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Credence Pointe
If your greatest fear has the power to kill, who will live to tell the tale?
Nathan Bishop is a single father of a seven-year-old daughter, and sheriff of Credence Pointe, WA. It’s a quiet little town tucked into a lush Pacific Northwest landscape. Nothing bad ever occurs in this small community. That is, until the body of a young woman is found in the lake. Things begin to spiral out of control as Sheriff Bishop is flung headfirst into the mess.
Recently moving into town, Ryder Hudson is thrown into the chaos before he’s settled in. As the new kid on the block, working under Sheriff Bishop, he had no idea his first day would entail coming face to face with a corpse.
In the process of working together to unravel the mystery shrouding this once quaint town, a connection sparks between them that neither can seem to ignore. But is there room for romance when lives are on the line?
As horror continues to unfold, they struggle to keep the community safe. The question is, what’s considered safe when danger seems to lurk around every corner?
Nathan Bishop is a single father of a seven-year-old daughter, and sheriff of Credence Pointe, WA. It’s a quiet little town tucked into a lush Pacific Northwest landscape. Nothing bad ever occurs in this small community. That is, until the body of a young woman is found in the lake. Things begin to spiral out of control as Sheriff Bishop is flung headfirst into the mess.
Recently moving into town, Ryder Hudson is thrown into the chaos before he’s settled in. As the new kid on the block, working under Sheriff Bishop, he had no idea his first day would entail coming face to face with a corpse.
In the process of working together to unravel the mystery shrouding this once quaint town, a connection sparks between them that neither can seem to ignore. But is there room for romance when lives are on the line?
As horror continues to unfold, they struggle to keep the community safe. The question is, what’s considered safe when danger seems to lurk around every corner?
- GenresM M Romance
319 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 2, 2025
10 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
September 1, 2025
I gave this book one star because zero stars isn’t a thing… yet.
August 14, 2025
I honestly can't remember the last thriller I read that had me gripped from start to finish,but Credence Pointe delivered in spades.This book had it all- Murder, suspense, mystery, nightmares, and romance.The Prologue set the bar so high for this book & I'm happy to say it stayed at that level throughout.I was completely hooked.
I spent the entire book trying to figure out who the murderer was,only to be completely wrong,but i think that made it more satisfying.
I absolutely adored single dad and town sheriff Nathan,as well as rookie Ryder. Their chemistry and attraction gave the story a spark of light among the darkness.This book tapped into fears I'm sure everyone can relate to & kept me on the edge of my seat until the very end.
I spent the entire book trying to figure out who the murderer was,only to be completely wrong,but i think that made it more satisfying.
I absolutely adored single dad and town sheriff Nathan,as well as rookie Ryder. Their chemistry and attraction gave the story a spark of light among the darkness.This book tapped into fears I'm sure everyone can relate to & kept me on the edge of my seat until the very end.
August 22, 2025
A new for me author and a genre I usually don't read . . . that must be a success ;)
It was a mistake starting this book when I went to bed because the suspense had me in a choke-hold, I could not put it down before I knew who the murderer was. So that's why I'm taking a nap (or two) today :D
Well done Benjamin Lund! You are a fantastic story-teller. The books I go for usually has less murder and more romance but you handled this really well. I love how the relationship between the MMC's develop during their investigation.
Luckily I didn't need to use the bathroom during the night because those spider-scenes made me not want to get out of my bed :P
Thank you for the arc. This review is honest and voluntary.
It was a mistake starting this book when I went to bed because the suspense had me in a choke-hold, I could not put it down before I knew who the murderer was. So that's why I'm taking a nap (or two) today :D
Well done Benjamin Lund! You are a fantastic story-teller. The books I go for usually has less murder and more romance but you handled this really well. I love how the relationship between the MMC's develop during their investigation.
Luckily I didn't need to use the bathroom during the night because those spider-scenes made me not want to get out of my bed :P
Thank you for the arc. This review is honest and voluntary.
August 8, 2025
Murder? Mystery? Breakfast? Romance? Spice? What do all these have in common? You'll find them all in Benjamín Lund's upcoming novel, Credence Pointe.
I adore good bisexual representation and Nathan Bishop saunters onto the scene and quickly establishes his role as a bi king (errr... Sheriff). He and his adorable 7-year-old daughter Emma are an adorable duo who have thrived despite the loss of Nathan's wife. Ryder Hudson is the new rookie at the station and comes skidding straight into Nathan's heart as they attempt to solve a string of horrific murders in their sleepy town. This was very much insta attraction and I love how these guys just went for it. No need for 100 pages of angst and pining when you know there's a good thing in front of you!
The mystery and murders just kept going and kept me turning the pages. Just when I thought I knew something, I didn't. This was a fast-paced, exciting read!
If you are ready for a heart pounding (and possibly other ummm, pounding), diverse love story happening while dodging murder and mayhem, get this book!
Open door spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3/5)
I adore good bisexual representation and Nathan Bishop saunters onto the scene and quickly establishes his role as a bi king (errr... Sheriff). He and his adorable 7-year-old daughter Emma are an adorable duo who have thrived despite the loss of Nathan's wife. Ryder Hudson is the new rookie at the station and comes skidding straight into Nathan's heart as they attempt to solve a string of horrific murders in their sleepy town. This was very much insta attraction and I love how these guys just went for it. No need for 100 pages of angst and pining when you know there's a good thing in front of you!
The mystery and murders just kept going and kept me turning the pages. Just when I thought I knew something, I didn't. This was a fast-paced, exciting read!
If you are ready for a heart pounding (and possibly other ummm, pounding), diverse love story happening while dodging murder and mayhem, get this book!
Open door spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3/5)
July 28, 2025
This was such an amazing and thrilling read; I got chills reading certain scenes in this book.
Crendence Pointe residents are hit with devastating news when a body is found in the lake of their small town, shaking the sheriff’s station, who just happened to get a new person to incorporate into their team.
Nathan, being the head sheriff for a long time, was not prepared for the upcoming events that are rapidly becoming a new threat to his beloved town.
Ryder is the new rookie of the station, and immediately being exposed to such an alarming case has taken a toll on him but is not deterring him from his duty to help solve the case.
The main focus of the book is its thriller, mystery, and crime aspect, but with the perfect balance of a romance between Nathan and Ryder. The smooth way that their relationship started with the banter and sexual tension was well done. The friendship forming between them was what they needed in such gloomy and intense situations. Slowly escalating to something more, but with the uncertainty and doubt that those feelings and emotions could be further explored.
There was a moment that left me gasping in shock, and that was the moment when I caught an important clue that ends up helping the sheriffs finally find a lead on the serial killer.
If you think you know who is behind such atrocities and their reason, let me tell you that is probably not that, and it’s such a great way to engage the reader in just how Nathan and the rest of the sheriffs are feeling dealing with these case.
Overall, an amazing read that will have you on the edge with suspense throughout the book!!
Crendence Pointe residents are hit with devastating news when a body is found in the lake of their small town, shaking the sheriff’s station, who just happened to get a new person to incorporate into their team.
Nathan, being the head sheriff for a long time, was not prepared for the upcoming events that are rapidly becoming a new threat to his beloved town.
Ryder is the new rookie of the station, and immediately being exposed to such an alarming case has taken a toll on him but is not deterring him from his duty to help solve the case.
The main focus of the book is its thriller, mystery, and crime aspect, but with the perfect balance of a romance between Nathan and Ryder. The smooth way that their relationship started with the banter and sexual tension was well done. The friendship forming between them was what they needed in such gloomy and intense situations. Slowly escalating to something more, but with the uncertainty and doubt that those feelings and emotions could be further explored.
There was a moment that left me gasping in shock, and that was the moment when I caught an important clue that ends up helping the sheriffs finally find a lead on the serial killer.
If you think you know who is behind such atrocities and their reason, let me tell you that is probably not that, and it’s such a great way to engage the reader in just how Nathan and the rest of the sheriffs are feeling dealing with these case.
Overall, an amazing read that will have you on the edge with suspense throughout the book!!
July 23, 2025
If you think you know who did it? Think again...
I was fortunate to be part of Benjamin Lund's ARC for "Credence Pointe".
A brilliant mix of romance and thriller. I was reading this book at night in my bed and was scarred o go to the toilet because of the suspense in the book. You know, when you run back to your bed because the dark scares you? Yeah.... THAT!
Loved the development of the characters and their story warmed my heart, but who warmed my heart even more, was Emma. I don't think I need to say anymore. I loved every moment of it. 🥰
I was fortunate to be part of Benjamin Lund's ARC for "Credence Pointe".
A brilliant mix of romance and thriller. I was reading this book at night in my bed and was scarred o go to the toilet because of the suspense in the book. You know, when you run back to your bed because the dark scares you? Yeah.... THAT!
Loved the development of the characters and their story warmed my heart, but who warmed my heart even more, was Emma. I don't think I need to say anymore. I loved every moment of it. 🥰
September 1, 2025
I felt like I was in the middle of a 90s true crime special! I loved how this book made me feel, like I was right with Ryder and Nate trying to solve this case in their small little town.
To me this was a slow burn which was totally understandable and believable throughout as there was such tragic things happening at every turn, I was HOOKED from the prologue also filled with goosebumps. Nathan is the sherif in this small little town and Ryder is his rookie and on his first day the town has found themselves a serial killer, they must work together to solve this case while also dealing with this connection they’ve had since they met. No one is safe here and I liked that I wasn’t able to guess what was going to happen next!
I love a good crime story and mixed with romance count me freaking in! I would love to follow this crew through more crimes as it was so much fun this time around.
If you are a crime junkie like me this book is for you, and when these two are finally about to be together it’s definitely killer!
To me this was a slow burn which was totally understandable and believable throughout as there was such tragic things happening at every turn, I was HOOKED from the prologue also filled with goosebumps. Nathan is the sherif in this small little town and Ryder is his rookie and on his first day the town has found themselves a serial killer, they must work together to solve this case while also dealing with this connection they’ve had since they met. No one is safe here and I liked that I wasn’t able to guess what was going to happen next!
I love a good crime story and mixed with romance count me freaking in! I would love to follow this crew through more crimes as it was so much fun this time around.
If you are a crime junkie like me this book is for you, and when these two are finally about to be together it’s definitely killer!
August 8, 2025
Credence Pointe is an imaginative murder mystery, with suspense that builds each time a new sadistic clue or body crops up. It had me racing through the pages so I could finally learn whodunnit and why.
The normally peaceful and uneventful atmosphere of Credence Pointe is disrupted by a series of gruesome murders, and this brutal killer has a unique calling card. Sheriff Nathan Bishop and rookie Detective Ryder Hudson are on the case, but they discover more than just clues to solve the ongoing string of murders. An attraction develops, but with too many obstacles in the way, including a life or death case to solve, feelings are held at bay. Until they’re not.
Lund is a gifted storyteller and has crafted a memorable novel that kept me riveted. The sharply written, unique plot unfolds with a steady pace. The engaging writing style made this a joy to read, and the deeply intriguing characters and their complicated relationships with each other were realistic and made the story richer. I especially felt the agony of Nathan, the lead character’s, feelings of loss over his deceased wife, concern for his child’s welfare, and the struggle to accept his newfound feelings for Ryder. The slow build in the relationship adds to the overall tension of the story. It’s more than just a murder mystery. It’s a sizzling hot story of forbidden love and second chances.
I recommend this book to people who enjoy erotic gay romance books and clever mysteries.
The normally peaceful and uneventful atmosphere of Credence Pointe is disrupted by a series of gruesome murders, and this brutal killer has a unique calling card. Sheriff Nathan Bishop and rookie Detective Ryder Hudson are on the case, but they discover more than just clues to solve the ongoing string of murders. An attraction develops, but with too many obstacles in the way, including a life or death case to solve, feelings are held at bay. Until they’re not.
Lund is a gifted storyteller and has crafted a memorable novel that kept me riveted. The sharply written, unique plot unfolds with a steady pace. The engaging writing style made this a joy to read, and the deeply intriguing characters and their complicated relationships with each other were realistic and made the story richer. I especially felt the agony of Nathan, the lead character’s, feelings of loss over his deceased wife, concern for his child’s welfare, and the struggle to accept his newfound feelings for Ryder. The slow build in the relationship adds to the overall tension of the story. It’s more than just a murder mystery. It’s a sizzling hot story of forbidden love and second chances.
I recommend this book to people who enjoy erotic gay romance books and clever mysteries.
August 16, 2025
Indie author Benjamin Lund went out of his comfort zone with this one… and it paid off! From the edge-of-your-seat thrills, to the illusiveness of the antagonist’s motives, the spicy-hot passion, and the warm-hearted romance we all know and love from his writings, I was utterly and unequivocally captivated from pages 1 to 305. I absolutely recommend this read for anyone who loves mystery, thriller, horror, and gay/bi romance.
July 16, 2025
This is another five star in my books. And it’s not because I’m biased with Benjamin Lund being my favorite author 😂
I literally felt like I was in one of those small town tv shows and there with the MMC trying to solve the murders of the town. I didn’t realize things until they did , and I honestly love that. Also I expected one ending but got something completely different. I absolutely LOVED this book and didn’t want to put it down!
I literally felt like I was in one of those small town tv shows and there with the MMC trying to solve the murders of the town. I didn’t realize things until they did , and I honestly love that. Also I expected one ending but got something completely different. I absolutely LOVED this book and didn’t want to put it down!
did-not-finish
September 3, 2025DNF @ 27%
On the risk of sounding a bit mean, the characters in this book are so dumb and bad at their jobs watching them try to get through basic police procedure and investigation was doing irreparable damage to my brain matter.
The writing is very stilted and weirdly detailed on meaningless points, and the attempt at romance and flirting is clumsy and lacked any tension. Unfortunately, not even wanting to use this for a HRCYED could push me to finish it.
On the risk of sounding a bit mean, the characters in this book are so dumb and bad at their jobs watching them try to get through basic police procedure and investigation was doing irreparable damage to my brain matter.
The writing is very stilted and weirdly detailed on meaningless points, and the attempt at romance and flirting is clumsy and lacked any tension. Unfortunately, not even wanting to use this for a HRCYED could push me to finish it.
August 20, 2025
CREDENCE POINTE
By Benjamin Lund
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I received an E-book ARC edition of this novel in exchange for an honest review. It is available on September 2nd on Amazon & Kindle Unlimited!
www.amzn.com/B0FDNYPVD1
This is a 274-page Medium/Fast-Paced, Age Gap, Single Father, Forbidden Workplace MM Romance. This is book 1 for a series that takes place in the town of Credence Pointe. It’s about a Sheriff in a small town and a Rookie that gets broken in real quick on his first day when a body is discovered.
--”Fear cannot exist if the person no longer has the ability to fear the thing that scares them.”--
Written in a single first-person POV, Sheriff Nathan and his very small team at the department coast through protecting their small town in the middle of nowhere. The first day on the job for Detective Ryder sends everything into a tailspin. Trying to find the culprit that murdered a girl with no clues and no motive turns into the nightmares no one should ever experience for Nathan. Along the way, he juggles being a single father to Emma, his 7 year old daughter, with the help of the sitter Zoey while also trying to hold back on starting something forbidden with Ryder.
--He was proving to be someone worth keeping my eyes on.--
This is a good novel to help switch up your TBR. If you normally read fluffy contemporary, this suspenseful mystery will drop you into a place of fear, even looking over your own shoulder with our MCs. It was a fun novel that keeps you guessing. Even when you think it couldn’t get any worse, the mania escalates. It was a good read to try to piece it all together as the author did a good job crime scene whiteboarding the plot even though there were times I did think some dialogue didn’t quite connect with the protocol of the department or it made the vibe in the atmosphere sluggish. However, it did then make you suspicious of EVERYONE! And no one seems safe. The author also did well with splitting work life and home life to break up the constant stress of the case even though in that profession, it's hard to turn your brain and emotions off.
--"I want you to wet your hole. Then I want you to lather up my cock. Then I want you to sit on me and go for a ride.”—
The romance was a slow burn and took the backseat so the investigation could be the star. It was full of pining and should we/shouldn’t we. Their instant connection is hard to ignore though so when it finally becomes physical, its explosive. What little spice you get was makes the wait worth while for you and for Nathan. 4/5🌶.
--I was overcome. By the dark embrace of sweet death.--
I think it was a good start to a small-town suspense crime series. It was similar of a traditional James Patterson book with the addition of MM Love. This was a new challenge for the author and I think he did well on his first go in the genre and as he continues to write, he will only OVERCOME with the blend of Crime & Queer Love. I'll be sticking around to see what he has up his sleeve that could possibly be worse and scarier than what he did for Ryder's first case in Credence Pointe.
💜Happy Reading🫶
*Personal Note: Book 1100 Read
By Benjamin Lund
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I received an E-book ARC edition of this novel in exchange for an honest review. It is available on September 2nd on Amazon & Kindle Unlimited!
www.amzn.com/B0FDNYPVD1
This is a 274-page Medium/Fast-Paced, Age Gap, Single Father, Forbidden Workplace MM Romance. This is book 1 for a series that takes place in the town of Credence Pointe. It’s about a Sheriff in a small town and a Rookie that gets broken in real quick on his first day when a body is discovered.
--”Fear cannot exist if the person no longer has the ability to fear the thing that scares them.”--
Written in a single first-person POV, Sheriff Nathan and his very small team at the department coast through protecting their small town in the middle of nowhere. The first day on the job for Detective Ryder sends everything into a tailspin. Trying to find the culprit that murdered a girl with no clues and no motive turns into the nightmares no one should ever experience for Nathan. Along the way, he juggles being a single father to Emma, his 7 year old daughter, with the help of the sitter Zoey while also trying to hold back on starting something forbidden with Ryder.
--He was proving to be someone worth keeping my eyes on.--
This is a good novel to help switch up your TBR. If you normally read fluffy contemporary, this suspenseful mystery will drop you into a place of fear, even looking over your own shoulder with our MCs. It was a fun novel that keeps you guessing. Even when you think it couldn’t get any worse, the mania escalates. It was a good read to try to piece it all together as the author did a good job crime scene whiteboarding the plot even though there were times I did think some dialogue didn’t quite connect with the protocol of the department or it made the vibe in the atmosphere sluggish. However, it did then make you suspicious of EVERYONE! And no one seems safe. The author also did well with splitting work life and home life to break up the constant stress of the case even though in that profession, it's hard to turn your brain and emotions off.
--"I want you to wet your hole. Then I want you to lather up my cock. Then I want you to sit on me and go for a ride.”—
The romance was a slow burn and took the backseat so the investigation could be the star. It was full of pining and should we/shouldn’t we. Their instant connection is hard to ignore though so when it finally becomes physical, its explosive. What little spice you get was makes the wait worth while for you and for Nathan. 4/5🌶.
--I was overcome. By the dark embrace of sweet death.--
I think it was a good start to a small-town suspense crime series. It was similar of a traditional James Patterson book with the addition of MM Love. This was a new challenge for the author and I think he did well on his first go in the genre and as he continues to write, he will only OVERCOME with the blend of Crime & Queer Love. I'll be sticking around to see what he has up his sleeve that could possibly be worse and scarier than what he did for Ryder's first case in Credence Pointe.
💜Happy Reading🫶
*Personal Note: Book 1100 Read
August 9, 2025
This is a newer genre for me. I have read a lot of dark romance so I’m familiar with the darker themes but thrillers are newer. I had 3 different scenarios in my head of what could be taking place and I was wrong on almost all counts. I was correct about 1 thing but when it came to the whole of it all I was way off on!
I had fun trying to figure out who was behind everything and seeing Ryder and Nathan relationship develop. I loved their banter and how comfortable they were with each other from the beginning. I think it would have been fun to get Ryder’s point of view but I did enjoy being in Nathan’s head.
I liked their banter side characters. Jerry was great! Emmet and Cooper were fun and I really enjoyed Nathan’s relationship with his daughter. I’m glad to add this to my list of thrillers I have enjoyed!!!
I had fun trying to figure out who was behind everything and seeing Ryder and Nathan relationship develop. I loved their banter and how comfortable they were with each other from the beginning. I think it would have been fun to get Ryder’s point of view but I did enjoy being in Nathan’s head.
I liked their banter side characters. Jerry was great! Emmet and Cooper were fun and I really enjoyed Nathan’s relationship with his daughter. I’m glad to add this to my list of thrillers I have enjoyed!!!
September 2, 2025
My first read from Benjamin & I was on the edge of my seat throughout!! A very well paced & thoroughly intriguing thriller.
Nate Bishop is a single dad & Sheriff of the police dept in Credence Pointe, a quiet town where the crime rate is minimal. That is until rookie Ryder Hudson’s first day & the discovery of a body at the lake. Things then escalate pretty quickly, in more ways than one 😉.
I really enjoyed the story development, how the scene was set with past info on Nate & his daughter & how this unexpected turn of events impacted the residents of the sleepy town. And the subtle (then not so subtle) flirting between Nate & Ryder that eventually led to some seriously hot spicy scenes!! It gave me such a giggle when things came to light with their work colleagues 🤭. Definitely recommend!!
Nate Bishop is a single dad & Sheriff of the police dept in Credence Pointe, a quiet town where the crime rate is minimal. That is until rookie Ryder Hudson’s first day & the discovery of a body at the lake. Things then escalate pretty quickly, in more ways than one 😉.
I really enjoyed the story development, how the scene was set with past info on Nate & his daughter & how this unexpected turn of events impacted the residents of the sleepy town. And the subtle (then not so subtle) flirting between Nate & Ryder that eventually led to some seriously hot spicy scenes!! It gave me such a giggle when things came to light with their work colleagues 🤭. Definitely recommend!!
September 3, 2025
I found the story messy and a bit basic. I got annoyed at the part where the sheriff told his babysitter pretty much everything about the crimes he was working on and to top it up, then gave her a knife to defend herself.
I think everything happened so quick, especially between the MCs that it was not truly believable. Also, some of the dialogues felt off. The idea was good though, it just needed to be developed a bit more.
Overall, it was an ok read and I can see potential in the author.
I think everything happened so quick, especially between the MCs that it was not truly believable. Also, some of the dialogues felt off. The idea was good though, it just needed to be developed a bit more.
Overall, it was an ok read and I can see potential in the author.
September 6, 2025
This is my first read for this author, and I liked it! I enjoy thrillers and romance, so a good romantic suspense is always going to fall somewhere on my TBR. The whodunnit factor kept me on my toes the entire time.
Credence Pointe is a small town, single POV, crime thriller plot first. The romance factor took a backseat to the mystery here. Rightfully so, because Nathan is a single father, hesitant to move on, and very dedicated to his career. While there's not a ton of spice, the build-up makes it more poignant.
Overall, I enjoyed it! It was, as I mentioned, a quick read. I look forward to seeing the author continue to write and what else he turns out for work!
Credence Pointe is a small town, single POV, crime thriller plot first. The romance factor took a backseat to the mystery here. Rightfully so, because Nathan is a single father, hesitant to move on, and very dedicated to his career. While there's not a ton of spice, the build-up makes it more poignant.
Overall, I enjoyed it! It was, as I mentioned, a quick read. I look forward to seeing the author continue to write and what else he turns out for work!
September 3, 2025
Can I come out now? Holy moly!! This was definitely something else. It was exhilarating. I loved it. The plot was so good. I truly didn’t know what I was going into when I started reading this and I am so happy I didn’t. Because this had you on your toes trying to guess who the killer was. Are you ready to dive in? Because I totally think you should.
September 9, 2025
A Gripping Blend of Murder, Mystery, and MM Romance
Credence Pointe by Benjamin Lund is exactly the kind of book I didn’t know I was craving, an MM romance wrapped inside a chilling small-town murder mystery. If you’re a fan of true crime and slow-burn love stories, this one is a must-read.
Set in a quiet Pacific Northwest town, the story kicks off with a body in the lake and doesn’t let up. Lund does a masterful job creating a cozy yet creepy atmosphere, where every corner of the town holds secrets and danger feels one heartbeat away. The pacing is spot-on, the suspense steadily building with each chapter, and the emotional stakes rising right alongside the body count.
Sheriff Nathan Bishop is a single dad who’s dedicated to his daughter, his town, and his sense of duty. When Ryder Hudson shows up as the new deputy on his first day, just in time to discover a corpse, their connection is immediate and undeniable. Ryder shakes up Nathan’s structured world just as the murders start shaking up Credence Pointe. Their romance unfolds in a way that feels a little predictable at times, but it’s comforting and deeply satisfying all the same.
What really stood out for me was how well Lund balances the two genres. The crime elements are compelling and genuinely creepy, and the love story doesn’t feel shoehorned in. It’s organic, tender, and earned. The killer's theme of “overcoming” is threaded horrifically and beautifully through the plot without ever feeling heavy-handed.
And that ending? No spoilers, but it landed perfectly. Surprising, emotional, and tied together with just the right amount of resolution and lingering tension. I’m already hoping there’s more coming from this world (or at least more books from Benjamin Lund in the same genre).
I absolutely loved Credence Pointe. It kept me hooked from start to finish, made me care deeply for its characters, and gave me everything I wanted from both a romantic and suspenseful read. If you know of more MM romance + true crime mashups, please send them my way, and in the meantime, I’ll be devouring whatever Lund has written while eagerly awaiting his next offering.
Credence Pointe by Benjamin Lund is exactly the kind of book I didn’t know I was craving, an MM romance wrapped inside a chilling small-town murder mystery. If you’re a fan of true crime and slow-burn love stories, this one is a must-read.
Set in a quiet Pacific Northwest town, the story kicks off with a body in the lake and doesn’t let up. Lund does a masterful job creating a cozy yet creepy atmosphere, where every corner of the town holds secrets and danger feels one heartbeat away. The pacing is spot-on, the suspense steadily building with each chapter, and the emotional stakes rising right alongside the body count.
Sheriff Nathan Bishop is a single dad who’s dedicated to his daughter, his town, and his sense of duty. When Ryder Hudson shows up as the new deputy on his first day, just in time to discover a corpse, their connection is immediate and undeniable. Ryder shakes up Nathan’s structured world just as the murders start shaking up Credence Pointe. Their romance unfolds in a way that feels a little predictable at times, but it’s comforting and deeply satisfying all the same.
What really stood out for me was how well Lund balances the two genres. The crime elements are compelling and genuinely creepy, and the love story doesn’t feel shoehorned in. It’s organic, tender, and earned. The killer's theme of “overcoming” is threaded horrifically and beautifully through the plot without ever feeling heavy-handed.
And that ending? No spoilers, but it landed perfectly. Surprising, emotional, and tied together with just the right amount of resolution and lingering tension. I’m already hoping there’s more coming from this world (or at least more books from Benjamin Lund in the same genre).
I absolutely loved Credence Pointe. It kept me hooked from start to finish, made me care deeply for its characters, and gave me everything I wanted from both a romantic and suspenseful read. If you know of more MM romance + true crime mashups, please send them my way, and in the meantime, I’ll be devouring whatever Lund has written while eagerly awaiting his next offering.
September 7, 2025
4.5 rounded up!
I decided to check out Credence Pointe after becoming friends with Benjamin Lund and I’m so glad I did because this was a gripping thriller with a romance subplot that I was fully invested in.
Set in the titular small town in Washington, Nathan Bishop is a single father, raising his seven-year-old daughter alone after the death of his wife, and is also the town sheriff. Nothing happens in Credence Pointe until the body of a woman is discovered. Then another. Then another. It doesn’t take long before Nathan is thrust into the town’s chaos. Along with figuring out the murders going on, Nathan starts developing feelings for his new recruit, Ryder Hudson.
I enjoyed the blend of thriller and romance and neither felt like it was upstaging the other. As a gay man who’s a thriller lover, I was heavily invested in this story and couldn’t put it down. Nathan and Ryder were great characters who I rooted for the entire story and their romance felt grounded. I also give Lund points for the bisexual representation.
I was a little underwhelmed by the reveal at the end, but the rest of the story was so great I can’t give it less than 4.5 stars. I definitely recommend reading this book if you enjoy a gripping psychological thriller and/or steamy romance because this book blends both well.
I decided to check out Credence Pointe after becoming friends with Benjamin Lund and I’m so glad I did because this was a gripping thriller with a romance subplot that I was fully invested in.
Set in the titular small town in Washington, Nathan Bishop is a single father, raising his seven-year-old daughter alone after the death of his wife, and is also the town sheriff. Nothing happens in Credence Pointe until the body of a woman is discovered. Then another. Then another. It doesn’t take long before Nathan is thrust into the town’s chaos. Along with figuring out the murders going on, Nathan starts developing feelings for his new recruit, Ryder Hudson.
I enjoyed the blend of thriller and romance and neither felt like it was upstaging the other. As a gay man who’s a thriller lover, I was heavily invested in this story and couldn’t put it down. Nathan and Ryder were great characters who I rooted for the entire story and their romance felt grounded. I also give Lund points for the bisexual representation.
I was a little underwhelmed by the reveal at the end, but the rest of the story was so great I can’t give it less than 4.5 stars. I definitely recommend reading this book if you enjoy a gripping psychological thriller and/or steamy romance because this book blends both well.
September 2, 2025
First thing I will say, is make sure you have nothing planned when you start this book, because as soon as you start this story, you will not put it down. Told from the POV of Nathan, the Sheriff of Credence Pointe, we follow Nathan and his small group of deputies try and solve what is going on.
What a first day Ryder had, and whilst he came across as confident, would you want to be thrown into a murder on your first day and as scenes were described in detail, you could instantly imagine what Nathan and Ryder was seeing. As the story intensified I had dread in my stomach waiting for inevitable.
Whilst there was an instant attraction between Nathan and Ryder, the romance was secondary to the plot and with the will they, wont they, Nathan worrying about the balance of power, age gap and him only loving one woman, his deceased wife, it was a slow burn, but when they could not fight their feelings they were perfect together.
A new to me author and I am looking forward to what Benjamin Lund releases next
What a first day Ryder had, and whilst he came across as confident, would you want to be thrown into a murder on your first day and as scenes were described in detail, you could instantly imagine what Nathan and Ryder was seeing. As the story intensified I had dread in my stomach waiting for inevitable.
Whilst there was an instant attraction between Nathan and Ryder, the romance was secondary to the plot and with the will they, wont they, Nathan worrying about the balance of power, age gap and him only loving one woman, his deceased wife, it was a slow burn, but when they could not fight their feelings they were perfect together.
A new to me author and I am looking forward to what Benjamin Lund releases next
August 1, 2025
🖤🔍 ARC Review– Credence Pointe by Benjamin Lund 🔍🖤
Rating: 8.5/10
Spice: 2.5/5
Ooooo if you know me, then you know I love me a good murder mystery! 👀 I’m basically an unofficial member of the SVU team repping “my couch PD” — Mariska Hargitay just doesn’t know it yet. 😂
Credence Pointe gave everything I wanted and more! I LOVED the bantering and playful chemistry between Nathan and Ryder — serving Cop Cutie Squad energy 😝. But what had me glued to the page was the case.
While Nathan and Ryder were deep in theories, motives, and twists…so were me and my husband! We were INVESTED lmao. We had suspects, we had predictions — we were all in. 🤣
The writing was sharp, the pacing on point, and the suspense chef's kiss. I’ll definitely be picking up more from Benjamin, and if you’re into these vibes, you absolutely should too.
🎶 Dedicated Song: Power by Isak Danielson
🖤 Favorite Quote: “Anything for you.”
Short. Sweet. If you know, you know. 😏
Rating: 8.5/10
Spice: 2.5/5
Ooooo if you know me, then you know I love me a good murder mystery! 👀 I’m basically an unofficial member of the SVU team repping “my couch PD” — Mariska Hargitay just doesn’t know it yet. 😂
Credence Pointe gave everything I wanted and more! I LOVED the bantering and playful chemistry between Nathan and Ryder — serving Cop Cutie Squad energy 😝. But what had me glued to the page was the case.
While Nathan and Ryder were deep in theories, motives, and twists…so were me and my husband! We were INVESTED lmao. We had suspects, we had predictions — we were all in. 🤣
The writing was sharp, the pacing on point, and the suspense chef's kiss. I’ll definitely be picking up more from Benjamin, and if you’re into these vibes, you absolutely should too.
🎶 Dedicated Song: Power by Isak Danielson
🖤 Favorite Quote: “Anything for you.”
Short. Sweet. If you know, you know. 😏
October 16, 2025
I really enjoyed reading Nathan’s and Ryder’s story. Sheriff Bishop and his rookie Detective, Ryder Hudson come face to face with a corpse on the rookies first day.
The quiet town of Credence Pointe will never be the same. Page after page the question is one and very persistent: who did it?
Trying to balance everything between personal life, work, the newfound feelings and a couple of murders, well, I’d say the ride is bumpy for Nathan and Ryder.
If you are looking for a bit of mystery, suspense and romance then this book is for you. It is a bit on the darker side so read the TW in case you need to.
The quiet town of Credence Pointe will never be the same. Page after page the question is one and very persistent: who did it?
Trying to balance everything between personal life, work, the newfound feelings and a couple of murders, well, I’d say the ride is bumpy for Nathan and Ryder.
If you are looking for a bit of mystery, suspense and romance then this book is for you. It is a bit on the darker side so read the TW in case you need to.
October 14, 2025
I haven't read a MM Romance / Thriller that blended the two genres this well since the Big Bad Wolf series. As a MM Romance reader and writer, I was shocked at how captivated I was by the murder mystery of this story. As the bodies pile up, the romance gets hotter (that feels weird to write, but it totally works!). Nathan and Ryder's chemistry was developed so compellingly, and I loved the single-dad aspect of the story. Definitely one for the TBR!
August 23, 2025
Wow, this book was unexpectedly so freaking good. I never knew what was coming or happening in the best way! A must read for romantic suspense lovers🤍
September 25, 2025
"Having a near-death experience could really change your perspective on life."
Being locked in so much once I started this book caught me off guard but in a good way.
I needed to try something new and this fit the bill very well.
Being a true crime person really had me so invested in Nathan & Ryders journey to figure out what was happening in their small town. Add in the romance aspect of it and I could not put this book down.
The constant question kept coming up when I was reading of "who the hell is it?!" and it made me question EVERYONE, and I mean everyone. Someone new would pop up and I was like is it them? For a hot second I even thought Ryder was questionable and then Zoey too! I was all over the place.
The slow burn was slowwwww burrnnnninnngggg but let me tell you when it happened, I was all in! Nathan surprised me so much and I ate it all up, that power imbalance between him and Ryder was jumping off the page for me.
I did get the ick from the 8 legged nasty things cause I'm with Zoey, I don't mess with them at all.
The build up all throughout to the end was amazingly done to the point that I never got bored, I was always itching to keep going and wanting to know what's coming next, always questioning everything.
Truly a nice little palette cleanser for me from what I was reading. This had a little of everything I love.
Single Dad ✔️
Boss/Employee ✔️
Crime ✔️
Age Gap ✔️
Small Town ✔️
If you are looking for something that is still a romance but has a touch of the darker tone and if you love true crime or murder mysteries then pick this one up and take the trip to Credence Pointe.
Being locked in so much once I started this book caught me off guard but in a good way.
I needed to try something new and this fit the bill very well.
Being a true crime person really had me so invested in Nathan & Ryders journey to figure out what was happening in their small town. Add in the romance aspect of it and I could not put this book down.
The constant question kept coming up when I was reading of "who the hell is it?!" and it made me question EVERYONE, and I mean everyone. Someone new would pop up and I was like is it them? For a hot second I even thought Ryder was questionable and then Zoey too! I was all over the place.
The slow burn was slowwwww burrnnnninnngggg but let me tell you when it happened, I was all in! Nathan surprised me so much and I ate it all up, that power imbalance between him and Ryder was jumping off the page for me.
I did get the ick from the 8 legged nasty things cause I'm with Zoey, I don't mess with them at all.
The build up all throughout to the end was amazingly done to the point that I never got bored, I was always itching to keep going and wanting to know what's coming next, always questioning everything.
Truly a nice little palette cleanser for me from what I was reading. This had a little of everything I love.
Single Dad ✔️
Boss/Employee ✔️
Crime ✔️
Age Gap ✔️
Small Town ✔️
If you are looking for something that is still a romance but has a touch of the darker tone and if you love true crime or murder mysteries then pick this one up and take the trip to Credence Pointe.
October 6, 2025
This book is set in the quaint sleepy town of Credence Pointe, Washington where nothing crazy ever happens. That is until a girl is found dead in the lake. It's clearly not suicide as she is chained and submerged leaving her for the fish to feast on.
Enter Sheriff Nathan Bishop, a single father trying his best to keep his little town safe while raising his seven year old daughter. Also a new rookie, Ryder Hudson has just joined the force on this fateful day, leaving him no time to learn the ropes before he is faced with the gruesome murder of the poor girl.
It quickly becomes apparent that there is a crazy person running amok as more girls are murdered all by different means. The one common factor is that there is always the word 'Overcome' written somewhere near their bodies. Are they dealing with a serial killer?
As Nathan and Ryder work around the clock trying to figure out who could be responsible and what the motive is, the sparks start to fly between the two of them. Stressed out and mystified by the murders that are multiplying they succumb to the temptations and share one extremely steamy love scene. I mean muy caliente!
It's not just a love story though. It's a thriller where the murders are at the forefront of the book. It takes you on a wild ride with Nathan and Ryder as you try to figure out what the heck is happening before more people are murdered.
It's well written and character driven. The dialogue is engaging as you delve into their lives. The scenes are well developed giving you the sensation you're right there next to them solving the mystery.
I highly recommend this book if you like a well written thriller, man on man romance (smut) and who-done-its with some police procedural thrown in for good measure.
Enter Sheriff Nathan Bishop, a single father trying his best to keep his little town safe while raising his seven year old daughter. Also a new rookie, Ryder Hudson has just joined the force on this fateful day, leaving him no time to learn the ropes before he is faced with the gruesome murder of the poor girl.
It quickly becomes apparent that there is a crazy person running amok as more girls are murdered all by different means. The one common factor is that there is always the word 'Overcome' written somewhere near their bodies. Are they dealing with a serial killer?
As Nathan and Ryder work around the clock trying to figure out who could be responsible and what the motive is, the sparks start to fly between the two of them. Stressed out and mystified by the murders that are multiplying they succumb to the temptations and share one extremely steamy love scene. I mean muy caliente!
It's not just a love story though. It's a thriller where the murders are at the forefront of the book. It takes you on a wild ride with Nathan and Ryder as you try to figure out what the heck is happening before more people are murdered.
It's well written and character driven. The dialogue is engaging as you delve into their lives. The scenes are well developed giving you the sensation you're right there next to them solving the mystery.
I highly recommend this book if you like a well written thriller, man on man romance (smut) and who-done-its with some police procedural thrown in for good measure.
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