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Love in Blackwater #6
Love Undercover: A Small Town Christian Romance
He once saved her life. Now she needs him to help save someone else.
Zach Wilson never meant for things to go so far. Abducting Lauren Vincent was supposed to get him answers—until his brother took things too far. Sparing Lauren was the only right thing Zach had ever done, but one good decision couldn't erase a lifetime of bad ones. So when he gets out of prison, he never expected to find the woman he hurt most waiting for him with forgiveness in her eyes.
Lauren has spent years haunted by that night and the man who saved her. She doesn't understand why Zach protected her, but she's never forgotten he's the reason she's still breathing. Now her cousin has been missing for years, and Zach is the only one with the connections to find him.
Living next door while helping with repairs, Zach tries to keep his distance, but Lauren sees glimpses of the honorable man he's fighting to become. Despite his reluctance to risk her safety, she's determined to find her cousin—even if it means trusting her heart to the man who once held her life in his hands.
As danger closes in and old enemies resurface, will they find answers, love, and redemption before it's too late?
If you loved the Blackwater Ranch series and the Wolf Creek Ranch series, get ready to fall in love all over again in Blackwater, Wyoming.
Zach Wilson never meant for things to go so far. Abducting Lauren Vincent was supposed to get him answers—until his brother took things too far. Sparing Lauren was the only right thing Zach had ever done, but one good decision couldn't erase a lifetime of bad ones. So when he gets out of prison, he never expected to find the woman he hurt most waiting for him with forgiveness in her eyes.
Lauren has spent years haunted by that night and the man who saved her. She doesn't understand why Zach protected her, but she's never forgotten he's the reason she's still breathing. Now her cousin has been missing for years, and Zach is the only one with the connections to find him.
Living next door while helping with repairs, Zach tries to keep his distance, but Lauren sees glimpses of the honorable man he's fighting to become. Despite his reluctance to risk her safety, she's determined to find her cousin—even if it means trusting her heart to the man who once held her life in his hands.
As danger closes in and old enemies resurface, will they find answers, love, and redemption before it's too late?
If you loved the Blackwater Ranch series and the Wolf Creek Ranch series, get ready to fall in love all over again in Blackwater, Wyoming.
452 pages, Paperback
Published January 29, 2026
71 people are currently reading
182 people want to read
About the author
Mandi Blake
44 books858 followersMandi Blake was born and raised in Alabama where she lives with her husband and daughter, but her southern heart loves to travel. Reading has been her favorite hobby for as long as she can remember, but writing is her passion. She loves a good happily ever after in her sweet Christian romance books and loves to see her characters' relationships grow closer to God and each other.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
February 24, 2026
“You’re holding onto a life that hasn’t done you any favors. Your first thirty years have been about survival. Wouldn’t you like to spend the next thirty actually living?”
Oh. My. Goodness. This is a fantastic conclusion, and hands down my favourite, to end the series. I absolutely loved the intensity and emotional depth, the brokenness, the hero with a dangerous past and the redemption arc.
Lauren Vincent and Zach Wilson are without a doubt my favourite literary couple right now. I loved seeing how they healed each other and refused to let their mistakes or their past define them.
The line that had me in tears: “I’m messed up, but … please don’t give up on me. Everyone else has.”
The line that had me almost spraying my coffee: “Church was for people who had their act together.” (I certainly don’t and that’s why I go!)
The oh-my-gosh-let-me-gush: He brought her an emotional support donut!
This one is worthy of ALL the stars!!!!
Oh. My. Goodness. This is a fantastic conclusion, and hands down my favourite, to end the series. I absolutely loved the intensity and emotional depth, the brokenness, the hero with a dangerous past and the redemption arc.
Lauren Vincent and Zach Wilson are without a doubt my favourite literary couple right now. I loved seeing how they healed each other and refused to let their mistakes or their past define them.
The line that had me in tears: “I’m messed up, but … please don’t give up on me. Everyone else has.”
The line that had me almost spraying my coffee: “Church was for people who had their act together.” (I certainly don’t and that’s why I go!)
The oh-my-gosh-let-me-gush: He brought her an emotional support donut!
This one is worthy of ALL the stars!!!!
February 17, 2026
Love Undercover by Mandi Blake
Book 6 in the Love in Blackwater Series
Christian Romance Series
WHAT AN ENDING TO AN AWESOME CHRISTIAN FICTION SERIES! FRIENDS! READ. THIS. SERIES! 👏👏👏👏 Mandi brings SOOO much to the table in this series and she ended it so beautifully. Loved reading with my friend Melissa!
Blog Post: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
Read if you love:
- Redemption in Christ in Books
- Clean, Christian Romance
- Suspense, Going Undercover Thread
- Found Family
- Great Friend Group
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Opposites Attract
We follow Zach and Lauren. Zach saved her life years ago, his brother abducted her and he never wanted to be involved in it as far as it went. He saved Lauren and ended up still going to prison for 4 years for his crimes. She visits him in prison over the years, showing him there is hope for him again. When he gets out, she helps him back on his feet and he helps her work through some repairs at her rental place and she gives him a second chance at life to start over. He's a bit grumpy but she isn't going to let that stop her from showing him God's true love.
But when trouble arises...what are they going to do? Go undercover of course....
I loved how Mandi took this in a suspense direction! Anytime she adds that type of storyline to her books, I love it! Zach and Lauren - I loved how Jesus really worked in this situation. Lauren felt that prompting from the Lord in her helping Zach.
This book kept me on edge, engaged, connected to the characters with the best friend group - all in all, a GREAT Christian Romance series! I highly recommend! Her books are always those feel good reads for me, and when she has some mild heavier topics, she handles them with care and with the redemptive love of Jesus. I appreciate it so much.
OH and I loved the bonus epilogue! We got to see everyone together from the series, it was AMAZING.
Thank you Mandi for sending me a copy to honestly read for review. All thoughts are my own.
content: clean romance, kisses only, mention of trafficking victim but brief and handled with care, mild violence, going undercover, brief drinking but shown as bad situation
Book 6 in the Love in Blackwater Series
Christian Romance Series
WHAT AN ENDING TO AN AWESOME CHRISTIAN FICTION SERIES! FRIENDS! READ. THIS. SERIES! 👏👏👏👏 Mandi brings SOOO much to the table in this series and she ended it so beautifully. Loved reading with my friend Melissa!
Blog Post: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
Read if you love:
- Redemption in Christ in Books
- Clean, Christian Romance
- Suspense, Going Undercover Thread
- Found Family
- Great Friend Group
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Opposites Attract
We follow Zach and Lauren. Zach saved her life years ago, his brother abducted her and he never wanted to be involved in it as far as it went. He saved Lauren and ended up still going to prison for 4 years for his crimes. She visits him in prison over the years, showing him there is hope for him again. When he gets out, she helps him back on his feet and he helps her work through some repairs at her rental place and she gives him a second chance at life to start over. He's a bit grumpy but she isn't going to let that stop her from showing him God's true love.
But when trouble arises...what are they going to do? Go undercover of course....
I loved how Mandi took this in a suspense direction! Anytime she adds that type of storyline to her books, I love it! Zach and Lauren - I loved how Jesus really worked in this situation. Lauren felt that prompting from the Lord in her helping Zach.
This book kept me on edge, engaged, connected to the characters with the best friend group - all in all, a GREAT Christian Romance series! I highly recommend! Her books are always those feel good reads for me, and when she has some mild heavier topics, she handles them with care and with the redemptive love of Jesus. I appreciate it so much.
OH and I loved the bonus epilogue! We got to see everyone together from the series, it was AMAZING.
Thank you Mandi for sending me a copy to honestly read for review. All thoughts are my own.
content: clean romance, kisses only, mention of trafficking victim but brief and handled with care, mild violence, going undercover, brief drinking but shown as bad situation
Review of advance copy
Yep... I did it guys, I finished the entire book in one day- and now I want to cry for hours that this series has officially ended😭😭😭😭
that being said it was ABSOLUTELY AMAZING, and I cant wait to work on my full review!!!
that being said it was ABSOLUTELY AMAZING, and I cant wait to work on my full review!!!
February 8, 2026
This contemporary Christian romance with suspense was amazing. When Lauren was abducted at the end of book one of this series by Zach and his brother, I never could have expected that she would get matched up with Zach. This book is full of redemption and faith and forgiveness. After Zach gets out of prison, Lauren comes to pick him up and helps him reintegrate into society. However, the pull of his life before is strong and he stumbles. I devoured this book. While Lauren and Zach both had troubled childhoods, Lauren went the opposite way as Zach and is a straight-laced librarian with multiple degrees. This opposites attract, slowburn romance was super sweet to see. Zach is such a protector and they had so many sweet moments together. I am sad to see this series end. I am hoping we will see these characters and some new friends we made in the next series. The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 2.
I received an eARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an eARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Y'all, this book was incredible. I was rooting for Lauren and Zach from the first chapter. I wanted them both to succeed, grow, learn to love. I was 1000% in!
Zach was a softie under a hardened outer shell. I loved watching him learn that there was more to life than the criminal family he had been born into. I loved seeing him learn how to love, to let people care about him AND to find a home in Lauren.
Lauren was an incredibly special character. I loved how strong she is and how she leads with love in everything she does. I doubt I could have been as brave and forgiving as she was toward Zach and I admire her for that!
All in all, this book has everything! The suspense, the faith, the found family and the love! It was a spectacular end to this Blackwater series. And OMG do not miss the epilogue! It was perfect!!!
Zach was a softie under a hardened outer shell. I loved watching him learn that there was more to life than the criminal family he had been born into. I loved seeing him learn how to love, to let people care about him AND to find a home in Lauren.
Lauren was an incredibly special character. I loved how strong she is and how she leads with love in everything she does. I doubt I could have been as brave and forgiving as she was toward Zach and I admire her for that!
All in all, this book has everything! The suspense, the faith, the found family and the love! It was a spectacular end to this Blackwater series. And OMG do not miss the epilogue! It was perfect!!!
February 17, 2026
Hands down my most anticipated read of the whole series! I love a good redemption character arc and we get that in this sweet story! I love the contrasts of light and dark portrayed throughout this story! Definitely don't want to miss this series!
I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
February 17, 2026
This book definitely doesn’t start out with a meet-cute, but it’s a great book about healing, redemption, and forgiveness. As with all of Mandi Blake’s books, it’s a well-written, clean Christian romance that you’ll want to read in one sitting. I’m sad this is the last book in the series. I highly recommend this and the entire series.
February 16, 2026
4.8/5
🚨TW: mentions about being abducted/kidnapped, mentions of drug overdosed, accident, almost die
Favourite Moments
🕶 She visited him and fetch him when he just got out of prison (can’t spoil it)
🕶 He helped her to fix her house and also, she let him stay rent free the house that she wants to rent out. (can’t spoil it)
🕶 She believe that he can change and also, she leading him to God and telling him that God loves him.
🕶 Moments with her friends.
🕶 They opened up to each other and show their vulnerable side to each other.
🕶 They protect each other.
🕶 Them going undercover trying to find out about Anthony and also catching the head of the illegal organization. (can’t spoil it)
(lots more)
Swoony Moments
🕶 He loves, cares and protects her.
🕶 He tries his best to fix her house and also try his best to learn how to cook .
🕶 He makes sure that she is alright and always there for her when she needs him.
🕶 He will do whatever to keep her safe.
🕶 He listens to her telling him about how God loves and cares for him.
🕶 He shows his vulnerable side to her.
Synopsis
Lauren
A sweet woman who is finding her missing cousin. She is smart, good at what she does and always see the good in people. At times she had nightmares of the day that she is abducted and also her childhood days that she was abused.
Zach
A man who previously abducted Lauren along with his brother but he tried to talk it out with his brother to let Lauren go because she is innocent.
Though Lauren still had nightmares of that day, she overheard the conversation of Zach and his brother on that day and knew that he wants to save her. When he was in jail, she often go and visit him. Things gets interesting when she came and fetch him on the day of his release and asked him to work for her to fix her home and even let him stay for free. Will he accept? Or will he go back to his old ways? Will she able to help him to see that he can change? What? They even need to go undercover for something? Read Love Undercover to find out.
Review
Love this couple so much. Love how Lauren always sees the good side of people and also always believe that people deserve another chance in live and believe that a person can change. The way she encourage Zach and lead Zach to God who loves him very much. Love that Zach also is opened to listening to her telling him about God.
Love that they opened up to each other and be there for each other when they need each other. And love Lauren relies on God and eventually Zach too. They worked together along with Asa and Dawson in finding Anthony, her cousin who is missing.
I relate to Lauren especially the part where she is reading the Bible. For me is that there is one part of my life I couldn’t get the verses into my brain but I know that God is with me all the time but it’s just so hard to get it to my brain. I’m grateful to the members in my church who prayed for me. Well, my mental health is still healing but it is better now because God is with me.
Love that the people around them who are always worried for them and also prayed for them even helping to lead Zach and Anthony in Bible study to help them understand more.
There are suspense and action in this story which make you not want to put down the book.
What I learn?
As humans in this fallen world, we still do mistakes in life doesn’t mean that we are Christians that means our life is a bed of roses. At times we will fall into sin but with God’s help we will sin lesser.
God is a forgiving God and He give us chances just like He gave Jonah (the story of Jonah and the Big Fish from the Bible) chances too and also, we also should love the unlovable and also see the good in them just like Lauren who see good in Zach and Anthony.
P.S Anthony and his sister Zoe are a great pair of siblings hopefully Mandi will write their happily ever after too.
I was gifted complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own. Thanks @mandi_blake_author for the ARC.
This is the 6th book of Love in Blackwater Series. If you haven’t read the previous books of the series please do.
You can purchase this book on Amazon and it is available in KU.
🚨TW: mentions about being abducted/kidnapped, mentions of drug overdosed, accident, almost die
Favourite Moments
🕶 She visited him and fetch him when he just got out of prison (can’t spoil it)
🕶 He helped her to fix her house and also, she let him stay rent free the house that she wants to rent out. (can’t spoil it)
🕶 She believe that he can change and also, she leading him to God and telling him that God loves him.
🕶 Moments with her friends.
🕶 They opened up to each other and show their vulnerable side to each other.
🕶 They protect each other.
🕶 Them going undercover trying to find out about Anthony and also catching the head of the illegal organization. (can’t spoil it)
(lots more)
Swoony Moments
🕶 He loves, cares and protects her.
🕶 He tries his best to fix her house and also try his best to learn how to cook .
🕶 He makes sure that she is alright and always there for her when she needs him.
🕶 He will do whatever to keep her safe.
🕶 He listens to her telling him about how God loves and cares for him.
🕶 He shows his vulnerable side to her.
Synopsis
Lauren
A sweet woman who is finding her missing cousin. She is smart, good at what she does and always see the good in people. At times she had nightmares of the day that she is abducted and also her childhood days that she was abused.
Zach
A man who previously abducted Lauren along with his brother but he tried to talk it out with his brother to let Lauren go because she is innocent.
Though Lauren still had nightmares of that day, she overheard the conversation of Zach and his brother on that day and knew that he wants to save her. When he was in jail, she often go and visit him. Things gets interesting when she came and fetch him on the day of his release and asked him to work for her to fix her home and even let him stay for free. Will he accept? Or will he go back to his old ways? Will she able to help him to see that he can change? What? They even need to go undercover for something? Read Love Undercover to find out.
Review
Love this couple so much. Love how Lauren always sees the good side of people and also always believe that people deserve another chance in live and believe that a person can change. The way she encourage Zach and lead Zach to God who loves him very much. Love that Zach also is opened to listening to her telling him about God.
Love that they opened up to each other and be there for each other when they need each other. And love Lauren relies on God and eventually Zach too. They worked together along with Asa and Dawson in finding Anthony, her cousin who is missing.
I relate to Lauren especially the part where she is reading the Bible. For me is that there is one part of my life I couldn’t get the verses into my brain but I know that God is with me all the time but it’s just so hard to get it to my brain. I’m grateful to the members in my church who prayed for me. Well, my mental health is still healing but it is better now because God is with me.
Love that the people around them who are always worried for them and also prayed for them even helping to lead Zach and Anthony in Bible study to help them understand more.
There are suspense and action in this story which make you not want to put down the book.
What I learn?
As humans in this fallen world, we still do mistakes in life doesn’t mean that we are Christians that means our life is a bed of roses. At times we will fall into sin but with God’s help we will sin lesser.
God is a forgiving God and He give us chances just like He gave Jonah (the story of Jonah and the Big Fish from the Bible) chances too and also, we also should love the unlovable and also see the good in them just like Lauren who see good in Zach and Anthony.
P.S Anthony and his sister Zoe are a great pair of siblings hopefully Mandi will write their happily ever after too.
I was gifted complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own. Thanks @mandi_blake_author for the ARC.
This is the 6th book of Love in Blackwater Series. If you haven’t read the previous books of the series please do.
You can purchase this book on Amazon and it is available in KU.
February 26, 2026
Beautiful in every way!
Zach Wilson never meant for the kidnapping to spiral out of control, but when his brother took things too far, Zach chose to save Lauren Vincent, one good choice in a life full of bad ones.
After serving time, he’s stunned to find Lauren doesn’t hate him, especially when she needs his help to track down her missing cousin. Living next door and working together as old threats resurface, they’re both forced to face their past and decide if they’re brave enough to risk their hearts for a second chance.
What you'll love:
redeemed criminal & librarian
dual pov
second chances
he falls first
grumpy/sunshine
protective MMC
moments of suspense
beautiful faith thread
emotional healing
This story completely stole my heart! It’s a sweet and swoony romance between two people who deserve a second chance at love and happiness, but it is so much more than that! It is a powerful story of redemption and forgiveness, of choosing light over darkness, and of daring to believe that broken pieces can be made whole again. It left me in tears in the very best way
Lauren is the very definition of kindness, grace, and refusing to judge someone by their worst mistake. She doesn’t see Zach only as the man who once kidnapped her; she sees beyond his past to the man he truly is underneath the guilt and hardened exterior, and even more importantly, the man he has the potential to become.
Zach is drawn to Lauren not only because of her beauty, but because of the warmth and light she carries so naturally. She represents everything he fears he doesn’t deserve, yet longs for with his whole heart. Watching their relationship evolve from uncomfortable and uncertain, to tentative friendship, and then to a deep and abiding love gave me ALL. THE. FEELS. Their journey was rough and every step was earned, but that's what makes it so powerful.
This Christian romance with a hint of suspense kept me turning pages long past my bedtime. The threads of faith are beautifully woven into the story, never preachy but deeply heartfelt. As the finale to an unforgettable series, this story delivers everything I hoped for! You do not have to read the other books first, but there is no way to read just one Mandi Blake book. Once you start, you will want to read them all.
If you love stories of faith, redemption, and hard-won happily ever afters, this book absolutely belongs on your shelf!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
CW: kisses only, mentions of abuse and trauma (past), kidnapping (past)
Zach Wilson never meant for the kidnapping to spiral out of control, but when his brother took things too far, Zach chose to save Lauren Vincent, one good choice in a life full of bad ones.
After serving time, he’s stunned to find Lauren doesn’t hate him, especially when she needs his help to track down her missing cousin. Living next door and working together as old threats resurface, they’re both forced to face their past and decide if they’re brave enough to risk their hearts for a second chance.
What you'll love:
redeemed criminal & librarian
dual pov
second chances
he falls first
grumpy/sunshine
protective MMC
moments of suspense
beautiful faith thread
emotional healing
This story completely stole my heart! It’s a sweet and swoony romance between two people who deserve a second chance at love and happiness, but it is so much more than that! It is a powerful story of redemption and forgiveness, of choosing light over darkness, and of daring to believe that broken pieces can be made whole again. It left me in tears in the very best way
Lauren is the very definition of kindness, grace, and refusing to judge someone by their worst mistake. She doesn’t see Zach only as the man who once kidnapped her; she sees beyond his past to the man he truly is underneath the guilt and hardened exterior, and even more importantly, the man he has the potential to become.
Zach is drawn to Lauren not only because of her beauty, but because of the warmth and light she carries so naturally. She represents everything he fears he doesn’t deserve, yet longs for with his whole heart. Watching their relationship evolve from uncomfortable and uncertain, to tentative friendship, and then to a deep and abiding love gave me ALL. THE. FEELS. Their journey was rough and every step was earned, but that's what makes it so powerful.
This Christian romance with a hint of suspense kept me turning pages long past my bedtime. The threads of faith are beautifully woven into the story, never preachy but deeply heartfelt. As the finale to an unforgettable series, this story delivers everything I hoped for! You do not have to read the other books first, but there is no way to read just one Mandi Blake book. Once you start, you will want to read them all.
If you love stories of faith, redemption, and hard-won happily ever afters, this book absolutely belongs on your shelf!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
CW: kisses only, mentions of abuse and trauma (past), kidnapping (past)
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ahh, I loved this one! It was a lovely story about redemption and learning to trust God. I am so sad to see that this series has come to an end but I am so excited to see what is to come. Love Undercover is the last book in Mandi Blake’s Love in Blackwater series.
I loved both Lauren and Zach! They were so sweet together and I loved the growth of their relationship. Lauren’s faith had been tested through the years but I love how she continually trusted God. Life had not been kind to Zach and he honestly was just trying to survive. But Lauren shook up his life and helped him see that God could use everything for good.
I adored Lauren! She saw the good in the world and strove to do good. I also love how we got to see that although she trusted God, she still struggled at times with her faith and finding hope. She was such a sweet character who wanted to help Zach and find her cousin. She had been through a lot but she could also see God’s faithfulness. Throughout the book, she was challenged to rely more on God and continually love others. It was cute how Zach became her person and helped be her protector.
Poor Zach, he had been through a lot. He was hardened by life and honestly didn’t see how good could ever happen to him. But I loved his growth throughout the book as he learned to choose good over evil. He was such a sweetheart to Lauren and although he was still figuring himself out, I loved how he tried to protect her in his own way. It was cool to see Zach grow to see the good in others and himself, choosing to trust God.
This was such a wonderful book! I didn’t want to put it down. I loved the blend of romance, faith, and action. There were so many different parts and the characters were just lovely. I loved that we got to see old characters and it made me want to re-read their stories. We also got to meet some new characters who I hope get their own stories. I would totally recommend this book! Love Undercover is a clean Christian romance.
I received a complimentary copy
I loved both Lauren and Zach! They were so sweet together and I loved the growth of their relationship. Lauren’s faith had been tested through the years but I love how she continually trusted God. Life had not been kind to Zach and he honestly was just trying to survive. But Lauren shook up his life and helped him see that God could use everything for good.
I adored Lauren! She saw the good in the world and strove to do good. I also love how we got to see that although she trusted God, she still struggled at times with her faith and finding hope. She was such a sweet character who wanted to help Zach and find her cousin. She had been through a lot but she could also see God’s faithfulness. Throughout the book, she was challenged to rely more on God and continually love others. It was cute how Zach became her person and helped be her protector.
Poor Zach, he had been through a lot. He was hardened by life and honestly didn’t see how good could ever happen to him. But I loved his growth throughout the book as he learned to choose good over evil. He was such a sweetheart to Lauren and although he was still figuring himself out, I loved how he tried to protect her in his own way. It was cool to see Zach grow to see the good in others and himself, choosing to trust God.
This was such a wonderful book! I didn’t want to put it down. I loved the blend of romance, faith, and action. There were so many different parts and the characters were just lovely. I loved that we got to see old characters and it made me want to re-read their stories. We also got to meet some new characters who I hope get their own stories. I would totally recommend this book! Love Undercover is a clean Christian romance.
I received a complimentary copy
February 17, 2026
Finally!! How I waited for Lauren’s and Zach’s story - and it was absolutely worth the wait!
I love Lauren so much, she is an amazing character. Sweet and caring, loyal and brave, honest and forgiving.
While Zach was one of the men involved in her kidnapping, he was also one of the reasons her life was spared years before. So he spent the last years in prison where Lauren at one point started to visit him.
The reasons for why she visited him or why she offered him a place to stay didn’t 100% convince me, especially after Zach categorically denied helping her to search for her cousin, but I could quickly look past that and just enjoy seeing how their connection grew.
They were amazing together. Zach desperately needed someone to believe in him, to give him a second chance where he didn’t even believe in himself. And so Lauren was the only one who even could point him to Jesus (he wouldn’t listen to anybody else) and I really appreciated that she put her relationship with God before her growing feelings for Zack.
To be completely honest - the first kiss came too early and too sudden for my personal taste and it didn’t align with my picture of Lauren, but I loved how she handled everything AFTER this first kiss. There was definitely chemistry between the two of them, but also a very sweet emotional connection between two people who had been deeply hurt in the past.
I’m a bit sad that this series ended, but it was such a deserving end to a great series. This book had everything - strong faith themes, characters that feel real, a suspense/mystery plot with a lot of twists and turns and a sweet and tender romance between a flawed but very protective ex-criminal and a strong but vulnerable woman.
In the end it’s a book about healing and forgiveness and about how God can turn around everyone’s story, no matter how hopeless it might seem.
* Thank you to the author for letting me read an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.
I love Lauren so much, she is an amazing character. Sweet and caring, loyal and brave, honest and forgiving.
While Zach was one of the men involved in her kidnapping, he was also one of the reasons her life was spared years before. So he spent the last years in prison where Lauren at one point started to visit him.
The reasons for why she visited him or why she offered him a place to stay didn’t 100% convince me, especially after Zach categorically denied helping her to search for her cousin, but I could quickly look past that and just enjoy seeing how their connection grew.
They were amazing together. Zach desperately needed someone to believe in him, to give him a second chance where he didn’t even believe in himself. And so Lauren was the only one who even could point him to Jesus (he wouldn’t listen to anybody else) and I really appreciated that she put her relationship with God before her growing feelings for Zack.
To be completely honest - the first kiss came too early and too sudden for my personal taste and it didn’t align with my picture of Lauren, but I loved how she handled everything AFTER this first kiss. There was definitely chemistry between the two of them, but also a very sweet emotional connection between two people who had been deeply hurt in the past.
I’m a bit sad that this series ended, but it was such a deserving end to a great series. This book had everything - strong faith themes, characters that feel real, a suspense/mystery plot with a lot of twists and turns and a sweet and tender romance between a flawed but very protective ex-criminal and a strong but vulnerable woman.
In the end it’s a book about healing and forgiveness and about how God can turn around everyone’s story, no matter how hopeless it might seem.
* Thank you to the author for letting me read an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.
February 26, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
I’m gonna start out by saying that I really do love Mandi’s writing and her books. The last book in the series was a 5 star read for me. However, I did not enjoy this one as much as I had hoped. The writing was still fantastic, it was the characters themselves I didn’t really connect with. I was so excited for this book and seeing how Mandi was going to redeem Zach. I was adopted out of foster care and was really looking forward to Lauren’s story as well since she was also in foster care.
As always I loved the faith message. Mandi does a great job of showing the gospel. I loved being back in Blackwater and seeing all of our friends.
Now to what I didn’t love:
Lauren is supposed to be a Christian, but she is constantly putting herself in a compromising situations with Zach, who is not a Christian. She even tells him they can’t kiss again or have a relationship until he is a Christian. I don’t know if I missed it, but I didn’t see a part in the book where he repented or confesses to be a Christian before they actually start their relationship. They even sleep in the same bed at one point.
Lauren also has three masters degrees and we’re supposed to believe that she is proficient with reading people and law-enforcement tactics. She puts herself in dangerous situations without thinking about the consequences, yet none of her law enforcement friends see an issue with it because she has a masters in criminal justice. That means nothing because she has had zero on the job training. I just wish we had some more backstory on why she was qualified, because up until now she was just seen as naïve.
I love how Mandi writes her epilogues for the last books in each of her series, because we get a sneak peek into the lives of the rest of the characters from previous books. Even though I didn’t enjoy this book as much as I had hoped, I would still recommend this whole series.
*I was sent a complimentary copy with no expectations for a favorable review.
I’m gonna start out by saying that I really do love Mandi’s writing and her books. The last book in the series was a 5 star read for me. However, I did not enjoy this one as much as I had hoped. The writing was still fantastic, it was the characters themselves I didn’t really connect with. I was so excited for this book and seeing how Mandi was going to redeem Zach. I was adopted out of foster care and was really looking forward to Lauren’s story as well since she was also in foster care.
As always I loved the faith message. Mandi does a great job of showing the gospel. I loved being back in Blackwater and seeing all of our friends.
Now to what I didn’t love:
Lauren is supposed to be a Christian, but she is constantly putting herself in a compromising situations with Zach, who is not a Christian. She even tells him they can’t kiss again or have a relationship until he is a Christian. I don’t know if I missed it, but I didn’t see a part in the book where he repented or confesses to be a Christian before they actually start their relationship. They even sleep in the same bed at one point.
Lauren also has three masters degrees and we’re supposed to believe that she is proficient with reading people and law-enforcement tactics. She puts herself in dangerous situations without thinking about the consequences, yet none of her law enforcement friends see an issue with it because she has a masters in criminal justice. That means nothing because she has had zero on the job training. I just wish we had some more backstory on why she was qualified, because up until now she was just seen as naïve.
I love how Mandi writes her epilogues for the last books in each of her series, because we get a sneak peek into the lives of the rest of the characters from previous books. Even though I didn’t enjoy this book as much as I had hoped, I would still recommend this whole series.
*I was sent a complimentary copy with no expectations for a favorable review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
I’ve been waiting in high anticipation for this book and it did not disappoint. I’ve read every book series from Blackwater by Mandi Blake and I am so happy I found her as an author because my reading journey has been sparse between the years because I didn’t think I could find books that valued God and also had that swoon, worthy romance that wouldn’t compromise my convictions, but when I found Mandi Blake, that was an opening to a world where I was no longer ashamed to read romance because of my convictions.
I loved every single book that she’s written, but this book took it home for me a quite similar story to Gage and Hadley in book 3, but not as similar to where I felt like I was reading the same thing. It was so nice to see all the characters from the series books one to five come together in this seeing how Gage was able to talk with Zach about how he was able to move on from his past, I love that God‘s unconditional love was shown through Lauren despite what she had been through herself, and support from the people around Zach throughout the story. It’s such a real thing to feel worthless, and to feel like you don’t belong in a world when you don’t know who Jesus is and so I enjoyed every amazing moment of this book seeing someone discover Christ for the first time. If I could give six stars, I would.
I love how everything comes full circle in the end of her books every end of series from what I’ve read so far, she summarizes each couple in the bonus epilogue and I love it so much because you get to dive into the relationships that you’ve invested in and loved as a reader. I am so happy I got to read this book early since it released on Amazon, but I am so sad to be letting the characters of Blackwater go. There will certainly be rereads on my end.
Thank you Mandi Blake for writing these stories you have a gift. God bless you.
I loved every single book that she’s written, but this book took it home for me a quite similar story to Gage and Hadley in book 3, but not as similar to where I felt like I was reading the same thing. It was so nice to see all the characters from the series books one to five come together in this seeing how Gage was able to talk with Zach about how he was able to move on from his past, I love that God‘s unconditional love was shown through Lauren despite what she had been through herself, and support from the people around Zach throughout the story. It’s such a real thing to feel worthless, and to feel like you don’t belong in a world when you don’t know who Jesus is and so I enjoyed every amazing moment of this book seeing someone discover Christ for the first time. If I could give six stars, I would.
I love how everything comes full circle in the end of her books every end of series from what I’ve read so far, she summarizes each couple in the bonus epilogue and I love it so much because you get to dive into the relationships that you’ve invested in and loved as a reader. I am so happy I got to read this book early since it released on Amazon, but I am so sad to be letting the characters of Blackwater go. There will certainly be rereads on my end.
Thank you Mandi Blake for writing these stories you have a gift. God bless you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2026
I read Love in the Wild a while back and really enjoyed it. I'm not big on reading a whole series, so I hop around to stories that have a synopsis that pulls me in. Both Love in the Wild and this one had "morally grey" MMCs/ heavy redemption arc MMCs...big shocker there, lol
I really enjoyed this story. Lauren was sweet, though seemingly naive (even though people kept telling me how smart she was. Ugh, this happened twice already in stories I've read this year) for her more mature age (somewhere in her 30s) and background. It didn't deter me from liking her, thankfully.
Zach was harder to warm up to, as he is just so sarcastic and so biting with his words. With Gage, you got a feeling he didn't fit in with his background. With Zach you totally believe it.
This makes what Lauren does feel stupid, even though it worked out. In real life he carries ALL the red flags.
All in all though, this was a sweet story that was fun to read on a road trip. I love a good baddie redemption arc and this gave it to me!
I really enjoyed this story. Lauren was sweet, though seemingly naive (even though people kept telling me how smart she was. Ugh, this happened twice already in stories I've read this year) for her more mature age (somewhere in her 30s) and background. It didn't deter me from liking her, thankfully.
Zach was harder to warm up to, as he is just so sarcastic and so biting with his words. With Gage, you got a feeling he didn't fit in with his background. With Zach you totally believe it.
This makes what Lauren does feel stupid, even though it worked out. In real life he carries ALL the red flags.
All in all though, this was a sweet story that was fun to read on a road trip. I love a good baddie redemption arc and this gave it to me!
February 17, 2026
Zach helped abduct Lauren, then saved her life. She should want to run far away when he gets out of prison, but a hope that he can help her find her lost cousin has her picking him up from the prison and giving him a home in a cottage that needs fixing up. Unable to look past the actions that had endangered her and convinced that escape from his old life is impossible, Zach works to distance himself from Lauren - mostly. But what he does see of her gradually make him want to believe in forgiveness and second chances. The past has long arms, though, and when it comes calling, will they come safely out the other side?
An amazing story of forgiveness and redemption. I've loved this whole series, and this was definitely no exception. After seeing Lauren go through what she did in a previous book, seeing her gradually develop a relationship with Zach was beautiful. Zach didn't exactly make himself an easy person to love (in fact, he did his best to push Lauren away, over and over again), so watching her patience with him was inspiring - even if it was sometimes selfishly motivated and certainly not universal. But seeing them gradually get to the stage where things are really two-way rather than just her trying to get through to him made it all so worthwhile. Throw in some moments of humour (one particular scene where Zach learned a lot he'd had no idea of is hilarious), some great friends providing support but also pushback, and the element of suspense and danger toward the end, and the result is a great story that kept me engaged from the first page and simultaneously satisfied and disappointed when I got to the last. Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
An amazing story of forgiveness and redemption. I've loved this whole series, and this was definitely no exception. After seeing Lauren go through what she did in a previous book, seeing her gradually develop a relationship with Zach was beautiful. Zach didn't exactly make himself an easy person to love (in fact, he did his best to push Lauren away, over and over again), so watching her patience with him was inspiring - even if it was sometimes selfishly motivated and certainly not universal. But seeing them gradually get to the stage where things are really two-way rather than just her trying to get through to him made it all so worthwhile. Throw in some moments of humour (one particular scene where Zach learned a lot he'd had no idea of is hilarious), some great friends providing support but also pushback, and the element of suspense and danger toward the end, and the result is a great story that kept me engaged from the first page and simultaneously satisfied and disappointed when I got to the last. Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love Undercover delivers a powerful story of redemption that will resonate deeply with Christian romantic suspense readers. This is an unlikely love story done beautifully, with emotional depth and spiritual truth woven throughout.
Zach Wilson was imprisoned for abducting Lauren Vincent, yet she becomes the very person who extends forgiveness to him. What begins as an unlikely friendship slowly transforms into something deeper as Lauren's Christ-like love creates space for healing and change. Fans of the Love in Blackwater Series will enjoy seeing familiar faces, though this book works perfectly as a standalone.
This book is a stunning picture of God's redemptive power. The grumpy/sunshine dynamic between hardened Zach and Lauren who radiates Christ’s love works wonderfully. Lauren shines as a character who truly lives out her faith. She doesn't just talk about Christ's love; she embodies it in every interaction. Watching Zach's transformation unfold through her influence is both moving and authentic. The romance feels impossible at the start, which makes it all the more satisfying when these two broken people find healing together.
The story opens in a dark place. Zach begins as a hard, seemingly irredeemable character, which may challenge some readers. Lauren also experiences recollections of her abduction and faces another dangerous situation later in the book. Readers sensitive to these elements should be aware, though these difficult moments ultimately serve the redemptive arc powerfully.
I highly recommend Love undercover for Christian romantic suspense readers who appreciate deep themes of forgiveness and transformation alongside their romance.
Zach Wilson was imprisoned for abducting Lauren Vincent, yet she becomes the very person who extends forgiveness to him. What begins as an unlikely friendship slowly transforms into something deeper as Lauren's Christ-like love creates space for healing and change. Fans of the Love in Blackwater Series will enjoy seeing familiar faces, though this book works perfectly as a standalone.
This book is a stunning picture of God's redemptive power. The grumpy/sunshine dynamic between hardened Zach and Lauren who radiates Christ’s love works wonderfully. Lauren shines as a character who truly lives out her faith. She doesn't just talk about Christ's love; she embodies it in every interaction. Watching Zach's transformation unfold through her influence is both moving and authentic. The romance feels impossible at the start, which makes it all the more satisfying when these two broken people find healing together.
The story opens in a dark place. Zach begins as a hard, seemingly irredeemable character, which may challenge some readers. Lauren also experiences recollections of her abduction and faces another dangerous situation later in the book. Readers sensitive to these elements should be aware, though these difficult moments ultimately serve the redemptive arc powerfully.
I highly recommend Love undercover for Christian romantic suspense readers who appreciate deep themes of forgiveness and transformation alongside their romance.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’ll be honest, I’ve loved every one of the books in this series. I don’t generally like suspense books, but I feel like these books have just enough to keep it excited but not so much as to cause constant stress as you read. It helps that they are uplifting and positive as the characters are reminded to look to and trust in God despite the situation they find themselves in.
Love Undercover has been just as good as the rest of the series, if not better. While I would be horrified if my daughters ever made some of the choices Lauren did, it made for a fantastic story. Seeing inside Lauren’s head, it was easy to understand why she made the choices she did. Lauren was easy to love from the start. Zach, well, he quickly wormed his way into my affections despite his past.
I loved all the appearances of past characters. It helped to bring everything together as a cohesive whole. It’s fun to see where the past couples have gotten to and how they are continuing to live out their callings.
I hope this isn’t the end of books set in Blackwater. I’ve loved getting to know the characters and I hope Mandi has more stories up her sleeve. I’m especially hoping to learn more about Anthony and Zoe in the future. They seem like wonderful characters and I hope we get to know them more.
This book had a strong decision theology bend, especially during one conversation between characters. If that is what you are looking for, you found it. If it isn’t, be aware it is there but it is still an exciting book.
I received an ARC. My review is my own.
Love Undercover has been just as good as the rest of the series, if not better. While I would be horrified if my daughters ever made some of the choices Lauren did, it made for a fantastic story. Seeing inside Lauren’s head, it was easy to understand why she made the choices she did. Lauren was easy to love from the start. Zach, well, he quickly wormed his way into my affections despite his past.
I loved all the appearances of past characters. It helped to bring everything together as a cohesive whole. It’s fun to see where the past couples have gotten to and how they are continuing to live out their callings.
I hope this isn’t the end of books set in Blackwater. I’ve loved getting to know the characters and I hope Mandi has more stories up her sleeve. I’m especially hoping to learn more about Anthony and Zoe in the future. They seem like wonderful characters and I hope we get to know them more.
This book had a strong decision theology bend, especially during one conversation between characters. If that is what you are looking for, you found it. If it isn’t, be aware it is there but it is still an exciting book.
I received an ARC. My review is my own.
February 16, 2026
Love Undercover ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️5/5
✝️Christian Romance
👥 Dual 3rd Person POV
⚠️TW: This book touches on/contains violence, incarceration, drugs/weapons and mentions/memories abduction, childhood abuse and death
I remember when I first read the description for this book. I was almost done with the other books and the series and was looking ahead to see what else I had to look forward to. Imagine my surprise when I see that Lauren falls for Zach! First, I was stunned, but then I was so excited to see what Mandi was going to do with these characters and what she was going to have God do in their lives! I LOVE a redemption arc, especially when it’s written in relation to God’s grace. Zach and Lauren’s story is so incredible, and there are so many things to treasure in it. I love how kind and compassionate Lauren is, how she extends forgiveness but still maintains healthy boundaries. And I absolutely adore the way Zach learned that God has gifted us a grace we can never outrun. There’s so much more I could say about this book, but instead I’ll just say this: every time I think of this wonderful novel, I can’t help but think of the song My Jesus by Anne Wilson. The whole book feels like that song is being sung to Zach. The themes of forgiveness, love, and redemption throughout this book are so beautifully executed; it’s a wonderful illustration showing how being loved by God and choosing to love Him in return puts us in a place to build relationships on a foundation that cannot be shaken by the circumstances of the world. It was a truly fantastic read!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️5/5
✝️Christian Romance
👥 Dual 3rd Person POV
⚠️TW: This book touches on/contains violence, incarceration, drugs/weapons and mentions/memories abduction, childhood abuse and death
I remember when I first read the description for this book. I was almost done with the other books and the series and was looking ahead to see what else I had to look forward to. Imagine my surprise when I see that Lauren falls for Zach! First, I was stunned, but then I was so excited to see what Mandi was going to do with these characters and what she was going to have God do in their lives! I LOVE a redemption arc, especially when it’s written in relation to God’s grace. Zach and Lauren’s story is so incredible, and there are so many things to treasure in it. I love how kind and compassionate Lauren is, how she extends forgiveness but still maintains healthy boundaries. And I absolutely adore the way Zach learned that God has gifted us a grace we can never outrun. There’s so much more I could say about this book, but instead I’ll just say this: every time I think of this wonderful novel, I can’t help but think of the song My Jesus by Anne Wilson. The whole book feels like that song is being sung to Zach. The themes of forgiveness, love, and redemption throughout this book are so beautifully executed; it’s a wonderful illustration showing how being loved by God and choosing to love Him in return puts us in a place to build relationships on a foundation that cannot be shaken by the circumstances of the world. It was a truly fantastic read!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’ve adored every book in the Love in Blackwater series, and I’m so bummed it’s the last one. The characters were incredibly well-developed. Lauren is such a sweet soul, but she’s also incredibly strong—her faith, trust in God, and grace in her life are truly inspiring. I can’t imagine caring about someone who once kidnapped me, much less visiting him in prison and being there when he gets out. She’s definitely brave. I loved how she brought God to Zach and kept reminding him that he was never too far gone for God’s forgiveness. It showed him he didn’t have to return to the life he had been living. He wasn’t the only one with a troubled past—she just handled them differently, and so could he. It was wonderful to see him start to trust God.
This book had a lot of suspense, and I couldn’t put it down. Mandi Blake’s books always have twists and turns, and this one was no exception.
I also enjoyed seeing characters from the books before this one. It felt like catching up with old friends.
I enjoyed the epilogue and was happy it was included. It’s a fantastic end to a wonderful series, but I’m still not ready to say goodbye to them all yet.
This book had a lot of suspense, and I couldn’t put it down. Mandi Blake’s books always have twists and turns, and this one was no exception.
I also enjoyed seeing characters from the books before this one. It felt like catching up with old friends.
I enjoyed the epilogue and was happy it was included. It’s a fantastic end to a wonderful series, but I’m still not ready to say goodbye to them all yet.
February 17, 2026
On Lauren Vincent's worst day ever, Zach Wilson was there. At first, he participated in her abduction but then he saved her. Three years later, when he is released from prison, she is there to pick him up and take him back home; to her home. Zach doesn't know what Lauren wants from him but he isn't worthy of her forgiveness or her help. He is a bad guy and will always be a good guy even if Lauren thinks there is good in him. When danger finds her again, Zach is determined to protect her again and disappear from her life. He is certain she would be better without him in her life.
This story was so beautiful. I loved how forgiving Lauren was and even after such horrible, traumatizing experiences, she trusts and has faith that God will lead her in her life. Zach doesn't believe in God and because of the horrible things that he has done, he is convinced he can't be redeemed or forgiven.
Mandi's stories are always wonderful and full of faith. They are real and emotion-filled and a wonderful way to spend a few hours to escape to a beautiful world created by a wonderful storyteller.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
This story was so beautiful. I loved how forgiving Lauren was and even after such horrible, traumatizing experiences, she trusts and has faith that God will lead her in her life. Zach doesn't believe in God and because of the horrible things that he has done, he is convinced he can't be redeemed or forgiven.
Mandi's stories are always wonderful and full of faith. They are real and emotion-filled and a wonderful way to spend a few hours to escape to a beautiful world created by a wonderful storyteller.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
February 18, 2026
The final installment of “Love in Blackwater” has been out for a couple days and it was the most perfect ending to one of my all-time favorite series 🥹 📚 💕
Lauren. She has a heart of gold 💛 I absolutely loved how she showed love, compassion, and forgiveness to all around her 💗 but that we also got to see her inner struggle with her faith and decisions ❤️🩹 Her character so perfectly showed how one individual can love so big, but also be struggling under the weight of it all 🥺🫶🏼🥹
Zach. He went through it, he truly did. When we meet him in book one he is on a one way track to prison 🚔 I loved watching him invite Lauren into his life and even more, I loved reading about him finding strength and forgiveness in Christs love and mercy 🤍 His friendships with the MMCs of the other books was hilarious 😂 and y’all this man is PROTECTIVE 🔥
This book had it all. Flawed, struggling, gritty, hurting characters 💔 But light, and joy, and love radiated through every page ☀️ Truly Mandi has a gift 💝 I highly recommend this and all the books in the series! 📚
Please listen to “Problem” by Cameron Whitcomb bc that song IS ZACH
⚠️ CW: organized crime, alcohol, smoking, innuendo, kidn*pping (in the past), trauma over ab*sive relationships, there are more but for the sake of spoilers I won’t list them! All are handled with grace and care ⚠️
Lauren. She has a heart of gold 💛 I absolutely loved how she showed love, compassion, and forgiveness to all around her 💗 but that we also got to see her inner struggle with her faith and decisions ❤️🩹 Her character so perfectly showed how one individual can love so big, but also be struggling under the weight of it all 🥺🫶🏼🥹
Zach. He went through it, he truly did. When we meet him in book one he is on a one way track to prison 🚔 I loved watching him invite Lauren into his life and even more, I loved reading about him finding strength and forgiveness in Christs love and mercy 🤍 His friendships with the MMCs of the other books was hilarious 😂 and y’all this man is PROTECTIVE 🔥
This book had it all. Flawed, struggling, gritty, hurting characters 💔 But light, and joy, and love radiated through every page ☀️ Truly Mandi has a gift 💝 I highly recommend this and all the books in the series! 📚
Please listen to “Problem” by Cameron Whitcomb bc that song IS ZACH
⚠️ CW: organized crime, alcohol, smoking, innuendo, kidn*pping (in the past), trauma over ab*sive relationships, there are more but for the sake of spoilers I won’t list them! All are handled with grace and care ⚠️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Awesome Book! Lauren grew up in an abusive home. Her cousin, Anthony, moved in with their family when she was younger and took the "hits" for her. Now she works with women in abusive situations. She is looking for Anthony who has been missing for 3 years. Zach grew up in an abusive home too. He and his brothers didn't know love. His older brother was killed. He and his younger brother kidnapped Lauren hoping she could tell them where Anthony was. Zach spent 3 years in prison. Lauren would visit him hoping he'd provide her with info on Anthony. When he was released, she picked him up and let him stay in the rental house on her property. It needed to be fixed up before she could rent it. For his labor, she would provide room and board. Zach is very cold. He has never had anyone care about him. Lauren is so sweet and so grounded in her faith. As she starts to chip away at him, he realizes he likes her. Such a great story as they both find healing. You see Zach softening and actually becoming friends with others around him. So, so good!
February 16, 2026
Loved Zach and Lauren's story! Zach and Lauren "met" when Zack and his brother abducted her, trying to get information from her about her cousin. Zach went to prison, and Lauren visited him, trying to get him to say he'd help her find her cousin. Now, Zach is out, and Lauren still wants him to help her. The more Zach is around Lauren, the more he changes from the man he was. Her faith and her love for Jesus have Zach questioning what he thought he knew, and he knows he wants what Lauren has, and he knows he's falling for Lauren, though he has no clue what love is. Zach's redemption and forgiveness with a cost, the cost of giving up control of our lives to God, and trusting Him to see us through. Zach finds out just how much God loves him through his friendship with Lauren, and from his friendship with Travis, Gage, and his employer, Matt Benson. Such a great book to end this series!!
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.
February 19, 2026
A fabulous end to the series!
I've looked forward to Lauren and Zach's story since I knew they'd been paired up. Their "meet-cute" occurred in Gage and Hadley's book... and was pretty horrific! 🫣😂 I honestly didn't know how Ms Blake was going to weave these two together, but she did a marvellous job with this romance.
I'm a sucker for broken characters, especially ones who need redemption by anyone's standards. The down-and-out, "worthless" ones always give a satisfying read, and Zach fit that bill to a T. It's often interesting when people like Zach are given a tough time in society, but often a tougher time within the Christian community. Mandi Blake reminds us that Christ's love is bigger and better... and we are worthy of accepting His redemption.
Loved Zach and Lauren's story, how she continued to visit him in prison without knowing why, but those visits set Zach on a new course without him realising, disrupting his "plans" for his life. It's fun when God "disrupts" our plans. 😁
Looking forward to returning to Silver Falls! 😉
I've looked forward to Lauren and Zach's story since I knew they'd been paired up. Their "meet-cute" occurred in Gage and Hadley's book... and was pretty horrific! 🫣😂 I honestly didn't know how Ms Blake was going to weave these two together, but she did a marvellous job with this romance.
I'm a sucker for broken characters, especially ones who need redemption by anyone's standards. The down-and-out, "worthless" ones always give a satisfying read, and Zach fit that bill to a T. It's often interesting when people like Zach are given a tough time in society, but often a tougher time within the Christian community. Mandi Blake reminds us that Christ's love is bigger and better... and we are worthy of accepting His redemption.
Loved Zach and Lauren's story, how she continued to visit him in prison without knowing why, but those visits set Zach on a new course without him realising, disrupting his "plans" for his life. It's fun when God "disrupts" our plans. 😁
Looking forward to returning to Silver Falls! 😉
February 21, 2026
Love Undercover - worth more than 5 stars!
I can't give Love Undercover enough stars as I am only allowed 5. The 6th and final book in Love in Blackwater is a must read! Zach and Lauren's story is laid on the foundation of faith - central to all of Mandi's stories. This book is also full of healing, forgiveness, redemption, and found family, witty banter especially between Zach and Lauren, along with some high stakes suspense.
Protective Hero: ✅️
Strong heroine ✅️
Zach is the definition of "touch her and die" or he would be had he not found Jesus.
I don't want to give away any spoilers, but Zach and Lauren's story kept me up multiple nights into early mornings. I didn't want to put it down!
Love Undercover ranks up in my top 5 Mandi Blake books and Zach and Lauren rank in my top 5 favorite couples. I love them all, but Zach and Lauren, along with Gage and Hadley from Book 3, and Colt in Remi from Better Together in Mandi's Wolf Creek Ranch all hold an extra special place in my heart.
I can't give Love Undercover enough stars as I am only allowed 5. The 6th and final book in Love in Blackwater is a must read! Zach and Lauren's story is laid on the foundation of faith - central to all of Mandi's stories. This book is also full of healing, forgiveness, redemption, and found family, witty banter especially between Zach and Lauren, along with some high stakes suspense.
Protective Hero: ✅️
Strong heroine ✅️
Zach is the definition of "touch her and die" or he would be had he not found Jesus.
I don't want to give away any spoilers, but Zach and Lauren's story kept me up multiple nights into early mornings. I didn't want to put it down!
Love Undercover ranks up in my top 5 Mandi Blake books and Zach and Lauren rank in my top 5 favorite couples. I love them all, but Zach and Lauren, along with Gage and Hadley from Book 3, and Colt in Remi from Better Together in Mandi's Wolf Creek Ranch all hold an extra special place in my heart.
February 18, 2026
Zack and Lauren’s story is one of forgiveness, faith, and redemption. Zach has spent the last few years in prison for his part in Lauren’s kidnapping. She has made it clear over the years that she has forgiven him, especially since he saved her from the dire plans his brothers had envisioned for her. Now that he is out of prison, Lauren is willing and able to help Zach readjust to civilian life. She helps him find his footing, a renewed faith, and a path forward. Along the way, their feelings for each other grow and deepen. That love serves to heal the emotional wounds from the pasts and give them a solid foundation, along with their faith, on which to build a future together. They also have a wonderful found family to support, advise and encourage them. This sweet, emotional story includes a bit of suspense and a few twists that make it even more satisfying to read.
This extraordinary book has my wholehearted recommendation.
This extraordinary book has my wholehearted recommendation.
February 22, 2026
Lauren, a librarian, was abducted by 2 brothers trying to get her help to find Lauren's cousin Anthony, who owed them $$$. But it did no good because Lauren was looking for him, herself. Then one brother Zach saved her life when the other brother was going to take it. Zach ended up in prison and Lauren wanted to help him get through the sentence and maybe make a new life. So Lauren visited him in prison for 3 years and was there for him on his release day from prison. But Zach knows Lauren is too good for him yet wants to earn her trust. Lauren offers him a rental house to live in while he helps her fix it up. Zach is also given a job on a farm doing things he has never done before. But as time passes he hopes maybe he has a chance with Lauren regardless that he has been breaking the law behind her back. It is a great but long story of people getting second chances and people learning to trust each other to make it through every day, one day at a time.
February 11, 2026
Lauren and Zach are the complete opposite of each other and, with their history, who would have guessed they would have a future together.
Lauren set out to help Zach after prison, even after his family ruined her life. Her kindness was amazing and she was brave to reach out so willingly to help him.
Zach has a hard road ahead as he starts again, but unfortunately he heads back to the old life where there is no hope. As he watches Lauren and the guys at the job she got for him, he sees there could be more to life if he would trust God.
Their undercover operation against his old “friends” gets them in deep water, but also gives answers to some big questions and brings happiness in the end.
A good read. It was a good addition to the series. 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.
Lauren set out to help Zach after prison, even after his family ruined her life. Her kindness was amazing and she was brave to reach out so willingly to help him.
Zach has a hard road ahead as he starts again, but unfortunately he heads back to the old life where there is no hope. As he watches Lauren and the guys at the job she got for him, he sees there could be more to life if he would trust God.
Their undercover operation against his old “friends” gets them in deep water, but also gives answers to some big questions and brings happiness in the end.
A good read. It was a good addition to the series. 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.
February 24, 2026
What an ending to this wonderful series.
I just love everyone in Blackwater. None of their lives have been easy, but they’ve found friends, family, forgiveness, and faith.
Lauren and Zach’s story is another beautifully emotional journey. Both coming from abusive backgrounds, Lauren and Zach have ended up on completely opposite sides of life and of the law.
The weaving of suspense and danger along with the journey of emotional healing, forging friendships, and seeking forgiveness, not just from those wronged, but from the Lord had me enraptured with each page. Mandi Blake writes beautiful and raw stories centered on the love and forgiveness of Jesus. Once held captive by the chains of sin, there is freedom and redemption.
“You want to be free? You’ll never be free until you believe that Jesus sacrificed Himself for you. You’ll never be free until you humble yourself and willingly take up your cross and follow Him.”
Thank you to Mandi Blake for the copy. All opinions are my own.
I just love everyone in Blackwater. None of their lives have been easy, but they’ve found friends, family, forgiveness, and faith.
Lauren and Zach’s story is another beautifully emotional journey. Both coming from abusive backgrounds, Lauren and Zach have ended up on completely opposite sides of life and of the law.
The weaving of suspense and danger along with the journey of emotional healing, forging friendships, and seeking forgiveness, not just from those wronged, but from the Lord had me enraptured with each page. Mandi Blake writes beautiful and raw stories centered on the love and forgiveness of Jesus. Once held captive by the chains of sin, there is freedom and redemption.
“You want to be free? You’ll never be free until you believe that Jesus sacrificed Himself for you. You’ll never be free until you humble yourself and willingly take up your cross and follow Him.”
Thank you to Mandi Blake for the copy. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What an unusual story-most women stay far away from a man who helped kidnap her. Lauren feels compelled to interact with Zach. She visits him once a month while he’s serving his prison term. The day of his release, she is out there, in a rented vehicle, to pick him up. He says he will just take the bus. She INSISTS that he will come with her! She takes him to a run down little house that is on her property, and that she can watch from her house on the hill above him. She finds a klunker for him. He cannot understand why she is treating him like this, but secretly he is excited to have a fresh start, a second chance, a little house of his own that she’s letting him live in rent free in exchange for remodeling it. He gets a job, with Lauren’s help, and for the first time in his life, he feels like he belongs here. Some of the other guys that work on the ranch are ex-cons, too. I was drawn in by this storyline and I could not stop reading until THE END!! I loved this book and I’m certain everyone will! Get your copy now on preorder for a few more days! I was on the arc team and was not required to write a review. This is my own personal opinion of this great book! 📕 ♥️
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