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Secrets of Rios Azules #5
Danger Under the Mistletoe
Eager to heal after losing her husband, security consultant Rachel Evans moves to the small Texas town of Rios Azules. When one of her clients is found murdered under the mistletoe and her rental is broken into, the former thief realizes danger has found her once again. Her neighbor's widowed son volunteers to help her. But as Rachel's attraction to him grows, can she trust him with her heart-or her secret-before someone takes her life?
Please note: this book first appeared in The Mystery of Christmas 2 set (the set is no longer available).
Please note: this book first appeared in The Mystery of Christmas 2 set (the set is no longer available).
122 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 10, 2018
148 people are currently reading
63 people want to read
About the author
Alexa Verde
118 books309 followersAlexa Verde writes feel-good small-town romances with a smile. She'd love it if you subscribed to her newsletter https://dl.bookfunnel.com/gitieu15ex. Every subscriber gets a free Christian romance after confirming the subscription as a thank-you gift.
She penned her first literary "masterpiece" (a rhymed poem) at the ripe age of eight, and since has had over forty books and 200 short stories, articles, and poems published in the five languages that she speaks. Over 60 million pages of her books have been read worldwide. She has bachelor's degrees in English and Spanish, a master's in Russian, and enjoys writing about characters from diverse cultures. She's worn the hats of reporter, teacher, translator, assistant, model (even one day counts!), and caretaker, but thinks that the writer's hat suits her the best. She hopes and prays that her stories will bring joy to her readers. Heartfelt thanks for your interest in her books!
She penned her first literary "masterpiece" (a rhymed poem) at the ripe age of eight, and since has had over forty books and 200 short stories, articles, and poems published in the five languages that she speaks. Over 60 million pages of her books have been read worldwide. She has bachelor's degrees in English and Spanish, a master's in Russian, and enjoys writing about characters from diverse cultures. She's worn the hats of reporter, teacher, translator, assistant, model (even one day counts!), and caretaker, but thinks that the writer's hat suits her the best. She hopes and prays that her stories will bring joy to her readers. Heartfelt thanks for your interest in her books!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
September 2, 2021
This is a great Christmas collection of previously published stories. There is suspense and mystery in each story that will keep you hanging on to discover who are the villains in each story.
SEASON OF AFFECTION. - this one I had read before and enjoyed reading it again. This story involves a stalker who is sending threatening notes to a known actress, Elizabeth Macalister. She decides to spend Christmas in her home town with her family but gets concerned when the threats follow her to her hotel. Meeting face to face with the man who rejected her so many years ago she agrees to let him help her discover who is threatening her.
Matthew Miller has now become a P.I. and he wants to help Elizabeth stay safe while determining who her stalker may be. Matthew let Elizabeth go to protect his heart so many years ago but after spending time with her again, he's not sure if he can let her go again.
DANGER UNDER THE MISTLETOE. This story had so much suspense to it and I loved the characters. Rachel Evans had a horrific past but she managed to turn her life around. She used her past experiences to make a business in setting up security for rich people to help them avoid being robbed. Moving to a new town to get away from her brokenness after the death of her husband, she begins to sense that she may be in danger from her past. When one of her clients is murdered and her new home is broken into, she is willing to receive help from Sebastian, the grandson of her new neighbor.
Sebastian had his own past that had almost destroyed his life when his wife was murdered by a robber. He was a martial arts expert who owned his own business and he became a wonderful protector to Rachel.
This story kept the suspense going right up to the end.
NOELLE ON THE RUN.- This story starts out with Noelle Rochester heating a rumor from her neighbor that someone had been murdered. Watching that same neighbor killed in a hit and run accident had Noelle leaving town for Christmas. Whoever was behind the murder seemed to be following her to Christmas Tyme, Colorado where she would be spending Christmas with her uncle. When the killer tries to run Noelle off the road, she flees to Juan Rivera, a friend of her uncle who had been a former P.I.
Juan had closed off his life after his Fiance was killed in an accident. He had become a hermit with a cat as his only companion. When Noelle came to him for help, he felt like she was a lifeline to help him come back to the land of the living. Together these two would need to figure out who was behind the murders before they became the next victims.
I enjoyed all three stories and would recommend this collection to anyone who likes a good suspense with a touch of romance.
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
SEASON OF AFFECTION. - this one I had read before and enjoyed reading it again. This story involves a stalker who is sending threatening notes to a known actress, Elizabeth Macalister. She decides to spend Christmas in her home town with her family but gets concerned when the threats follow her to her hotel. Meeting face to face with the man who rejected her so many years ago she agrees to let him help her discover who is threatening her.
Matthew Miller has now become a P.I. and he wants to help Elizabeth stay safe while determining who her stalker may be. Matthew let Elizabeth go to protect his heart so many years ago but after spending time with her again, he's not sure if he can let her go again.
DANGER UNDER THE MISTLETOE. This story had so much suspense to it and I loved the characters. Rachel Evans had a horrific past but she managed to turn her life around. She used her past experiences to make a business in setting up security for rich people to help them avoid being robbed. Moving to a new town to get away from her brokenness after the death of her husband, she begins to sense that she may be in danger from her past. When one of her clients is murdered and her new home is broken into, she is willing to receive help from Sebastian, the grandson of her new neighbor.
Sebastian had his own past that had almost destroyed his life when his wife was murdered by a robber. He was a martial arts expert who owned his own business and he became a wonderful protector to Rachel.
This story kept the suspense going right up to the end.
NOELLE ON THE RUN.- This story starts out with Noelle Rochester heating a rumor from her neighbor that someone had been murdered. Watching that same neighbor killed in a hit and run accident had Noelle leaving town for Christmas. Whoever was behind the murder seemed to be following her to Christmas Tyme, Colorado where she would be spending Christmas with her uncle. When the killer tries to run Noelle off the road, she flees to Juan Rivera, a friend of her uncle who had been a former P.I.
Juan had closed off his life after his Fiance was killed in an accident. He had become a hermit with a cat as his only companion. When Noelle came to him for help, he felt like she was a lifeline to help him come back to the land of the living. Together these two would need to figure out who was behind the murders before they became the next victims.
I enjoyed all three stories and would recommend this collection to anyone who likes a good suspense with a touch of romance.
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
March 30, 2018
My review today is on the suspense, Danger Under the Mistletoe. This is fifth book in the Secrets of Rios Azules Series. This book was sent to me. I am not required to review it but I want to review it as it's an awesome book. The story is well written, faith based, and full of action. I know you are going to love it.
Security Specialist Rachel Evans moves to the small Texas town of Rios Azules. She moved to make a fresh start and heal from the death of her husband. Soon after she arrives one of her clients is found dead in his home under the mistletoe. Not a good thing for a security company. Her next door neighbor arrives late one night after she locked herself out of her home. Rachel goes over to her home to get the medicine she need. The only way in is to pick the lock but as she's leaving she's caught by the handsome neighbor's grandson. He follows her home to get his grandmother. Soon after her little rental house is broken into and Sebastion helps her. Would someone from her past try to force her into a life of thievery?
Sebastion Mora was widowed several years ago. Now his life was centered around his grandmother. His grandmother calls him late one night and tells him she locked herself out of her home. Could he come help her? Sebastion finds someone in her home sneaking out of the window. Turns out this woman is his grandmother's beautiful neighbor. He finds the woman intriguing. He soon finds out she is in danger. He must keep her safe.
A great struggle to keep Rachel safe and find out who's out to kidnap her. God has a plan for these two, a good plan and not for evil. God has a plan for you too, a plan for a hope and a future. Give Him your heart, trust Him and watch what he will do for you.
Security Specialist Rachel Evans moves to the small Texas town of Rios Azules. She moved to make a fresh start and heal from the death of her husband. Soon after she arrives one of her clients is found dead in his home under the mistletoe. Not a good thing for a security company. Her next door neighbor arrives late one night after she locked herself out of her home. Rachel goes over to her home to get the medicine she need. The only way in is to pick the lock but as she's leaving she's caught by the handsome neighbor's grandson. He follows her home to get his grandmother. Soon after her little rental house is broken into and Sebastion helps her. Would someone from her past try to force her into a life of thievery?
Sebastion Mora was widowed several years ago. Now his life was centered around his grandmother. His grandmother calls him late one night and tells him she locked herself out of her home. Could he come help her? Sebastion finds someone in her home sneaking out of the window. Turns out this woman is his grandmother's beautiful neighbor. He finds the woman intriguing. He soon finds out she is in danger. He must keep her safe.
A great struggle to keep Rachel safe and find out who's out to kidnap her. God has a plan for these two, a good plan and not for evil. God has a plan for you too, a plan for a hope and a future. Give Him your heart, trust Him and watch what he will do for you.
September 6, 2021
What happens when you lose someone dear to you? Rachel decided she needed to move to a small town, unfortunately, suspicious things start to happen, and she realizes her past has come to haunt her.
In this story, we learn that life can go on and love can happen after a deep loss. With help from others and from God life can be good and safe again.
Alexa Verde is one author I will read again and again. She blends her stories so smoothly. This book flows in such a way that you really feel you know these characters and understand what they are struggling with. Now, I’m not sure I would want to be on the run from scary things like these characters, but I understand fears and the need to trust.
So, if you want to read a book with a bit of suspense and mystery, along with love and romance, then this is the book you should pick up. Plus, it has some fun Christmas flairs and just might put you in the holiday spirit!
I was given this book by the publisher which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
In this story, we learn that life can go on and love can happen after a deep loss. With help from others and from God life can be good and safe again.
Alexa Verde is one author I will read again and again. She blends her stories so smoothly. This book flows in such a way that you really feel you know these characters and understand what they are struggling with. Now, I’m not sure I would want to be on the run from scary things like these characters, but I understand fears and the need to trust.
So, if you want to read a book with a bit of suspense and mystery, along with love and romance, then this is the book you should pick up. Plus, it has some fun Christmas flairs and just might put you in the holiday spirit!
I was given this book by the publisher which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 24, 2023
Loved Sebastian and Rachel's story! Rachel meets Sebastian when she moves to Rios Azules. She's ready for a new start, and decides that her friend's hometown is a good start. She finds a house next door to Sebastian's grandmother, which leads to her meeting Sebastian. When her old life comes back to haunt her, Sebastian steps in to help. He hasn't wanted to find someone since his wife, Tess, died two years ago. Rachel hasn't wanted to find someone since her husband, Ryan, died. The more time they spend together, the more Sebastian helps Rachel see how much God loves her. Will these two lonely people be able to realize how much they love and need each other? I love the faith element weaved throughout the story, and how Rachel comes to realize just how much God loves her, in spite of her past.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
January 29, 2022
With Danger Under the Mistletoe, Alexa Verde continues the exciting series, Secrets of Rios Azules. The plot had twists and turns with a major twist towards the end. The mystery of the villain and his reasons remained a mystery to me until it played out. Rachel and Sebastian are likable and sympathetic characters as they had both lost loved ones very suddenly. Grandma, Sebastian's grandmother, is who we all need for a neighbor or a relative. She provides that warm, loving welcoming place that Rachel desires. I enjoyed reading about how Rachel's and Sebastian's faiths grow in the story. They do get their HEA.
I recommend this book to clean romantic suspense readers and to Christian romantic suspense readers.
I received a complimentary copy and am sharing my opinion of this well-written book.
I recommend this book to clean romantic suspense readers and to Christian romantic suspense readers.
I received a complimentary copy and am sharing my opinion of this well-written book.
March 30, 2019
Rachel moves to Rios Azules, though she’d left thieving behind years ago, as well as losing her husband, she’s looking for a fresh start away from the memories. While she’s over at her neighbor’s house getting something for her, the neighbor is startled awake by an intruder at Rachel’s house, or was it just a dream. Rachel has Maya look into things and her report isn’t a good one. From there it’s trying to stay out of trouble and safe from the people who are after her. Sebastian is draw in despite her trying to keep him out of it. Another page turning story where we also have minor updates on January and Maya.
A complimentary copy was provided by the author/publisher. A review was not required and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
A complimentary copy was provided by the author/publisher. A review was not required and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 13, 2021
Danger Under the Mistletoe (Book 5 in the Secrets of Rios Azules series)
This is the story of Rachel, a home security expert, and Sebastian who holds a black belt in karate. It seems that someone is very interested in Rachel's skills and using force to try to kidnap her. Sebastian wishes to protect her and gets caught up in the nefarious scheme. It seems that only God can save them.
As always, Alexa Verde writes a clean, entertaining novel that leans heavily on Christian values. It is well-written with lovable characters that will have you cheering for their HEA ending.
4 1/2 stars.
This is the story of Rachel, a home security expert, and Sebastian who holds a black belt in karate. It seems that someone is very interested in Rachel's skills and using force to try to kidnap her. Sebastian wishes to protect her and gets caught up in the nefarious scheme. It seems that only God can save them.
As always, Alexa Verde writes a clean, entertaining novel that leans heavily on Christian values. It is well-written with lovable characters that will have you cheering for their HEA ending.
4 1/2 stars.
March 13, 2018
Rachael and Sebastian’s story will have you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what happens next. The way Sebastian watches over Grandma and Rachel is truly wonderful. The characters in this book are all very special people. You will feel God working throughout this whole story. I had the honor to review this book for the author for a honest review. I would give this book a higher rating than a five star review if I could.
December 13, 2025
SUSPENSEFUL CHRISTMAS STORY
This is a romantic Christian based Christmas story about a woman who is a very talented thief who desires to turn her life around and make a new start, based on her new relationship with God. The only problem is that her former lifestyle is hard to shake off and shady characters, who need her skills, want to draw her back into a life of crime. Prayer and mistletoe make all things possible…
This is a romantic Christian based Christmas story about a woman who is a very talented thief who desires to turn her life around and make a new start, based on her new relationship with God. The only problem is that her former lifestyle is hard to shake off and shady characters, who need her skills, want to draw her back into a life of crime. Prayer and mistletoe make all things possible…
December 24, 2025
Dangerous stranger
A new woman moved to this small town. Her neighbors were a grandmother and the grandmother's grandson.
The grandson suspected that this new neighbor had a dangerous past. He was so correct in his thinking. Despite being suspicious, he and his grandmother began to care for her.
This story had some danger, and this led to lives being endangered.
Who would have thought that mistletoe would play a big part of the drama.
A new woman moved to this small town. Her neighbors were a grandmother and the grandmother's grandson.
The grandson suspected that this new neighbor had a dangerous past. He was so correct in his thinking. Despite being suspicious, he and his grandmother began to care for her.
This story had some danger, and this led to lives being endangered.
Who would have thought that mistletoe would play a big part of the drama.
September 16, 2021
While I, usually, don't get too excited over a romance novel, Alexa Verde adds more to hers than just a love story. This was a prime example! Lives are in danger (including the hero and heroine of the tale), and the suspense will keep one reading! I was touched by the warmness of the people in the small town, which I have come to like from Ms Verde's previous books.
November 9, 2023
I liked this one better than book four. The characters made more sense to me. What I didn’t like was the rushed feeling at the end. I can’t say more without spoiling it for others. I do recommend it to anyone looking for a suspense romance that’s clean, inspirational, and with a little tension, but not too much.
March 19, 2018
Romance and Suspense.
I loved this beautiful romance .
Suspense,twists and turns pulls you through this well crafted book.
This book is recommended for those that love Christian romantic suspense.
I loved this beautiful romance .
Suspense,twists and turns pulls you through this well crafted book.
This book is recommended for those that love Christian romantic suspense.
March 22, 2018
True to form, Alexa Verde has written another breathlessly edge of my seat thriller. Well written and engaging from the very first paragraph. Be sure and pick up this very good book. Highly recommend!
February 7, 2023
Really Great Series
I'm totally enjoying this series and these Danger Girls. It's wonderful to read about a group of young women who have built such a close friendship. I loved this book and look forward to the next one.
I'm totally enjoying this series and these Danger Girls. It's wonderful to read about a group of young women who have built such a close friendship. I loved this book and look forward to the next one.
December 6, 2025
Running from her past!
I always enjoy reading books by this author. This story dwells on a very strong and repentant young woman whose past is putting her in danger. Of course there's a sweet romance that enhances the story.
I always enjoy reading books by this author. This story dwells on a very strong and repentant young woman whose past is putting her in danger. Of course there's a sweet romance that enhances the story.
January 16, 2026
This is the first book I've read from Alexa Verde. It won't be the last. It gathered my attention early and I was hooked. Now I need to go back and read books 1-4 of the series.
Thank you for a wonderful evening entrainment.
Thank you for a wonderful evening entrainment.
June 16, 2018
Wonderful Christmas suspense story!
I do enjoyed this entire series and highly recommend it to anyone that loves romance and suspense! You will not be disappointed!!
I do enjoyed this entire series and highly recommend it to anyone that loves romance and suspense! You will not be disappointed!!
July 27, 2018
Great book
Love the Combination of mystery, love story and Christian all wrapped up in one . Of course throw Christmas in there and it makes for one fine sorry !
Love the Combination of mystery, love story and Christian all wrapped up in one . Of course throw Christmas in there and it makes for one fine sorry !
January 12, 2019
The whole series is suspense filled. The characters are not shallow.
June 17, 2019
Great Read
Ian so looking forward to reading more of Alexa Verde's book I Love the suspense. mystery and clean romance in this series
Ian so looking forward to reading more of Alexa Verde's book I Love the suspense. mystery and clean romance in this series
August 23, 2019
Awesome
Amazing story about God's redemptive love and second chances. The whole series is wonderful. Keep up the great work Alexa Verde.
Amazing story about God's redemptive love and second chances. The whole series is wonderful. Keep up the great work Alexa Verde.
October 29, 2020
Great!!!
September 7, 2021
Another great suspense in this series. I liked the recurring characters. I’m sure hoping this series will be continued!! I love the danger elements.
September 26, 2021
Loved this story
This was another good story in this series. The characters were interesting and you wanted them to find their happy ever after.
This was another good story in this series. The characters were interesting and you wanted them to find their happy ever after.
December 6, 2025
God is good
God can do miracles, even for a former thief. A lovely story! Highly recommend this author. A Christian, Christmas story.
God can do miracles, even for a former thief. A lovely story! Highly recommend this author. A Christian, Christmas story.
December 7, 2025
Great, easy read
There are twists and turns you never see coming!
Wonderful story reminding everyone that God forgives all. Don’t miss reading this book!!
There are twists and turns you never see coming!
Wonderful story reminding everyone that God forgives all. Don’t miss reading this book!!
December 9, 2025
Sweet Christmas Story
It was a great quick, clean read that I enjoyed. I will definitely look for other books by this author.
It was a great quick, clean read that I enjoyed. I will definitely look for other books by this author.
December 14, 2025
Happy Ending
Rachel has many secrets many concerning her past that she is ashamed of. Through many scary events she comes to accept that that cannot dictate her future.
Rachel has many secrets many concerning her past that she is ashamed of. Through many scary events she comes to accept that that cannot dictate her future.
December 22, 2025
Great read
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews