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Christmas in Redemption Ridge #18
Risking His Heart
Career-driven cop Neenah Casper is forced by an injury to turn in her badge the same day she’s named guardian of an orphaned fifteen-year-old girl. With all her plans in pieces, it’s no wonder she starts feeling more than friendship for her supportive best friend Cody. But life’s taught her nothing lasts forever, and surely these feelings will pass once she finds a new life’s purpose.
Though Neenah friend-zoned him years ago, Officer Cody Adams has never stopped watching her back and hoping for more. Helping with her new ward could be just the opportunity to show her how much more he could be. Meanwhile, he’s also fighting to earn a promotion and impress his unpleasable police chief father by catching a home burglar and a Christmastime prankster. Neenah’s newly minted neighborhood watch might help him save Christmas and earn the job, if only the group didn’t bring complications of its own.
As Neenah and Cody wrangle octogenarian vigilantes, Christmas bandits, and complicated families, the chemistry between them only grows. But if they act on it, they won’t be able to go back. With their friendship and careers on the line, is love worth the risk?
Though Neenah friend-zoned him years ago, Officer Cody Adams has never stopped watching her back and hoping for more. Helping with her new ward could be just the opportunity to show her how much more he could be. Meanwhile, he’s also fighting to earn a promotion and impress his unpleasable police chief father by catching a home burglar and a Christmastime prankster. Neenah’s newly minted neighborhood watch might help him save Christmas and earn the job, if only the group didn’t bring complications of its own.
As Neenah and Cody wrangle octogenarian vigilantes, Christmas bandits, and complicated families, the chemistry between them only grows. But if they act on it, they won’t be able to go back. With their friendship and careers on the line, is love worth the risk?
213 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 3, 2025
55 people are currently reading
47 people want to read
About the author
Emily Conrad
13 books449 followersEmily Conrad writes contemporary Christian romance that explores life’s relevant questions. Though she likes to think some of her characters are pretty great, the ultimate hero of her stories (including the one she’s living) is Jesus. She lives in Wisconsin with her husband and their energetic coonhound and two lop-eared bunny rescues. Learn more about her and her books at emilyconradauthor.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
November 16, 2025
What a sweet addition to the Christmas in Redemption Ridge series!
I love a solid friends to lovers romance and this book had all the makings of a solid one. The reasons that kept them apart were valid despite the chemistry simmering between them.
Both characters were easy to sympathize with right from the start, Neenah who was forced into an early retirement from the force and Cody who could never seem to make his dad proud.
Seeing how their plans and dreams changed and transformed over the course of the story was a great reminder of how God's plans are always better than our own!
RATINGS:
✝️✝️
💋
15+
I love a solid friends to lovers romance and this book had all the makings of a solid one. The reasons that kept them apart were valid despite the chemistry simmering between them.
Both characters were easy to sympathize with right from the start, Neenah who was forced into an early retirement from the force and Cody who could never seem to make his dad proud.
Seeing how their plans and dreams changed and transformed over the course of the story was a great reminder of how God's plans are always better than our own!
RATINGS:
✝️✝️
💋
15+
December 20, 2025
Sometimes book series with different authors works and sometimes it’s meh 🫤 This one was a miss for me - I just felt like the story wasn’t authentic and little forced…but the author has quite a few real good hits for me so…
January 24, 2026
Neenah’s life plan was to be a cop and steer well clear of romance.
She’s forced to reconsider her plans at the age of thirty-two, when an injury forces her out of her job and when she becomes guardian to a teenager on the same day. Fortunately, her best friend, Cody is around to help … (yes, it’s pretty obvious where this is going, and isn’t that the fun of reading friends-to-love romances?)
Cody has had feelings for Neenah for years but she turned him down flat the one time he dared ask her on a date.
Worse, she told him never to ask again. He’s honoured her request and instead the two are partners and best friends. At least, until she was forced out of the police force. Meanwhile, Cody has his own problems, involving this boss and father, who doesn’t want to promote him to detective no matter how hard he tries, and his latest case: the mysterious yeti stealing Christmas decorations from homes around Redemption Ridge.
Risking His Heart is a quick and easy read that gets into a surprising amount of depth considering the relatively short length (or maybe that’s more a reflection on how quickly I read it). Neenah and Cody both have issues they need to work through separately and together, and throwing a mourning fifteen-year-old and a yeti (!) into the mix makes that easier and harder.
I’m a big fan of friends-to-love stories, especially when the guy falls first.
Risking His Heart delivers on what fans of this trope expect, with a little more. It really shows what both Neenah and Cody have to lose if their relationship fails, but it also has a beautiful scene that convinced me (and Neenah) that’s not going to happen.
I especially liked the fact that both Neenah and Cody were Christians, and their faith was an important part of their romance.
Risking His Heart is part of the Redemption Ridge multi-author series set in and around the town of Redemption Ridge. The books are all standalone contemporary Christian romances featuring some common characters.
Recommended for contemporary Christian romance fans, especially those who like law enforcement or friends-to-love plots.
Thanks to the author for providing a free ebook for review.
She’s forced to reconsider her plans at the age of thirty-two, when an injury forces her out of her job and when she becomes guardian to a teenager on the same day. Fortunately, her best friend, Cody is around to help … (yes, it’s pretty obvious where this is going, and isn’t that the fun of reading friends-to-love romances?)
Cody has had feelings for Neenah for years but she turned him down flat the one time he dared ask her on a date.
Worse, she told him never to ask again. He’s honoured her request and instead the two are partners and best friends. At least, until she was forced out of the police force. Meanwhile, Cody has his own problems, involving this boss and father, who doesn’t want to promote him to detective no matter how hard he tries, and his latest case: the mysterious yeti stealing Christmas decorations from homes around Redemption Ridge.
Risking His Heart is a quick and easy read that gets into a surprising amount of depth considering the relatively short length (or maybe that’s more a reflection on how quickly I read it). Neenah and Cody both have issues they need to work through separately and together, and throwing a mourning fifteen-year-old and a yeti (!) into the mix makes that easier and harder.
I’m a big fan of friends-to-love stories, especially when the guy falls first.
Risking His Heart delivers on what fans of this trope expect, with a little more. It really shows what both Neenah and Cody have to lose if their relationship fails, but it also has a beautiful scene that convinced me (and Neenah) that’s not going to happen.
I especially liked the fact that both Neenah and Cody were Christians, and their faith was an important part of their romance.
Risking His Heart is part of the Redemption Ridge multi-author series set in and around the town of Redemption Ridge. The books are all standalone contemporary Christian romances featuring some common characters.
Recommended for contemporary Christian romance fans, especially those who like law enforcement or friends-to-love plots.
Thanks to the author for providing a free ebook for review.
December 5, 2025
"Convincing her to let their friendship advance into a romance would require a skill set even the best hostage negotiator on the force didn't have. Unless he wanted to risk the closest relationship he had, he couldn't begin the conversation until he confirmed more than a fleeting fancy drove that moment in the kitchen. After all, she'd assured him that last time he'd asked her out that if he ever did so again, their friendship would be over."
Cody and Neenah met on the police force. Their connection was strong, but both of them had reasons not to take risks. When Neenah is injured and has to retire, she does not know how to move on from what defined her life. Cody isn't sure that this is the best time to mention that she could try a new chapter with him.
When Neenah suddenly finds herself with the custody of teen, she is really out of her element. Can Kaylie help her to find a new direction? Will Cody finally be willing to risk his heart by telling her how he really feels?
Best friends to more is always my favorite trope. This is a really sweet story that also has plenty of depth. How do we find meaning and purpose? What should define our lives? How can we rely on God in difficult circumstances?
This is part of the Redemption Ridge series. Some of the characters do connect especially with other books by this author. But this book could definitely be read as a stand-alone.
I'm so glad I was able to read an early copy of this book. I wanted to read and review it. All opinions are my own.
Cody and Neenah met on the police force. Their connection was strong, but both of them had reasons not to take risks. When Neenah is injured and has to retire, she does not know how to move on from what defined her life. Cody isn't sure that this is the best time to mention that she could try a new chapter with him.
When Neenah suddenly finds herself with the custody of teen, she is really out of her element. Can Kaylie help her to find a new direction? Will Cody finally be willing to risk his heart by telling her how he really feels?
Best friends to more is always my favorite trope. This is a really sweet story that also has plenty of depth. How do we find meaning and purpose? What should define our lives? How can we rely on God in difficult circumstances?
This is part of the Redemption Ridge series. Some of the characters do connect especially with other books by this author. But this book could definitely be read as a stand-alone.
I'm so glad I was able to read an early copy of this book. I wanted to read and review it. All opinions are my own.
November 30, 2025
LOVED Cody and Neenah's story!!! This was sooooooooo worth the wait!!! I've wanted to read Cody and Neenah's story ever since they appeared on the pages!! Cody has loved Neenah since they met, and has contented himself with being her best friend after she firmly friend zoned him after he asked her out on a date. Cody's been waiting for her to change her mind and see him as something more since. Now, Neenah's having to take early retirement after being hurt on the job, and Cody is hoping this means she just might finally be open to actually dating him. Neenah's adjusting to life off the police force, trying to decide her next steps, and now is tasked with having a teenager live with her. She's always said she couldn't be a mother, didn't want to marry, and didn't date. Now, she finds herself in the role of being a surrogate mother, dealing with unexpected feelings for her best friend, and trying to figure out where she goes after retiring from the police force. She's always depended on Cody to help her and to keep her from making bad decisions. When things start happening and changing, she's not sure she can go with the changes, but she also realizes just how much she needs and loves Cody. Cody knows what he wants, and he's no longer afraid of going after it. If he just knew for sure how Neenah felt! Love how things come together for both of them!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
December 23, 2025
This sweet, faith-filled Christmas romance wraps you up like a warm blanket on a snowy evening. When a medical injury forces Neenah to retire early from the police force, the life she’s always known suddenly feels uncertain and upside down.
Her best friend Cody has been by her side for years. As fellow officers, they’ve always kept their deeper feelings tucked away—office politics, small-town expectations, and Cody’s father being the police chief made romance complicated. Add in Neenah’s lingering heartache from her parents’ divorce, and it’s no surprise she’s been hesitant to dream of love, let alone family.
Everything changes when Neenah learns that a former friend has passed away and left her guardianship of her fifteen-year-old daughter. As Christmas approaches, Neenah must wrestle with grief, faith, and the possibility that her life might be leading her somewhere she never expected.
The transition from best friends to something more is tender, swoony, and full of heartfelt moments. A light mystery adds extra charm, too, with a mischievous “yeti” roaming the small town and making off with Christmas decorations. 🎄
With themes of faith, family, friendship, and second chances, this is a delightful holiday read and a lovely addition to this multi-author series. The romance stays sweet and clean, with just kisses (intimacy level 2), making it perfect for cozy winter reading.
I received an eARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Her best friend Cody has been by her side for years. As fellow officers, they’ve always kept their deeper feelings tucked away—office politics, small-town expectations, and Cody’s father being the police chief made romance complicated. Add in Neenah’s lingering heartache from her parents’ divorce, and it’s no surprise she’s been hesitant to dream of love, let alone family.
Everything changes when Neenah learns that a former friend has passed away and left her guardianship of her fifteen-year-old daughter. As Christmas approaches, Neenah must wrestle with grief, faith, and the possibility that her life might be leading her somewhere she never expected.
The transition from best friends to something more is tender, swoony, and full of heartfelt moments. A light mystery adds extra charm, too, with a mischievous “yeti” roaming the small town and making off with Christmas decorations. 🎄
With themes of faith, family, friendship, and second chances, this is a delightful holiday read and a lovely addition to this multi-author series. The romance stays sweet and clean, with just kisses (intimacy level 2), making it perfect for cozy winter reading.
I received an eARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
November 11, 2025
This is a sweet, Christian, Christmas contemporary romance. When a medical injury forces Neenah to retire early from the police force, her life is turned inside out. Her best friend Cody is also a police officer and they’ve been super close for years. They’ve both held feelings for each other but a relationship within the ranks was frowned on and, with Cody’s dad as the police chief, it only complicated matters. However, Neenah also has some trauma from her parents divorcing when she was younger and that has led her to shy away from having a family of her own. When she learns that a former close friend of hers has died and left her custody of her fifteen-year-old daughter, Neenah has to decide whether she can change her mind about what she is supposed to be.
This book has many sweet and swoony moments as these two move from best friends to more. An added bonus is some mystery with a person dressed like a yeti who is stealing Christmas decorations around the small town. This is a fun, holiday read with faith, family, friends, and more. A good addition to this multi author 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.
This book has many sweet and swoony moments as these two move from best friends to more. An added bonus is some mystery with a person dressed like a yeti who is stealing Christmas decorations around the small town. This is a fun, holiday read with faith, family, friends, and more. A good addition to this multi author 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.
November 30, 2025
This is a sweet Christmas novella about Neenah, a cop forced into a medical retirement she doesn’t want, and Cody, a fellow cop who has loved her for years even though she told him they could only be friends. Neenah’s life is completely turned upside down when, as she tries to find a new security-related job, she is given guardianship over a teenaged girl. Cody has to decide if he is willing to risk their friendship for the hope of something more.
Neenah and Cody are likable characters with relatable issues. Neenah finds her identity in her work. Cody is desperate for the approval of his father, who happens to also be his boss. This is a book about reconciliation, trust, control, and risk. My only quibble, and it is very small, is that I would have liked a mention of the difficulty for the teenager in leaving her home and friends after the death of her mom.
This is Christian fiction so expect discussions of faith.
I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to everyone.
Family friendly.
Thanks to the author. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Neenah and Cody are likable characters with relatable issues. Neenah finds her identity in her work. Cody is desperate for the approval of his father, who happens to also be his boss. This is a book about reconciliation, trust, control, and risk. My only quibble, and it is very small, is that I would have liked a mention of the difficulty for the teenager in leaving her home and friends after the death of her mom.
This is Christian fiction so expect discussions of faith.
I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to everyone.
Family friendly.
Thanks to the author. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
December 2, 2025
This sweet friends to more romance had all the feels! Cody was absolutely dedicated to Neenah, but had been friend zoned early on. I loved the way he was there for her in any way she needed. These two were definitely best friends, but with chemistry that was simmering right below the surface.
I really felt for Neenah as she struggled to find direction in her life after her forced retirement. And Cody’s difficult relationship with his father was something that really weighed on him, too. The author did a great job of creating realistic characters who had faith yet also felt adrift at times.
The storyline with Kaylie was a beautiful addition, as well. It was heartwarming to see Neenah and Kaylie connect with each other, work through complicated emotions, and begin to form a new family together
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I really felt for Neenah as she struggled to find direction in her life after her forced retirement. And Cody’s difficult relationship with his father was something that really weighed on him, too. The author did a great job of creating realistic characters who had faith yet also felt adrift at times.
The storyline with Kaylie was a beautiful addition, as well. It was heartwarming to see Neenah and Kaylie connect with each other, work through complicated emotions, and begin to form a new family together
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
December 4, 2025
Cody has loved Neemah for years, but she's thoroughly friend-zoned him. But when she loses her career due to injury and then 'inherits' guardianship of a teenage girl, his 'always there for you' attitude starts to get through to her in a new way. There are reasons she friend-zoned him, though, mostly due to fears from her past - can she overcome those fears to accept that history doesn't have to repeat itself and she'll be missing out on a lot if she doesn't try?
A great 'friends to more' read, with the addition of various family drama that adds extra depth. Cody's relationship with his dad is almost painful, and definitely frustrating, to watch, but thankfully it's made up for by seeing Kaylie work to fit in in her new setting with Neemah and Cody's support, thankfully not being too much 'terrible teenager'. I loved watching both Neemah and Cody grow over the course of the book - not to mention their relationship. All in all, a good read. Recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A great 'friends to more' read, with the addition of various family drama that adds extra depth. Cody's relationship with his dad is almost painful, and definitely frustrating, to watch, but thankfully it's made up for by seeing Kaylie work to fit in in her new setting with Neemah and Cody's support, thankfully not being too much 'terrible teenager'. I loved watching both Neemah and Cody grow over the course of the book - not to mention their relationship. All in all, a good read. Recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
December 28, 2025
The must read finale of Christmas in Redemption Ridge
Well done, Miss Emily!
Neenah and Cody's story is a friends to more filled wirh faith - learning to trust God especially when the path seems unclear and strewn with curve balls; found family and forgiveness.
Neenah and Cody maybe developing feelings for each other beyond best friends. Well Neenah might be. Cody has been in love with his best friend for years.
Officer Cody has been seeking approval from his police chief father for years. Now Cody has the potential to get promoted and hopefully make his father proud.
Add in Neenah becoming a guardian to a precious young lady, a yeti steeling Christmas decor and a string of home burglaries.
Is now the time for Neenah and Cody to take the risk and see if God is creating a family for the three of them?
And what about the yeti and the recent home burglaries are they connected? Will Cody and Chief finally make amends even if they never seen eye to eye?
Find out in "Risking His Heart."
Well done, Miss Emily!
Neenah and Cody's story is a friends to more filled wirh faith - learning to trust God especially when the path seems unclear and strewn with curve balls; found family and forgiveness.
Neenah and Cody maybe developing feelings for each other beyond best friends. Well Neenah might be. Cody has been in love with his best friend for years.
Officer Cody has been seeking approval from his police chief father for years. Now Cody has the potential to get promoted and hopefully make his father proud.
Add in Neenah becoming a guardian to a precious young lady, a yeti steeling Christmas decor and a string of home burglaries.
Is now the time for Neenah and Cody to take the risk and see if God is creating a family for the three of them?
And what about the yeti and the recent home burglaries are they connected? Will Cody and Chief finally make amends even if they never seen eye to eye?
Find out in "Risking His Heart."
January 2, 2026
Risking His Heart by Emily Conrad
Officer Cody Adams had been attracted to fellow officer Neenah for a long time. He’d asked her out once, and she’d shot him down and told him not to ask again. So he didn’t. They were best friends, and he didn’t want to lose that.
Neenah Casper had watched her mom divorce her dad and eventually move away from Neenah and her brothers. That’s when she decided she could never marry. If, after being married for so long and leaving, she could never trust herself. After trying to return to her full duties following an on-duty accident a year ago, but being forced to retire, Neenah no longer knew who she was.
As Cody gets used to not having Neenah back him up on the force, and Neenah deals with finding a job that fits her, it may be time for them to revisit their relationship.
As always, a gripping story of romance, loss, Christmas decorations gone missing outside, and a burglar stealing inside items—not a dull moment.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
Officer Cody Adams had been attracted to fellow officer Neenah for a long time. He’d asked her out once, and she’d shot him down and told him not to ask again. So he didn’t. They were best friends, and he didn’t want to lose that.
Neenah Casper had watched her mom divorce her dad and eventually move away from Neenah and her brothers. That’s when she decided she could never marry. If, after being married for so long and leaving, she could never trust herself. After trying to return to her full duties following an on-duty accident a year ago, but being forced to retire, Neenah no longer knew who she was.
As Cody gets used to not having Neenah back him up on the force, and Neenah deals with finding a job that fits her, it may be time for them to revisit their relationship.
As always, a gripping story of romance, loss, Christmas decorations gone missing outside, and a burglar stealing inside items—not a dull moment.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
December 2, 2025
This was such a sweet small-town Christmas romance! I always love Emily Conrad’s books, but this one might just top them all. I absolutely adored it!
I really liked Neenah and Cody. Neenah had been through a lot. Having to retire early from her job as a police officer really shook her. I really felt for her, but loved seeing her discover herself and her purpose again. Cody was a genuinely good guy. So likeable and easy to root for. His relationship with his dad wasn’t the best. But I loved seeing him come into his own and stand up for what he wanted.
I really enjoyed the mystery of the decoration-stealing Yeti. I was so invested in it and curious what the outcome would be.
If you’re a fan of sweet, faith-filled Christmas romances, you’ll love this book! I highly recommend it!
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
I really liked Neenah and Cody. Neenah had been through a lot. Having to retire early from her job as a police officer really shook her. I really felt for her, but loved seeing her discover herself and her purpose again. Cody was a genuinely good guy. So likeable and easy to root for. His relationship with his dad wasn’t the best. But I loved seeing him come into his own and stand up for what he wanted.
I really enjoyed the mystery of the decoration-stealing Yeti. I was so invested in it and curious what the outcome would be.
If you’re a fan of sweet, faith-filled Christmas romances, you’ll love this book! I highly recommend it!
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
December 2, 2025
I had the privilege of reading an advance copy of "Risking His Heart", and it was exactly the kind of heartfelt holiday romance I love curling up with this time of year. Set against the backdrop of the Christmas season, the story delivers all the cozy vibes while still diving deep into the emotional journeys of its characters.
As a friends-to-love romance, this book hits all the right notes—not just the sweet moments, but the very real complications that come when two people risk everything to cross that line. I found myself relating strongly to both Neenah and Cody. Neenah’s struggle with a life that suddenly looks nothing like the one she planned felt so true and human. And Cody’s hesitation—his “I’m not sure I can risk my heart again” tenderness—rang just as true. Their fears, their hopes, and their slow recognition of what’s right in front of them all felt deeply relatable.
What I appreciate most is that Emily Conrad delivers a clean, genuinely heartfelt romance that never skimps on emotional depth. You can’t help but cheer these two on, but you also feel their trepidation in your own chest as they navigate responsibility, friendship, loss, and the possibility of something more.
With quirky neighborhood watch antics, holiday charm, and a relationship worth rooting for, "Risking His Heart" is a beautiful friends-to-lovers story that left me smiling—and thinking—long after I turned the last page.
As a friends-to-love romance, this book hits all the right notes—not just the sweet moments, but the very real complications that come when two people risk everything to cross that line. I found myself relating strongly to both Neenah and Cody. Neenah’s struggle with a life that suddenly looks nothing like the one she planned felt so true and human. And Cody’s hesitation—his “I’m not sure I can risk my heart again” tenderness—rang just as true. Their fears, their hopes, and their slow recognition of what’s right in front of them all felt deeply relatable.
What I appreciate most is that Emily Conrad delivers a clean, genuinely heartfelt romance that never skimps on emotional depth. You can’t help but cheer these two on, but you also feel their trepidation in your own chest as they navigate responsibility, friendship, loss, and the possibility of something more.
With quirky neighborhood watch antics, holiday charm, and a relationship worth rooting for, "Risking His Heart" is a beautiful friends-to-lovers story that left me smiling—and thinking—long after I turned the last page.
December 2, 2025
When an injury forces career-minded Neenah to retire from the police force at age thirty-two, Cody is there to help her pick up the pieces. But however strong the chemistry between them, they also have complicated family dynamics to navigate. Besides, Cody's last attempt to win her heart didn't exactly pay off.
With forced retirement and a new ward to look after Neenah’s plans have all come crumbling down and she can’t risk losing her best friend too. Cody has been hiding his feelings for Neenah for so long, he’s not sure how to broach the subject without getting rejected again. Can they both trust that God has their best interests at heart and let go of their fear long enough to see His plans for their lives unfold?
A beautiful story of trust and letting go of fear in the face of uncertainty.
This is my honest review based on a free advanced copy I received from the author.
With forced retirement and a new ward to look after Neenah’s plans have all come crumbling down and she can’t risk losing her best friend too. Cody has been hiding his feelings for Neenah for so long, he’s not sure how to broach the subject without getting rejected again. Can they both trust that God has their best interests at heart and let go of their fear long enough to see His plans for their lives unfold?
A beautiful story of trust and letting go of fear in the face of uncertainty.
This is my honest review based on a free advanced copy I received from the author.
December 3, 2025
This was such a heartfelt, christian story set during Christmas. I enjoyed the characters of Cody and Neenah, best friends, and fellow police officers, until everything seemed to change. I liked that the story quickly pulled me in as the suspense and possible romance grew. The ending was just the icing on the cupcakes.
I liked how Cody never gave up on his dad even though he had every reason to after how his dad treated him at work. He never seemed to be able to live up to his dad's expectations or promotions. He also never gave up hope that Neenah would take him out of the friend zone.
This book clearly showed that when one door closes another door opens and how God's plan for Cody and Neenah was the best plan for everyone. I received an advance copy of this book, and I willingly chose to write an honest review.
I liked how Cody never gave up on his dad even though he had every reason to after how his dad treated him at work. He never seemed to be able to live up to his dad's expectations or promotions. He also never gave up hope that Neenah would take him out of the friend zone.
This book clearly showed that when one door closes another door opens and how God's plan for Cody and Neenah was the best plan for everyone. I received an advance copy of this book, and I willingly chose to write an honest review.
December 3, 2025
I loved "Risking his Heart."
I thought Cody was the sweetest - desperately wanting to break through the friend zone Neenah put him in, but also wanting to protect their friendship.
And Neenah... I related to her a little too much. *Embarrassed chuckle
And when the yeti entered the pages? Perfection. At first, I was absolutely shocked, but then, I loved it.
It's easy to lose oneself in work. It's easy to find one's identity in what they do, and how good they do it. It's easy to strive for human approval. Sometimes it can be hard to realize there's a God who loves you just the way you are, and there are friends who always have your six.
I did receive an advanced copy, but I was not required to leave a review and I loved it so much I bought a paperback. So go, read it in whatever format you prefer and enjoy!
I thought Cody was the sweetest - desperately wanting to break through the friend zone Neenah put him in, but also wanting to protect their friendship.
And Neenah... I related to her a little too much. *Embarrassed chuckle
And when the yeti entered the pages? Perfection. At first, I was absolutely shocked, but then, I loved it.
It's easy to lose oneself in work. It's easy to find one's identity in what they do, and how good they do it. It's easy to strive for human approval. Sometimes it can be hard to realize there's a God who loves you just the way you are, and there are friends who always have your six.
I did receive an advanced copy, but I was not required to leave a review and I loved it so much I bought a paperback. So go, read it in whatever format you prefer and enjoy!
December 24, 2025
Risking His Heart is a small-town, friends-to-more, Christian romance. This is the last Redemption Ridge book, and it was bittersweet to say goodbye to this wonderful town.
The setup for Neenah and Cody's story is fantastic, best friends who have worked together for a long time. It was interesting to see how Emily brilliantly wove their story together, as it began before the opening pages.
Yeti’s and burglaries are some of the cases we see, and while Risking His Heart is not a suspense story, there is a fun mystery element, without the intensity of a suspense novel.
If you enjoy small-town, Christian romance novels, with police officers, found family and friends to more, then I would highly recommend Risking His Heart.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
The setup for Neenah and Cody's story is fantastic, best friends who have worked together for a long time. It was interesting to see how Emily brilliantly wove their story together, as it began before the opening pages.
Yeti’s and burglaries are some of the cases we see, and while Risking His Heart is not a suspense story, there is a fun mystery element, without the intensity of a suspense novel.
If you enjoy small-town, Christian romance novels, with police officers, found family and friends to more, then I would highly recommend Risking His Heart.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
December 7, 2025
Risking His Heart by Emily Conrad is another wonderful visit to Redemption Ridge at Christmas time. I loved the two mysteries that the police were trying to solve and I loved the best friends to more romance. Just who was the burglar stealing the electronics from homes? And who was the Yeti stealing the Christmas decorations right out from under people's noses as it seemed he, or she, was doing? And were the cases connected or not?
I felt so bad for Neenah as the plans for her life were completely dashed when she was forced into early retirement from the police force. And suddenly, out of the blue, she was named guardian of a friend's teenage daughter. How could she continue to do what she loved?
And then there is Cody. Her best friend and also police officer. Though he'd very much prefer that they were more than best friends. And he's also dealing with never feeling he's good enough for his father, the Chief.
I loved their story and how they learned to trust in God's plan for their lives.
I received an e-copy of this book as a member of the launch team and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.
I felt so bad for Neenah as the plans for her life were completely dashed when she was forced into early retirement from the police force. And suddenly, out of the blue, she was named guardian of a friend's teenage daughter. How could she continue to do what she loved?
And then there is Cody. Her best friend and also police officer. Though he'd very much prefer that they were more than best friends. And he's also dealing with never feeling he's good enough for his father, the Chief.
I loved their story and how they learned to trust in God's plan for their lives.
I received an e-copy of this book as a member of the launch team and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.
December 19, 2025
It’s giving the Yeti who stole Christmas vibes!
A super cute slow-burn friends to love romance with a yeti creating some festive havoc and a touch of suspense. It’s giving the yeti who stole Christmas vibes and this generation would say. I’d like to think in every story there’s something for everyone, and this one was no different. Loss comes in so many forms and finding our place in life is tricky even as adults who have already had everything figured out. Cody’s love was steady for Neenah and an unexpected ward in Kaylie helped Neenah see herself in a new light. With Cody and Neenah both looking to Jesus for direction made this an extra special Christmas Christian romance.
A super cute slow-burn friends to love romance with a yeti creating some festive havoc and a touch of suspense. It’s giving the yeti who stole Christmas vibes and this generation would say. I’d like to think in every story there’s something for everyone, and this one was no different. Loss comes in so many forms and finding our place in life is tricky even as adults who have already had everything figured out. Cody’s love was steady for Neenah and an unexpected ward in Kaylie helped Neenah see herself in a new light. With Cody and Neenah both looking to Jesus for direction made this an extra special Christmas Christian romance.
November 20, 2025
I received an advance copy of this book
Risking His Heart by Emily Conrad, follows Cody and Neenah, 2 people thinking they know their path and find that life, people we think we trust can get in the way and if you allow God to lead he can lead you to something even better. With multiple mysteries to solve, an unexpected visit from a mythical creature, the community comes together and creates a wonderful experience for the town and more importantly for Cody and Neenah.
This sweet story reminds me why I love the redemption series and how each book incorporates characters from other stories. Its like reading in real life.
Risking His Heart by Emily Conrad, follows Cody and Neenah, 2 people thinking they know their path and find that life, people we think we trust can get in the way and if you allow God to lead he can lead you to something even better. With multiple mysteries to solve, an unexpected visit from a mythical creature, the community comes together and creates a wonderful experience for the town and more importantly for Cody and Neenah.
This sweet story reminds me why I love the redemption series and how each book incorporates characters from other stories. Its like reading in real life.
November 24, 2025
Worth fighting for
A horrible accident at work has caused Neenah to have to redefine her life’s purpose and career. An unexpected twist gives her custody of a grieving teen. What does she do now with life?
Cody has been her friend in every trial and has helped her overcome the worst difficulty of her life. He longs to be more and has to choose what his heart wants and what his father demands.
A nice story of best friends learning it is okay to be more. Good, clean romance. I enjoyed it. I received a complimentary copy from the author and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.
A horrible accident at work has caused Neenah to have to redefine her life’s purpose and career. An unexpected twist gives her custody of a grieving teen. What does she do now with life?
Cody has been her friend in every trial and has helped her overcome the worst difficulty of her life. He longs to be more and has to choose what his heart wants and what his father demands.
A nice story of best friends learning it is okay to be more. Good, clean romance. I enjoyed it. I received a complimentary copy from the author and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.
December 3, 2025
Risking His Heart is an inspirational, friends to more, faith filled, small town romance. Neenah feels sidelined by her forced retirement from the police department - the same day she learns she has become the guardian of a teenager! Fortunately she has the support of her best friend and fellow policeman, Cody. There is so much to love in this well written book. I really felt like I was part of this story. There is more than one family drama, some strange police cases, Nina's struggles to accept her new roles and Cody's desire to be more to Neenah than just a friend. You do not want to miss this episode in the very successful Christmas in Redemption Ridge series!
December 4, 2025
Neenah and Cody are absolutely delightful characters. Friends to lovers can be a difficult trope to pull off because the question is always “Why aren’t they together already?” But Emily Conrad does a fantastic job on this one. The writing FLOWS off the page, very high readability. I fell in love with their little town and the whole world in this book. The ML is a cop, but the book isn’t super heavy on the policing stuff. There is a very precious found family element that is sure to win your heart. If you’re looking for a cozy holiday romance to read now that it’s getting cold out, this is it. My review is based on an advance copy I received for free from the author
December 5, 2025
Risking His Heart
This was absolutely an amazing faith based story. Neenah had never wanted to be anything but law enforcement officer but she is forced into medical retirement after a serious injury sidelined her. A call from an unknown number informs her she was chosen as guardian to the teenage girl of a friend she had lost touch with years earlier. Cody had been her best friend and support for a long time.
Cody has also been trying to make detective in the police department for a long time. Now there is an opening his dad, the police chief, is making him compete for the position. Will their relationship survive all of the changes?
This was absolutely an amazing faith based story. Neenah had never wanted to be anything but law enforcement officer but she is forced into medical retirement after a serious injury sidelined her. A call from an unknown number informs her she was chosen as guardian to the teenage girl of a friend she had lost touch with years earlier. Cody had been her best friend and support for a long time.
Cody has also been trying to make detective in the police department for a long time. Now there is an opening his dad, the police chief, is making him compete for the position. Will their relationship survive all of the changes?
November 8, 2025
This is my voluntary review of a copy I was given.
The main characters were wonderful. They both felt a calling to be police officers, and they each took that seriously. They were also protective of each other. They loved each other and made sacrifices for each other from before this story starts, but Neenah has issues.
Through the course of the story we see her come to terms with them and recognize the depths of the feelings they share. I loved watching them get a start on a new part of their lives.
The main characters were wonderful. They both felt a calling to be police officers, and they each took that seriously. They were also protective of each other. They loved each other and made sacrifices for each other from before this story starts, but Neenah has issues.
Through the course of the story we see her come to terms with them and recognize the depths of the feelings they share. I loved watching them get a start on a new part of their lives.
November 8, 2025
A very enjoyable story, Neenah and Cody are both police officers and love protecting their town. But after Neenah gets hurt she must retire, at the same time she gets custody of her friends’ teenage daughter. Neenah feels lost and unsure what to do with her life. Cody is there for her and supporting her and loving her but doesn’t dare show his feelings. I loved how Neenah leaned on God to help her to understand some of her concerns and problems. A beautiful story with great characters and a sweet romance. Great addition to this multi author series.
November 14, 2025
I admire Emily’s writing; her characters feel consistently authentic and deeply human. Cody, unfortunately, remains trapped in the friend zone with Neenah, hesitating to reveal his true feelings. When Neenah is compelled to retire early, she unexpectedly assumes custody of a close friend’s teenage daughter. As Neenah navigates this new chapter and works to rediscover herself, Cody remains a steadfast presence. Through the process, Neenah leans on her faith and gradually allows herself to embrace her growing affection for Cody.
November 20, 2025
I always enjoy Emily’s books and this one is no exception. I loved that in this story both main characters were police officers.
This is a friends to more story with a lot of side stories that connect with the main one.
It’s a great Christmas story to read now. It has some fun parts, serious parts, some conflict and a mystery or two to top it off.
But above it all is the thread of faith that we must trust that God will lead and show us the way.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read this book. The opinions are entirely my own.
December 2, 2025
I had an ARC for this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Neenah Carter was a cop until an accident caused her knees to have to be replaced and she had to retire. Her best friend and former partner, Cody Adams would like to have a personal relationship with her, but she is reluctant due to the breakup of her parents. When her friend dies, she becomes guardian of her teenage daughter. Between that and her retirement, she begins to rethink her future and her dreams. An inspiring story about making decisions, moving forward and helping others.
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