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Training Grounds
- GenresRomance
412 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 27, 2026
About the author
Christy Barritt
359 books1,766 followersChristy Barritt is an author, freelance writer and speaker who lives in Virginia. She’s married to her Prince Charming, a man who thinks she’s hilarious—but only when she’s not trying to be. Christy’s a self-proclaimed klutz, an avid music lover who’s known for spontaneously bursting into song, and a road trip aficionado. She’s only won one contest in her life—and her prize was kissing a pig (okay, okay… actually she did win the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Suspense and Mystery also). Her current claim to fame is showing off her mother, who looks just like former First Lady Barbara Bush
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
June 12, 2026
Christy Barritt is on fire with this series! Breathtaking series with such suspense! This book had me on the edge of my seat many times! I hope that she just keeps bringing more exciting series!
July 10, 2026
4.5 stars
"Eventually I realized the fear wasn't protecting me. It was just keeping me stuck."
As if witnessing a co-worker die by the hands of a powerful Hollywood director wasn't enough to send Rowan King fleeing cross country, it was the fact that she had left evidence of her presence behind . . . and they both knew it. Returning to Refuge Cove had not been in Rowan's immediate plans, but the hometown girl turned movie star didn't know what else to do. She certainly didn't expect to come face to face with the man she left behind.
It was Rowan King. What were the chances? Former U. S. Marshal Wes Bennett now owned his own successful security company and was heading to Refuge Cove to do a risk assessment for their new cottages when he nearly collided with Rowan's car, or rather, she nearly collided with his truck. The woman was spooked, that was obvious, but she was also hiding something, and it was big . . . . he still knew her well enough to see below the surface of her well choreographed responses.
Knowing the right thing to do and doing it? Two different things. Can she? Will she?
A sweet second chance romance layered beautifully into a continuing series while holding its own in every way that matters.
"Eventually I realized the fear wasn't protecting me. It was just keeping me stuck."
As if witnessing a co-worker die by the hands of a powerful Hollywood director wasn't enough to send Rowan King fleeing cross country, it was the fact that she had left evidence of her presence behind . . . and they both knew it. Returning to Refuge Cove had not been in Rowan's immediate plans, but the hometown girl turned movie star didn't know what else to do. She certainly didn't expect to come face to face with the man she left behind.
It was Rowan King. What were the chances? Former U. S. Marshal Wes Bennett now owned his own successful security company and was heading to Refuge Cove to do a risk assessment for their new cottages when he nearly collided with Rowan's car, or rather, she nearly collided with his truck. The woman was spooked, that was obvious, but she was also hiding something, and it was big . . . . he still knew her well enough to see below the surface of her well choreographed responses.
Knowing the right thing to do and doing it? Two different things. Can she? Will she?
A sweet second chance romance layered beautifully into a continuing series while holding its own in every way that matters.
May 27, 2026
This contemporary suspense story will grab you from the first chapter and hold on until the heart-stopping conclusion!! Rowan King is a famous Hollywood actress who has returned to Refuge Cove. Her family welcomes her with open arms even if they don't know the reason for her visit. Rowan is running and hoping that no one will find her here. When trouble does find her, her family and the one she left behind, Wes, step in to protect her. But can she risk their lives or will she finally end this nightmare by doing the right but hard thing? If you like suspense, mystery, complex characters, a touch of romance - and did I mention dogs - this book is for you. It is part of a series but it is a stand alone read. I received an advance copy from the author but all opinions are my own.
June 11, 2026
Training grounds
Book five in the Refuge Cove series brings Rowan King, Hollywood star, home with a deadly secret. Right away, the feeling of eyes on her every move shattered her peace. And the gunshots in the woods did nothing to soothe her feelings. However, she was pretty dumb, continually leaving the Cove for a casual trip to town, where she was recognized. And then to top it off she left home for a meeting without Wes or Calab anywhere near. It was a grave error as she walked into a trap. Overall a good read in spite of inconsistencies (such as the house mysteriously moving very close to the fence and gate. The pond also moved somewhere else. But I digress. Read the books in order to know who the Harding's &vHendersons are and how they are woven into the story.
Book five in the Refuge Cove series brings Rowan King, Hollywood star, home with a deadly secret. Right away, the feeling of eyes on her every move shattered her peace. And the gunshots in the woods did nothing to soothe her feelings. However, she was pretty dumb, continually leaving the Cove for a casual trip to town, where she was recognized. And then to top it off she left home for a meeting without Wes or Calab anywhere near. It was a grave error as she walked into a trap. Overall a good read in spite of inconsistencies (such as the house mysteriously moving very close to the fence and gate. The pond also moved somewhere else. But I digress. Read the books in order to know who the Harding's &vHendersons are and how they are woven into the story.
June 5, 2026
Training grounds- where it all begins
Rowan left Virginia looking for a future she thought would make her happy. Sadly it took more than it gave. It took years she could have spent finding what she was looking for was right in front of her. This story brings up the prodigal son-living his life as he wanted when everything he wanted was where he left. Rowan came home and found her family waiting on her with open arms, accepting her and supporting her as families do, whose moral compass runs true north.
This series has so much character lessons and suspense that keeps your mind twirling to see what happens next as Christy Barritt is so talented in doing in her writings.
Rowan left Virginia looking for a future she thought would make her happy. Sadly it took more than it gave. It took years she could have spent finding what she was looking for was right in front of her. This story brings up the prodigal son-living his life as he wanted when everything he wanted was where he left. Rowan came home and found her family waiting on her with open arms, accepting her and supporting her as families do, whose moral compass runs true north.
This series has so much character lessons and suspense that keeps your mind twirling to see what happens next as Christy Barritt is so talented in doing in her writings.
July 5, 2026
The cover had me expecting something lighthearted. I couldn't have been more wrong.
Murder. Running for her life. Coming home for safety, only to find her high school sweetheart installing a new security system for the family sanctuary. Add in old grudges that won't die (Travis Henderson still convinced the Kings stole his family's land) and the corrupt Harding family scheming to snatch a child who is safest with the Kings, and book five of the Refuge Cove series delivers a lot more than its cover lets on.
Another great read by Christy Barritt.
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.
Murder. Running for her life. Coming home for safety, only to find her high school sweetheart installing a new security system for the family sanctuary. Add in old grudges that won't die (Travis Henderson still convinced the Kings stole his family's land) and the corrupt Harding family scheming to snatch a child who is safest with the Kings, and book five of the Refuge Cove series delivers a lot more than its cover lets on.
Another great read by Christy Barritt.
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.
June 5, 2026
Actress Rowan King returns to Refuge Cove and her family after witnessing a suspicious death in Hollywood. The warm reunion is tainted by the danger she may have brought with her. Security specialist Wes Bennett just happens to be at Refuge Cove assessing safety and risks, so he steps in to help keep her and the rest safe. The drama and tangled web tighten around Rowan as the story unfolds. Another exciting suspense offering from this prolific mystery writer. This book can stand alone, but the series is best read in order. I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
June 25, 2026
Engrossing Read!
Great characters, great plots, great twists and turns and “oh I knew that was coming’s “. I have loved each of the books in this series and I’m excitedly looking forward to the next one.
I’m really thinking that there should be a few weddings pretty soon, we already have an engagement and a ring, I think we’re in need of a few more!
Thanks for the great read, I hope others who enjoy suspense and clean romance in a welcoming small town,find and enjoy this series!💜🌹💜😻
Great characters, great plots, great twists and turns and “oh I knew that was coming’s “. I have loved each of the books in this series and I’m excitedly looking forward to the next one.
I’m really thinking that there should be a few weddings pretty soon, we already have an engagement and a ring, I think we’re in need of a few more!
Thanks for the great read, I hope others who enjoy suspense and clean romance in a welcoming small town,find and enjoy this series!💜🌹💜😻
June 29, 2026
Drama abounds
The story of another character you’ve heard mentioned in the Refuge Cove family - the long lost sister who moved away to Hollywood to pursue her dreams of fame & fortune. Sadly those dreams haven’t exactly materialized - perhaps even the realization that what she was looking for was always there back home. This realization takes awhile to materialize - after witnessing a murder, being relentlessly pursued and yet of course in the process reconnecting with her first love…
The story of another character you’ve heard mentioned in the Refuge Cove family - the long lost sister who moved away to Hollywood to pursue her dreams of fame & fortune. Sadly those dreams haven’t exactly materialized - perhaps even the realization that what she was looking for was always there back home. This realization takes awhile to materialize - after witnessing a murder, being relentlessly pursued and yet of course in the process reconnecting with her first love…
Review of advance copy received from Author
I an BETA copy of this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Rowan King returns home after watching her boss cover up a murder. When she arrives home she encounters her former boyfriend, Wes Bennett who is now a security specialist and hired by her brother to improve security at Refuge Cove. When trouble follows her, Wes tries to protect her. This is a thrilling addition to this series. It is a stirring book about trust, relationship and family.
May 29, 2026
What a fast-paced contemporary suspense read! The action starts right away and doesn't let go. Rowen King, a Hollywood actress, returns home but doesn't tell her family why she returned. However, danger follows her, to the point where her family and Wes, her ex and a security specialist, step in to protect Rowen. Training Grounds will keep your attention from start to finish with its well-crafted storyline and engaging plot.
June 2, 2026
Once again, big trouble hits the King family and descends upon Refuge Cove. Layered among the opposition are three intimidating families and groups. Fortunately, this family has many friends and allies. They need every one of them to protect each other, their mission, legacy and future.
Stay tuned for the next installment from Christy Barritt. Like a certain potato chip, you can't read just one.
I received a complimentary copy of the book without obligation. This review is my opinion.
Stay tuned for the next installment from Christy Barritt. Like a certain potato chip, you can't read just one.
I received a complimentary copy of the book without obligation. This review is my opinion.
June 13, 2026
Finding where you truly belong
This was so good. A perfect extension of the other books in this series. I love how Christy portrays a true Christian family that loves no matter what and are there for each other. This series has been so good. I have enjoyed every single book and I love every single character. They are great characters that even with their flaws and shortcomings they keep their eyes on the Lord. The whole series is most definitely worth reading.
This was so good. A perfect extension of the other books in this series. I love how Christy portrays a true Christian family that loves no matter what and are there for each other. This series has been so good. I have enjoyed every single book and I love every single character. They are great characters that even with their flaws and shortcomings they keep their eyes on the Lord. The whole series is most definitely worth reading.
June 29, 2026
Highly recommend
I’m not going to tell you the story line. Book 5 of the Refuge Cove series is even better than the other 4. Christy Barritt writes wonderful clean Christian stories. These books are stand alone but I have enjoyed reading them in order. I feel they give more background and depth to the characters as each book unfolds. Again, if you want to read clean Christian books, Christy Barrett’s novels re perfect picks.
I’m not going to tell you the story line. Book 5 of the Refuge Cove series is even better than the other 4. Christy Barritt writes wonderful clean Christian stories. These books are stand alone but I have enjoyed reading them in order. I feel they give more background and depth to the characters as each book unfolds. Again, if you want to read clean Christian books, Christy Barrett’s novels re perfect picks.
June 1, 2026
Unexpectedly Good
The book started off slowly. But then pickup I don't usually read a book in a few days but it was hard to put it down. The suspense kept you reading just a few more chapters. The book gives you shuttle hints as you read who's behind it all. But with all the twist and turns in it makes you wonder. I love her books can't wait for the next one.
The book started off slowly. But then pickup I don't usually read a book in a few days but it was hard to put it down. The suspense kept you reading just a few more chapters. The book gives you shuttle hints as you read who's behind it all. But with all the twist and turns in it makes you wonder. I love her books can't wait for the next one.
June 3, 2026
Every book in this series have been excellent reads, keeping my interest from beginning to the last page. I enjoy books where people who feel they are so clever, have everything so well thought out to stay ahead of being suspected of being the culprit. The second chance romance between Wes Bennett and Rowan King was very satisfying.
June 26, 2026
Another win for Rescue Cove - this series is a delightful read! Pets, romance, suspense - the makings for a good clean and fun read. The author really paints a picture of the characters and what they are going through, so you really feel like you are in the middle of the mess. Can't wait for the next one!
July 18, 2026
Refuge Cove #5
Marriott's next novel in the series was tough to get involved in. I was unaware that Rosen is an actress. The problems she'd be was having with Vince almost seemed unreal until the story moved on to Virginia.It did become exiting with energy and suspense. Do read this one as it more involved in the family story. Very good!
Marriott's next novel in the series was tough to get involved in. I was unaware that Rosen is an actress. The problems she'd be was having with Vince almost seemed unreal until the story moved on to Virginia.It did become exiting with energy and suspense. Do read this one as it more involved in the family story. Very good!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Even people who wanted to fly liked having a safe place to come back to.-Rowan King
Book #5 in the refuge cove series does NOT disappoint. It is action packed on every page, leaving you wondering what is going to happen and hoping for the best. I could not put it down!
Book #5 in the refuge cove series does NOT disappoint. It is action packed on every page, leaving you wondering what is going to happen and hoping for the best. I could not put it down!
May 28, 2026
Very intriguing
Training Grounds another in the Refuge above series does not disappoint! The storyline unfolds in a very intriguing way. I started reading it & literally couldn’t put it down. The suspense is so intense that it makes you think, what’s next.
Training Grounds another in the Refuge above series does not disappoint! The storyline unfolds in a very intriguing way. I started reading it & literally couldn’t put it down. The suspense is so intense that it makes you think, what’s next.
June 1, 2026
Wow! Good Read!
Rowan and Wes
Initials in a tree,
She went to Hollywood
Love was not to be.
Things went wrong
As wrong as they could be.
Will she live to tell?
Well, we shall see!
Such a good book! Lots of suspense and just enough romance.
Rowan and Wes
Initials in a tree,
She went to Hollywood
Love was not to be.
Things went wrong
As wrong as they could be.
Will she live to tell?
Well, we shall see!
Such a good book! Lots of suspense and just enough romance.
June 2, 2026
Training grounds is suspense and romance, with lots of twists, questions, and intrigue. It was intense and emotional, and kept me on the edge of my seat, unable to put it down. I’m loving this series - each book can be read as a stand-alone, but I recommend reading them all.
June 4, 2026
Training Ground is another
Great great book written by Christy Barritt. This is another mystery I thought I knew who done it. But I was wrong again. I love how she has such good inter action between characters. This is another 10 of 10. Get it now and enjoy the heck out of it
Great great book written by Christy Barritt. This is another mystery I thought I knew who done it. But I was wrong again. I love how she has such good inter action between characters. This is another 10 of 10. Get it now and enjoy the heck out of it
June 6, 2026
Always and forever ♥️
I have read most of Christy Barritt's books through the years and just as this book proved the JOY and LOVE in an 'always and forever' relationship, I can completely trust that her books are 'always and forever' the best books to read!
I have read most of Christy Barritt's books through the years and just as this book proved the JOY and LOVE in an 'always and forever' relationship, I can completely trust that her books are 'always and forever' the best books to read!
June 18, 2026
Action
This story was action packed. It had drama, suspense, romance. There were points were I WA Ted to talk at the female protagonist for doing something stupid. Definitely recommended.
This story was action packed. It had drama, suspense, romance. There were points were I WA Ted to talk at the female protagonist for doing something stupid. Definitely recommended.
June 26, 2026
I love this series SO much!! And this book was an absolutely amazing read! So much depth and content in one book. I adored Rowan and Wes. All of the characters and the storyline in the book are so well written. This is definitely a must read!
July 1, 2026
A fantastic series.
This being a wonderful thrilling of a Christian fiction series.
Each one can be read independently but I recommend reading all of them.
I'm ready to read the next in the series and know that I won't be disappointed.
This being a wonderful thrilling of a Christian fiction series.
Each one can be read independently but I recommend reading all of them.
I'm ready to read the next in the series and know that I won't be disappointed.
May 28, 2026
Another great installment in an excellent series. I'm going to be very sad when this series ends.
May 28, 2026
Great Story
I liked the fast pace action with mystery and romance sprinkled in. Strong female characters make this a book to read.
I liked the fast pace action with mystery and romance sprinkled in. Strong female characters make this a book to read.
May 31, 2026
Wonderful
Christy Barritt is such a wonderful writer. I sat do.wn and started reading and couldn't stop. I can't wait for the next book in this series.
Christy Barritt is such a wonderful writer. I sat do.wn and started reading and couldn't stop. I can't wait for the next book in this series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews