What do you think?
Rate this book
The 12 Mysteries of Christmas #2
Gabriel's Secret
Unlike her relatives, who either joined the lucrative jewelry business or became thieves, rookie cop Ava Davis chose public service. Sent undercover on her first assignment to catch a notorious thief expected at the hotel in Christmas Tyme, Colorado, Ava intends to prove the police didn't make a mistake by hiring her. With her family history looming over her, she doesn't have time to reconnect with her childhood friend and first crush, Gabriel Lark.
After being wrongfully accused, former cop Gabriel wants nothing to do with the police and longs for restful holidays. But when a series of thefts at the hotel threaten his new livelihood, he needs Ava's help to find the thief. Once deceived, can he trust her?
Then an extravagant hotel guest is murdered, her jewels missing, and Ava is attacked… Can Ava and Gabriel solve their issues-and the mystery-before Christmas? And all before something from Gabriel's past can destroy his and Ava's future…
THE 12 MYSTERIES OF CHRISTMAS series:
o IN THE NICK OF TIME by Susette Williams
o GABRIEL'S SECRET by Alexa Verde
o GUARDING CANDY KANE by V.B. Tenery
o MURDER: UP ON THE ROOFTOP by Tina Dee
o JOY IN JEOPARDY by Lynette Sowell
o HOLLY IN HIDING by P. Creeden
o STARR WITNESS by Susette Williams
o NOELLE ON THE RUN by Alexa Verde
o GOLDEN BELLES ARE WRINGING by Gina Conroy
o DEATH BY FIGGY PUDDING by Tina Dee
o DANGER FOR GLORIA by Lynette Sowell
o MERRY WITHOUT MALICE by P. Creeden
167 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2018
67 people are currently reading
52 people want to read
About the author
Alexa Verde
119 books313 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!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
December 1, 2019
A delightful book! The two main characters knew each other and their families previously. Gabriel worked as a policeman in Denver, but unfortunately lost that job and was now a security guard.
Ava was an undercover cop. Her disguise is very comic. These two friends meet again and the sparks fly. Together they solve this case.
This was a cute story and I love that Ava helped Gabriel get closer to the Lord.
Ava was an undercover cop. Her disguise is very comic. These two friends meet again and the sparks fly. Together they solve this case.
This was a cute story and I love that Ava helped Gabriel get closer to the Lord.
July 16, 2018
What a fun story! Lots of banter between the two main characters will have you chuckling. But that’s not all. The mystery is intriguing as you try to figure out “who done it”. I was reading as fast as I could.
I’ll admit some of the names are a bit quirky, but once you get to know the characters you’ll see why. They were warm, friendly, honest, confused, bold, and scared. Yes, everything a real person would be and you’ll love them as they work through some issues.
As for the town of Christmas Tyme, I’m ready to go visit. It sounds like my kind of place. I love all things Christmas, and Gabriel’s Secret didn’t disappoint me.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review. All thoughts are my own.
I’ll admit some of the names are a bit quirky, but once you get to know the characters you’ll see why. They were warm, friendly, honest, confused, bold, and scared. Yes, everything a real person would be and you’ll love them as they work through some issues.
As for the town of Christmas Tyme, I’m ready to go visit. It sounds like my kind of place. I love all things Christmas, and Gabriel’s Secret didn’t disappoint me.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review. All thoughts are my own.
July 13, 2018
What a super read by a super author. Some great tongue in cheek situations as well as a great "who dun it!" Well written and very clean. The love story is nicely done too. Highly recommend.
July 4, 2018
When Ava shows up at the hotel where Gabriel works,they know that the feelings they had for each other is still there. Watching these two try to work together and trying to hide their feelings will have you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what happens next. The way these two work together to solve the crimes is totally amazing. 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.
July 20, 2018
My review today is on the Christmas Mystery Romance, Gabriel's Secret. This is book two in The 12 Mysteries of Christmas. I always enjoy Alexa's books. I was thrilled to get a copy. This story is well written, humorous, and full of twists. I know you are going to love it.
Rookie cop Ava Davis is sent undercover to the Christmas Tyme Hotel, in Christmas Tyme, Colorado. She is investigating a possibility of a notorious thief. This is her first real assignment. She didn't plan on running into her high school friend. She doesn't have time for him distracting her. She must prove to the police and her family that she can do this job. Her family was very upset about her leaving the jewelry business. She soon finds she is being set up not only for the robbery but for a murder.
Security Guard Gabriel Lark has a hard time with his job. He had been a cop in Denver when he had been betrayed. Now he was starting over. He is thrilled to see Ava. He has always cared about her. He never realized just how much. As people invade the hotel trying to cause harm he finds himself in partnership with this beauty. He knows she is innocent. He knows that she is flighty and will probably fly away soon but he can't help how his heart can't live without her.
A struggle to find a thief and a killer while all the evidence points to Ava. God has a plan for these two, a plan for a hope and a future. God has a plan for you too, a good plan and not for evil. Give Him you heart and watch how He moves in your life.
Rookie cop Ava Davis is sent undercover to the Christmas Tyme Hotel, in Christmas Tyme, Colorado. She is investigating a possibility of a notorious thief. This is her first real assignment. She didn't plan on running into her high school friend. She doesn't have time for him distracting her. She must prove to the police and her family that she can do this job. Her family was very upset about her leaving the jewelry business. She soon finds she is being set up not only for the robbery but for a murder.
Security Guard Gabriel Lark has a hard time with his job. He had been a cop in Denver when he had been betrayed. Now he was starting over. He is thrilled to see Ava. He has always cared about her. He never realized just how much. As people invade the hotel trying to cause harm he finds himself in partnership with this beauty. He knows she is innocent. He knows that she is flighty and will probably fly away soon but he can't help how his heart can't live without her.
A struggle to find a thief and a killer while all the evidence points to Ava. God has a plan for these two, a plan for a hope and a future. God has a plan for you too, a good plan and not for evil. Give Him you heart and watch how He moves in your life.
July 25, 2018
Ava is learning that her new job has it drawbacks,but her boss sent her.
Now being taken into jail, because she spotted something shiny on the floor. So her family was in the jewel business, some were good, and others, well. He was blowing her cover; mean while another thief at the hotel, while they were gone. Gabriel doesn’t want to be a failure, or disappoint his father. As well, as Ava, wants to prove she can live in a small town, and be a cop. Simple solution work together, will there be more from a school crush. Young, not quite sure of the job they want, and learning valuable lessons along the way. Powerful story, of being your own person, mistakes, mold you. Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion.
Now being taken into jail, because she spotted something shiny on the floor. So her family was in the jewel business, some were good, and others, well. He was blowing her cover; mean while another thief at the hotel, while they were gone. Gabriel doesn’t want to be a failure, or disappoint his father. As well, as Ava, wants to prove she can live in a small town, and be a cop. Simple solution work together, will there be more from a school crush. Young, not quite sure of the job they want, and learning valuable lessons along the way. Powerful story, of being your own person, mistakes, mold you. Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion.
July 27, 2018
Sweet but a bit rushed in the romance department
A good solid read. She has given up her high flying life of jewellery sales to work for the police force. That's why she undercover as a maid at the hotel. Thefts have been reported. He is a former police officer who having left under a cloud has gotten a job as a security officer at the hotel. They had been childhood friends with possibilities of getting closer when her parents moved and took her with them. Add in thefts and murder that all seem to point at her. Can they find the real culprit before either gets hurt? The plot was a good one but the romantic angle went from 0 to 100 at a rate of knots. They had only been childhood friends with a crush but now they are engaged!
A good solid read. She has given up her high flying life of jewellery sales to work for the police force. That's why she undercover as a maid at the hotel. Thefts have been reported. He is a former police officer who having left under a cloud has gotten a job as a security officer at the hotel. They had been childhood friends with possibilities of getting closer when her parents moved and took her with them. Add in thefts and murder that all seem to point at her. Can they find the real culprit before either gets hurt? The plot was a good one but the romantic angle went from 0 to 100 at a rate of knots. They had only been childhood friends with a crush but now they are engaged!
March 8, 2019
Gabriel’s Secret is an engaging mystery that keeps you wondering WHO DONE IT? I felt like I had wondered into a Agatha Christie and kept expecting Miss Marple or Poirot to step into the room with Tommy and Tuppence - err... Gabriel and Ava.;-) The difference between Gabriel and Avas’ mystery and one with Tommy and Tuppence is the personal encouragement - wherever you are - in your Christian walk. I could totally relate to both Gabriel and Ava. I think that we have all had times when we’ve been the Spiritual encourager or when we have needed Spiritual encouragement. And on top of an awesome mystery, some great Spiritual encouragement is a beautifully sweet romance between two childhood friends. *Happy Sigh... What more could you possible ask for in a book? Someone to serve you tea? Lol!
July 24, 2018
Gabriel’s Secret ( The 12 Mysteries of Christmas-Book 2 )
By: Alexa Verde
Gabriel’s Secret is book two by Alexa Verde in The 12 Mysteries of Christmas Series. I really loved Gabriel’s Secret and the two main Characters will have you laughing out loud. A small town and some quirky characters. We have a murder, things goes missing, and things are not what they seem to be. This is a fast paced and well written mystery story that you will just have to love. I was drawn in at the start, but the author keeps you guessing till the end. I was not disappointed.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book , but was not told that I had to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.
By: Alexa Verde
Gabriel’s Secret is book two by Alexa Verde in The 12 Mysteries of Christmas Series. I really loved Gabriel’s Secret and the two main Characters will have you laughing out loud. A small town and some quirky characters. We have a murder, things goes missing, and things are not what they seem to be. This is a fast paced and well written mystery story that you will just have to love. I was drawn in at the start, but the author keeps you guessing till the end. I was not disappointed.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book , but was not told that I had to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.
December 28, 2019
So different so like
The characters in the story “were well written and quirky. The main character was a really quirky girl who used to be a bad girl, as in helping with her thieving parents. The hero in the story is a childhood friend who likes to carve items, and his father worked in law enforcement. These childhood friends meet up as adults and then the fun begins. You’re going to laugh at some things while scratching your head wondering about others.
The characters in the story “were well written and quirky. The main character was a really quirky girl who used to be a bad girl, as in helping with her thieving parents. The hero in the story is a childhood friend who likes to carve items, and his father worked in law enforcement. These childhood friends meet up as adults and then the fun begins. You’re going to laugh at some things while scratching your head wondering about others.
December 25, 2024
Gabriel’s Secret
Gabriel’s Secret is a wonderful Christian suspense book that involves danger and intrigue. Ava has returned to Christmas Tyme and is an undercover cop trying to find a jewel thief. Her childhood sweetheart, Gabriel, has returned also and is on the security detail for the same hotel where she is working undercover. Then she becomes the suspect in a murder at the hotel. The two have to work together to prove her innocence.
Gabriel’s Secret is a wonderful Christian suspense book that involves danger and intrigue. Ava has returned to Christmas Tyme and is an undercover cop trying to find a jewel thief. Her childhood sweetheart, Gabriel, has returned also and is on the security detail for the same hotel where she is working undercover. Then she becomes the suspect in a murder at the hotel. The two have to work together to prove her innocence.
July 27, 2018
Ok
I liked Ava, she is a barrel of fun with a great sense of God and His love. I liked how God is a big part of the whole story, and how Gabriel returns to the way his parents raised him. The story itself didn't really engage me. Was more interested in Ava and how she deals with things.
I liked Ava, she is a barrel of fun with a great sense of God and His love. I liked how God is a big part of the whole story, and how Gabriel returns to the way his parents raised him. The story itself didn't really engage me. Was more interested in Ava and how she deals with things.
July 28, 2018
When good friends Ava and Gabriel meet again after a long absence, new feelings start to grow. But mystery, murder and getting shot at can hinder any couple! A wonderful story to read and lots of action. I highly recommend this book. (I received a free copy from the author, but this review is totally my own opinion.)
August 11, 2018
This was a fun book, Loved the main characters Gabriel and Ava as well as Ava's pet iguana.
This book had me wondering who murdered the victim, surprised when its revealed.
I enjoyed how Ava and Gabriel figured it out.
I also enjoyed the banter between Gabriel and Ava.
This is clean romance with a touch of murder.
Very well written.
This book had me wondering who murdered the victim, surprised when its revealed.
I enjoyed how Ava and Gabriel figured it out.
I also enjoyed the banter between Gabriel and Ava.
This is clean romance with a touch of murder.
Very well written.
August 14, 2018
I really liked this story of Gabriel and Ava. The characters were great and the book was full of mystery and excitement. This is a great book to read during the holidays or any time. I recommend it.
I received a digital copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a positive review.
I received a digital copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a positive review.
July 9, 2018
I truly enjoyed how fun this story is! I live Ava and Gabriel's past friendship, and they have the best time working to solve a mystery while getting to know one another again after years apart. The banter between them is laugh out loud funny, and the mystery plot is fantastic!
July 17, 2018
Ava works with the police now, but she has a past and family history as a thief.
After many years, Ava meet Gabriel and they work together to solve a thief case.
nice book, with suspance, strange people.
After many years, Ava meet Gabriel and they work together to solve a thief case.
nice book, with suspance, strange people.
July 23, 2018
Fun mystery with out of the box characters, twist and turn plot and not WHO you expect resolution. Delightful holiday setting at Christmas Thyme with lots of suspense making this a page turning story. Always enjoy a play on words and quirky named characters. Enjoy Alexa Verde's writing style.
July 23, 2018
Delightful interaction between Gabriel and Ada as they work together to solve a murder at a Christmas Tyme hotel they're both working at. Can hardly wait to read the rest of the series!
Just gotta love an Alexa Verde story... always clean and Christian, something to look forward to!
Just gotta love an Alexa Verde story... always clean and Christian, something to look forward to!
July 28, 2018
We know by now Alexa Verde is a must read!
This novella is no different! Mistakes in the past can easily overshadow our present.
It is only by grace that we can overcome it!
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it
This novella is no different! Mistakes in the past can easily overshadow our present.
It is only by grace that we can overcome it!
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it
November 24, 2018
Mystery 2
This is my favorite one in this series so far. Even if a person loses their faith in God, it’s easy to come back to Him and trust Him again. Praise God! After Christmas, I will be reading more of her books.
This is my favorite one in this series so far. Even if a person loses their faith in God, it’s easy to come back to Him and trust Him again. Praise God! After Christmas, I will be reading more of her books.
July 26, 2018
Wonderful!
I love Christmas and this story set in Christmas Tyme was so good! I love mysteries and am usually pretty good at solving them, but this one kept me on my toes!!
I love Christmas and this story set in Christmas Tyme was so good! I love mysteries and am usually pretty good at solving them, but this one kept me on my toes!!
July 28, 2018
Romantic Suspense at Christmas
There was plenty of suspense ,twists, turns and beautiful romance.
I love the characters, Gabriel and Ava and their second chance at love ,at Christmas
The setting was very interesting and I recommend this to anyone who loves romantic suspense at Christmas time.
There was plenty of suspense ,twists, turns and beautiful romance.
I love the characters, Gabriel and Ava and their second chance at love ,at Christmas
The setting was very interesting and I recommend this to anyone who loves romantic suspense at Christmas time.
October 25, 2018
A Sweet Mysterie
I Hope you enjoy Gabriel's story.I enjoyed it so much. The love makes it so sweet. Read it and fine out.
I Hope you enjoy Gabriel's story.I enjoyed it so much. The love makes it so sweet. Read it and fine out.
December 7, 2018
Book number 2
Book number two in the series The Twelve Mysteries of Christmas did not disappoint. The book kept me guessing! I'm really enjoying this series!
Book number two in the series The Twelve Mysteries of Christmas did not disappoint. The book kept me guessing! I'm really enjoying this series!
December 11, 2021
Outstanding‼️
Intriguing book with love running all through it❣️ I just couldn’t put this book down ~ a one time sitting read. We’ll done Alexa Verde ~ 5⭐️rating!!
Intriguing book with love running all through it❣️ I just couldn’t put this book down ~ a one time sitting read. We’ll done Alexa Verde ~ 5⭐️rating!!
August 19, 2022
I enjoyed this romantic suspense story. It was a fun read with good characters and a nice mystery to solve. I love books by this author. :) Soon, I’ll have read all of them!
December 15, 2018
Christmas read # 9! I try to enjoy the variety of titles specific to this season each year.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews