
I’m a bit sad that this series ended, but it was such a deserving end to a great series. This book had everything - strong faith themes, characters that feel real, a suspense/mystery plot with a lot of twists and turns and a sweet and tender romance between a flawed but very protective ex-criminal and a strong but vulnerable woman.
In the end it’s a book about healing and forgiveness and about how God can turn around everyone’s story, no matter how hopeless it might seem.
* Thank you to the author for letting me read an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.
I love Lauren so much, she is an amazing character. Sweet and caring, loyal and brave, honest and forgiving.
While Zach was one of the men involved in her kidnapping, he was also one of the reasons her life was spared years before. So he spent the last years in prison where Lauren at one point started to visit him.
The reasons for why she visited him or why she offered him a place to stay didn’t 100% convince me, especially after Zach categorically denied helping her to search for her cousin, but I could quickly look past that and just enjoy seeing how their connection grew.
They were amazing together. Zach desperately needed someone to believe in him, to give him a second chance where he didn’t even believe in himself. And so Lauren was the only one who even could point him to Jesus (he wouldn’t listen to anybody else) and I really appreciated that she put her relationship with God before her growing feelings for Zack.
To be completely honest - the first kiss came too early and too sudden for my personal taste and it didn’t align with my picture of Lauren, but I loved how she handled everything AFTER this first kiss. There was definitely chemistry between the two of them, but also a very sweet emotional connection between two people who had been deeply hurt in the past.
I’m a bit sad that this series ended, but it was such a deserving end to a great series. This book had everything - strong faith themes, characters that feel real, a suspense/mystery plot with a lot of twists and turns and a sweet and tender romance between a flawed but very protective ex-criminal and a strong but vulnerable woman.
In the end it’s a book about healing and forgiveness and about how God can turn around everyone’s story, no matter how hopeless it might seem.
* Thank you to the author for letting me read an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.
February 28, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
I’m gonna start out by saying that I really do love Mandi’s writing and her books. The last book in the series was a 5 star read for me. However, I did not enjoy this one as much as I had hoped. I was so excited for this book and seeing how Mandi was going to redeem Zach. I was adopted out of foster care and was really looking forward to Lauren’s story as well since she was also in foster care.
I am so sad that our time in Blackwater is over. I have loved getting to know all these characters and seeing them draw closer to Jesus. I know they’re fictional, but they’re feel real to me.
Now to what I didn’t love:
Lauren is supposed to be a Christian, but she is constantly putting herself in a compromising situations with Zach, who is not a Christian. She even tells him they can’t kiss again or have a relationship until he is a Christian. I don’t know if I missed it, but I didn’t see a part in the book where he repented or confesses to be a Christian before they actually start their relationship. They even sleep in the same bed at one point.
Lauren also has three masters degrees and we’re supposed to believe that she is proficient with reading people and law-enforcement tactics. She puts herself in dangerous situations without thinking about the consequences, yet none of her law enforcement friends see an issue with it because she has a masters in criminal justice. That means nothing because she has had zero on the job training. I just wish we had some more backstory on why she was qualified, because up until now she was just seen as naïve.
Love Undercover ended in the perfect way to say goodbye to all our favorites. Mandi’s series closer epilogues are my favorite. I love that she includes little tidbits from previous characters.
I hope you love Zach and Lauren’s story of second chances and redemption. They both fought so hard for their happily ever after. The gospel message in these books is done so well. I pray that if you don’t know Jesus personally, that you will come to know him soon.
*I was sent a complimentary copy with no expectations for a favorable review.
I’m gonna start out by saying that I really do love Mandi’s writing and her books. The last book in the series was a 5 star read for me. However, I did not enjoy this one as much as I had hoped. I was so excited for this book and seeing how Mandi was going to redeem Zach. I was adopted out of foster care and was really looking forward to Lauren’s story as well since she was also in foster care.
I am so sad that our time in Blackwater is over. I have loved getting to know all these characters and seeing them draw closer to Jesus. I know they’re fictional, but they’re feel real to me.
Now to what I didn’t love:
Lauren is supposed to be a Christian, but she is constantly putting herself in a compromising situations with Zach, who is not a Christian. She even tells him they can’t kiss again or have a relationship until he is a Christian. I don’t know if I missed it, but I didn’t see a part in the book where he repented or confesses to be a Christian before they actually start their relationship. They even sleep in the same bed at one point.
Lauren also has three masters degrees and we’re supposed to believe that she is proficient with reading people and law-enforcement tactics. She puts herself in dangerous situations without thinking about the consequences, yet none of her law enforcement friends see an issue with it because she has a masters in criminal justice. That means nothing because she has had zero on the job training. I just wish we had some more backstory on why she was qualified, because up until now she was just seen as naïve.
Love Undercover ended in the perfect way to say goodbye to all our favorites. Mandi’s series closer epilogues are my favorite. I love that she includes little tidbits from previous characters.
I hope you love Zach and Lauren’s story of second chances and redemption. They both fought so hard for their happily ever after. The gospel message in these books is done so well. I pray that if you don’t know Jesus personally, that you will come to know him soon.
*I was sent a complimentary copy with no expectations for a favorable review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2026
Zach kidnapped Lauren at the very beginning of the Love in Blackwater series. So when we finally get their story in book six, you expect bitterness… distance… maybe even fear (even though there is a little of that). But that’s not what unfolds.
Lauren should have hated Zach. Instead, she visited him in prison.When he was released, she was the one who picked him up. She gave him a chance at a life that didn’t revolve around crime. She helped him find a job even with a record stacked against him.
Watching their dynamic unfold was powerful. You see Zach slowly realize there’s more to life than the only world he’s ever known. And somewhere along the way, it stops being just a story about second chances and becomes a story about God pulling two people out of darkness and into something entirely new.
It was tear jerking in the deepest way.
Zach is the perfect morally grey MMC— guarded, reluctant, carrying the weight of his past. And Lauren… her sweetness, paired with her strength and stubbornness, meets him exactly where he is without ever lowering her standards. She doesn’t fix him, she walks with him while he learns to change. This sets up so many LOL moments between the two of them. And I loved that!
The tension builds not just through attraction, but through redemption and growth. Through trust that has to be earned between them and Zach’s new friends.
What I loved most was how faith was woven in so naturally. Lauren’s steady belief coming alive again, the way the Bensons spoke truth into Zach’s life, and how the other men shared their testimonies…it created this beautiful picture of redemption not just individually, but as a community. Watching them build their own church felt like watching healing take root.
And the ending… getting a glimpse of each couple from the series? It was the perfect bow on top. Knowing they all got their HEA was exactly what my heart needed.
April was so busy for me, but this was the book I couldn’t stop thinking about. I just needed to finish it.
So many green flags. So much redemption. Highly recommend this series!!
Lauren should have hated Zach. Instead, she visited him in prison.When he was released, she was the one who picked him up. She gave him a chance at a life that didn’t revolve around crime. She helped him find a job even with a record stacked against him.
Watching their dynamic unfold was powerful. You see Zach slowly realize there’s more to life than the only world he’s ever known. And somewhere along the way, it stops being just a story about second chances and becomes a story about God pulling two people out of darkness and into something entirely new.
It was tear jerking in the deepest way.
Zach is the perfect morally grey MMC— guarded, reluctant, carrying the weight of his past. And Lauren… her sweetness, paired with her strength and stubbornness, meets him exactly where he is without ever lowering her standards. She doesn’t fix him, she walks with him while he learns to change. This sets up so many LOL moments between the two of them. And I loved that!
The tension builds not just through attraction, but through redemption and growth. Through trust that has to be earned between them and Zach’s new friends.
What I loved most was how faith was woven in so naturally. Lauren’s steady belief coming alive again, the way the Bensons spoke truth into Zach’s life, and how the other men shared their testimonies…it created this beautiful picture of redemption not just individually, but as a community. Watching them build their own church felt like watching healing take root.
And the ending… getting a glimpse of each couple from the series? It was the perfect bow on top. Knowing they all got their HEA was exactly what my heart needed.
April was so busy for me, but this was the book I couldn’t stop thinking about. I just needed to finish it.
So many green flags. So much redemption. Highly recommend this series!!
Review of advance copy
I’ve been waiting in high anticipation for this book and it did not disappoint. I’ve read every book series from Blackwater by Mandi Blake and I am so happy I found her as an author because my reading journey has been sparse between the years because I didn’t think I could find books that valued God and also had that swoon, worthy romance that wouldn’t compromise my convictions, but when I found Mandi Blake, that was an opening to a world where I was no longer ashamed to read romance because of my convictions.
I loved every single book that she’s written, but this book took it home for me a quite similar story to Gage and Hadley in book 3, but not as similar to where I felt like I was reading the same thing. It was so nice to see all the characters from the series books one to five come together in this seeing how Gage was able to talk with Zach about how he was able to move on from his past, I love that God‘s unconditional love was shown through Lauren despite what she had been through herself, and support from the people around Zach throughout the story. It’s such a real thing to feel worthless, and to feel like you don’t belong in a world when you don’t know who Jesus is and so I enjoyed every amazing moment of this book seeing someone discover Christ for the first time. If I could give six stars, I would.
I love how everything comes full circle in the end of her books every end of series from what I’ve read so far, she summarizes each couple in the bonus epilogue and I love it so much because you get to dive into the relationships that you’ve invested in and loved as a reader. I am so happy I got to read this book early since it released on Amazon, but I am so sad to be letting the characters of Blackwater go. There will certainly be rereads on my end.
Thank you Mandi Blake for writing these stories you have a gift. God bless you.
I loved every single book that she’s written, but this book took it home for me a quite similar story to Gage and Hadley in book 3, but not as similar to where I felt like I was reading the same thing. It was so nice to see all the characters from the series books one to five come together in this seeing how Gage was able to talk with Zach about how he was able to move on from his past, I love that God‘s unconditional love was shown through Lauren despite what she had been through herself, and support from the people around Zach throughout the story. It’s such a real thing to feel worthless, and to feel like you don’t belong in a world when you don’t know who Jesus is and so I enjoyed every amazing moment of this book seeing someone discover Christ for the first time. If I could give six stars, I would.
I love how everything comes full circle in the end of her books every end of series from what I’ve read so far, she summarizes each couple in the bonus epilogue and I love it so much because you get to dive into the relationships that you’ve invested in and loved as a reader. I am so happy I got to read this book early since it released on Amazon, but I am so sad to be letting the characters of Blackwater go. There will certainly be rereads on my end.
Thank you Mandi Blake for writing these stories you have a gift. God bless you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2026
Zach helped abduct Lauren, then saved her life. She should want to run far away when he gets out of prison, but a hope that he can help her find her lost cousin has her picking him up from the prison and giving him a home in a cottage that needs fixing up. Unable to look past the actions that had endangered her and convinced that escape from his old life is impossible, Zach works to distance himself from Lauren - mostly. But what he does see of her gradually make him want to believe in forgiveness and second chances. The past has long arms, though, and when it comes calling, will they come safely out the other side?
An amazing story of forgiveness and redemption. I've loved this whole series, and this was definitely no exception. After seeing Lauren go through what she did in a previous book, seeing her gradually develop a relationship with Zach was beautiful. Zach didn't exactly make himself an easy person to love (in fact, he did his best to push Lauren away, over and over again), so watching her patience with him was inspiring - even if it was sometimes selfishly motivated and certainly not universal. But seeing them gradually get to the stage where things are really two-way rather than just her trying to get through to him made it all so worthwhile. Throw in some moments of humour (one particular scene where Zach learned a lot he'd had no idea of is hilarious), some great friends providing support but also pushback, and the element of suspense and danger toward the end, and the result is a great story that kept me engaged from the first page and simultaneously satisfied and disappointed when I got to the last. Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
An amazing story of forgiveness and redemption. I've loved this whole series, and this was definitely no exception. After seeing Lauren go through what she did in a previous book, seeing her gradually develop a relationship with Zach was beautiful. Zach didn't exactly make himself an easy person to love (in fact, he did his best to push Lauren away, over and over again), so watching her patience with him was inspiring - even if it was sometimes selfishly motivated and certainly not universal. But seeing them gradually get to the stage where things are really two-way rather than just her trying to get through to him made it all so worthwhile. Throw in some moments of humour (one particular scene where Zach learned a lot he'd had no idea of is hilarious), some great friends providing support but also pushback, and the element of suspense and danger toward the end, and the result is a great story that kept me engaged from the first page and simultaneously satisfied and disappointed when I got to the last. Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love Undercover delivers a powerful story of redemption that will resonate deeply with Christian romantic suspense readers. This is an unlikely love story done beautifully, with emotional depth and spiritual truth woven throughout.
Zach Wilson was imprisoned for abducting Lauren Vincent, yet she becomes the very person who extends forgiveness to him. What begins as an unlikely friendship slowly transforms into something deeper as Lauren's Christ-like love creates space for healing and change. Fans of the Love in Blackwater Series will enjoy seeing familiar faces, though this book works perfectly as a standalone.
This book is a stunning picture of God's redemptive power. The grumpy/sunshine dynamic between hardened Zach and Lauren who radiates Christ’s love works wonderfully. Lauren shines as a character who truly lives out her faith. She doesn't just talk about Christ's love; she embodies it in every interaction. Watching Zach's transformation unfold through her influence is both moving and authentic. The romance feels impossible at the start, which makes it all the more satisfying when these two broken people find healing together.
The story opens in a dark place. Zach begins as a hard, seemingly irredeemable character, which may challenge some readers. Lauren also experiences recollections of her abduction and faces another dangerous situation later in the book. Readers sensitive to these elements should be aware, though these difficult moments ultimately serve the redemptive arc powerfully.
I highly recommend Love undercover for Christian romantic suspense readers who appreciate deep themes of forgiveness and transformation alongside their romance.
Zach Wilson was imprisoned for abducting Lauren Vincent, yet she becomes the very person who extends forgiveness to him. What begins as an unlikely friendship slowly transforms into something deeper as Lauren's Christ-like love creates space for healing and change. Fans of the Love in Blackwater Series will enjoy seeing familiar faces, though this book works perfectly as a standalone.
This book is a stunning picture of God's redemptive power. The grumpy/sunshine dynamic between hardened Zach and Lauren who radiates Christ’s love works wonderfully. Lauren shines as a character who truly lives out her faith. She doesn't just talk about Christ's love; she embodies it in every interaction. Watching Zach's transformation unfold through her influence is both moving and authentic. The romance feels impossible at the start, which makes it all the more satisfying when these two broken people find healing together.
The story opens in a dark place. Zach begins as a hard, seemingly irredeemable character, which may challenge some readers. Lauren also experiences recollections of her abduction and faces another dangerous situation later in the book. Readers sensitive to these elements should be aware, though these difficult moments ultimately serve the redemptive arc powerfully.
I highly recommend Love undercover for Christian romantic suspense readers who appreciate deep themes of forgiveness and transformation alongside their romance.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’ll be honest, I’ve loved every one of the books in this series. I don’t generally like suspense books, but I feel like these books have just enough to keep it excited but not so much as to cause constant stress as you read. It helps that they are uplifting and positive as the characters are reminded to look to and trust in God despite the situation they find themselves in.
Love Undercover has been just as good as the rest of the series, if not better. While I would be horrified if my daughters ever made some of the choices Lauren did, it made for a fantastic story. Seeing inside Lauren’s head, it was easy to understand why she made the choices she did. Lauren was easy to love from the start. Zach, well, he quickly wormed his way into my affections despite his past.
I loved all the appearances of past characters. It helped to bring everything together as a cohesive whole. It’s fun to see where the past couples have gotten to and how they are continuing to live out their callings.
I hope this isn’t the end of books set in Blackwater. I’ve loved getting to know the characters and I hope Mandi has more stories up her sleeve. I’m especially hoping to learn more about Anthony and Zoe in the future. They seem like wonderful characters and I hope we get to know them more.
This book had a strong decision theology bend, especially during one conversation between characters. If that is what you are looking for, you found it. If it isn’t, be aware it is there but it is still an exciting book.
I received an ARC. My review is my own.
Love Undercover has been just as good as the rest of the series, if not better. While I would be horrified if my daughters ever made some of the choices Lauren did, it made for a fantastic story. Seeing inside Lauren’s head, it was easy to understand why she made the choices she did. Lauren was easy to love from the start. Zach, well, he quickly wormed his way into my affections despite his past.
I loved all the appearances of past characters. It helped to bring everything together as a cohesive whole. It’s fun to see where the past couples have gotten to and how they are continuing to live out their callings.
I hope this isn’t the end of books set in Blackwater. I’ve loved getting to know the characters and I hope Mandi has more stories up her sleeve. I’m especially hoping to learn more about Anthony and Zoe in the future. They seem like wonderful characters and I hope we get to know them more.
This book had a strong decision theology bend, especially during one conversation between characters. If that is what you are looking for, you found it. If it isn’t, be aware it is there but it is still an exciting book.
I received an ARC. My review is my own.
February 16, 2026
Love Undercover ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️5/5
✝️Christian Romance
👥 Dual 3rd Person POV
⚠️TW: This book touches on/contains violence, incarceration, drugs/weapons and mentions/memories abduction, childhood abuse and death
I remember when I first read the description for this book. I was almost done with the other books and the series and was looking ahead to see what else I had to look forward to. Imagine my surprise when I see that Lauren falls for Zach! First, I was stunned, but then I was so excited to see what Mandi was going to do with these characters and what she was going to have God do in their lives! I LOVE a redemption arc, especially when it’s written in relation to God’s grace. Zach and Lauren’s story is so incredible, and there are so many things to treasure in it. I love how kind and compassionate Lauren is, how she extends forgiveness but still maintains healthy boundaries. And I absolutely adore the way Zach learned that God has gifted us a grace we can never outrun. There’s so much more I could say about this book, but instead I’ll just say this: every time I think of this wonderful novel, I can’t help but think of the song My Jesus by Anne Wilson. The whole book feels like that song is being sung to Zach. The themes of forgiveness, love, and redemption throughout this book are so beautifully executed; it’s a wonderful illustration showing how being loved by God and choosing to love Him in return puts us in a place to build relationships on a foundation that cannot be shaken by the circumstances of the world. It was a truly fantastic read!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️5/5
✝️Christian Romance
👥 Dual 3rd Person POV
⚠️TW: This book touches on/contains violence, incarceration, drugs/weapons and mentions/memories abduction, childhood abuse and death
I remember when I first read the description for this book. I was almost done with the other books and the series and was looking ahead to see what else I had to look forward to. Imagine my surprise when I see that Lauren falls for Zach! First, I was stunned, but then I was so excited to see what Mandi was going to do with these characters and what she was going to have God do in their lives! I LOVE a redemption arc, especially when it’s written in relation to God’s grace. Zach and Lauren’s story is so incredible, and there are so many things to treasure in it. I love how kind and compassionate Lauren is, how she extends forgiveness but still maintains healthy boundaries. And I absolutely adore the way Zach learned that God has gifted us a grace we can never outrun. There’s so much more I could say about this book, but instead I’ll just say this: every time I think of this wonderful novel, I can’t help but think of the song My Jesus by Anne Wilson. The whole book feels like that song is being sung to Zach. The themes of forgiveness, love, and redemption throughout this book are so beautifully executed; it’s a wonderful illustration showing how being loved by God and choosing to love Him in return puts us in a place to build relationships on a foundation that cannot be shaken by the circumstances of the world. It was a truly fantastic read!!
March 5, 2026
Zach and his brother Bobby kidnapped Lauren. Bobby wanted to know where Lauren‘s cousin Anthony is located. Lauren didn’t know. She hadn’t seen him in two or three years. Since Lauren couldn’t give Bobby the answer, he wanted to kill Lauren. Zach said you are not going to kill her. Lauren was rescued by the local police department. Bobby and Zach had to go on trial. They were sentenced to prison. Bobby for a much longer time than Zack. Lauren started visiting Zach while he was still in prison. Zach called Lauren Angel. She found out he had a weakness for Snickers candy bars. When Lauren would come visit Zack in prison, she made sure she had a Snickers for him. When he was released, Lauren went to prison to pick him up. Lauren lived in the house that had been her grandparents. When they passed away, they gave her the house. The house next-door came up for sale and Lauren bought it. Lauren made a deal with Zach. He would live in the rental house, but he had to fix it up. The house was definitely a fixer upper. She had to wash and dry her clothes in the rental house, she had a leak in her laundry room that needed to be repaired. Zack said I’m not a handyman. Lauren replied Google it to figure out how to fix things and repair things.
This is definitely a Faith based book. Lauren is very Faith faced and is trying to get Zack to attend church. I highly recommend this book. You’re going to want to read it to see what happens to Lauren and Zach. Zach has a lot to overcome with the way he was raised plus the trouble he had been in since he was a teenager.
This is definitely a Faith based book. Lauren is very Faith faced and is trying to get Zack to attend church. I highly recommend this book. You’re going to want to read it to see what happens to Lauren and Zach. Zach has a lot to overcome with the way he was raised plus the trouble he had been in since he was a teenager.
March 7, 2026
Love Undercover is the last book in Blake’s heartfelt and inspirational ”Love in Blackwater” series and so good. I absolutely love how she was able to redeem a character like Zach with his past as a criminal who recently was released from prison. Lauren really was his angel and I loved how she never gave up seeing or believing in the good in people, especially that Zach was good and could choose to be better. They were opposites in choices, but such a perfect fit and I really liked how Lauren showed Zach his worth and helped him find his way all while they fell more and more in love.
Read this for:
*Redemption arc
*Hero from the wrong side of the tracks who learns to heal and choose more for his future
*Heroine with a hard past that serves and loves and inspires- a true angel
*Dual POV
*Bit of suspense
*Protector vibes
*Christian themes
*Happy ever after
*Bonus series epilogue that made me so happy
Mandi is amazing at writing Christian fiction that feels so natural and real. I think her talents shine in this story with how she took a troubled character like Zach and led him on a faith journey. It was inspiring and realistic with the ups and downs. I was super invested with how this book would turn out (finding Anthony, Zach having to truly walk away, and the romance) and I was very happy with the resolution. It was a great ending to a sweet series. While it works as a standalone, I’d recommend reading this one in series order for a bit more impact.
Content: some mild violence.
Read this for:
*Redemption arc
*Hero from the wrong side of the tracks who learns to heal and choose more for his future
*Heroine with a hard past that serves and loves and inspires- a true angel
*Dual POV
*Bit of suspense
*Protector vibes
*Christian themes
*Happy ever after
*Bonus series epilogue that made me so happy
Mandi is amazing at writing Christian fiction that feels so natural and real. I think her talents shine in this story with how she took a troubled character like Zach and led him on a faith journey. It was inspiring and realistic with the ups and downs. I was super invested with how this book would turn out (finding Anthony, Zach having to truly walk away, and the romance) and I was very happy with the resolution. It was a great ending to a sweet series. While it works as a standalone, I’d recommend reading this one in series order for a bit more impact.
Content: some mild violence.
March 13, 2026
Some love stories are sweet. Some are swoony. And some reach deep into the broken places and remind you that grace really can change everything. This one did all three.
Years ago, Zach Wilson helped kidnap Lauren Vincent—but when things went too far, he made one life-changing decision: he saved her. After serving time for his role in the crime, Zach never expected to see Lauren again… let alone find forgiveness in her eyes.
But Lauren never forgot that Zach is the reason she’s still alive. Now, with her cousin missing, he may be the only one who can help her find answers.
What follows is a powerful journey of redemption, forgiveness, and second chances. Watching Zach wrestle with his past while trying to become the man God created him to be was incredibly moving. And Lauren? She embodies grace in such a beautiful way—seeing the man beneath the mistakes and believing in the possibility of who he can become.
Their relationship unfolds slowly and authentically, moving from awkward proximity to friendship and finally to a deeply emotional love that feels completely earned. Add in moments of suspense, a protective hero, a sunshine heroine with quiet strength, and a faith thread woven gently through the story, and it made for an unforgettable read.
This book left me teary-eyed and hopeful, reminding me that no one is beyond redemption and that sometimes the most beautiful love stories grow from the most broken places.
ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Years ago, Zach Wilson helped kidnap Lauren Vincent—but when things went too far, he made one life-changing decision: he saved her. After serving time for his role in the crime, Zach never expected to see Lauren again… let alone find forgiveness in her eyes.
But Lauren never forgot that Zach is the reason she’s still alive. Now, with her cousin missing, he may be the only one who can help her find answers.
What follows is a powerful journey of redemption, forgiveness, and second chances. Watching Zach wrestle with his past while trying to become the man God created him to be was incredibly moving. And Lauren? She embodies grace in such a beautiful way—seeing the man beneath the mistakes and believing in the possibility of who he can become.
Their relationship unfolds slowly and authentically, moving from awkward proximity to friendship and finally to a deeply emotional love that feels completely earned. Add in moments of suspense, a protective hero, a sunshine heroine with quiet strength, and a faith thread woven gently through the story, and it made for an unforgettable read.
This book left me teary-eyed and hopeful, reminding me that no one is beyond redemption and that sometimes the most beautiful love stories grow from the most broken places.
ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews