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Windy Ridge Legal Thriller #3
Surrounded by Darkness
When attorney Olivia Murray opens a legal clinic for victims of domestic violence in Windy Ridge, she knows she will face legal and spiritual opposition. The New Age presence has grown stronger as alliances form between groups hoping to spread their destructive way of life and gain a stronghold in the community. While the forces of evil target Olivia’s new clinic and her relationships, she refuses to let them stop her quest for justice.
Grant Baxter is facing legal woes of his own when a former client sues him for malpractice. His faith is shaken as he faces down the possibility that his legal career is over. While Grant struggles to save his once thriving law practice, he wonders if he truly deserves to be Olivia’s partner outside of the courtroom.
With evil coming at them from all angles, Olivia and Grant’s relationship is put to the test. The two of them must come together and fight for the hearts and minds of those in Windy Ridge. Will their faith be strong enough—in God and each other—to prevail in the battle that threatens to bring darkness to the entire town?
Grant Baxter is facing legal woes of his own when a former client sues him for malpractice. His faith is shaken as he faces down the possibility that his legal career is over. While Grant struggles to save his once thriving law practice, he wonders if he truly deserves to be Olivia’s partner outside of the courtroom.
With evil coming at them from all angles, Olivia and Grant’s relationship is put to the test. The two of them must come together and fight for the hearts and minds of those in Windy Ridge. Will their faith be strong enough—in God and each other—to prevail in the battle that threatens to bring darkness to the entire town?
327 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 8, 2018
72 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Dylan
26 books524 followersRachel Dylan is an award-winning and bestselling author of legal thrillers and romantic suspense. Rachel has practiced law for almost two decades, including as a litigator at one of the nation's top law firms. Rachel lives in Michigan with her husband and three furkids—one loveable Labrador and two senior cats. Rachel loves to connect with readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
November 18, 2018
I've loved this entire series so much! I read all three books back-to-back which is something I never do. I usually have to take a break and change things up for a little while then I'll get back to a series. That wasn't the case with Windy Ridge though. I've not been this invested in a series in a really long time.
Surrounded by Darkness is book three in the Windy Ridge Legal Thriller series. I'd definitely recommend starting with book one. There's a lot of history and backstory that you don't want to miss out on.
Scarier than the previous books, at least for me, I literally couldn't read fast enough. Everything seemed to be going wrong and the stakes felt higher. It was a thrill ride from page one and my favorite of the series. I'm really hoping there's gonna be another book, things are definitely left open for more! Highly recommended!
Surrounded by Darkness is book three in the Windy Ridge Legal Thriller series. I'd definitely recommend starting with book one. There's a lot of history and backstory that you don't want to miss out on.
Scarier than the previous books, at least for me, I literally couldn't read fast enough. Everything seemed to be going wrong and the stakes felt higher. It was a thrill ride from page one and my favorite of the series. I'm really hoping there's gonna be another book, things are definitely left open for more! Highly recommended!
October 8, 2018
Rachel Dylan gives us book 3 in her Windy Ridge Legal Thriller series. What a ride it is, too! I totally believe in spiritual warfare and Dylan definitely brings it with this series. Attorney Olivia Murray is a strong Christian when she comes to Windy Ridge to defend a client. She never anticipates the powerful spiritual forces that are gathering in this town to destroy the church. With this book, we see those forces strengthening mightily and doing their best to bring down Christians in their wake. Do NOT miss this series!
*My thanks to the author and publisher for a copy of this book. My opinion here is entirely my own.
*My thanks to the author and publisher for a copy of this book. My opinion here is entirely my own.
May 11, 2019
These three books in this series were very intense, extremely intriguing and so right up my alley! I love to read books about spiritual warfare and they were very encouraging to me to keep on praying without ceasing , to dwell upon God’s Word and to keep on hearing God’s Word from a pastor and singing and fellowshipping with the saints even though it may be difficult at times. I also was encouraged to pray for my enemies and those that I have a hard time getting along with. Such powerful books!
October 8, 2018
If you like books like Frank Peretti writes, then you will like this book/series as well. This book is about spiritual warfare and what goes on around us in the spiritual world. This is the third book in the series and I really enjoyed it. The ending left it open for a fourth. So, I certainly hope there is.
September 22, 2018
I had the pleasure of reading an ARC of Surrounded by Darkness by Rachel Dylan and as usual she delivers.
Olivia Murray: defense attorney
Grant Baxter: defense attorney
Layton Alito: Founder of Optimism, New Age group in Windy Ridge
Windy Ridge has been under spiritual attack for the last few years. The new age and wiccan communities have been working hard to crush Christianity by attacking those who oppose them.
Olivia Murray is a defense attorney who has gone up against Optimism, the biggest new age organization in the town, and its founder Layton Alito. She is painfully aware of the power he receives from the darkness.
Grant Baxter is also a defense attorney in town who has recently found his faith in God and whom Olivia is dating. They have felt the Lord's presence in their relationship and are taking things slowly even they both feel they are headed toward marriage.
Both Grant and Olivia are at the top of Layton's list of whom he wants to destroy.
Olivia has decided to fight the evil head on. Grant has been the target of personal and professional attacks that has him unsure of his future with Olivia and profession.
This was an awesome read and wanted it to continue. I know this was supposed to be the last book in the series but I am hoping for me. Thank you Rachel Dylan for allowing me to participate in this read and review.
Olivia Murray: defense attorney
Grant Baxter: defense attorney
Layton Alito: Founder of Optimism, New Age group in Windy Ridge
Windy Ridge has been under spiritual attack for the last few years. The new age and wiccan communities have been working hard to crush Christianity by attacking those who oppose them.
Olivia Murray is a defense attorney who has gone up against Optimism, the biggest new age organization in the town, and its founder Layton Alito. She is painfully aware of the power he receives from the darkness.
Grant Baxter is also a defense attorney in town who has recently found his faith in God and whom Olivia is dating. They have felt the Lord's presence in their relationship and are taking things slowly even they both feel they are headed toward marriage.
Both Grant and Olivia are at the top of Layton's list of whom he wants to destroy.
Olivia has decided to fight the evil head on. Grant has been the target of personal and professional attacks that has him unsure of his future with Olivia and profession.
This was an awesome read and wanted it to continue. I know this was supposed to be the last book in the series but I am hoping for me. Thank you Rachel Dylan for allowing me to participate in this read and review.
October 16, 2018
Surrounded by Darkness is the riveting conclusion to Rachel Dylan’s Windy Ridge series. The author gives her readers an intimate view of the behind the scenes spiritual battle of which most believers are unaware.
The town of Windy Ridge is the center of an epic battle against the evil forces that desire to take over the entire town. Olivia Murray and Grant Baxter are two of the Christians aware of the potential consequences and bear the brunt of the enemy’s attack along with the pastor of their church. It could be a fight to the very end and at times it is uncertain who the winners will be.
Not since I read This Present Darkness by Frank Peretti many years ago have I encountered another author who manages to convey the existence of spiritual warfare in a way that most readers can understand through the pages of an enjoyable novel. I hope others will read this series and learn from it. The war is real!
I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by the author. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
The town of Windy Ridge is the center of an epic battle against the evil forces that desire to take over the entire town. Olivia Murray and Grant Baxter are two of the Christians aware of the potential consequences and bear the brunt of the enemy’s attack along with the pastor of their church. It could be a fight to the very end and at times it is uncertain who the winners will be.
Not since I read This Present Darkness by Frank Peretti many years ago have I encountered another author who manages to convey the existence of spiritual warfare in a way that most readers can understand through the pages of an enjoyable novel. I hope others will read this series and learn from it. The war is real!
I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by the author. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
November 19, 2018
The Windy Ridge series is such a great series about good vs. evil and angels vs. demons. There's a scripture that is quoted towards the end of Surrounded by Darkness that sums up the whole series, "Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.”
I read Trial and Tribulation, Fatal Accusation and Surrounded by Darkness one right after another and couldn't read fast enough. I'm really hoping Rachel Dylan continues with this series. We need to know what happens next.
I highly recommend the Windy Ridge series. You really should start with Trial and Tribulations so you can experience the entire history of the characters and drama as it unfolds.
I read Trial and Tribulation, Fatal Accusation and Surrounded by Darkness one right after another and couldn't read fast enough. I'm really hoping Rachel Dylan continues with this series. We need to know what happens next.
I highly recommend the Windy Ridge series. You really should start with Trial and Tribulations so you can experience the entire history of the characters and drama as it unfolds.
September 5, 2018
WOW! Surrounded by Darkness jumps right into the action from page 1. It doesn't stop until the last page. It is well-written and very exciting. I liked the main characters, Olivia and Grant. They make a great couple. There are physical as well as spiritual battles fought. I enjoy Rachel Dylan's writing style. The dialogue is natural, and the whole book just flows well. I would highly recommend this book to readers of Christian fiction. I received an ARC. I chose to review and share my opinion of this incredible book.
October 8, 2018
Olivia just got clearance to open a pro bono clinic for domestic abuse victims. Unfortunately it’s not in an area she’d prefer. Grant has his own problems with a malpractice suit. Many more dealing with Layton and his crew as well as hearing more from Nina Marie and a few other new people. Another fast paced addition to this series, and though it can be read alone, I recommend reading in order so you have the full backstory to what’s happening in Windy Ridge. Wonderful series and one that I wouldn’t mind seeing more of from time to time.
October 8, 2018
Olivia Murray and Grant Baxter continued. During this incredible read we find out more about Olivia and Grant - hopefully they stay together. Olivia opens a clinic for victims of domestic violence in Windy Ridge and knows she will face legal and spiritual opposition.
With evil coming at them from all angles, Olivia and Grants relationship is put to the test. The two will have to come together and fight for the hearts and minds of those in Windy Ridge. Will their faith be strong enough- in God and each other - to prevail in the battle that threatens to bring darkness to the entire town?
With evil coming at them from all angles, Olivia and Grants relationship is put to the test. The two will have to come together and fight for the hearts and minds of those in Windy Ridge. Will their faith be strong enough- in God and each other - to prevail in the battle that threatens to bring darkness to the entire town?
October 9, 2018
Surrounded By Darkness ( Windy Ridge #3 )
By Rachel Dylan
Surrounded By Darkness is book three in Windy Ridge Series By Rachel Dylan. The author grabs your at the start and you hold on for your life. This is about forces good and evil . The story flows smoothly. Love the characters Olivia and Grant, both are being targeted . Will they be able to hold on ? This is a legal thriller story.
I was given a complimentary ARC of this book, But was not told that I had to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.
By Rachel Dylan
Surrounded By Darkness is book three in Windy Ridge Series By Rachel Dylan. The author grabs your at the start and you hold on for your life. This is about forces good and evil . The story flows smoothly. Love the characters Olivia and Grant, both are being targeted . Will they be able to hold on ? This is a legal thriller story.
I was given a complimentary ARC of this book, But was not told that I had to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.
October 12, 2018
Surrounded by Darkness
Rachel Dylan
The third in her Windy Ridge Legal Thriller series brings the fight between good and evil to a thrilling climax.
Olivia and Grant are attacked from all angles as they fight to survive in their jobs and personal life. Can their faith be strong enough to overcome evil that lurks in Windy Ridge and not only help them, but also community?
A must read in a series that keeps getting better with each book.
Rachel Dylan
The third in her Windy Ridge Legal Thriller series brings the fight between good and evil to a thrilling climax.
Olivia and Grant are attacked from all angles as they fight to survive in their jobs and personal life. Can their faith be strong enough to overcome evil that lurks in Windy Ridge and not only help them, but also community?
A must read in a series that keeps getting better with each book.
September 8, 2018
this is a revitting story about the forces of good and evil, Grant is depressed and being sued, Oliva is opening her crisis center. if you have read the other books in the series you have to read this one. I do not want to give any thing away so you have to read the book. very well written I was given the book but this is an honest review.
October 7, 2018
What a great legal thriller. So much stuff is packed into this story. Non stop action, tribulations, the power of prayer and some new developments. When things seem bleak the evil will attack and the armor of God will be needed in this story. I am looking forward to more of this series. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy.
October 8, 2018
This is a powerful book about the battle between good and evil.
The well crafted storyline with lots of suspense twists and turns pulls us through the book.
The characters bring everything to life.
I highly recommend this book to those who love Christian romantic thrillers with a strong inspirational message.
The well crafted storyline with lots of suspense twists and turns pulls us through the book.
The characters bring everything to life.
I highly recommend this book to those who love Christian romantic thrillers with a strong inspirational message.
November 4, 2018
Do you believe?
Yes, I believe there are spiritual battles taking place all around us. Are we prepared for this type of war....do we have the Armour of God ready? The author has our heroine ready and it keeps you on th edge of your seat to see how the battle is fought. Hoping for a quick write on the next chapter of the battle for the town of Windy Ridge.
Yes, I believe there are spiritual battles taking place all around us. Are we prepared for this type of war....do we have the Armour of God ready? The author has our heroine ready and it keeps you on th edge of your seat to see how the battle is fought. Hoping for a quick write on the next chapter of the battle for the town of Windy Ridge.
October 11, 2018
This author tells it like it is with spiritual warfare and throws in the light of the victory we can have in Jesus. It is well written and gripping. I have fallen in love with Olivia and Grant. I hope there will be more books in this series. I found it difficult to put the book down.
October 13, 2018
Wow.. forces of good and evil, pulls you right in and yes.. definitely a Christian Legal THRILLER!! This is one I didn't want to read at night, had to know who and what next. Page turner!
I was gifted a copy, no review was required. My review is voluntary..
I was gifted a copy, no review was required. My review is voluntary..
December 31, 2018
Inspiring
I love her books.I can’t ever put them down! Good vs.evil .scripture and good plain writing.She is an excellent writer and her characters come to life I hope she will do a book 4 ,as I feel like I am left hanging.
I love her books.I can’t ever put them down! Good vs.evil .scripture and good plain writing.She is an excellent writer and her characters come to life I hope she will do a book 4 ,as I feel like I am left hanging.
October 10, 2018
Outstanding
Ms. Dylan has done it again. Powerful story of good vs evil. Once again God's angels are called upon to protect God's children from the power of evil.
Ms. Dylan has done it again. Powerful story of good vs evil. Once again God's angels are called upon to protect God's children from the power of evil.
August 31, 2019
What a great series! I love all 3 books and am hoping for a 4th book in the future. Some of my favorite books ever!
November 7, 2018
What a unique, compelling novel! It is a legal thriller and is ultimately a story of battles in the heavenlies that are fought every day. Not since reading Frank Peretti’s early novels have I been reminded in grim detail of the devil’s schemes. The author uses the perfect scripture verses and shares characters’ prayers. Each person is drawn with necessary detail, while the spiritual assault and legal elements are carefully designed.
Ever since Olivia Murray arrived in Windy Ridge to try a case, a spiritual war has raged. She fights against those who are part of New Age groups, wicca, and outright devil worship through cases retained for. She has followed the case of Nina Marie, friend and former CEO of the second largest New Age company in town, against Layton Alito, the charismatic leader of Optimism, the largest, and most dangerous, corporation. He had severely beaten Nina and left her for dead. He is cunning and into far darker practices than imagined.
Olivia and Grant have been dating and growing closer together. They are both Christians and lawyers in Windy Ridge, a suburb of Chicago. His faith is not yet as strong as Olivia’s and takes a serious hit when he is sued for malpractice by a former client. As he envisions his business, reputation, and career going down in flames, he becomes depressed and tries to break up with Olivia so their relationship won’t have negative consequences for her. He doesn’t realize what is really affecting his attitude and outlook.
Olivia’s firm has approved her proposal for a pro bono legal clinic. Her firm leased an office for her; she will be in a rough part of town to help women who need legal representation. It isn’t long before she is approached by someone who used to be part of Alito’s group, who is seeking justice for charges similar to those of Nina Marie’s against Alito. Fortunately, this woman did not have as severe injuries as Nina Marie. This time, Alito plans to make sure that Olivia, Grant, and the young woman do not get away unscathed.
Olivia and Nina Marie are my favorites, as is Grant. Olivia has a strong faith in God and lives by her principles. Olivia is also a woman of prayer who is finally able to do what she has always dreamed of, helping women in need through the pro bono clinic. Nina Maria, still recovering from her injuries, has become a strong woman of faith. She has first-hand knowledge of the New Age business and is willing to use that and her faith help others find freedom. Grant is a good man who still struggles with his faith, suffering from doubts slipped into his mind by the enemy.
This is an exciting, faith-filled novel! It invited me in at the start with men and women of faith, some strong and others’ growing. Woven into and through this legal thriller of trying to put the bad guy away is an eye-opening reminder of the source of challenges we face. Layton Alito has gotten ahead with Optimism with his good looks and, on occasion, charming personality. It was interesting to see how each group lured people into the coven or other groups. Third in the Windy Ridge Legal Thriller series, Surrounded by Darkness can be read as a standalone or in the order written. I highly recommend Surrounded by Darkness, particularly for those who appreciate top-notch legal thrillers and Christian novels with a strong element of spiritual warfare.
From a grateful heart: I received an e-Arc of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
Ever since Olivia Murray arrived in Windy Ridge to try a case, a spiritual war has raged. She fights against those who are part of New Age groups, wicca, and outright devil worship through cases retained for. She has followed the case of Nina Marie, friend and former CEO of the second largest New Age company in town, against Layton Alito, the charismatic leader of Optimism, the largest, and most dangerous, corporation. He had severely beaten Nina and left her for dead. He is cunning and into far darker practices than imagined.
Olivia and Grant have been dating and growing closer together. They are both Christians and lawyers in Windy Ridge, a suburb of Chicago. His faith is not yet as strong as Olivia’s and takes a serious hit when he is sued for malpractice by a former client. As he envisions his business, reputation, and career going down in flames, he becomes depressed and tries to break up with Olivia so their relationship won’t have negative consequences for her. He doesn’t realize what is really affecting his attitude and outlook.
Olivia’s firm has approved her proposal for a pro bono legal clinic. Her firm leased an office for her; she will be in a rough part of town to help women who need legal representation. It isn’t long before she is approached by someone who used to be part of Alito’s group, who is seeking justice for charges similar to those of Nina Marie’s against Alito. Fortunately, this woman did not have as severe injuries as Nina Marie. This time, Alito plans to make sure that Olivia, Grant, and the young woman do not get away unscathed.
Olivia and Nina Marie are my favorites, as is Grant. Olivia has a strong faith in God and lives by her principles. Olivia is also a woman of prayer who is finally able to do what she has always dreamed of, helping women in need through the pro bono clinic. Nina Maria, still recovering from her injuries, has become a strong woman of faith. She has first-hand knowledge of the New Age business and is willing to use that and her faith help others find freedom. Grant is a good man who still struggles with his faith, suffering from doubts slipped into his mind by the enemy.
This is an exciting, faith-filled novel! It invited me in at the start with men and women of faith, some strong and others’ growing. Woven into and through this legal thriller of trying to put the bad guy away is an eye-opening reminder of the source of challenges we face. Layton Alito has gotten ahead with Optimism with his good looks and, on occasion, charming personality. It was interesting to see how each group lured people into the coven or other groups. Third in the Windy Ridge Legal Thriller series, Surrounded by Darkness can be read as a standalone or in the order written. I highly recommend Surrounded by Darkness, particularly for those who appreciate top-notch legal thrillers and Christian novels with a strong element of spiritual warfare.
From a grateful heart: I received an e-Arc of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
October 15, 2018
Surrounded by Darkness is the third installment in the Windy Ridge Legal Thriller series. And just so you know, you really cannot read this legal suspense/specuulative novel as a standalone. Each book builds on the other as it depicts more than courtroom battles. Rachel Dylan’s series is definitely filled with legal wrangling, but these books also clearly depict the spiritual warfare that is hidden from most believers. The novels draw back the veil in a way that will make you think twice when life presents trials. Each is a recommended read.
In Surrounded by Darkness, series main characters Olivia and Grant have their faith tested as they face attacks from both the real world and the heavenly realms. They, along with characters both old and new, play a big part in the battle for Windy Ridge. The New Age movement and the Wiccan culture are examined in their relation to the plans of Satan to capture the hearts of their followers. One truth is made very clear — once you choose to follow the occult, no matter how benign it seems, you have chosen to stand against God. I really liked that Dylan challenges the naive view that there is white magic. Against the backdrop of spiritual warfare, Olivia uses the talent God has given her to battle the forces of evil — her legal expertise. I found this very intriguing. It made me think about the equipping of God in a whole new way. As in the first two books in the series, some action is wrapped up. But though the battle may have been won, the war continues.
I have enjoyed all the books in Dylan’s series, and recommend each. Make sure to check out all three.
Recommended.
Audience: adults.
(Thanks to the author for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
In Surrounded by Darkness, series main characters Olivia and Grant have their faith tested as they face attacks from both the real world and the heavenly realms. They, along with characters both old and new, play a big part in the battle for Windy Ridge. The New Age movement and the Wiccan culture are examined in their relation to the plans of Satan to capture the hearts of their followers. One truth is made very clear — once you choose to follow the occult, no matter how benign it seems, you have chosen to stand against God. I really liked that Dylan challenges the naive view that there is white magic. Against the backdrop of spiritual warfare, Olivia uses the talent God has given her to battle the forces of evil — her legal expertise. I found this very intriguing. It made me think about the equipping of God in a whole new way. As in the first two books in the series, some action is wrapped up. But though the battle may have been won, the war continues.
I have enjoyed all the books in Dylan’s series, and recommend each. Make sure to check out all three.
Recommended.
Audience: adults.
(Thanks to the author for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
January 4, 2019
This is the third book in the Windy Ridge series by author Rachel Dylan, so if you haven't read the first two, please go directly to book number one and start reading!
If I had to state what the entire Windy Ridge series is about, it is Ephesians 6, verses 10 through 17, but specifically verse ten through twelve regarding the spiritual fight against the rulers of the darkness of this world. I have to admit that Dylan's books, are, in a sense, difficult for me to read, because of the subject of witchcraft. Thankfully, the good guys...er, gal, mostly, lol...has such a great and tight Salk with the Lord that she is able to defend herself against the attacks of darkness through prayer, her belief and faith in the Lord, and citing/praying Bible verses in the name of Jesus. Wow...just, WOW! But, I have to say this: in middle school...and I'm now 60...I wanted a Ouija board, which I bought. But thankfully, I experienced it moving on its own after placing my hands on it, and it saying bad things about girls in my Sunday School class. My parents always had a burn barrel, and I took the board, box, everything, and placed it in that burn barrel and never looked back! Neither have I never forgotten that terrible experience, either; and I thank the Lord for protecting me as I wasn't yet a believer, I do not think. So, Author Rachel Dylan's series ties right in with what can happen in our lives if we encounter the realms of darkness, whether through direct spiritual attack or by dabbling in the dark arts, or more than that, and she takes her readers on a spellBINDING ride! I'm anxiously awaiting publication of book number four!
If I had to state what the entire Windy Ridge series is about, it is Ephesians 6, verses 10 through 17, but specifically verse ten through twelve regarding the spiritual fight against the rulers of the darkness of this world. I have to admit that Dylan's books, are, in a sense, difficult for me to read, because of the subject of witchcraft. Thankfully, the good guys...er, gal, mostly, lol...has such a great and tight Salk with the Lord that she is able to defend herself against the attacks of darkness through prayer, her belief and faith in the Lord, and citing/praying Bible verses in the name of Jesus. Wow...just, WOW! But, I have to say this: in middle school...and I'm now 60...I wanted a Ouija board, which I bought. But thankfully, I experienced it moving on its own after placing my hands on it, and it saying bad things about girls in my Sunday School class. My parents always had a burn barrel, and I took the board, box, everything, and placed it in that burn barrel and never looked back! Neither have I never forgotten that terrible experience, either; and I thank the Lord for protecting me as I wasn't yet a believer, I do not think. So, Author Rachel Dylan's series ties right in with what can happen in our lives if we encounter the realms of darkness, whether through direct spiritual attack or by dabbling in the dark arts, or more than that, and she takes her readers on a spellBINDING ride! I'm anxiously awaiting publication of book number four!
November 3, 2018
Good versus evil on both the physical plain and the spiritual one. Truly, truly frightening. This story opened my eyes to the need to commit scripture to memory, and to the many doors that are constantly being opened, worldwide, to let demons enter.
When attorney Olivia Murray's law practice offers her a legal clinic to help battered, downtrodden women, she jumps at the chance. She is a but taken aback when she realizes it's right down the street from Optimism, a New Age company, run by her nemesis, Layton Alito. She knows Alito practices the Dark Arts of witchcraft, but has no idea how deep his power goes.
As Alito and his minions find new ways to throw Olivia off her game, will she be able to stand firm when even her boyfriend steps away?
Wow! I never had it explained to me so clearly why all those spiritual practices that don't involve seeking God's face are not a good idea. I loved how Olivia's faith made the demons flee.
This is book 3 in Dylan's Windy Ridge series. While I hadn't read the first two, I feel like I should have. I think the background from those would have been important here. That said, this was still a very powerful tale, and I can definitely recommend it!
When attorney Olivia Murray's law practice offers her a legal clinic to help battered, downtrodden women, she jumps at the chance. She is a but taken aback when she realizes it's right down the street from Optimism, a New Age company, run by her nemesis, Layton Alito. She knows Alito practices the Dark Arts of witchcraft, but has no idea how deep his power goes.
As Alito and his minions find new ways to throw Olivia off her game, will she be able to stand firm when even her boyfriend steps away?
Wow! I never had it explained to me so clearly why all those spiritual practices that don't involve seeking God's face are not a good idea. I loved how Olivia's faith made the demons flee.
This is book 3 in Dylan's Windy Ridge series. While I hadn't read the first two, I feel like I should have. I think the background from those would have been important here. That said, this was still a very powerful tale, and I can definitely recommend it!
October 2, 2018
SURROUNDED. BY DARKNESS.
Louise a sitting judge.has been called as a personal witness, having known Layton for ten years, both working for a non profit Optimism’s group. There also was Spiritual New Age groups in town, with thriving front companies.
The forces of evil was behind Layton, he didn’t just need witchcraft to get what he want. The evil has been thriving in town for the last couple of years. Combine with the sinister feeling in the courtroom, Olivia wanted to leave. Her boyfriend Grant, had a settlement case he worked on for months,blow up. An envelope now, telling he was being sued.for malpractice. The forces of darkness were determinded to go after this power couple. If Layton gets off, he also will be after them. Spiritual attack that hits her with her insecurities and fears, would they push Grant away. Would he instead show courage and strength, and be there with her. Powerful book of darkness has power to overcome a person. Showing also the bond of love between Grant and Olivia
Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion.
Louise a sitting judge.has been called as a personal witness, having known Layton for ten years, both working for a non profit Optimism’s group. There also was Spiritual New Age groups in town, with thriving front companies.
The forces of evil was behind Layton, he didn’t just need witchcraft to get what he want. The evil has been thriving in town for the last couple of years. Combine with the sinister feeling in the courtroom, Olivia wanted to leave. Her boyfriend Grant, had a settlement case he worked on for months,blow up. An envelope now, telling he was being sued.for malpractice. The forces of darkness were determinded to go after this power couple. If Layton gets off, he also will be after them. Spiritual attack that hits her with her insecurities and fears, would they push Grant away. Would he instead show courage and strength, and be there with her. Powerful book of darkness has power to overcome a person. Showing also the bond of love between Grant and Olivia
Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion.
October 8, 2018
The New Age groups in the town of Windy Ridge
are thriving front companies. A non profit group,
the Optimism is lead by Layton Alito who is the
Founder of Optimism Windy Ridge. This person
is bringing the forces of evil to prevail throughout
the community. He has set his sight on Attorney
Olivia Murray who is a very strong Christian and
defense Attorney Grant Baxter who has been
brought to the light. But now all sort of darkness
surrounds them both. Will they survive the evil
forces?
The writing foes effortlessly with the story of evil
versus good. The main characters are well defined
and relatable with a colorful, vivid supporting
characters.
This is a story about choices, loss, sacrifices plus
regrets and the power of love.
I volunteered to read Surrounded by Darkness.
Thanks to the author for the opportunity. My opinion
is my own.
are thriving front companies. A non profit group,
the Optimism is lead by Layton Alito who is the
Founder of Optimism Windy Ridge. This person
is bringing the forces of evil to prevail throughout
the community. He has set his sight on Attorney
Olivia Murray who is a very strong Christian and
defense Attorney Grant Baxter who has been
brought to the light. But now all sort of darkness
surrounds them both. Will they survive the evil
forces?
The writing foes effortlessly with the story of evil
versus good. The main characters are well defined
and relatable with a colorful, vivid supporting
characters.
This is a story about choices, loss, sacrifices plus
regrets and the power of love.
I volunteered to read Surrounded by Darkness.
Thanks to the author for the opportunity. My opinion
is my own.
November 17, 2018
Surrounded by Darkness book three of The Windy Ridge series picks up right where book two, Fatal Accusation left off.
The characters were strong and well developed. I liked how she added the new element of a clinic for abused women. That provided a different setting not only for the characters but for her to create tension between Olivia and Layton.
I liked how she used the angels and demons within the story, I would have liked to see them more.
While this was a good book, I found the suspense lacking. Ms. Dylan is so great at creating suspense in her books yet I felt like she held back. I kept waiting for something to happen but it just didn't.
I know I review a lot of series and some book two or three etc can be read as a stand alone. This series can't be. You'll miss something if it's not read in order.
The characters were strong and well developed. I liked how she added the new element of a clinic for abused women. That provided a different setting not only for the characters but for her to create tension between Olivia and Layton.
I liked how she used the angels and demons within the story, I would have liked to see them more.
While this was a good book, I found the suspense lacking. Ms. Dylan is so great at creating suspense in her books yet I felt like she held back. I kept waiting for something to happen but it just didn't.
I know I review a lot of series and some book two or three etc can be read as a stand alone. This series can't be. You'll miss something if it's not read in order.
July 30, 2025
A legal thriller with real spiritual stakes, Rachel Dylan delivers again!
Surrounded by Darkness is the kind of book that grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go until the final page. Olivia Murray is the definition of courage, facing down darkness with both faith and fierce determination. And Grant? Let’s just say courtroom drama and personal growth have never been this compelling.
Rachel masterfully blends suspense, heart, and spiritual depth in a way that makes you want to underline half the book and text the other half to your book club.
If you like your legal thrillers with purpose, passion, and power, this one’s for you.
Surrounded by Darkness is the kind of book that grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go until the final page. Olivia Murray is the definition of courage, facing down darkness with both faith and fierce determination. And Grant? Let’s just say courtroom drama and personal growth have never been this compelling.
Rachel masterfully blends suspense, heart, and spiritual depth in a way that makes you want to underline half the book and text the other half to your book club.
If you like your legal thrillers with purpose, passion, and power, this one’s for you.
January 2, 2026
Another nail biter!
What a ride! I’m still shaking after finishing the book!
A truly powerful and believable read!
If you’re interested in all things spiritual, especially with the mostly unseen war that rages between good and evil, then this series is for you!
Rachel really knows how to keep her readers enraptured in this series.
Now looking forward to the next book in the series.
Highly recommended.
What a ride! I’m still shaking after finishing the book!
A truly powerful and believable read!
If you’re interested in all things spiritual, especially with the mostly unseen war that rages between good and evil, then this series is for you!
Rachel really knows how to keep her readers enraptured in this series.
Now looking forward to the next book in the series.
Highly recommended.
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