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Otter Bay, Maine #1

Don't Give Up on Me

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No Greater Love (John 15:13)

She's left for dead.

He walked away eight years ago.

As the threats continue, will Amanda accept help from the only man she's ever loved and who left Otter Bay without explanation? Will her heart?

As a trained Army Ranger, Ryker's going to have to use his skills if he wants to keep the only woman he's ever loved alive.

Redemption changed him. Redemption calls her.

A Gospel centered story about the power of God's love and redemption.

228 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 23, 2019

127 people are currently reading
104 people want to read

About the author

Jodi Artzberger

2 books39 followers
Visit my website for a FREE book and current specials! JodiArtzberger.com

I’m a Christ follower and I have a passion for the Word. My family and I live in beautiful Colorado. I write inspirational Christian romantic suspense stories that are Gospel centered and intertwined with God’s love and plan of redemption. Without the Gospel, we’re powerless!

I always have a book in my hand, and when time allows, you can find me cooking and playing with my latest kitchen gadget. (But I hate ironing and I could really use a laundry fairy.)

I pray my writing inspires, makes you smile, and teaches you something about Christ and His love. Remember, if you can read, you can learn anything!

God bless!
Soli Deo Gloria!

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5 stars
122 (57%)
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57 (27%)
3 stars
24 (11%)
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8 (3%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
Profile Image for Tina Loves To Read.
3,474 reviews1 follower
January 17, 2022
This is a Romance Suspense, and this is the first book in the Otter Bay, Maine series. I enjoyed the twists and turns this book took me on. I have to say I wish there was more details and more development of the characters. I love the storyline. Overall I liked the book. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher or author (Jodi Artzberger) via Booksirens in exchange for an honest review about how I feel about this book, and I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
Profile Image for Coco.V.
50k reviews128 followers
Want to read
October 7, 2019
🎁 FREE on Amazon today (10/7/2019)! 🎁
Profile Image for Carolyn Vandine West.
889 reviews37 followers
June 18, 2022
Such a good story. Amanda has been having attempts on her life over and over. In line to take over her family business when her father dies. Why is someone trying to kill her? A past boyfriend now a detective enters the story fairly soon.
He hurt Amanda years before and she has problems trusting him. A true Christian fiction no sex before marriage very clean read. You will keep guessing until the end
First in a series. I believe I received this free from the author through BookSirens. Did not affect my review a wholesome book
Profile Image for BooksCoffee.
1,068 reviews
September 8, 2020
Artzberger’s fascinating outing focuses on the power of God’s love and redemption when forgiveness is hard to find as two estranged lovers confront their own desires and limitations.

Cragge Automotive Group's heiress Amanda Cragge’s life gets flipped upside down when a brutal attack leaves her near-dead, and Ryker Scott, the only man she’s ever loved, finds her. Eight years earlier, Ryker left without any explanation. Determined to forget Ryker, Amanda has moved on in life. But with the threat still looming nearby, Amanda is forced to accept Ryker’s help. And Ryker has never stopped loving the girl he grew up with. Trying to amend his past mistakes, Ryker steadily attempts to work past Amanda’s emotional walls, seeking her forgiveness. But forgiveness is not easy to come for Amanda as the scar Ryker left in her heart is too deep to heal. Amanda’s seemingly tranquil life quickly turns into a roiling turmoil. Will she find it in heart to forgive and accept him or will their future be destroyed forever?

Artzberger’s skill at depicting the intricacies of relationships, the tension and intrigue of a swiftly paced romantic suspense, and vividly sketched characters rooted in reality makes this book both charming and inviting.

The narrative moves at a fast pace with plenty of twists and turns and high suspense in the back, but the heart of the story lies in Amanda and Ryker’s love story. After Ryker leaves without any explanation, destroying their beautiful relation, Amanda has stopped relying on her faith, questioning God’s love. Artzberger beautifully conveys Amanda’s inner turmoil as she struggles with her past trauma. The story takes several turns as Amanda swirls through heartache and emotional trauma on her way to an acceptance of Ryker’s newfound presence in her life as his savior. Artzberger has skillfully portrayed Ryker’s guilt, regret, protectiveness, and helplessness as he watches Amanda hardened with hurt and grief.

Without igniting any melodrama, Artzberger brilliantly captures the complicated nuances of a relationship. Christian readers will enjoy seeing the spiritual growth in Ryker’s character as he chooses to lean into his faith to find peace when dealing with his personal strains become unbearable for him.

Artzberger has delivered a touching, emotional tale about the strength of faith and redemption.

Fans of contemporary Christian fiction will devour this spectacular, powerful read.

763 reviews14 followers
October 20, 2020
I was given this book to read as an ARC book and I must say I was wonderfully surprised to read such an interesting story. Ryker left Amanda 8 years ago and is now back in her life. But, he is there to protect her life not to necessarily return to being with her. Someone wants to see her out of the picture totally and he must find out who.
Amanda is a strong character and is shown as a tough woman in the business world and this is a wonderful example to set for young women who read this. She is capable and able to take over the family business when the time comes. Will she be able to live long enough to do this? We are taken through the people around her and her tight knit family and all the problems and concerns they have but we fall in love with how committed Ryker is to her.
He has gone through a lot of turmoil in his life and had found that his life works with God at the helm and now wants to help heal the hurts left by him in Amanda's life. But, can he protect her from the disaster that is waiting to happen to her.
I was so pleased with the fact that I was not able to figure it out until about 3/4 of the way through the book as to who wanted her dead and that is saying something as I can usually figure it out within the first 1/4 of the story.
Jody does a fantastic job of getting us on the roller coaster and not letting us off till she is ready. Can't wait to read her next book and review it but I know I will not be disappointed.
Profile Image for Cheryl.
1,890 reviews27 followers
September 26, 2020
Suspense, Romance and Thrillers are my go to. When they have the Lord its a win win. I love seeing how the characters act and what their take is on the Bible and God's word. Do they do or feel like I do? Are there questions? Do they turn towards the Lord or do they blame him? This book starts off right away with an attempt on Amandas life. We then meet Ryker and know there is a troubled past between the two. It was interesting to find out what had transpired and what rode they traveled to get to where they were today. There was a chapter I thought for sure my ebook had downloaded incorrectly because it seemed so out of context. There is also some back and forth with memories which I am not a fan of, but it was done well. Thank you StoryOrigin and Jodi for the read. It was greatly appreciated.
884 reviews9 followers
April 19, 2020
This is a book that you won't regret reading, at least I didn't . There was just enough angst to keep you wondering. Ryker and Amanda have a history.... a really good history together, UNTIL. It's that 'UNTIL' that keeps you reading. At least that's what did it for me. I wanted to see just how they reconciled past wrongs and pain. I had the mystery part of this book figured out by page 68... but again, was intrigued by how that past history would get handled.

I could understand Amanda's feelings, her wanting to distance herself from Ryker. She had eight years of pushing her pain down and trying to build a new life. She didn't want him around to bring those memories up to the surface. But that's the problem, she never really dealt with the issue and it needed to fester up so a healing salve could be applied. Had things not happened to her and her family, I wonder if she and Ryker would have been able to settle their differences ... (again, trying not to give spoilers.) But as Joseph said" what you meant for evil, G_d used for good.

As for Ryker. He definitely was a changed man. I didn't understand his reasoning for taking an eight year hike, but that hiatus certainly was no joy ride. He not only stumbled, he fell and basically was at his rope's end when he finally gave up and turned his life over to G_d.

So, Ryker comes back into Amanda's life a very different man. But she wants nothing to do with it... or him. She was scarred and not about to fall for his new man persona. But as life would have it, she had no choice but to see him on a daily basis. Her life was in danger and he won't leave her side.... no running for him this time. He's a detective and putting all his past military special ops talents on the frontline to save her. He knows she's not going to forgive him and accepts that. But, he can't let her be harmed.

This is not a simple 'I'm Sorry' book and all is well.... yes, there is redemption but forgiveness is a process. I liked the way this storyline worked through that process. It wasn't simple or easy.

⁉️ QUESTIONS:

What happened to Donovan? He was suppose to be in the hotel room with Amanda's mom. Where is he when that phone call comes in? I kept wondering if he was in on this whole scheme, but he's no where to be found. Was he legit? Did he honestly care for Amanda? Where did he disappear?

Wondered how no one could figure out the difference between Lawrence and Jason? Yes, they were identical twins but they weren't cloned. Mannerisms are unique and learned. Jason was bitter and that is hard to hide. Lawrence was loving toward wife and daughter. They were two different men who just looked alike. The car fire left the necklace imprint on the body... so there was enough bodily remains to do an autopsy. I understand Sharon's drinking but how about Amanda and all the people at work? Looks like someone would have questioned this.
Profile Image for _sassy_39.
2,584 reviews158 followers
September 25, 2020
Don't give up on me is a Christian romantic suspense novel written by the author Jodi Artzberger. The story is set in a coastal town of Otter Bay, Maine. The protagonist of the story is Amanda Cragge. After finishing her MBA, she was working with her father Lawrence Cragge who is the General Manager of Cragge Automotive Group and Amanda was next in line.

Another main character is Detective Ryker Scott from Otter Bay Police Department. Eight years before, Ryker had left Otter Bay and Amanda without giving any explanation to her. Amanda and Ryker had grown up together in their childhood. After Ryker left her, Amanda tried to move on but now Ryker is back in Otter Bay. Now after eight years, Ryker and Amanda stood in front of each other. Amanda was attacked by someone in her office and when Ryker received call from Amanda's mother, he came to do investigation in the Cragge's office.

This is an intriguing story. It will keep you turning pages until you will reach the end. Character development is amazing. Story is nice and the cover page of the book looks amazing. It was an easy breezy read. Narration of the story is clear and smooth. I enjoyed every bit of this book.

If you love reading Christian fiction then this one is for you.
Profile Image for Loretta Marchize.
Author 7 books38 followers
October 11, 2020
4 stars

Prose: 5/5
Romance: 4/5
Characters: 4/5
Plot: 5/5

Prose:

Pretty good, it was definitely better than some romance novels I've read. I enjoyed it, and it kept me interested.

Romance:
While I do ship the characters, I thought their romance was a little cheesy and moved a little too fast through the novel. I get what the author was trying to do, but I'm not sure if it was for me. I did like the way she handled their past though!

Characters:
I enjoyed the dynamics between the different characters, and the author is very talented in portraying broken people. However, a lot of them were pretty forgettable. The dynamics between the characters themselves were very well done.

Plot:
One of the author's strong points! This novel was way more plot-oriented/actiony than I thought it would be, but I still really enjoyed it! It kept me waiting to see what happens next, which is always a good thing.

Overall:
A very enjoyable novel! I liked it a lot, but it wasn't a favorite. I did really like the character dynamics.

Content:
A lot of typical action/self-defense/weapons stuff. Several attempted murders, one successful before the story took place itself.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
11 reviews
October 3, 2020
Don't Give Up on Me... still can't figure out the half starts - I rate this one 3.5 starts, plus .5 to encourage the genre. The plot line was well done, and there's not a lot of time wasted in the beginning to set it up - I like that, and the storyline did not suffer for it. The gospel element could have been a little more integrated into the story as a whole, and less obvious. In my experience, it is more subtle. It wasn't bad, just could have been a little better. I'm good at guessing outcomes, and while I suspected what was happening, I was still second guessing, so that's good writing, to me. The chemistry between the love interests was pretty good, but again, could have been even better, despite treading lightly due to the Christian theme. Christians have chemistry, too, you know (smile). I would recommend this Christian suspense romance to others. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Jerrye  Tellmeagreatstorylove.
819 reviews16 followers
September 26, 2020
This story was fairly well written with some good twists to keep the tension strong. The plot was not a new one nor was the ending a surprise if you’ve read a lot of mystery/suspense like I have but I liked it. I wish there had been more page time given to the development of the mystery so it was more complicated but I think the author liked having the romance be a fairly strong plot point too. The characters were good and their problems, solutions and reactions to happenings were realistic. I would recommend this as a good read, especially for a beach trip or weekend getaway.

I received this temporary complimentary E-Book From Book Sirens in order to provide a fair and honest review. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
Profile Image for Terry Conrad.
292 reviews20 followers
August 31, 2020
I believe this is a debut novel by this author. She wrote an enjoyable read. The story flowed well and was an easy read. The writing actually got better as I continued reading. There were some predictable things, but that also happens with seasoned authors.

I liked Ryker and Amanda. They both had a lot to work through. This is how the author brought God into the book. Forgiveness and redemption. Giving it to Jesus.

If you enjoy clean romantic suspense you'll love this book.

The only thing that made me hesitant to read this book was the cover. Amanda is a young woman with degrees and a high position in her families business. The cover made her look like a teenager, the nose ring didn't help.

I received a review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Kristi.
255 reviews10 followers
September 18, 2020
I thought this book was great! It had a good premise, a twisty turny mystery, and a solid and sweet love story. This is a fast read- it will keep you interested and engaged until the last page!
My only question is what happened to Donovan? Was he in on things? Did he not even really like Amanda? It started out like he was making his territory- but then he was just gone?
Rykers story of how he found Christ was great! I am all for any story that shows someone coming closer to Christ. I liked watching that unfold!
I received this book for free in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Jennifer Newell.
468 reviews2 followers
September 23, 2020
I enjoyed this story. Second chance stories are always interesting, understanding the history, the break up and how to get the other person to just listen to your heartfelt apology.

More often than not there is always more to the story.

The author did a very good job with creating true reactions to difficult situations. You could feel the uncertainty of the characters to open up there heart to give love another chance.

Thank you to book siren for complimentary copy. Thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Faith Posten.
313 reviews11 followers
October 26, 2021
To Forgive or Hate

When I secluded the story , I thought it was a romance only, but quickly realized it was a mystery as well. Ryker is back in Otter Bay as a Detective for the Police Department He came back to help his Mom. But he left town in disgrace some years back. His entire life has changed, but can Amanda ever consider forgiveness for his awful betrayal. He knows he doesn't deserve it.
There is quite the mystery besides the back story. A riveting story!
Profile Image for Robin.
Author 3 books29 followers
March 17, 2020
A cozy read, at least for me

The story was a bit predictable and I remember another reviewer brought up the same issue. There were some glaring typos. But other than that, it was a good book. I liked the hero and heroine. Some of the secondary characters were interesting, too. The fact that the story was a clean romance added to my enjoyment. Finding the author's addition at the end made me smile.
If you enjoy clean, contemporary, inspirational romance, give this one a try.
Profile Image for Teresa.
158 reviews4 followers
September 10, 2020
I loved this book! I was so drawn into the story and the characters that I could not stop reading until I finished it.
This book had all the elements that I enjoy in a book; mystery, romance, good Christian morals and surprises.
It was a touching story of forever love and forgiveness. Don’t overlook this one as it is worth the read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Bonny Rambarran.
1,521 reviews21 followers
September 26, 2020
She goes to the office at night — the accountant has called and needs her help. When she gets there she can’t find him . . . and the next thing she knows she is in the hospital . . .and no idea why. And watching her is her old best friend/boyfriend. He wants to protect her — and she just wants him gone. And the amazing love story begins. Danger plus. Not only for her but for her family. God’s grace and the amazing friend . . . .
Profile Image for Kath.
919 reviews10 followers
September 11, 2021
True Love, Christ's Love, Always Wins

Very intense story about deception and hurting people. Ryker came to know Christ, and His true love, and it showed in his daily living. Only this love can change a person and their approach. In using this constant love he was able to win back Amanda's life during one of roughest times. She too learned more about Christ and this love, too. Great inspirational, Christian read.
Profile Image for Andrea Perez.
Author 9 books22 followers
July 19, 2022
I listened to this as an audiobook on Hoopla. I really enjoyed this story. The plot was good and exciting. I would've like more growth info from both main characters especially how they came to Christ. Secondly, I didn't enjoy the narrator of the audiobook. There were too many uncomfortable pauses between words that shouldn't be there. But I didn't count that in my rating as it wasn't the author who read it.
300 reviews1 follower
June 15, 2020
Excellent

I loved everything about this book. The beautiful power of love, forgiveness and redemption is so prevalent in this book. I believe you gently directed us to examining our own hearts in this powerful story. I highly recommend this book to everyone. I gave it five stars because you deserved it.
Profile Image for Wendy Huddler.
156 reviews3 followers
September 10, 2020
What a story! Imagine every time you turn around someone is attacking you and trying to kill you. That’s all I’m telling you about the storyline.

This book was well written, great characters, and moved at a good place. I love the way God was brought into the story. Very believable. I did not want to put this book down,

I will be looking for more books by Jodi Artzberg!
1,921 reviews8 followers
September 29, 2020
I really enjoyed reading this story between Amanda & Ryker, the many different things going on in book added to the storyline. There was love mystery and forgiveness. Looking forward to reading more from this author.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Tracy.
171 reviews3 followers
October 2, 2020
A little suspense and romance.... I got interested in the two main characters , Amanda and Ryker and would like to read more about them and their future. What will happen with them?
The plot was good, yet I wish there was a little more suspense as it became predictable way too early in the plot.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Pam C..
245 reviews5 followers
December 16, 2020
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was a great inspirational story as well as a beautiful love story with a good mystery thrown in! The characters were authentic and the plot solid. Definitely recommend reading.

I received an advance review copy from Booksirens for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
314 reviews5 followers
June 11, 2022
Past regrets can be overcome re

I love how this story brings two people back together. Evil wanted to intervene but the God we serve is bigger than the evil. Thank you for writing this story, Jodi. I believe these stories bring us closer to God. It is your ministry. God bless you.
125 reviews2 followers
September 5, 2020
I absolutely loved this book!

It has the right mix of suspense and romance. The fact that it is a clean Christian read is a plus for me.

l loved its themes of love, redemption and salvation.

It’s a great read worthy of 5 stars!
828 reviews3 followers
October 29, 2020
Yes, knowing God changes us for the better.

As Ryker rescues Amanda again and again while trying to find out who's trying to kill her, he leaves his Bible behind. Reading it brings Amanda a change of heart. Well written with plenty of twists and turns this is well worth the read.
Profile Image for Melinda Green.
60 reviews11 followers
December 13, 2020
Sweet romance with a few twists and turns. I wish that some of the main characters were a little more developed.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
204 reviews
May 9, 2021
A wonderful story of redemption, second chances, good vs evil and more! No spoilers here. This a well-written book which intrigues, entertains, and satisfies the reader. I hope there will someday be another book about the characters in this one, they all felt so real and have stolen my heart.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews

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