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Lavender Tides #3
Secrets at Cedar Cabin
Her mother lied about her identity and her husband wasn’t who she thought he was—can Bailey even trust herself anymore?
Running for her life in the wake of her mother’s murder, Bailey Fleming escapes to the only place she can think of—a remote, dilapidated cabin in Lavender Tides. Intending to finally get to the truth behind the lies of her past, Bailey only finds more questions when bodies are discovered near her cabin hideout along with traces of a dangerous human trafficking ring. In an unlikely partnership with FBI agent Lance Phoenix, Bailey races to understand the mystery surrounding her life and circumstances before the murderer tracks her down.
Meanwhile, Lance is determined to rescue his sister, Ava, who was abducted after running away from home as a teenager. An unexpected lead brings him to the remote cabin, and he wonders if Bailey—with her suspicious past and strange connections to his sister’s case—is really who she claims to be and if she can somehow lead him to Ava.
Running for her life in the wake of her mother’s murder, Bailey Fleming escapes to the only place she can think of—a remote, dilapidated cabin in Lavender Tides. Intending to finally get to the truth behind the lies of her past, Bailey only finds more questions when bodies are discovered near her cabin hideout along with traces of a dangerous human trafficking ring. In an unlikely partnership with FBI agent Lance Phoenix, Bailey races to understand the mystery surrounding her life and circumstances before the murderer tracks her down.
Meanwhile, Lance is determined to rescue his sister, Ava, who was abducted after running away from home as a teenager. An unexpected lead brings him to the remote cabin, and he wonders if Bailey—with her suspicious past and strange connections to his sister’s case—is really who she claims to be and if she can somehow lead him to Ava.
352 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2019
862 people are currently reading
3790 people want to read
About the author
Colleen Coble
147 books6,319 followersUSAToday bestselling author Colleen Coble lives with her husband, Dave, in Arizona. She is the author of dozens of novels including the Rock Harbor Series, the Aloha Reef Series, the Mercy Falls Series, the Hope Beach Series, the Lonestar Series and two Women of Faith fiction selections, Alaska Twilight and Midnight Sea. She has more than 6 million books in print.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 410 reviews
January 25, 2019
This is going to be short and sweet, I don't want to give anything away!
Oh my I love the suspense and the romance in this one.
I read it in one sitting I had to find out about the girls. I have now deemed Coble Queen of Christian Suspense.
I stayed plastered to the book until the very end.
You have to read Lance and Bailey's story and tell me what you think!
I gave this book 4.5 stars. I HIGHLY recommend it.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
Oh my I love the suspense and the romance in this one.
I read it in one sitting I had to find out about the girls. I have now deemed Coble Queen of Christian Suspense.
I stayed plastered to the book until the very end.
You have to read Lance and Bailey's story and tell me what you think!
I gave this book 4.5 stars. I HIGHLY recommend it.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
March 24, 2019
Satisfying conclusion to the Lavendar Tides Series. I loved the connection between the main characters in each of the novels.
March 28, 2019
I have enjoyed the Lavender Tides series, but have to say that Secrets at Cedar Cabin is definitely my favorite book of the series! I highly recommend reading the books in order. There is an ongoing mystery and situation that does not get resolved until this book and its conclusion will be more meaningful and understandable if you have read The View from Rainshadow Bay and The House at Saltwater Point. There is also a novella in the series, but I have not read it and did not have any trouble following the story without it.
I love the way the author concluded this series, the way the former characters have a good bit of page time in this story, as well, and I really enjoyed the romance that developed between Lance and Bailey. Many twists and turns made this a book that I had a hard time setting down!
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I love the way the author concluded this series, the way the former characters have a good bit of page time in this story, as well, and I really enjoyed the romance that developed between Lance and Bailey. Many twists and turns made this a book that I had a hard time setting down!
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
October 14, 2020
Now this book in the series I would give 4 1/2 stars. They didn't have a huge character base. I knew exactly what was going on throughout the book. The ending was really exciting and I had no idea how would end or where they were going. The 2 main characters were wonderful. They shown their love right away, which I don 't like but it was written that it was exciting to see how they would get together!! Another great series by Colleen Coble. I am running out of her series. She's a great who done it writer and looking forward to her new books in the future!
January 19, 2019
Secrets at Cedar Cabin has the qualities that make a Colleen Coble an exciting, edge of seat suspenseful read. It continues the story that is started in The View from Rainshadow Bay and then carried on in The House at Saltwater Point. Three children were separated from each other when an earthquake hit their town of Lavender Tides, Washington while they were at the grocery store with their mom. The earthquake sent their mom into labor and a paramedic named Olivia Fleming delivered the baby girl in the the debris but their mom died. Little Grayson disappeared and so did the baby. Shauna, the oldest, we met in the first story, was raised by their father. Years later, Shauna finds out that her brother was adopted by a family. As the story picks up in Secrets at Cedar Cabin, we meet the baby girl, Bailey Fleming, who was raised by the paramedic, Olivia Fleming. Someone has murdered Olivia and she left Bailey some money and a note that her life will be in danger as well. Bailey has been duped by a rock star, Kyle Bearcraft, into marrying her but he failed to say he was already married. As a ploy to get her to sign a release promising not to go to the media with what happened, he gave her the deed to a house in Lavender Tides, the Cedar Cabin. When someone tries to kill her in her home, she left her home in Rock Harbor, Michigan and headed to Lavender Tides and the cabin. What a wild ride after this point! This is a mystery to unfold with dangers and suspense along the way. Colleen Coble has a way with taking one to the scene where one can see the tidal pools on the shore with sea life, see the drifts of snow and feel the cold, hear the ferry chugging across the sound. Expect some romance, healing relationships, overcoming obstacles, reconnecting family members and faith to get through it all. Colleen Coble is one of my favorite authors and after each book, I am reminded why.
I received a complimentary ARC from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. All of the thoughts and opinions stated are mine only.
I received a complimentary ARC from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. All of the thoughts and opinions stated are mine only.
December 8, 2021
This was a good finale to the Lavender Tides series, but I liked that it connected to the Rock Harbor series too. I usually don’t like it when series interact and overlap, but this one felt like a good connection that made decent sense to me.
Featuring sex trafficking, this is not an easy read. However, it’s an important one. Sexual abuse and exploitation are all too real these days, and it’s good that authors like Colleen Coble are exposing this terrible business that makes billions of dollars per year.
The romance was mostly good, but I did not appreciate the fact that the leads purposely chose to stay in the same house overnight, though they were not married. There were plenty of other options to keep morals at the forefront, but those were not chosen. This, of course, caused the characters to be tempted, and they were driven by hormones and got more physical in this scene than any other. This book would have been rated higher than three stars if this issue had been handled differently.
I adored the geriatric nurse angle of this story. That’s something that isn’t often featured in books I read, and it made for an interesting career choice for Bailey. It provided some great plot points for the story too, so this aspect definitely played a big role within the storyline.
There was a great brother-sister angle too. I won’t say much about it, because I think it’s better discovered as the story unfolds, but I found this part of the story to be one of my favorites.
The sibling search involving Shauna, which also connects the full series, was amazing in this one, as it was in the previous books. I have greatly enjoyed her journey to find her siblings, and I found satisfaction in how this all wrapped up.
Content: bigamy, derogatory terms, tobacco, sex trafficking, marital affairs mentioned, drugs, Hindu and Buddhist cultures mentioned, mythology mentioned, leads stayed together overnight without being married, alcohol
Featuring sex trafficking, this is not an easy read. However, it’s an important one. Sexual abuse and exploitation are all too real these days, and it’s good that authors like Colleen Coble are exposing this terrible business that makes billions of dollars per year.
The romance was mostly good, but I did not appreciate the fact that the leads purposely chose to stay in the same house overnight, though they were not married. There were plenty of other options to keep morals at the forefront, but those were not chosen. This, of course, caused the characters to be tempted, and they were driven by hormones and got more physical in this scene than any other. This book would have been rated higher than three stars if this issue had been handled differently.
I adored the geriatric nurse angle of this story. That’s something that isn’t often featured in books I read, and it made for an interesting career choice for Bailey. It provided some great plot points for the story too, so this aspect definitely played a big role within the storyline.
There was a great brother-sister angle too. I won’t say much about it, because I think it’s better discovered as the story unfolds, but I found this part of the story to be one of my favorites.
The sibling search involving Shauna, which also connects the full series, was amazing in this one, as it was in the previous books. I have greatly enjoyed her journey to find her siblings, and I found satisfaction in how this all wrapped up.
Content: bigamy, derogatory terms, tobacco, sex trafficking, marital affairs mentioned, drugs, Hindu and Buddhist cultures mentioned, mythology mentioned, leads stayed together overnight without being married, alcohol
December 30, 2025
When her mother is murdered and the killer sets his sights on Bailey, she does the only thing that she knows to do; flee to a place that she has never been, with secrets she never knew existed.
Having just received the deed to a remote cabin in Lavender Tides seems providential, but Bailey Fleming is not naive enough to think that her used-to-be-fake-husband is simply being generous, it seems oddly coincidental that her mother's roots were in Lavender Tides; it is even more disturbing to realize that law enforcement has traced evidence of human trafficking to the area.
F. B. I. Agent Lance Phoenix has been investigating his sister's abduction for years. When he happens upon Bailey staying in what he thought was an empty residence, his instincts go on high alert at her vague reasons for being in the area. Posing as a carpenter, Lance takes advantage of getting to know Bailey as he assists in home repairs, but when it becomes apparent that criminal activity has taken place on the property, he goes into agent mode and vows to help her sort through her troubled past, but can he keep her safe and locate his sister at the same time? Or are the two somehow connected?
"Secrets at Cedar Cabin" is Colleen Coble at her very best, with waves of tricky plot lines to sort through and well defined characters who share just the right amount of romantic sizzle.
Having just received the deed to a remote cabin in Lavender Tides seems providential, but Bailey Fleming is not naive enough to think that her used-to-be-fake-husband is simply being generous, it seems oddly coincidental that her mother's roots were in Lavender Tides; it is even more disturbing to realize that law enforcement has traced evidence of human trafficking to the area.
F. B. I. Agent Lance Phoenix has been investigating his sister's abduction for years. When he happens upon Bailey staying in what he thought was an empty residence, his instincts go on high alert at her vague reasons for being in the area. Posing as a carpenter, Lance takes advantage of getting to know Bailey as he assists in home repairs, but when it becomes apparent that criminal activity has taken place on the property, he goes into agent mode and vows to help her sort through her troubled past, but can he keep her safe and locate his sister at the same time? Or are the two somehow connected?
"Secrets at Cedar Cabin" is Colleen Coble at her very best, with waves of tricky plot lines to sort through and well defined characters who share just the right amount of romantic sizzle.
February 24, 2019
I read one of Colleen Coble’s romantic suspense novels back in August 2018. It was the second book in the Lavender Tides series and I thought it was a really fun read and was eager to read more about this Pacific Northwestern coastal town.
Being from Oregon and loving the Oregon coast, is what initially drew me to this author. I love when places that I know and love are featured in books. Even though Lavender Tides is a fictional city, the descriptions of this little town are vivid and could easily be any Washington or Oregon coastal town.
Coble’s writing is suspenseful and thoughtful with the romance sharing the spotlight with the mystery rather than taking over the story itself, so when this third installment came up for review, I was happy to agree!
One of the things that I love about Coble, is that she doesn’t shy away from provocative mystery storylines. In the book I previously read, the mystery had to do with terrorism and drugs and this book’s mystery is about human trafficking. As a Christian writer, I would normally expect a more conservative mystery line, but she boldly steps out and writes with confidence about a difficult topic.
I also love that with this series, you don’t have to read the previous books in order to keep up with the story. Each one reads just fine on it’s own, the thing that draws them all together is the setting rather than reoccurring characters in the larger narrative. The other characters from previous books make appearances inch book, but they do not necessarily play a huge roll in the main narrative of each story—if that makes sense.
While Coble is a wonderful suspense/mystery writer, she is also a very good romance writer. I loved the romance in this book almost more than the second one. Bailey and Lance are both likable characters and their romance was more of a slow burn for me. In this book the romance wasn’t as big of a role within the story, but it was clear that Bailey and Lance had feelings for one another and watching their romance evolve was satisfying and genuine which made me really love their story.
This book was a great conclusion to the series. While there were elements in this book that seemed at first unbelievable, for example how Bailey ended up in Lavender Tides seemed almost a little too ironic, but I thought Coble did a great job tying everything together and explaining how and why she ended up just where she needed to be.
See my full review here
Being from Oregon and loving the Oregon coast, is what initially drew me to this author. I love when places that I know and love are featured in books. Even though Lavender Tides is a fictional city, the descriptions of this little town are vivid and could easily be any Washington or Oregon coastal town.
Coble’s writing is suspenseful and thoughtful with the romance sharing the spotlight with the mystery rather than taking over the story itself, so when this third installment came up for review, I was happy to agree!
One of the things that I love about Coble, is that she doesn’t shy away from provocative mystery storylines. In the book I previously read, the mystery had to do with terrorism and drugs and this book’s mystery is about human trafficking. As a Christian writer, I would normally expect a more conservative mystery line, but she boldly steps out and writes with confidence about a difficult topic.
I also love that with this series, you don’t have to read the previous books in order to keep up with the story. Each one reads just fine on it’s own, the thing that draws them all together is the setting rather than reoccurring characters in the larger narrative. The other characters from previous books make appearances inch book, but they do not necessarily play a huge roll in the main narrative of each story—if that makes sense.
While Coble is a wonderful suspense/mystery writer, she is also a very good romance writer. I loved the romance in this book almost more than the second one. Bailey and Lance are both likable characters and their romance was more of a slow burn for me. In this book the romance wasn’t as big of a role within the story, but it was clear that Bailey and Lance had feelings for one another and watching their romance evolve was satisfying and genuine which made me really love their story.
This book was a great conclusion to the series. While there were elements in this book that seemed at first unbelievable, for example how Bailey ended up in Lavender Tides seemed almost a little too ironic, but I thought Coble did a great job tying everything together and explaining how and why she ended up just where she needed to be.
See my full review here
February 11, 2019
With the third full-length novel to the intriguing series, the author untangles the web of lies, crimes, secrets, and consequences of choices made, delivering a story that allured the mind, and was difficult put down until the destiny of the cast of characters were revealed.
With several subplots going on simultaneously, and all the characters, from the heroes to the culprits, getting their chance to tell their side of the story, it took an effort to keep all the lines untwined. As some of the points of the plot have been following the series from the beginning and for the number of people introduced in the tale, I would highly recommend reading the previous books before starting this one. Yes, it is mentioned in the blurb that this is a stand-alone novel, but I dare to disagree with that after reading the three books.
Even though some twist of the plot left me wondering and questioning the relatability, human trafficking comes across as very realistic, the way they hunt the prey, the way they treat them, and how they sell them, it is cruel, horrid, and brutal, giving me chills as I read through the experience of Ava and the other victims of the traffickers.
Bailey Fleming and Lance Phoenix were likable characters, who I grew to care for and cheer for as the story progress. Some of the past and current events in Bailey's life were on the edge of my imagination and understanding and even after finished reading the book I was left wondering with some questions. But the growing attraction between Lance and Bailey was not one of the questions in my mind, it seemed authentic and tangible, something that had future potential as well. The romance between them doesn't have a major part in the tale, but it clear that the feelings in their hearts taking root were more than just friendship.
There is so much going on in the book, both on the human interest aspect and on the criminal, suspense aspect, that the only way for me to read the story was completely immersing into it, and get lost in the pages of the tale of forgiveness, family loyalty, and finding your true self and staying true to it. The folks at Lavender Tides will solve another tangled web of crimes while trying to move on with their own lives.
With thrilling suspense and piquant lives, loves, and destinies of the protagonists the author tell an arresting and alluring tale, part of a series, that I can highly recommend.
~ Four Spoons
With several subplots going on simultaneously, and all the characters, from the heroes to the culprits, getting their chance to tell their side of the story, it took an effort to keep all the lines untwined. As some of the points of the plot have been following the series from the beginning and for the number of people introduced in the tale, I would highly recommend reading the previous books before starting this one. Yes, it is mentioned in the blurb that this is a stand-alone novel, but I dare to disagree with that after reading the three books.
Even though some twist of the plot left me wondering and questioning the relatability, human trafficking comes across as very realistic, the way they hunt the prey, the way they treat them, and how they sell them, it is cruel, horrid, and brutal, giving me chills as I read through the experience of Ava and the other victims of the traffickers.
Bailey Fleming and Lance Phoenix were likable characters, who I grew to care for and cheer for as the story progress. Some of the past and current events in Bailey's life were on the edge of my imagination and understanding and even after finished reading the book I was left wondering with some questions. But the growing attraction between Lance and Bailey was not one of the questions in my mind, it seemed authentic and tangible, something that had future potential as well. The romance between them doesn't have a major part in the tale, but it clear that the feelings in their hearts taking root were more than just friendship.
There is so much going on in the book, both on the human interest aspect and on the criminal, suspense aspect, that the only way for me to read the story was completely immersing into it, and get lost in the pages of the tale of forgiveness, family loyalty, and finding your true self and staying true to it. The folks at Lavender Tides will solve another tangled web of crimes while trying to move on with their own lives.
With thrilling suspense and piquant lives, loves, and destinies of the protagonists the author tell an arresting and alluring tale, part of a series, that I can highly recommend.
~ Four Spoons
May 19, 2021
A great finale to the "Lavender Tides" series and all the puzzles given in the first two of this series are solved at the end of this novel. And a cat becomes a hero in this thriller. I recommend that you start at the beginning and read through the end, each novel follows the previous novel.
November 13, 2018
An exciting new installment in the Lavender Tides series! This latest book ties up a few loose ends, and fills in the story of Shauna's missing siblings begun in book one. Plenty of action, some suspenseful moments and romance made this a fast paced read for me. It would be best to read the series in order, but I could follow the story with the little bits of recap inserted throughout.
‘For God is not a God of confusion but of peace.’
Bailey has a lot of turmoil in her life, and runs from one dangerous situation into another, but her faith keeps her strong. She cares for the older woman neighbor with a lot of compassion, and uses her nursing skills to help other hurting people. The reminder to "fear not" and trust God, especially in a dark hour, was inspiring. "Whatever happens, God has us.”
A heavy topic in this story involves sex trafficking, and the abduction of teens. It is dealt with carefully, but enough detail to be heartbreaking, and a serious warning for parents and young women especially.
An exciting series, sure to satisfy older teens and adult readers who enjoy romantic suspense with inspirational threads. Recommend! 4.5 stars
(I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
‘For God is not a God of confusion but of peace.’
Bailey has a lot of turmoil in her life, and runs from one dangerous situation into another, but her faith keeps her strong. She cares for the older woman neighbor with a lot of compassion, and uses her nursing skills to help other hurting people. The reminder to "fear not" and trust God, especially in a dark hour, was inspiring. "Whatever happens, God has us.”
A heavy topic in this story involves sex trafficking, and the abduction of teens. It is dealt with carefully, but enough detail to be heartbreaking, and a serious warning for parents and young women especially.
An exciting series, sure to satisfy older teens and adult readers who enjoy romantic suspense with inspirational threads. Recommend! 4.5 stars
(I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
January 16, 2019
From beginning to end, Coble's conclusion to the Lavender Tides series kept me riveted and riding the action-packed suspense. I loved that all the characters from previous books appeared in this book, and many of the loose story plots were brought to wonderful conclusions. The addition of Lily as a secondary character was so sweet as we see an elderly lady who is suffering dementia and has both clear and cloudy days. The topic of sex trafficking was very timely as it has pervaded the US in cities large and small. As always, Coble includes spiritual content that winds its way through the story without being blatant, and her characters are everyday human beings who falter at times and walk strongly at others.
Highly recommend this entire series to those who like contemporary suspense. I would suggest reading the series in order as each builds on the previous.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Harper Collins Publishing through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
Highly recommend this entire series to those who like contemporary suspense. I would suggest reading the series in order as each builds on the previous.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Harper Collins Publishing through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
April 1, 2020
3.5 stars
Some elements were a little hard to buy, but the story moved along at a good pace. Easy read.
Some elements were a little hard to buy, but the story moved along at a good pace. Easy read.
January 25, 2019
Once again Colleen Coble delivers an action packed and touching story. She also tackles a story that is impacting thousands of families today, human trafficking.
In the opening pages we meet Bailey Fleming. She is dealing with the fact her new husband is already married. As he “buys” her off with the deed to a house in Washington state, she learns that her mother has been murder. The trouble really starts when someone starts shooting at her and she has to take off to save her life.
The characters, both the main ones, Bailey and Lance as well as the secondary characters from the previous stories are just so great. I loved Bailey’s compassion for the elderly and those that are hurting. Lance was driven almost to the point of obsession.
The human trafficking story line was engaging and educational. I know that it exists, but not to the depth.
Even though this is a book three, the author gives enough backstory that you could read it as a stand alone. However, I”m a big fan of reading them in order. There is a novella that falls chronologically between book one and two, though it was released after book two.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson/Harper Collins through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
In the opening pages we meet Bailey Fleming. She is dealing with the fact her new husband is already married. As he “buys” her off with the deed to a house in Washington state, she learns that her mother has been murder. The trouble really starts when someone starts shooting at her and she has to take off to save her life.
The characters, both the main ones, Bailey and Lance as well as the secondary characters from the previous stories are just so great. I loved Bailey’s compassion for the elderly and those that are hurting. Lance was driven almost to the point of obsession.
The human trafficking story line was engaging and educational. I know that it exists, but not to the depth.
Even though this is a book three, the author gives enough backstory that you could read it as a stand alone. However, I”m a big fan of reading them in order. There is a novella that falls chronologically between book one and two, though it was released after book two.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson/Harper Collins through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
February 13, 2019
This is the third and final book in the Lavender Tides series. Because the series is so good, I highly recommend that you start with the first one, even though it works well as standalone.
I’ve enjoyed every moment of getting to know the characters in this series. The author, Colleen Coble, did a wonderful job of capturing the little details that brought each character to life. There was plenty of suspense that kept me glued to the pages, and I anticipated each new book. I loved how the lies from the past were uncovered, the bad guys were caught, and everything was neatly wrapped up by the last page.
Although God is mentioned now and again, this isn’t an overly Christian novel. The characters don’t lean on God as much as they do in some other books. That’s probably the only minor complaint I have.
This story is a very solid 5 stars.
I’ve enjoyed every moment of getting to know the characters in this series. The author, Colleen Coble, did a wonderful job of capturing the little details that brought each character to life. There was plenty of suspense that kept me glued to the pages, and I anticipated each new book. I loved how the lies from the past were uncovered, the bad guys were caught, and everything was neatly wrapped up by the last page.
Although God is mentioned now and again, this isn’t an overly Christian novel. The characters don’t lean on God as much as they do in some other books. That’s probably the only minor complaint I have.
This story is a very solid 5 stars.
November 16, 2018
Wow! She does it again! Ms. Coble’s latest series has been fantastic and I have thoroughly enjoyed reading each book. This is a book that I did not want to put down and read straight through! This book focuses on Bailey. Bailey has had some tough situations recently in her life and was betrayed by her husband. Then, her mom is murdered. To her discovery, there were a lot of things that she did not know about her mom and herself. She goes on the run to get away from all of the trouble, but also to figure out what is going on. She travels to Lavender Tides and meets Lance. Lance is a FBI agent who has been looking for his sister for five years. Together they discover they have more connections than they thought. If you have read the other books in the series, you will also learn more to the story that ties all three books together. This book can be read as a stand-alone novel, but you will appreciate the book more to have the back story from the previous two books. They are also fantastic! Ms. Coble writes so well and tells the most interesting suspenseful stories. I HIGHLY recommend this book and do not think that you will be disappointed!
***I was given a free electronic copy of this book from the publisher for an honest review. This is my honest opinion. Even though I received this copy free, I have purchased her books before.
***I was given a free electronic copy of this book from the publisher for an honest review. This is my honest opinion. Even though I received this copy free, I have purchased her books before.
March 17, 2021
Definitely the best book in the series! I somehow managed to grab this one first before the second, but after having a big miss for the first book in the series, I wasn't super optimistic about liking more of the same characters. Instead of disliking it, I found myself coming back to the audio again and again and not wanting to stop listening to do other things.
Bailey was a great lead and her ending up in a crime scene because of having nowhere else to go was an unusual and intriguing twist. I had a hard time guessing how things would play out.
Content: 16+ because the plot line includes realistic mentions of what human trafficking means for kidnapped women (drugs, rape, etc), though it's kept as chaste as possible while getting the point across.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required.
Bailey was a great lead and her ending up in a crime scene because of having nowhere else to go was an unusual and intriguing twist. I had a hard time guessing how things would play out.
Content: 16+ because the plot line includes realistic mentions of what human trafficking means for kidnapped women (drugs, rape, etc), though it's kept as chaste as possible while getting the point across.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required.
February 9, 2019
This was a pretty perfect finale to the Lavender Tides series and easily my favorite suspense book by Colleen(and I have read a significant chunk of her suspense novels). It pulled me in from the first page and it didn’t let go during the entire book. The villain surprised me(and that is HARD to do usually) and there were a few more twists thrown in along the way. The story was superb and the ending was an exciting finale with a bitter snowstorm that made for en exciting element to battle along with the bad guys! I definitely think a reread of this set all at once is in order down the road. Love, love, love Lavender Tides and I am sorry to leave!!
May 9, 2019
I am embarrassed to say that I’m reading this book. It’s now firmly on my do-not-read list but I’m stuck on jury duty and this is all I’ve got. Now I want to finish to see how the story ends but it’s just too saccharine and predictable. The character development is horrendous and there are numerous gaping plot holes. I will amend this review if things improve.
May 31, 2019
I picked this up at the library; it was in the mystery section and I like mysteries. This is really more of a romance novel, and I don't like romance novels. As a mystery, I found the plot absolutely preposterous.
February 23, 2019
3.5 stars
February 7, 2019
The third installment of the Lavender Tides series brings the whole family together with the most excitement and best storyline yet!
Bailey Fleming is at a loss after her mother is murdered and she finds out the man she married has been lying to her from the beginning. When her mother’s murderers come after her, Bailey flees to a remote cabin in Lavender Tides. Once she arrives, she finds out more of her life has been a lie than she knew. The cabin she is staying at has been used for human trafficking, which brings FBI agent Lance Phoenix into her life. Lance has been working the case to try and rescue his sister, Ava, who was snatched after running away from home. When his path crosses with Bailey, he wonders if her story is really as true as she says and if she can somehow bring him in touch with his sister.
I am sad to see this series come to an end. I have really come to enjoy these characters and the circumstances that brought them all together. In this installment, we finally get to meet Bailey and see what has happened in her life. The events that brought her to end up back In Lavender Tides are very interesting and really bring the series full circle. With her bad marriage at the beginning, it is hard to believe she will fall for anyone very quickly, but then again having a great guy like Lance come along after being burned so bad could be just what she needed. I enjoyed the interactions between the two of them and how they gravitated towards each other in the rough times they were going through. When Bailey finds out who she really is and that she has family she can lean on in the hard times, I was really touched by the way that played out. Going from thinking you are alone to finding out you have a family in the middle of an emotional turmoil was a great scene. I would recommend reading the first two in the series before beginning this one to get the backstory of all the characters and what is happening in their lives to bring them all to the point they find themselves in during this book. Readers will be pleased with how all the loose ends from the entire series will be tied up by the last page.
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
Bailey Fleming is at a loss after her mother is murdered and she finds out the man she married has been lying to her from the beginning. When her mother’s murderers come after her, Bailey flees to a remote cabin in Lavender Tides. Once she arrives, she finds out more of her life has been a lie than she knew. The cabin she is staying at has been used for human trafficking, which brings FBI agent Lance Phoenix into her life. Lance has been working the case to try and rescue his sister, Ava, who was snatched after running away from home. When his path crosses with Bailey, he wonders if her story is really as true as she says and if she can somehow bring him in touch with his sister.
I am sad to see this series come to an end. I have really come to enjoy these characters and the circumstances that brought them all together. In this installment, we finally get to meet Bailey and see what has happened in her life. The events that brought her to end up back In Lavender Tides are very interesting and really bring the series full circle. With her bad marriage at the beginning, it is hard to believe she will fall for anyone very quickly, but then again having a great guy like Lance come along after being burned so bad could be just what she needed. I enjoyed the interactions between the two of them and how they gravitated towards each other in the rough times they were going through. When Bailey finds out who she really is and that she has family she can lean on in the hard times, I was really touched by the way that played out. Going from thinking you are alone to finding out you have a family in the middle of an emotional turmoil was a great scene. I would recommend reading the first two in the series before beginning this one to get the backstory of all the characters and what is happening in their lives to bring them all to the point they find themselves in during this book. Readers will be pleased with how all the loose ends from the entire series will be tied up by the last page.
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
January 29, 2019
3.5 Stars
In the third and final Lavender Tides novel, Colleen Coble brings a missing person back to town. Of course, she doesn’t realize she’s missing. I admit, I was skeptical at first about the odds of this particular person ending up in the small town where people happen to be looking for her, but Coble manages to tie all of the connections together as the story progresses.
There’s a ton happening in Secrets at Cedar Cabin—missing persons, Bailey’s connection to the residents, dead bodies, and an FBI investigation into a sex trafficking ring. With all of the story lines, there are multiple points of view which, at times, are a big convoluted. If you haven’t read the first two books, I imagine this would be even more confusing. I highly suggest starting with The View from Rainshadow Bay and The House at Saltwater Point, so you have a feel for everyone.
That said, Bailey is a great character that I cheered for. Despite her circumstances, she’s ready and willing to assist her new neighbors, she’s industrious and brave when she’s put on the spot, and open to exploring the truths she uncovers in Lavender Tides. How could FBI agent Lance Phoenix not be drawn to her?
The story climbs steadily to the climax that pays off with the intrigue, action, and answers you’ve been waiting for.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
In the third and final Lavender Tides novel, Colleen Coble brings a missing person back to town. Of course, she doesn’t realize she’s missing. I admit, I was skeptical at first about the odds of this particular person ending up in the small town where people happen to be looking for her, but Coble manages to tie all of the connections together as the story progresses.
There’s a ton happening in Secrets at Cedar Cabin—missing persons, Bailey’s connection to the residents, dead bodies, and an FBI investigation into a sex trafficking ring. With all of the story lines, there are multiple points of view which, at times, are a big convoluted. If you haven’t read the first two books, I imagine this would be even more confusing. I highly suggest starting with The View from Rainshadow Bay and The House at Saltwater Point, so you have a feel for everyone.
That said, Bailey is a great character that I cheered for. Despite her circumstances, she’s ready and willing to assist her new neighbors, she’s industrious and brave when she’s put on the spot, and open to exploring the truths she uncovers in Lavender Tides. How could FBI agent Lance Phoenix not be drawn to her?
The story climbs steadily to the climax that pays off with the intrigue, action, and answers you’ve been waiting for.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
August 19, 2019
Ohhh, the cover!!! Love, love, love!!!
August 10, 2020
The best for last... in this wonderful series!
May 24, 2023
I don't like suspense and action filled-novels, but somehow I read this one and didn't watch television and ignored my husband while he was trying to talk to me and barely put the book down so I could sleep.
Hmmm...I may be looking up the next one in the series, or the precursors, or anything else I can find that this author just happened to write.
But I don't like suspense...
Hmmm...I may be looking up the next one in the series, or the precursors, or anything else I can find that this author just happened to write.
But I don't like suspense...
January 20, 2019
Bailey's life has been turned upside down since the murder of her mother. One of the biggest changes has been fleeing from Rock Harbor, MI to Lavender Tides, WA. Once there she meets Lance, an FBI agent hunting for the human trafficking ring that abducted his sister five years ago. Through wonderful mastery, Coble has written an edge of your seat thriller with plenty of romance.
Secrets at Cedar Cabin is the third book in the Lavender Tide series and it kept up with the first two as being a fast-paced read with no dull scenes. You will find yourself embedded in Lavender Tides as you read. Fans of romantic thrillers will enjoy this book/series. You can read each as a standalone with no issues.
This book deals with the more sensitive subject of human trafficking so before giving it to a teenager to read I would sit down and discuss what human trafficking is and what to look for on social media and how to stay safe. Coble does an excellent job of showing how scarily easy it can be for our young women to be picked up by these horrible excuses of human beings.
I enjoy reading Coble's books as I know I am guaranteed a clean romance, no obscene language, and a happy ending.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson-Fiction through NetGalley. Any and all opinions expressed in the above review is entirely my own.
Secrets at Cedar Cabin is the third book in the Lavender Tide series and it kept up with the first two as being a fast-paced read with no dull scenes. You will find yourself embedded in Lavender Tides as you read. Fans of romantic thrillers will enjoy this book/series. You can read each as a standalone with no issues.
This book deals with the more sensitive subject of human trafficking so before giving it to a teenager to read I would sit down and discuss what human trafficking is and what to look for on social media and how to stay safe. Coble does an excellent job of showing how scarily easy it can be for our young women to be picked up by these horrible excuses of human beings.
I enjoy reading Coble's books as I know I am guaranteed a clean romance, no obscene language, and a happy ending.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson-Fiction through NetGalley. Any and all opinions expressed in the above review is entirely my own.
January 19, 2019
This is the third full length novel in The Lavender Tides series but reads well on its own. I enjoyed it. Coble has done a great job of combining mystery, romance, and suspense. And what could be better than the location, the north coast of the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State.
Readers of the series will be familiar with some of the major characters from previous Lavender Tides novels but the main character is a transplant from the Midwest. How Bailey ends up in the town is a bit convoluted, involving the murder of her mother and the bigamist she thought was her husband giving her the deed to a cabin in Washington. When there is an attempt on her life, she escapes to the only place she thinks might be safe. There is plenty of action in the novel as Coble peels away lies and deceit layer by layer. In the end, Bailey ending up in Lavender Tides does not seem as unreasonable as it did initially.
A major aspect of the novel is sex trafficking. That is hard to read about although Coble does well with it. Lance, the FBI agent looking into the trafficking, meets Bailey and after a rough start, romance blossoms. He has a personal interest in his investigation as his sister has been missing and is presumed to be held captive.
There is a good amount of suspense in the novel, especially near the end. The characters are crafted well. Bailey is a brave character and is at times more innovative than the FBI agents.
One area Coble does not deal with is the psychological issues women face after having been forced into sex trafficking. I wish she would have highlighted the work such women might have to go through to be emotionally and spiritually healthy again. She does include a serious warning to teens through the experience of a character tempted by a predator on social media.
I do wish Coble had added more description of the area with the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the north and the majestic Olympic Mountains to the south. But then I'm a Washingtonian who can see the location of the novel with just a short drive from my house.
I do recommend this novel to readers who enjoy a somewhat complicated plot with lies that are slowly revealed and including plenty of suspense. A good discussion guide is included.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Readers of the series will be familiar with some of the major characters from previous Lavender Tides novels but the main character is a transplant from the Midwest. How Bailey ends up in the town is a bit convoluted, involving the murder of her mother and the bigamist she thought was her husband giving her the deed to a cabin in Washington. When there is an attempt on her life, she escapes to the only place she thinks might be safe. There is plenty of action in the novel as Coble peels away lies and deceit layer by layer. In the end, Bailey ending up in Lavender Tides does not seem as unreasonable as it did initially.
A major aspect of the novel is sex trafficking. That is hard to read about although Coble does well with it. Lance, the FBI agent looking into the trafficking, meets Bailey and after a rough start, romance blossoms. He has a personal interest in his investigation as his sister has been missing and is presumed to be held captive.
There is a good amount of suspense in the novel, especially near the end. The characters are crafted well. Bailey is a brave character and is at times more innovative than the FBI agents.
One area Coble does not deal with is the psychological issues women face after having been forced into sex trafficking. I wish she would have highlighted the work such women might have to go through to be emotionally and spiritually healthy again. She does include a serious warning to teens through the experience of a character tempted by a predator on social media.
I do wish Coble had added more description of the area with the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the north and the majestic Olympic Mountains to the south. But then I'm a Washingtonian who can see the location of the novel with just a short drive from my house.
I do recommend this novel to readers who enjoy a somewhat complicated plot with lies that are slowly revealed and including plenty of suspense. A good discussion guide is included.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
February 15, 2019
I have read a number of Coble's books. I like a wholesome mystery/suspense novel, but this one disappointed on many levels. If I had to grade this book it would get a C- due to (1) bad dialogue, (2) plot potholes and (3) bipolar Christian message.
First, the dialogue--even for a fictional romance-- it was incredibly unrealistic. One best-selling suspense author described this poor dialogue/romantic banter as a lesbian relationship. After reading this book, I couldn't agree more. The contrived dialogue between Lance and Bailey sounds like the thoughts and interactions of two women. Men do not generally think or talk like Lance, Christian or not. Instead, it reads like a woman's fantasy of what she'd expect her love interest to do if he thought like her. Ew!
The second issue I have is with the plot. Again, even for a fictional mystery there are too many "What?!" moments. For instance, why would a young woman, escaping for her life and supposedly going into hiding, only change her vehicle and license plate numbers but proceed to tell EVERYONE she meets her real name and profession?!
Secondly, too many characters were introduced which made for confusion. They each had their own backstory, and since the author obviously wanted to inform the reader, this makes for more unrealistic dialogue exchanges in conversation. People (unless they have no tact at all) generally do not introduce their friends by talking about all the bad history in their lives and who their relatives are etc.
With all the characters to keep track of, it made the culprit reveal very underwhelming. A large part of the fun of a well-written mystery is feeling like you're on track to figure out who the killer is because of all the clues. I can't say there was any of that here.
Also, as far as the occasional Christianity highlights, I do take issue with the whole bathrobe/wet hair kiss scene and Bailey's line about failing God every day. Why do so-called Christians think it's okay to fail God on a daily basis and yet, no self-respecting person (let alone Christian) with half a brain would tolerate a daily fail from a romantic partner? If you're going to be a Christian, go all the way or not at all.
First, the dialogue--even for a fictional romance-- it was incredibly unrealistic. One best-selling suspense author described this poor dialogue/romantic banter as a lesbian relationship. After reading this book, I couldn't agree more. The contrived dialogue between Lance and Bailey sounds like the thoughts and interactions of two women. Men do not generally think or talk like Lance, Christian or not. Instead, it reads like a woman's fantasy of what she'd expect her love interest to do if he thought like her. Ew!
The second issue I have is with the plot. Again, even for a fictional mystery there are too many "What?!" moments. For instance, why would a young woman, escaping for her life and supposedly going into hiding, only change her vehicle and license plate numbers but proceed to tell EVERYONE she meets her real name and profession?!
Secondly, too many characters were introduced which made for confusion. They each had their own backstory, and since the author obviously wanted to inform the reader, this makes for more unrealistic dialogue exchanges in conversation. People (unless they have no tact at all) generally do not introduce their friends by talking about all the bad history in their lives and who their relatives are etc.
With all the characters to keep track of, it made the culprit reveal very underwhelming. A large part of the fun of a well-written mystery is feeling like you're on track to figure out who the killer is because of all the clues. I can't say there was any of that here.
Also, as far as the occasional Christianity highlights, I do take issue with the whole bathrobe/wet hair kiss scene and Bailey's line about failing God every day. Why do so-called Christians think it's okay to fail God on a daily basis and yet, no self-respecting person (let alone Christian) with half a brain would tolerate a daily fail from a romantic partner? If you're going to be a Christian, go all the way or not at all.
January 26, 2019
Secrets at Cedar Cabin by Colleen Coble is be third book in the Lavender Tides series. I have read the other two books in the series and while they were all fabulous reads, this book is the best yet! Bailey’s story is so complicated due to its circumstances and due to emotionally charged situations. Lance, the FBI agent helping her is facing just as many personal dilemmas. The action and conflict never end in this novel. It starts out grabbing your attention and never lets go. The novel is extremely well paced and will never let you get bored. I highly recommend this novel! The only thing I did not like about it is that it is the end of the series. It is a phenomenal read!! I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.
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