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Underestimated

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Liam Holcomb is a no-nonsense forensic accountant, not a farmer—but when his grandfather dies under suspicious circumstances, Liam returns to the Anything Goats farm near Nashville to investigate. What he finds buried in old records suggests the death wasn’t an accident—and someone wanted the land badly enough to kill for it.

Wren Meadows, a free-spirited goat yoga instructor and single mom, is busy planning the church’s Christmas celebration at the farm when her daughters witness something they shouldn’t have. Now, threats are closing in, and Liam may be the only one who can protect them.

He’s serious, guarded, and sworn off relationships. She’s sunshine, spontaneity, and a walking invitation to chaos. But as danger deepens and sparks fly, Liam and Wren may discover that opposites don’t just attract—they just might save each other.

A cozy but gripping Christian romantic suspense full of heart, humor, and holiday hope.

331 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 9, 2025

37 people are currently reading
38 people want to read

About the author

Sherri Wilson Johnson

24 books288 followers
Sherri Wilson Johnson writes Inspirational Contemporary Romantic Suspense and Historical Romance. Her current series, Jeopardized Reunions, is set in the romantic and dramatic Mobile Bay area on the Gulf Coast of Alabama. She offers a FREE prequel novella to the series, Bayside Betrayal, for newsletter subscribers. She invites you to learn more about her and her books.

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5 stars
57 (73%)
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18 (23%)
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3 (3%)
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
Profile Image for Carrie Schmidt.
Author 1 book516 followers
December 3, 2025
I first met Liam Holcomb as a side character in the prequel novella “Unauthorized”, part of the Don’t Blink thriller collection, and I became completely invested in the Holcombs’ complex family dynamics, thanks to that story’s surprise twist of an ending. So when I learned that Underestimated – the official first book in the series – was releasing this month, I knew I had to read it. This novel picks up very shortly after Unauthorized ends but it’s not necessary to have read it before picking up Underestimated. The author provides the important points of the backstory, including the family estrangement that has Liam & his cousins so puzzled at being the heirs to their grandfather’s even-more-unexpected goat farm. That’s not the only surprise Liam will encounter in this story though, and I enjoyed being caught off guard right along with him.

One of the most pleasant of those unexpected plot turns for Liam is how drawn he is to the farm’s goat yoga instructor, Wren. Forensic accountant Liam has a rather buttoned-up and analytical approach to life … in contrast to Wren’s more spontaneous and gregarious personality. I love a good ‘opposites attract’ romance, and their first glimpses of each other – him in a fancy suit, her leading her goat yoga class in a barnyard – already had me cheering for the chemistry-and-banter potential between them. And seeing Liam with Wren’s adorable daughters??? Be still my melting heart!

Less pleasant twists for Liam to navigate? It all starts with his increasing suspicions that his grandfather’s death may not have been as accidental as it appeared. I stayed invested in piecing together the information as he and Wren conduct their own investigation, and while I had some guesses as to why happened (and why) I didn’t have it quite right in the end. Almost. Even though I came close to the truth, there were still some reveals that I didn’t see coming and that thrill of a shocking twist is always so fun as a reader. The danger isn’t constantly intense either, which allows plenty of opportunity for us to get to know Wren & Liam and for them to get to know each other, but it definitely has some ‘edge-of-your-seat’ scenes to get your pulse pounding. (Also, shout out to Liam’s Pawpaw who would have made an excellent detective in his own right!)

Bottom Line: Underestimated by Sherri Wilson Johnson is a well-balanced blend of sweet romance, intriguing mystery, and twist-filled suspense that kept me entertained and engaged. I also enjoyed the gentle infusions of faith and moments of humor (one scene in particular toward the end made me giggle out loud because I could picture it so clearly in my mind) that Johnson weaves naturally into the story. Wren’s sunshine and warmth and her cute little girls are the needed fuses to detonate Liam’s tightly ordered world for the better, and my reader heart sighed happily over their tender, hopeful, and full-of-spark romance. There was more repetition and ‘telling’ (rather than showing) than I prefer, particularly in reiterating information we’ve already been given to a character who didn’t know it yet (when a simple sentence like “Liam explained to Wren what the detective said” would have sufficed). BUT that’s more of a stylistic preference and didn’t prevent me from staying invested in the plot. I’m intrigued by where the series might go from here, what other secrets remain to be discovered, and which cousin will be next in the spotlight – and I hope it’s not the last we see of Liam and Wren either!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Profile Image for J.E. Grace.
Author 23 books142 followers
November 12, 2025
Underestimated had me turning pages from the beginning—awesome main characters filled with humor, fear, and intelligence. I especially liked seeing Liam's growth and his layers evolve. The story is about a goat farm in Tennessee and a strange inheritance that left lots of questions.

The suspense never lets up as more questions than answers push the main characters to unravel the mystery surrounding Liam's grandfather. Guessing where the story would take me next kept me turning pages. I couldn't put it down. This is a must-read- greed, danger, betrayal, but also a surprising ending and a budding romance. It will keep you guessing.

I received a complimentary copy from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Allyson Anthony.
1,178 reviews52 followers
December 10, 2025
What a fantastic start to The Silas Holcomb Legacy series. Liam and his 3 cousins are now the owners of their grandfather's farm after their grandfather passed and have to decide whether to keep the farm or sell it. This faith-filled, fast paced romantic read has suspense, danger, and romance as Liam and Wren investigate Liam's grandfather's death to see if it was accidental or not. On top of that, Liam also has to uncover the truth as to why he and all the rest of his family members were estranged from his grandfather for 15 years. The chemistry between Liam and Wren was perfect, and I enjoyed Liam and his cousins' text conversations and their interaction with each other.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Joan.
4,378 reviews125 followers
December 8, 2025
I enjoyed this inspirational romantic suspense. Liam is a good amateur sleuth, investigating the suspicious death of his grandfather There is a great deal of his grandfather's paperwork and other information he has to wade through before he finds the clues and ultimately the evidence he needs. In the meantime he falls for the yoga instructor on the farm, and she for him.

Wilson's writing style is straight forward and easy to follow. There is a bit of an exploration of family dysfunction but nothing in depth. There is a bit of suspense near the end. There is a good faith message included, one that is not overbearing. A pleasant read.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Profile Image for Ethelann.
434 reviews
November 19, 2025
Underestimated was a really great story. It kept me turning pages until the end. I loved Liam and Wren's story. It starts out as a simple will reading and turns into murder. The ending was a big surprise because I totally didn't have a clue who did it.
Profile Image for Deana Dick.
3,096 reviews134 followers
December 16, 2025
A goat farm, yoga in the barn and relatives fighting over a will bring thrills and chills to readers. I have heard of goat yoga but as I read the story it became easy to visualize. I don’t know about you, but I have no desire to have a goat stand on my back as I attempt to do poses that I’m sure will break my bones.

Liam is all business and really doesn’t want to take time out of his busy life to deal with his grandfather’s will. It was so sad to read how the family was estranged even during the loss of a family member. There are definitely questions Liam has surrounding his grandfather’s death. Liam finds himself in danger as he seeks answers. Greed does play a part in this story as well as the need for control.

Wren gets by doing goat yoga classes at a farm she calls home. As a single mom to two young girls she loves living at the Anything Goats farm. Her children are happy and enjoy being around open spaces and a farm filled with adventure. Soon danger comes knocking as Wren discovers her girls missing.

The story delivers a slow read but does have mystery and secrets combined to give suspense readers just enough to keep them engaged in the story. It is a little light on a faith element but is a clean read. With sprinkles of shenanigans from the goats, readers are in for an exciting story.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Profile Image for Jeannine Bennett.
Author 7 books105 followers
December 17, 2025
Sherri Wilson Johnson has a gift for writing stories that feel warm, real, and easy to sink into, and this book is no exception. As one of my favorite authors, she once again delivers a down-to-earth story that blends faith, mystery, and romance in a way that feels natural and heartfelt.

Liam Holcomb is a serious, practical man who lives by facts and numbers. When he returns to his family’s goat farm after his grandfather’s suspicious death, the story quickly pulls the reader into a mystery that keeps building layer by layer. The small-town setting near Nashville adds charm, while the danger surrounding the land gives the story real tension.

Wren Meadows is a bright spot in the story. As a single mom and goat yoga instructor, she brings humor and warmth without feeling unrealistic. Her role in the church’s Christmas celebration adds a cozy, seasonal feel, even as the story grows more intense. The contrast between Liam’s guarded nature and Wren’s sunny personality makes their relationship feel both fun and meaningful.

The suspense is steady but not overwhelming, making this a comfortable read for fans of cozy mysteries with higher stakes. The faith elements are woven in gently, focusing on trust, hope, and community rather than preaching. The holiday setting adds an extra layer of heart, reminding readers of the importance of family and second chances.

Overall, this is a well-balanced Christian romantic suspense with strong characters, a solid mystery, and touches of humor throughout. Sherri proves once again why her books are such reliable, everyday reads for people who enjoy clean romance, engaging suspense, and stories filled with heart.

Note: I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a positive review.
Profile Image for Erin.
2,125 reviews19 followers
December 30, 2025
He’s a forensic accountant. So maybe he doesn’t go out and investigate and prosecute, but he does go after the bad guys in his own way. So when his grandfather dies, and he suspects some foul play, he’s off to investigate. And what he finds suggests that maybe there was foul play involved. But can he prove it? And can he keep the goat yoga instructor and her kids (human and goat) safe while he figures it all out?

They’re opposites. Liam is broody and moody. Think of him as your beast of the story. Wren is your light against the darkness. She’s all sunshine, fun, and spontaneity. They’re opposites for sure and certain. But he feels drawn to her and also wants to protect her.

As a mom of 13, I loved the children! As a homestead wife/mother, I loved the goats, too! Baby goats are the absolute best ever to watch, and while I’ve never done yoga with a goat, I have had them jump on my back while I was bent over cleaning out a water tank, so I can guarantee you’ll be giggling at them in this novel.

Five stars from me! This is book one in the Silas Holcomb Legacy series. So be ready to want more! It does end and does not end on a cliffhanger, but you will want to read another book for sure!

Sidenote: There is a prequel to this novel called Unauthorized that you should definitely grab and read first if you’ve got the time.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
1,901 reviews
December 15, 2025
Underestimated by Sherri Wilson Johnson is a Romantic Suspense/Mystery. This book is the first book in The Silas Holcomb Legacy series and is a Cozy Christian Romantic Suspense novel. A forensic accountant, Liam Holcomb, returns to his family’s farm to investigate his grandfather’s suspicious death. As he begins investigating, he discovers someone who may want their land badly enough to kill for it.

Wren Meadows, a free-spirited goat yoga instructor and single mom, plans the church’s Christmas party at the farm when her daughters witness something they should not have seen. Threats are beginning to close in, and Liam may be the only one capable of saving them.

The author does an excellent job of building suspense and creating twists and turns that keep you reading. The characters have depth and interest, and I found them relatable. Serious, guarded, and sworn off relationships, Liam represents the opposite of Wren, who is sunshine, spontaneity, and a walking invitation to chaos. The two find themselves dealing with small-town secrets, opposites attracting, and inheritance disputes over land, while possibly including animals in the story that provide comic relief.

So if you want a Romantic Suspense/Mystery, check out Underestimated by Sherri Wilson Johnson. This book definitely provides the perfect introduction to a new series, and I know I will read the next book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Gretchen Garrison.
Author 3 books31 followers
December 30, 2025
"I'm usually the underestimated one, Buck. People never see me coming." Liam laughed. "Thanks for the compliment."

When Liam and his cousins received an inheritance from their grandfather, they anticipated a bit of money, not a goat farm. Since stipulations require them to be a part of the experience, Liam is the one who is able to invest his time first. He had no way of anticipating all that would happen - especially reckoning with the feisty single mom who is in charge of the goat yoga. Or her precocious girls.

When his grandfather's death seems to be suspicious, Liam isn't sure how to help. All he knows is accounting. Yet maybe there is a way for him to keep Wren and her girls safe - even in the middle of winter. Will they find out the real story?

Elements: the plot is unique. The characters are connected in an interesting way.
Suspense: just when I thought I figured it out, new twists were added. I predicted parts of the storyline. But I was still surprised/shocked at certain parts.
Romance: Moved a bit quicker than I would have liked. Although feelings might develop quicker in tougher situations. The couple was believable. And the romance was sweet - it just came on quickly.

Overall, I enjoyed this book. I would read the next title in the series. The prequel novella "Unauthorized" helped to connect me to Liam. But one could definitely start with this book.

I did read this story as a part of a book tour. I wanted to read and review it. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Kendra Neal.
1,797 reviews49 followers
December 30, 2025
Christian Romance Suspense is a favorite genre of mine. Underestimated by Sherri Wilson Johnson is Book 1 in the Silas Holcomb Legacy series.

WOW, I can honestly say this storyline was very interesting from the first pages. The setting is a Goat Farm right outside of Nashville, TN. The 2 main characters are Liam Holcomb and Wren Meadows. Liam loves his job as a Forsenic Accountant and it will come in handy as he handles the estate of his late Grandfather. His Grandfather owned Anything Goats Farm and Liam is determined to solve the mysterious death of his grandfather. Wren is a single mom of girls and the next door neighbor of the Goat Farm. She and her girls witness something that they will never forget. Liam finds that he will need to protect Wren and her daughters as threats to them are made. He not only protects them, but Wren and Liam begin to find themselves attracted to one another. Wren has a strong faith and it really got Liam thinking about his Faith and how he needs to renew his faith and grow closer to God. I really LOVE Liam's determination is all he does and how is focus isn't about him but those around him. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Romance Suspense! WONDERFUL BOOK!
Profile Image for Connie Hill.
1,888 reviews46 followers
December 21, 2025


Underestimated is a Christian Romantic Suspemse that is written by Sherri Wilson Johnson. I love this author for her stories contain authentic real feelings characters. Theresa setting of this book is a goat farm in Nashville, Tennessee.

We meet Liam Holcomb. He has returned back to his family goat farm, Anything Goats after his grandfather dies under mysterious circumstances. Liam knows something is off and starts to dig. However in doing so it becomes clear someone wanted the land that the farm is on.

Wren Meadows is a single mom. She’s the completely opposite of Liam. She’s a goat yoga instructor and while she’s preparing for a Christmas program, her daughter witnesses something that she shouldn’t.
Suddenly she’s the target and Liam and Wren have to work together to figure it out.

I love that these characters are complete opposites. Liam has a hard time trusting and Wren is learning to stand strong even when she’s scared.

The book is well written. The storyline is engaging. Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
23 reviews1 follower
December 21, 2025
This was such a good book! I loved the mystery and characters. It was fun to see how the story would unfold, and I bounced back and forth between who could be the culprit. Liam was an interesting main character because of his career as a forensic accountant; I liked how methodical he was in looking for answers about his grandfather and the farm. Speaking of the farm, I loved the name: “Anything Goats Farm” was a farm name that I never knew I needed, but I loved every time I saw it on the pages.
Wren and her daughters were also wonderful additions to the story. Wren’s faith was a great thread throughout the book, and I loved how it led to Liam thinking more about his faith and how he needs to be more interested and intentional about it. The mystery itself was also wonderful. It really felt like a Hallmark mystery movie. I was on the edge of my seat wanting to know how it was going to play out. I highly recommend this book to those who like wholesome suspense stories!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Rachel DeVaughn.
1,098 reviews32 followers
December 16, 2025
I enjoyed reading this Christian suspense story, which is book 1 of The Silas Holcomb Legacy series. The story line was intriguing with great characters that kept my interest from beginning to end. I especially love the setup of this new series; Liam and his cousins inherit the Anything Goats farm together but they can’t make any changes to it for six months.

Liam, a forensic accountant finds the death of his grandfather suspicious, so it decides to dig deeper; but instead of finding answers, he’s left with more questions. I enjoyed getting to know Liam and Wren in this faith filled, clean romance that kept me reading more chapter after chapter. I can’t wait to read more from this family Legacy series!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions and views expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Mark.
2,517 reviews52 followers
December 11, 2025
This was different from the author's other books - a much slower paced novel. It took me a while to get into it, and I wasn't sure I was going to like it, to be honest. I did end up liking the book, and a lot.

It is unusual for a female author to make a male character the main character, but that is what Wilson did in this book. Liam was a great, likable, and complex character. I wasn't sure about him at first, but he grew on me for sure. Wren was a great female lead to offset him, and I loved to see their relationship slowly grow.

There wasn't a lot of action, but more investigating and threats, though there was an exciting climatic moment. The book had a great ending with a few surprises. Although this is a departure from Wilson's usual, it was still a great enjoyable read.
95 reviews
December 15, 2025
I Think We Can All Agree…

…that goat yoga is definitely a new twist to the traditional rom-com. This one has a murder mystery plot with great investigative storytelling and endearing characters. Enough happens that readers will be intrigued throughout the entire book. Clues are revealed as the relationship and romance develops, and, though there is a reveal at the end, enough evidence is uncovered throughout the story so as to make the reveal believable without compromising the intelligence of the characters.

I liked the book a lot and want to read the rest of the series. I enjoyed Daisy’s story from the anthology Don’t Blink. Now I want to read other books by Sherri Wilson Johnson! It was a fun ride!
137 reviews5 followers
December 17, 2025
Oh I really enjoyed this book. I laughed and had to bite my fingernails while reading it. Liam, a Forensic Accountant, and his cousins, have inherited a goat farm from their grandfather. They hadn't seen him for years because of a falling out between the parents and their grandfather after their grandmother had died. He meets Wren, a Yoga instructor, at the farm and together they try to find out what happened to the grandfather. Did he die from natural causes or was there foul play involved? I definitely recommend this book.
Profile Image for Debbie.
2,575 reviews4 followers
December 17, 2025
"Underestimated" by Sherri Wilson Johnson is a mystery and a clean love story that I couldn't put own once I started reading it. It has plenty of twists and turns. This book also has a faith message. If you like romance and mystery and faith, and let's not forget children and animals that aren't usually part of yogi's classes, then you need to pick
up this book and read book 1 of this new series.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
163 reviews
December 6, 2025
A wonderful start to a new series (Silas Holcomb Legacy). Delightful story, interwoven with suspense and romance . Recommended for those, like me, who enjoy well developed romantic suspense with a faith foundation (not over powering) and a few twists to keep things exciting.
I'm looking forward to the next book and urge you to read the prequel, Unauthorized, if possible to get more background.
Profile Image for Ann.
2,651 reviews3 followers
December 12, 2025
This is a great read that holds your attention from the first page until the last. It has a wonderful cast of characters and is full of suspense, danger and romance. I loved the goats! This book is a great start to a new series
I received a complimentary copy and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
29 reviews
December 19, 2025
I thought it was a little slow starting, it took me 4 maybe 5 pages before I was hooked. I ate dinner reading it even tried to read it during youth group at church, ( but as a teacher I thought I shouldn’t but it was a hard choice to make 😁).
The action, the suspense and the adorable children. It is definitely a must read book!
Profile Image for Kelly.
445 reviews2 followers
January 25, 2026
Very good

A good story with fun characters and a great mystery to solve. When and Liam had spark. I enjoyed watching their relationship unfold.
Profile Image for Betti.
1,385 reviews38 followers
December 18, 2025
Imagine inheriting a goat farm from a grandfather that you haven’t seen in years, and you get to share it with cousins you also haven’t seen in a long time. What a dilemma - selling sounds like a plan, except for the stipulation to keep for 6 months before making any changes.

Along with Anything Goats comes more questions than answers, a little humor, plenty of danger and some much needed spiritual growth - not what Liam, a forensic accountant, had in mind. However, the mystery behind the passing of his grandfather must be pursued. Will answers be found before someone else gets hurt?

This copy of the Silas Holcomb Legacy Series was received through BookFunnel and CelebrateLit. These thoughts are my own and were in no way solicited.
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