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BlackThorpe Security #5
Beauty from Ashes
BEAUTY FROM ASHES is book five of the Christian romance series, BLACKTHORPE SECURITY by Kimberly Rae Jordan. Follow the lives of the men and women working for BlackThorpe Security as they face the challenges of life, faith and love.
The BlackThorpe Security series is a spin-off from the Christian romance series, The McKinleys. If you haven’t read those yet, check out book one which is currently available for FREE - THIS TIME WITH LOVE: A Christian Romance - and meet some of the characters who will continue to appear in the BlackThorpe Security series.
Adrianne Thorpe has watched as both her twin brother and her sister have had love enter their lives in the past few months. With one already married and the other in a serious relationship, she has had to watch them live out her dream. Though she has dated plenty over the years, Adrianne hasn’t found the man she wants to spend the rest of her life with. Does she just have impossibly high standards? Or is it the small voice in her head telling her that no man would really love her that keeps her from letting anyone get close enough to touch her heart?
From the moment Connor Mackenzie learns that his sister Rebecca is married to Alex Thorpe, he knows his past has come back to haunt him. After over a decade of working in some of the most dangerous areas of the world, he had plans to retire so he could move closer to his sister and nephew. Doing that now will mean being in almost constant contact with the woman who, as a teenager, he had rejected most cruelly. Has she been able to get over their hurt-filled past? Or will he be forced to reconsider where he spends his time post-retirement?
At a time when she is struggling to rearrange the plans and dreams she has for her life, the last thing Adrianne needs is the person she’d loved and lost in high school stepping back into her life. Connor is grateful that Adrianne seems willing—albeit rather reluctantly—to accept his presence in her life because of Alex and Rebecca.. As he spends time around her, Connor realizes that the reason she’s lingered in his thoughts over the years isn’t just because of regret
Will Adrianne be able to see the genuine regret Connor has for their past and give him a second chance to be the man he should have been the first time around? Or will her hurt blind her to the realization of her dreams and the possibility that God has plans for her and Connor?
Stayed tuned for the sixth (and final!) Christian romance book in the BlackThorpe Security series coming late fall 2016.
If you enjoy heartwarming Christian romance with a focus on love, faith and family, be sure to check out these other books and series by Kimberly Rae Jordan.
Other Christian romance series by Kimberly Rae Jordan:
Home to Collingsworth
Those Karlsson Boys
Other Christian romance books by Kimberly Rae Jordan:
Marrying Kate
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 12, 2016
400 people are currently reading
82 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
December 28, 2016
I love Kimberly Rae Jordan stories. Always pull me right into the story and so full of different emotions.
So glad to finally get a firm grasp on Adrianne's character. She's always felt kind of standoffish to me and I understand so well now. Totally loved Conner too. And now I'm off to read Marcus's story. Another character that's always held back...
So glad to finally get a firm grasp on Adrianne's character. She's always felt kind of standoffish to me and I understand so well now. Totally loved Conner too. And now I'm off to read Marcus's story. Another character that's always held back...
May 7, 2018
Now that I have read sixteen books by Kimberly Rae Jordan I continue to be disappointed in her editing process if she even has one. Dropped words, misused words, grammar errors, and punctuation errors abound. As I was not an English major, I likely missed more mistakes than I found. Nevertheless, I am willing to overlook these editing errors because she consistently keeps her stories clean with a strong Christian foundation. I would far prefer to ignore editing errors to avoid the moral decay depicted so frequently in so many romantic novels today.
I continue to recommend reading Ms. Jordan’s books in publication date sequence for the best reading experience because many primary characters from previous books and series continue playing significant roles in later books.
I was impressed by how skillfully Ms. Jordan incorporated Christian values of faith and prayer into the lives of her characters. The fact that Connor was willing to sacrifice his own needs and desires to ensure Adrianne’s happiness was a big plus for me. I was a bit disappointed when I learned that the flower deliveries to Adrianne were part of a plot involving a gunman. All along I had visualized Connor as the one sending the flowers to Adrianne as an attempt to help her overcome the damage he did to her self-esteem as a teenager. I liked my version better.
I continue to recommend reading Ms. Jordan’s books in publication date sequence for the best reading experience because many primary characters from previous books and series continue playing significant roles in later books.
I was impressed by how skillfully Ms. Jordan incorporated Christian values of faith and prayer into the lives of her characters. The fact that Connor was willing to sacrifice his own needs and desires to ensure Adrianne’s happiness was a big plus for me. I was a bit disappointed when I learned that the flower deliveries to Adrianne were part of a plot involving a gunman. All along I had visualized Connor as the one sending the flowers to Adrianne as an attempt to help her overcome the damage he did to her self-esteem as a teenager. I liked my version better.
September 19, 2016
Another great title by Kimberly Rae Jordan. Beauty From Ashes continues the BlackThorpe Security series. It didn't quite unfold as I expected, with much less emphasis on the past mysteries and dangers that have been plaguing the people at BlackThorpe especially Alana and Justin, but I really enjoyed getting to know Adrianne more. Her story of forgiveness and redemption with Connor is very sweet. Can't wait to read the next book in this series.
August 31, 2016
Good Read; exactly what you expect from Kimberly Rae
Very well written; held by attention from first word one to the last. I laughed and I cried. My kind of book. I like the fact that she is invested in her characters and bringing them to life for the reader. I feel when reading her books that I know these people. Another home run for Kimberly
Very well written; held by attention from first word one to the last. I laughed and I cried. My kind of book. I like the fact that she is invested in her characters and bringing them to life for the reader. I feel when reading her books that I know these people. Another home run for Kimberly
January 11, 2022
This has been an awesome series! Have already started into the next one! This an author that like to bring real life topics to characters and give ways to handle the various challenges they face! I can’t say enough good things about this author! Every book that she has written is a book you can read and reread, so you want to own them all!
October 8, 2016
Great read. I could relate on so many levels with the lead character and she seems like a dear friend. Thank God that ALL things work together for those who love God.
November 9, 2017
😃😃😃😃😃
I've read several of this writer's works and found them to be well plotted and well written with engaging and complex characters while exploring secondary themes. This one is particularly good, addressing as it does the impact of careless words and the struggle to forgive and move on.
I've read several of this writer's works and found them to be well plotted and well written with engaging and complex characters while exploring secondary themes. This one is particularly good, addressing as it does the impact of careless words and the struggle to forgive and move on.
September 24, 2020
An unforgettable story dealing with forgiveness and love. An excellent story with suspense and mystery included. I’ve appreciated the issues that have been covered in several books, especially dealing with forgiveness and restoration. I love all the books in the BlackThorpe Security series and am looking forward to the final book and the conclusion of the mystery arc through them all.
July 25, 2025
Passed the second reading test
It is lovely to read this story again. I love the people and how they are able to overcome their
problems with prayers and obedience to the Most High. We're I in Adrianne's shoes, I wouldn't have not even said "hello" to Connor.
Thank you for sharing this story with us. Looking forward to many more😍😍
It is lovely to read this story again. I love the people and how they are able to overcome their
problems with prayers and obedience to the Most High. We're I in Adrianne's shoes, I wouldn't have not even said "hello" to Connor.
Thank you for sharing this story with us. Looking forward to many more😍😍
October 20, 2017
New lives for old
I suppose some people had a fairy tale time in high school, but I sure didn't,... starting in elementary school. Forgiveness is a tough lesson to learn, experience and apply as needed. Looking forward to Marcus' story.
I suppose some people had a fairy tale time in high school, but I sure didn't,... starting in elementary school. Forgiveness is a tough lesson to learn, experience and apply as needed. Looking forward to Marcus' story.
January 29, 2018
Another Great Book
Interesting book.I enjoyed reading about Connor and Andrieanne's life. I look forward to Kimberly's next book about Marcus. After reading all of these books, I feel like I have another family. Great job Kimberly!!!!
Interesting book.I enjoyed reading about Connor and Andrieanne's life. I look forward to Kimberly's next book about Marcus. After reading all of these books, I feel like I have another family. Great job Kimberly!!!!
June 17, 2018
Beauty from ashes
I loved this story...Many people have had hurts that take a long time to get over...I was cheering for them from the start...I didn't like that Connor did one more mission but could see why it was necessary...this book is a great read
I loved this story...Many people have had hurts that take a long time to get over...I was cheering for them from the start...I didn't like that Connor did one more mission but could see why it was necessary...this book is a great read
September 8, 2018
Great!
I understood Adrianne's difficulty with being around Connor and interacting with him normally.
The ending was sweet and loved how much Conner and Adrianne had changed into better individuals and then into a strong couple.
I understood Adrianne's difficulty with being around Connor and interacting with him normally.
The ending was sweet and loved how much Conner and Adrianne had changed into better individuals and then into a strong couple.
April 1, 2019
This is a really good book that illustrates how unkind words in the past can affect a person's self-image and future, and yet how confession, repentance, forgiveness and the Lord's help can bring resolution.
May 8, 2020
This one let's us know about Adrianne's story. It was different but also good. The threat continued.
She and Conner had to work out a lot so that they could come together. It was a very different kind of problem then you'd think, but it made you understand somethings that people have a hard time
forgetting and for giving. I enjoyed this book also.
She and Conner had to work out a lot so that they could come together. It was a very different kind of problem then you'd think, but it made you understand somethings that people have a hard time
forgetting and for giving. I enjoyed this book also.
November 21, 2020
The Pain of Forgiveness
It seems that past pains were harbored in the main character’s heart and colored how she saw herself. Once she got past the healing, she could realize the blessing.
It seems that past pains were harbored in the main character’s heart and colored how she saw herself. Once she got past the healing, she could realize the blessing.
February 4, 2021
Another Favorite!
All of the BlackThorpe books are wonderful with the ongoing mystery weaving throughout the series and all of the fabulous characters with their fabulous romances. Connor and Adrianne’s story in Beauty from Ashes is beautiful!
All of the BlackThorpe books are wonderful with the ongoing mystery weaving throughout the series and all of the fabulous characters with their fabulous romances. Connor and Adrianne’s story in Beauty from Ashes is beautiful!
July 7, 2021
Beauty from Ashes
Not that I've had to deal with the emotional trauma as the heroine I could relate with her concern about motives. If he refused once and then want to accept later because of changes, I would doubt his sincerity.
Not that I've had to deal with the emotional trauma as the heroine I could relate with her concern about motives. If he refused once and then want to accept later because of changes, I would doubt his sincerity.
July 14, 2020
Loved it. One of my favorites in this series.
September 5, 2020
I thought there was way too much whining in this one about hurt feeling.
May 1, 2024
Beauty From Ashes
Amazing story! I loved the characters and the depth this story went to. Things in the past have always led me to changes to my future. Loved this series!
Amazing story! I loved the characters and the depth this story went to. Things in the past have always led me to changes to my future. Loved this series!
February 22, 2017
Absolutely fabulous story. I have to admit, I was worried the two lead characters would never meet as the beginning spent a lot of time setting their thoughts and history. Once they connected, the story really moved quickly. I've read all the books in this series now and I'm sure I will miss the sweet pleasures I've found here.
September 11, 2016
I was so disappointed by this book after eagerly waiting for its release. I was looking forward to answers and action surrounding the breaches to Blackthorpe Security and instead got an entire novel of a insecure whining by an emotionally immature adult woman who hasn't progressed beyond high school.
The author was aware that her book wouldn't be well received by everyone and said as much in her notes at the end of the book.
I am well-aware that traumatic events in high school do occur to many people and it can require many years to recover and heal from those wounds. That is a reality. I felt the author could have presented the dilemma in a much more sympathetic way than how it was portrayed. Perhaps it was the never-ending inner dialogue of Adrianne constantly complaining about not finding a husband and dwelling on the cruel words of her crush. A little inner dialogue would have been appropriate but it was so redundant and unoriginal that I found myself skimming and feeling frustrated.
In short, this book isn't worth anyone's time. Adrianne was hurt by her crush in high school and then falls in love with him again years later. They reconcile and get engaged.
Oh, and there is a shooting in the security building.
This book had potential and the situation could have been explored very well but it left me bored.
Perhaps a change in editors would be appropriate here, preferably one who will be candid and emphasize clarity without resorting to redundancy.
The author was aware that her book wouldn't be well received by everyone and said as much in her notes at the end of the book.
I am well-aware that traumatic events in high school do occur to many people and it can require many years to recover and heal from those wounds. That is a reality. I felt the author could have presented the dilemma in a much more sympathetic way than how it was portrayed. Perhaps it was the never-ending inner dialogue of Adrianne constantly complaining about not finding a husband and dwelling on the cruel words of her crush. A little inner dialogue would have been appropriate but it was so redundant and unoriginal that I found myself skimming and feeling frustrated.
In short, this book isn't worth anyone's time. Adrianne was hurt by her crush in high school and then falls in love with him again years later. They reconcile and get engaged.
Oh, and there is a shooting in the security building.
This book had potential and the situation could have been explored very well but it left me bored.
Perhaps a change in editors would be appropriate here, preferably one who will be candid and emphasize clarity without resorting to redundancy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 19, 2016
I really enjoyed reading about Adrianne and the changes that took place in her life as she grew up with a loving family and worked with a great staff at BlackThorpe Security. Although she appears to be rather 'uptight' about her past and things that happened in High School, I can completely understand how a situation like that would cause her to live life differently. Then, when Connor, comes back into her life after being the person who caused her so much heartache in High School, she has great difficulty in handling the situation. The story has heartache, pain, mystery, family events and romance, and the characters Adrianne, Connor, Alex, Rebecca, Melanie, Tyler, Jordan, Ryan, Hank, parents, etc. all often interest to the story and are well-developed to make the story more interesting.
I enjoy Ms. Jordan's form of writing and will certainly go on to read many more of her books. I would recommend her books to any and all ages as there is nothing to offend readers and yet they are written with great and interesting plots. I have read others in this series but not all of them yet.
I enjoy Ms. Jordan's form of writing and will certainly go on to read many more of her books. I would recommend her books to any and all ages as there is nothing to offend readers and yet they are written with great and interesting plots. I have read others in this series but not all of them yet.
August 14, 2016
Kimberly Rae Jordan is in my top list of favorite authors and all of her books are WONDERFUL reads...AND rereads! They can stand alone, but they are so much better when reading the whole series and the spin-offs which wonderfully interconnect. This book is about how unforgiven and unresolved hurts can control your life and your other relationships. One of my favorite quotes in this book (and there are many) is: "In the past, that memory had raised its ugly head whenever it wanted to." And : "Forgiveness is never irrelevant." And: "With age comes perspective & wisdom." I highly recommend this book to anyone. I LOVE following all of these characters in these books and can hardly wait for her next one!
August 25, 2016
Brokenness to wholeness
I have read the entire BlackThorpe Security series. Each book has provided such in-depth details that the reader can actually feel they are experiencing what the characters are.
This book reveals how words can injure a person so deeply that it destroys their self confidence and distorts every future decision. Ms Jordan takes this fact and demonstrates how sincere apologies and forgiveness can help to heal some of these situations.
I recommend this book not just because of the romantic theme but the way the characters learn to trust God to help them.
I look forward to read the next installment when it becomes available.
I have read the entire BlackThorpe Security series. Each book has provided such in-depth details that the reader can actually feel they are experiencing what the characters are.
This book reveals how words can injure a person so deeply that it destroys their self confidence and distorts every future decision. Ms Jordan takes this fact and demonstrates how sincere apologies and forgiveness can help to heal some of these situations.
I recommend this book not just because of the romantic theme but the way the characters learn to trust God to help them.
I look forward to read the next installment when it becomes available.
September 6, 2016
Adrianne and Conners story is truly amazing. Adrianne has struggled for years because of what Conner said to her. When he comes back into her life she struggles to be in the same house as him. Watching there relationship change will have you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what happens next. The characters are all very special people who you will really enjoy reading about. Kimberly Rae Jordan is a great author. Her books are so good you can't stop reading them. You will feel God working throughout all of her books.
September 23, 2016
Another smash!
Kimberly does it again. I admit that I've been waiting on pins and needles for Adrienne's story and it didn't disappoint. I wish Adrienne would've worked through her feelings a bit earlier so we could've seen more of their relationship development, but even so, the story did not drag at all. I was surprised when I looked at my page number and was almost done.
As always looking forward to the next! I can't wait to read about the enigma, Marcus.
Kimberly does it again. I admit that I've been waiting on pins and needles for Adrienne's story and it didn't disappoint. I wish Adrienne would've worked through her feelings a bit earlier so we could've seen more of their relationship development, but even so, the story did not drag at all. I was surprised when I looked at my page number and was almost done.
As always looking forward to the next! I can't wait to read about the enigma, Marcus.
August 23, 2016
This is book #5 in the "BlackThorpe Security" series. Each book in the series is almost a stand alone story but there is a back story/ underlying mystery that is best understood if the books are read in the series order. I think there is more to come, at least I hope there is more to come, because I still have unanswered questions about one main character if not two of them. I love a good mystery and a good romance; there's plenty of both to make this an entertaining series to read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews