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Bringing Maggie Home #2
Unveiling the Past
Mysteries, family secrets, and learning to love and trust again rest at the heart of this contemporary novel from the best-selling author of
Bringing Maggie Home
.
Newlyweds and cold case detectives Sean and Meghan Eagle have been given the task of investigating the twenty-years-past disappearance of a husband and father, Anson Menke. A judge ruled that the missing man chose to leave the country and abandon his family, but his wife wouldn't concede that he left his family nor declare him dead. Their mother now gone, his children want answers.
As Sean and Meghan follow the man's last known steps, they also involve themselves in a more personal inquiry: locating Meghan's biological father. But as Meghan struggles to balance her work and her new role as a wife, she becomes terrified of failure. She doesn't want to hurt Sean or jeopardize the Menke investigation by falling short of his expectations.
When her mother, Diane DeFord, sees Meghan's turmoil, she decides to take action, potentially reuniting father and daughter. As the two searches intertwine, Meghan must become vulnerable with Sean, letting him into her life and being a true partner, while letting her heart be tender to God, the One who truly knows the journey each disrupted life needed to take to Him.
Newlyweds and cold case detectives Sean and Meghan Eagle have been given the task of investigating the twenty-years-past disappearance of a husband and father, Anson Menke. A judge ruled that the missing man chose to leave the country and abandon his family, but his wife wouldn't concede that he left his family nor declare him dead. Their mother now gone, his children want answers.
As Sean and Meghan follow the man's last known steps, they also involve themselves in a more personal inquiry: locating Meghan's biological father. But as Meghan struggles to balance her work and her new role as a wife, she becomes terrified of failure. She doesn't want to hurt Sean or jeopardize the Menke investigation by falling short of his expectations.
When her mother, Diane DeFord, sees Meghan's turmoil, she decides to take action, potentially reuniting father and daughter. As the two searches intertwine, Meghan must become vulnerable with Sean, letting him into her life and being a true partner, while letting her heart be tender to God, the One who truly knows the journey each disrupted life needed to take to Him.
352 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2020
69 people are currently reading
469 people want to read
About the author
Kim Vogel Sawyer
79 books1,208 followersAward-winning, bestselling author Kim Vogel Sawyer told her kindergarten teacher that someday people would check out her book in the library. The little-girl dream came true in 2006 with the release of Waiting for Summer's Return. Kim's titles now exceed 1.5 million copies and are available in six different languages. A former elementary school teacher, she now enjoys a full-time writing and speaking ministry. Kim's passion lies in writing stories that point the reader to a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. When Kim isn't writing, you'll find her traveling with her retired military hubby, spoiling her granddarlings, petting the cats, quilting, or--as time allows--participating in community theater. You can learn more about Kim's writing and speaking ministries at her website, KimVogelSawyer.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews
October 25, 2020
Meghan DeFord and Sean Eagle are married cold case detectives who usually work together, but are now working separate cases in different cities. Meghan is teamed up with another detective, trying to help a woman find her father, who vanished without a trace. Sean is continuing to work a case of two missing boys and is teamed with a detective who is troubled and lashing out. At the same time, Meghan has decided to try and make contact with her father, who has never been in her life. She consults her mother, Diane, about the best way to approach him.
This is an interesting Christian mystery with a solid message of God's love and forgiveness. I really enjoyed the interactions between Meghan's mother and grandmother (and their three dachshunds). However, there are times when it seems that things are tied up too neatly and quickly. I have seen God work this way, but it usually takes time. There is also a little conflict in my opinion between the way Meghan describes her mother and the way Diane is actually portrayed. Meghan describes her as unmotherly early in the book, and she is one of the reasons that Meghan doesn't want to become a Mom. However, in the book, Diane is portrayed as a delightful person who is very dedicated to her daughter. She is shown briefly as a stressed single mom early in the book. Since the DeFord women were first introduced in the novel Bringing Maggie Home in 2017, that conflict may have been resolved in that book.
The two mysteries are interesting and engaging, and the personalties of all the detectives are explored.
If you enjoy Christian mysteries, you will enjoy this book. I suggest reading Bringing Maggie Home first.
Three and a half stars, rounded up to four.
This is an interesting Christian mystery with a solid message of God's love and forgiveness. I really enjoyed the interactions between Meghan's mother and grandmother (and their three dachshunds). However, there are times when it seems that things are tied up too neatly and quickly. I have seen God work this way, but it usually takes time. There is also a little conflict in my opinion between the way Meghan describes her mother and the way Diane is actually portrayed. Meghan describes her as unmotherly early in the book, and she is one of the reasons that Meghan doesn't want to become a Mom. However, in the book, Diane is portrayed as a delightful person who is very dedicated to her daughter. She is shown briefly as a stressed single mom early in the book. Since the DeFord women were first introduced in the novel Bringing Maggie Home in 2017, that conflict may have been resolved in that book.
The two mysteries are interesting and engaging, and the personalties of all the detectives are explored.
If you enjoy Christian mysteries, you will enjoy this book. I suggest reading Bringing Maggie Home first.
Three and a half stars, rounded up to four.
September 11, 2024
Three and a half stars.
Newly married couple Sean Eagle and Meghan DeFord work together as cold case detectives. But the their latest case strikes close to home for Meghan. Sheila Menke’s father disappeared out of her life when she was a child. He was also accused of embezzalment. Meghan’s father was non existent in her life, so she understands Sheila’s loss. Meghan is reluctant to take this new case on. But she eventually agrees. Sean is investigating the death of two boys and wants to keep on with that. One of them will have change their plans or they will have to split as a teammates. Sean also wants to start a family in the near future. Meghan however, is not sure she wants to have children at all, given her own deficient upbringing with her mother. Maybe she is not fit to be a mother? At least that is the way she is thinking. The story follows both the detective’s cases as well as dealing with their everyday lives, and past issues.
This is book 2 in a series.I had not read book 1 but not a problem. This reads fine as a stand alone. A story of family, friendship, faith, work relationships, and forgiveness plus two mysteries for the detectives to solve. There is quite a lot going on, so it skips around from person to person with the narrative. I enjoyed it and liked the main characters.
This book is decidedly Christian in content. There is a lot about the need for salvation in Jesus, about prayer, bible verses, lives changed and a Heavenly Father who works out his plans for his own. I am a Christian and though I agree with the message I still found it a bit heavy handed at times. Others may have a different view of that aspect. I also thought it was a little too neatly tied up towards the end. But still an enjoyable read despite these quibbles.
One quote I liked when Diane is struggling to deal with the past was: ‘ The past can knock on the door all it wants to. You don’t have to answer.’
Newly married couple Sean Eagle and Meghan DeFord work together as cold case detectives. But the their latest case strikes close to home for Meghan. Sheila Menke’s father disappeared out of her life when she was a child. He was also accused of embezzalment. Meghan’s father was non existent in her life, so she understands Sheila’s loss. Meghan is reluctant to take this new case on. But she eventually agrees. Sean is investigating the death of two boys and wants to keep on with that. One of them will have change their plans or they will have to split as a teammates. Sean also wants to start a family in the near future. Meghan however, is not sure she wants to have children at all, given her own deficient upbringing with her mother. Maybe she is not fit to be a mother? At least that is the way she is thinking. The story follows both the detective’s cases as well as dealing with their everyday lives, and past issues.
This is book 2 in a series.I had not read book 1 but not a problem. This reads fine as a stand alone. A story of family, friendship, faith, work relationships, and forgiveness plus two mysteries for the detectives to solve. There is quite a lot going on, so it skips around from person to person with the narrative. I enjoyed it and liked the main characters.
This book is decidedly Christian in content. There is a lot about the need for salvation in Jesus, about prayer, bible verses, lives changed and a Heavenly Father who works out his plans for his own. I am a Christian and though I agree with the message I still found it a bit heavy handed at times. Others may have a different view of that aspect. I also thought it was a little too neatly tied up towards the end. But still an enjoyable read despite these quibbles.
One quote I liked when Diane is struggling to deal with the past was: ‘ The past can knock on the door all it wants to. You don’t have to answer.’
May 8, 2020
I love contemporary fiction. I really enjoyed getting back to my old friends from Brining Maggie Home. Sawyer is such a great story teller and she brings the two books together in a fantastic way. You can read then as stand alone but I suggest reading them both together.
You are going to love these three main characters, I only hope that sawyer has plans to write about book with these same characters.
I gave this book 4 stars and I recommend this book.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
You are going to love these three main characters, I only hope that sawyer has plans to write about book with these same characters.
I gave this book 4 stars and I recommend this book.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
May 15, 2020
I could hardly set this book down! The two investigations that Meghan and Sean were working on were fascinating to me, especially Meghan’s investigation. I guess I am a fan of cold case stories because I felt the same way about the first book in this series and loved watching as the detectives pieced together the clues. If you haven’t read the first book, Bringing Maggie Home, I believe you could still enjoy this story. However, you will appreciate the characters in this book more if you read Bringing Maggie Home first.
I loved the many different situations that were going on in this book in addition to the investigations. There were personal and important decisions for Meghan and Sean to make, as well as answers that Meghan and her mother wanted from the past. The author did a good job of creating characters who tried to live their faith, struggled sometimes, but ultimately tried to trust in God’s direction for their lives.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I loved the many different situations that were going on in this book in addition to the investigations. There were personal and important decisions for Meghan and Sean to make, as well as answers that Meghan and her mother wanted from the past. The author did a good job of creating characters who tried to live their faith, struggled sometimes, but ultimately tried to trust in God’s direction for their lives.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
June 13, 2020
A departure from her usual genre Kim Vogel Sawyer in the second in the Bringing Maggie Home series will have you riveted to the book as you read this one.
Though this can be read as a stand alone I highly recommend reading Bringing Maggie Home first .
The character development continues in this second book and the with the excellent detail given you feel as if you are right there as the investigation is going on.
I hope to read another book with the same characters.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Though this can be read as a stand alone I highly recommend reading Bringing Maggie Home first .
The character development continues in this second book and the with the excellent detail given you feel as if you are right there as the investigation is going on.
I hope to read another book with the same characters.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
April 30, 2020
It was great to spend time with Hazel, Diane and Meghan, three generations of women that were featured in Bringing Maggie Home. I loved seeing the progress they had made in mending and building relationships.
Meghan and her husband Sean work toward solving two cold cases in Unveiling the Past. What happens in the end with both cases is completely plausible. Having a family member of one of the cold case victims included in part of the investigation seemed a little odd to me, but perhaps that is how it's done in reality.
What I loved most is that the characters professing to be Christians were not afraid to share their faith even if they knew the receiver was going to get angry or laugh at them. That takes bravery and obedience to hear the nudge of God and to take action even knowing there is going to be a painful result. God knows that it might just be what the person needs to hear and it might make them one step closer to opening their heart to Christ.
My gratitude to publisher WaterBrook for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Meghan and her husband Sean work toward solving two cold cases in Unveiling the Past. What happens in the end with both cases is completely plausible. Having a family member of one of the cold case victims included in part of the investigation seemed a little odd to me, but perhaps that is how it's done in reality.
What I loved most is that the characters professing to be Christians were not afraid to share their faith even if they knew the receiver was going to get angry or laugh at them. That takes bravery and obedience to hear the nudge of God and to take action even knowing there is going to be a painful result. God knows that it might just be what the person needs to hear and it might make them one step closer to opening their heart to Christ.
My gratitude to publisher WaterBrook for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
May 12, 2020
Bringing Maggie Home by Kim Vogel Sawyer was so good and I was wishing it had a sequel. Talk about wishes coming true! The main couple in Unveiling the Past, Sean and Meghan, are from her first book, Bringing Maggie Home.
Actually we get to revisit several characters from Bringing Maggie Home. Hazel, Diane, Meghan and Sean were all a big part of the first book. Sean and Meghan are cold case detectives who are working to solve cases. There are a few other new characters we follow in this book too. Amazingly, it was easy to follow them all. I also enjoyed them by the end of the book. Sawyer has a way of helping us see the flawed characters good points. I just love that! This book also involves some mysteries that are uncovered and I didn't figure out the ending, which was a plus for me.
Those who want to read fiction with solid Christian themes will appreciate Unveiling the Past. There is definitely solid Christian teaching woven throughout the storyline. My one complaint is minor but I don't remember Sawyer having characters who called each other babe in her books before--while it wasn't a big deal that was the one thing I found annoying. As a whole, this book offered mystery, romance, and solid Christian themes. At the same time, we realize characters aren't perfect and we find them lovable in spite of their flaws. Unveiling the Past could stand alone but it would be much more enjoyable having read Bringing Maggie Home first.
I received an early edition of this book for review purposes. All opinions within this review are my own
Actually we get to revisit several characters from Bringing Maggie Home. Hazel, Diane, Meghan and Sean were all a big part of the first book. Sean and Meghan are cold case detectives who are working to solve cases. There are a few other new characters we follow in this book too. Amazingly, it was easy to follow them all. I also enjoyed them by the end of the book. Sawyer has a way of helping us see the flawed characters good points. I just love that! This book also involves some mysteries that are uncovered and I didn't figure out the ending, which was a plus for me.
Those who want to read fiction with solid Christian themes will appreciate Unveiling the Past. There is definitely solid Christian teaching woven throughout the storyline. My one complaint is minor but I don't remember Sawyer having characters who called each other babe in her books before--while it wasn't a big deal that was the one thing I found annoying. As a whole, this book offered mystery, romance, and solid Christian themes. At the same time, we realize characters aren't perfect and we find them lovable in spite of their flaws. Unveiling the Past could stand alone but it would be much more enjoyable having read Bringing Maggie Home first.
I received an early edition of this book for review purposes. All opinions within this review are my own
February 2, 2021
This was about changing hearts, forgiveness, and taking back the layers that hide the light. Unveiling the Past had a slow start, but one that brought a smile to my face. I loved how all the characters, at least the main ones were all brought together in unexpected ways.
May 4, 2020
This read had several stories that we follow, and yes, answers are forthcoming on all, but we take it day by day until the end.
The author gives us a young Christian woman who is living her faith, but has stumbled as far as having children with her husband, and why? That is part of what this book contains, and we journey here for reasons and answers.
What an interesting job Meghan has along with her husband, she looks at Arkansas's cold cases, and some that become personal to their supervisor. How many lives are changed here, and I loved that the author gave us some chance meetings!
From beginning to the end, I loved this book, and saw how God worked in the lives of believers.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Waterbrook, and was not required to give a positive review.
The author gives us a young Christian woman who is living her faith, but has stumbled as far as having children with her husband, and why? That is part of what this book contains, and we journey here for reasons and answers.
What an interesting job Meghan has along with her husband, she looks at Arkansas's cold cases, and some that become personal to their supervisor. How many lives are changed here, and I loved that the author gave us some chance meetings!
From beginning to the end, I loved this book, and saw how God worked in the lives of believers.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Waterbrook, and was not required to give a positive review.
May 15, 2020
Unveiling the Past by Kim Vogel Sawyer is book two in her Bringing Maggie Home series.
As cold case detectives, husband and wife, Sean Eagle and Meghan DeFord are familiar with the turmoil and pain often associated with mysteries of the past. Now they are presented with cases from the past and a new present-day mystery at the same time. The couple emphasize faith in a higher power in all things but as work situations and secrets from the past begin to invade their home life, will they be able to hold onto their faith in God and their trust in each other?
Kim Vogel Sawyer knows the Bible. She doesn’t just spout vague spiritual references; she gives full scriptures with book, chapter and verse. There are great literary elements in this novel. The plot is smart. The characters and dialogue are inspirational. This is a real tear-jerker with joyous highs and heartbreaking lows. In Unveiling the Past the author has struck the right balance between Christian fiction and contemporary mystery. I rate it 5 out 5 stars and recommend it to all readers of Christian fiction.
My thanks to WaterBrook & Multnomah and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
As cold case detectives, husband and wife, Sean Eagle and Meghan DeFord are familiar with the turmoil and pain often associated with mysteries of the past. Now they are presented with cases from the past and a new present-day mystery at the same time. The couple emphasize faith in a higher power in all things but as work situations and secrets from the past begin to invade their home life, will they be able to hold onto their faith in God and their trust in each other?
Kim Vogel Sawyer knows the Bible. She doesn’t just spout vague spiritual references; she gives full scriptures with book, chapter and verse. There are great literary elements in this novel. The plot is smart. The characters and dialogue are inspirational. This is a real tear-jerker with joyous highs and heartbreaking lows. In Unveiling the Past the author has struck the right balance between Christian fiction and contemporary mystery. I rate it 5 out 5 stars and recommend it to all readers of Christian fiction.
My thanks to WaterBrook & Multnomah and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
May 12, 2020
"The past can knock on the door all it wants to. You don't have to answer."
This book has quite a few pasts that come knocking on the door and multiple subplots make for an interesting story with themes of forgiveness, coming to terms with the past, and restoration that can only be found through faith in God. There are several third person point of view voices in the story - Sean and Meghan who are a cold case detective couple, Diane who is Meghan's mother, Kevin who is Meghan's father whom she never knew, and Sheila who has a personal cold case that approaches Sean and Meghan's team for help. Each character has a subplot, some more shrouded in cold case mystery than others, and all the characters and their stories converge as Sean and Meghan live out their lives dedicated to God. The author addresses some tough emotional issues like abandonment, alcoholism, and dysfunctional parent-child relationship with tenderness and understanding. There are flashbacks to fill in the gaps of the past and the transition between the past and the present is fluid and well-connected. The characters and their emotions are real, the plot moves at a good pace to unveil the details needed for the big finales of the two cold case pursuits, and the faith element provided by Sean and Meghan's grandmother Hazel is phenomenal. If you enjoy a well-written contemporary women's fiction with a dash of mystery, you will enjoy this book. It is book 2 in Bringing Maggie Home series but can be read as a stand-alone.
I received a copy of the book from WaterBrook & Multnomah and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
This book has quite a few pasts that come knocking on the door and multiple subplots make for an interesting story with themes of forgiveness, coming to terms with the past, and restoration that can only be found through faith in God. There are several third person point of view voices in the story - Sean and Meghan who are a cold case detective couple, Diane who is Meghan's mother, Kevin who is Meghan's father whom she never knew, and Sheila who has a personal cold case that approaches Sean and Meghan's team for help. Each character has a subplot, some more shrouded in cold case mystery than others, and all the characters and their stories converge as Sean and Meghan live out their lives dedicated to God. The author addresses some tough emotional issues like abandonment, alcoholism, and dysfunctional parent-child relationship with tenderness and understanding. There are flashbacks to fill in the gaps of the past and the transition between the past and the present is fluid and well-connected. The characters and their emotions are real, the plot moves at a good pace to unveil the details needed for the big finales of the two cold case pursuits, and the faith element provided by Sean and Meghan's grandmother Hazel is phenomenal. If you enjoy a well-written contemporary women's fiction with a dash of mystery, you will enjoy this book. It is book 2 in Bringing Maggie Home series but can be read as a stand-alone.
I received a copy of the book from WaterBrook & Multnomah and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
did-not-finish
May 8, 2020DNF & to be picked back up another day. 5-7-2020
While I am curious about how the cold cases that will be in this story, I am having a hard time getting in to it. Partially because of physical marriage hints/mentions (nothing over the top (yet) but I have a strong feeling that there will be more coming) and partially because I’m not in the mood to read this at the moment. I’ll try again at a later date.
While I am curious about how the cold cases that will be in this story, I am having a hard time getting in to it. Partially because of physical marriage hints/mentions (nothing over the top (yet) but I have a strong feeling that there will be more coming) and partially because I’m not in the mood to read this at the moment. I’ll try again at a later date.
June 17, 2020
UNVEILING THE PAST is book two in a series (Bringing Maggie Home is book 1). but it does stand alone. The story is slow, enough so it dragged, especially at first. But then something caught my interest and i had to keep reading.
This is more of a family saga than a mystery even though the main characters are both detectives and both working on cold cases. We do go along on the detective work but still the main focus is family saga.
There is a strong faith message,flash backs in time, and multiple main characters.
I enjoyed this book. Grab your copy today.
I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
This is more of a family saga than a mystery even though the main characters are both detectives and both working on cold cases. We do go along on the detective work but still the main focus is family saga.
There is a strong faith message,flash backs in time, and multiple main characters.
I enjoyed this book. Grab your copy today.
I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
May 5, 2020
Meghan Eagle always wanted to know about and have answers of who was her father.
A story filled with grace and forgiveness and the riches of knowing and living for God. The circular route that our own lives take. This story is a warm filled ride into the many lives touched by one person and the choices they make.
A story filled with grace and forgiveness and the riches of knowing and living for God. The circular route that our own lives take. This story is a warm filled ride into the many lives touched by one person and the choices they make.
May 2, 2020
Thanks so much to netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book!
This was my first time reading this author and I really enjoyed her. There was such a nice mixture of faith, family and mystery in here! I definitely look forward to reading more of her books!
This was my first time reading this author and I really enjoyed her. There was such a nice mixture of faith, family and mystery in here! I definitely look forward to reading more of her books!
July 25, 2020
3.5 stars
"How do you know when God's telling you to do something? I mean, in the Bible it was so obvious. A burning bush, a talking donkey, angels who showed up and delivered messages. God doesn't do those kinds of things anymore."
Cold case detective Meghan DeFord-Eagle has so many questions circling through her head; does she dare contact her absentee father, should she and Sean start a family, could they open up a private investigative agency . . . . . could, should, would, maybe, might . . . . or not. It's a heavy burden for one half of a new marriage to bear.
As if these decisions were not enough, Meghan and Sean's supervising officer asks them to temporarily split their partnership, so that each of them can work with another detective, (up until now, they have worked as a team) to solve a case that exhibits distinctive connections. In spite of the fact that neither is particularly keen on the idea, the department is handling two scenarios that demand the Eagle's expertise. As it turns out, it was the best decision they could have made.
Meanwhile, Meghan's mother and grandmother are becoming involved in a situation as unique as any cold case that Meghan and Sean could be assigned, and just as personal.
This novel has a rather complicated mixture of plot lines, so much so that the reader may feel a little left out of the details from time to time; none of the story threads reign supreme, but they do weave themselves together rather nicely in the end. It's the wonderful spiritual depth that marks "Unveiling the Past" as a decidedly inspirational read.
"Our structures, our lives are doomed to collapse unless we build on the cornerstone, Jesus Christ."
"How do you know when God's telling you to do something? I mean, in the Bible it was so obvious. A burning bush, a talking donkey, angels who showed up and delivered messages. God doesn't do those kinds of things anymore."
Cold case detective Meghan DeFord-Eagle has so many questions circling through her head; does she dare contact her absentee father, should she and Sean start a family, could they open up a private investigative agency . . . . . could, should, would, maybe, might . . . . or not. It's a heavy burden for one half of a new marriage to bear.
As if these decisions were not enough, Meghan and Sean's supervising officer asks them to temporarily split their partnership, so that each of them can work with another detective, (up until now, they have worked as a team) to solve a case that exhibits distinctive connections. In spite of the fact that neither is particularly keen on the idea, the department is handling two scenarios that demand the Eagle's expertise. As it turns out, it was the best decision they could have made.
Meanwhile, Meghan's mother and grandmother are becoming involved in a situation as unique as any cold case that Meghan and Sean could be assigned, and just as personal.
This novel has a rather complicated mixture of plot lines, so much so that the reader may feel a little left out of the details from time to time; none of the story threads reign supreme, but they do weave themselves together rather nicely in the end. It's the wonderful spiritual depth that marks "Unveiling the Past" as a decidedly inspirational read.
"Our structures, our lives are doomed to collapse unless we build on the cornerstone, Jesus Christ."
May 14, 2020
"Bringing Maggie Home", the prequel, was amazing with characters I felt could be family. When I finished reading it, I hoped for a sequel. Just when I didn't think Kim Vogel Sawyer could write anything that topped "Bringing Maggie Home", she totally delivered in "Unveiling the Past".
So many aspects of "Unveiling the Past" could be identifiable in many families, mine included. Without giving away any spoilers, there was so much forgiveness that needed to occur, within each character and for others in the novel. Praying for God to work His Will in the lives of those who have wronged us, we also must pray for God to work forgiveness in our hearts. Hazel, the matriarch, drove this point home multiple times.
From solving a cold case to forgiveness and redemption, Sawyer wrote a riveting novel which made me laugh and cry, sometimes at the same time. Please let there be another in this series.
I received and advance ecopy of "Unveiling the Past" but was not required to post a review.
So many aspects of "Unveiling the Past" could be identifiable in many families, mine included. Without giving away any spoilers, there was so much forgiveness that needed to occur, within each character and for others in the novel. Praying for God to work His Will in the lives of those who have wronged us, we also must pray for God to work forgiveness in our hearts. Hazel, the matriarch, drove this point home multiple times.
From solving a cold case to forgiveness and redemption, Sawyer wrote a riveting novel which made me laugh and cry, sometimes at the same time. Please let there be another in this series.
I received and advance ecopy of "Unveiling the Past" but was not required to post a review.
May 7, 2020
Unveiling the Past by Kim Vogel Sawyer has Detective Meghan DeFord-Eagle with the Arkansas Cold Case Investigations Department working on a case that hits a little close to home. Sheila Menke’s father, Anson never arrived home from work back in 2002, and then was found guilty of embezzling funds from the bank where he worked. Sheila took care of her sick mother while raising her two brothers. Her mother did not want to find out the truth while she was alive, but, since she has passed away, Sheila wants answers. Meghan was raised by a single mother and never knew the identity of her father until recently. She wants to find her birth father in the hopes of learning more about herself. Meghan feels she cannot start a family with her husband, Sean until then. Can Meghan get the resolution she needs while helping Sheila? Unveiling the Past is a story of forgiveness, redemption and second chances. I like that we get to see three generations of Meghan’s family. I liked Meghan’s mother, Diane who teaches Honors English in Las Vegas and lives with her mother, Hazel. I just loved Hazel and enjoyed the humor she added to the story. Sean Eagle is Meghan’s husband and a detective with the Arkansas Cold Case Investigations Department as well. They have been married three years and Sean is ready to start a family. The thought of having a child fills Meghan with fear. The couple has a few issues they must deal with which will test their marriage. I thought Unveiling the Past contained good writing and it moved along at a nice pace. I did, though, have trouble with the switching point-of-view. It took me a while to get into the story with the POV going between Diane, Meghan, Sean, and Kevin. Christian elements were nicely incorporated into the story, but I did feel it was a little heavy handed (felt preachy at times). Forgiveness and having a relationship with God were two of the prevalent themes. I like how Unveiling the Past ended. I did wonder, though, if there was a previous book featuring these characters. There is mention of a previous case involving Meghan and Sean when they searched for Hazel’s sister. Unveiling the Past is an uplifting story about acquiring forgiveness, a missing father, family, new beginnings and forging new paths.
May 11, 2020
This is the sequel to Bringing Maggie Home but reads well on its own. Relationships are an important part of this novel so if one wanted to get the full impact of the relationships involved, the earlier book should be read.
As in the first book, Meghan is a cold case detective. Her captain assigns her to a case that separates her from her detective partner and husband, Sean. She works on discovering what happened to a man who went missing years ago while Sean concentrates on the unsolved death of two boys.
The investigative procedure makes up a good part of the plot but personal issues are really the main focus. Meghan was raised by a single mom with no father around. The case she is working on involves a loving father who went missing and his daughter who wants to be an integral part of the investigation. A missing father in both their lives makes for good conversations about having a heavenly Father. Sean has the opportunity to witness to his crusty and hurting detective partner.
This is a good novel for readers who like to read about relationships being healed and people being transformed by the gospel. There is a very strong element of Christian faith included as well as the healing nature of forgiveness. Sawyer does a good amount of head hopping, jumping around people and places and even going back in time for a few scenes. I don't particularly like that style of crafting the plot of a novel but it does offer a broad exploration of personalities. There is a good discussion guide included so this novel would be a good choice for reading groups.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
As in the first book, Meghan is a cold case detective. Her captain assigns her to a case that separates her from her detective partner and husband, Sean. She works on discovering what happened to a man who went missing years ago while Sean concentrates on the unsolved death of two boys.
The investigative procedure makes up a good part of the plot but personal issues are really the main focus. Meghan was raised by a single mom with no father around. The case she is working on involves a loving father who went missing and his daughter who wants to be an integral part of the investigation. A missing father in both their lives makes for good conversations about having a heavenly Father. Sean has the opportunity to witness to his crusty and hurting detective partner.
This is a good novel for readers who like to read about relationships being healed and people being transformed by the gospel. There is a very strong element of Christian faith included as well as the healing nature of forgiveness. Sawyer does a good amount of head hopping, jumping around people and places and even going back in time for a few scenes. I don't particularly like that style of crafting the plot of a novel but it does offer a broad exploration of personalities. There is a good discussion guide included so this novel would be a good choice for reading groups.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
July 14, 2020
Unveiling the Past, by Kim Vogel Sawyer, is book two in the Bringing Maggie Home series. This story does reference characters and situations from the first book, so I would recommend reading them in order. However, the author does a great job of introducing the characters and does give a little background.
This is a very good, well written story that deals with topics of unwed motherhood, fatherless child, divorce and alcoholism. This story shows how the way a person grows up affects how they feel about being a parent as well as the way they pursue their career and relationships in adulthood. It also does a great job of showing how money does not buy happiness.
I really liked Meghan's grandmother. She is a very strong Christian and knows how to witness to people who are struggling. I like how she helped Meghan to understand how to know when God is telling you something. I also like how she helps Meghan's mom understand her mixed feelings towards Meghan's father and helps her realize it is compassion and she is now seeing him through God's eyes.
This is a very good modern day book that I would strongly recommend. I received a copy of this book from Waterbrook Multnomah through NetGalley. This is my honest review.
This is a very good, well written story that deals with topics of unwed motherhood, fatherless child, divorce and alcoholism. This story shows how the way a person grows up affects how they feel about being a parent as well as the way they pursue their career and relationships in adulthood. It also does a great job of showing how money does not buy happiness.
I really liked Meghan's grandmother. She is a very strong Christian and knows how to witness to people who are struggling. I like how she helped Meghan to understand how to know when God is telling you something. I also like how she helps Meghan's mom understand her mixed feelings towards Meghan's father and helps her realize it is compassion and she is now seeing him through God's eyes.
This is a very good modern day book that I would strongly recommend. I received a copy of this book from Waterbrook Multnomah through NetGalley. This is my honest review.
July 19, 2020
In Kim Vogel Sawyer's Unveiling the Past, this beautiful Christian novel will warm your heart and tug on your heart strings. For Meghan De Ford-Eagle, she's always wanted to know about her father who's been absent in her life. She's a Cold Case Detective in Carson Springs, Arkansas, and works there with her husband Sean Eagle. When she asked her mother Diane about his name and how to contact him, it set them off on a personal journey of exploration and for forgiveness. When her boss assigned Megan to a new case, he split them up and worked with someone else. While she worked with a missing persons case, her husband Sean stayed on with the same case he worked on with a new partner. While she worked in Fort Smith, her mother Diane reaches out to Kevin Harrison, a workaholic who had failed marriages, and a weak relationship with his step-son Kip. When they meet for the first time in years, she forgives him and helps him redecorate a loft apartment in Las Vegas with her mother Hazel. While Megan waffled on the decision on motherhood and starting her own private investigation agency with Sean, she asked God for his help on truth, on forgiveness, and to help find answers for her client on the search for her missing father. In the end, both mysteries are solved, and Meghan sees things in a new light and a new definition on family in the end.
August 15, 2020
Unveiling the Past is a Christian women’s fiction novel by author Kim Vogel Sawyer.
Meghan DeFord and Sean Eagle are cold-case detectives who happen to be married, to each other. Anson Menke has been missing since 2002. There is a very good story in the story. I appreciate that the author writes about having a relationship with God through Christ Jesus, and not just having a religion. There is a big difference as the story points out.
I could relate to the characters and found myself often times thinking of my own family relationships. I wish our relationships would have been different however, as the story points out, God can make a way where there seems to be no way.
I recommend this novel to fans of women’s fiction with a bit of suspense.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Meghan DeFord and Sean Eagle are cold-case detectives who happen to be married, to each other. Anson Menke has been missing since 2002. There is a very good story in the story. I appreciate that the author writes about having a relationship with God through Christ Jesus, and not just having a religion. There is a big difference as the story points out.
I could relate to the characters and found myself often times thinking of my own family relationships. I wish our relationships would have been different however, as the story points out, God can make a way where there seems to be no way.
I recommend this novel to fans of women’s fiction with a bit of suspense.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
May 14, 2020
I devoured this book as my favorite go to author penned another I can not put this down winner. Bringing Maggie Home was an all time favorite of mine and this was a wonderful continuation of it. I pray there is another sequel coming as I don’t want to leave these characters here. God has our written story in His hands and He works all things out to His glory and this story is a perfect example of that. We all need to either ask for forgiveness or grant forgiveness and this shines brightly with the giving and receiving. I found I needed tissues as it is so heartfelt and touching in many places especially in the redemptive power of Christ. I found it to be encouraging and eye opening into flawed characters and how changes are possible. I find it hard to describe without spoilers so I will just say I wish I could give more than five stars as it deserves it. I highly recommend as Ms. Sawyer hit a home run.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
May 15, 2020
Unveiling the Past is a sequel to Bringing Maggie Home. This book can be read as a standalone but I would suggest reading Bringing Maggie Home first. You get acquainted with the characters that appear in the first book on a more deeper level. There were three different storylines in this book. You have Hazel and her daughter Diane were in Las Vegas. Diane reconnects with Kevin the father of her child who had abandoned her some 30 plus years ago when she informed him she was pregnant. I didn't like Kevin at first. He was a jerk and he didn't improve with age either but as Hazel and Diane witnessed to him I grew to like him. God does that to people. He takes someone who is broken and fixes them. Then you have Meghan and Sean who work at a detective agency. Meghan is the daughter that Diane raised as a single mother. Meghan and Sean are involved in two separate cases and those cases are resolved by the end of the book. I don't know how the author managed to pull off three storylines in one book but she did it very well. I absolutely loved this book. I thought the first book in the series was my favorite by the author but this one may beat it out.
May 14, 2020
Thanks go to the publisher and Net-Galley for the complimentary copy of Unveiling the Past by Kim Vogel Sawyer for the purpose of reading and reviewing prior to publication. My opinions are my own and no one has influenced me.
Unveiling the Past is a well written Christian mystery with interesting characters and an involved plot. There are two mysteries, and two separate cases involving the two main characters. I felt like I was reading two novels at once. Personally, I found it distracting, other readers may not.
Meghan DeFord is the female lead. I have mixed feeling about her character. I believe it’s because there is so much going on in Unveiling the Past, it was hard to become fully vested in Meghan. Her back story is interesting though, but her emotions toward it are a bit weak.
Sean Eagle is the male lead. He is also an investigator of cold cases. I had a bit of a hard time becoming vested in his character as well. Again, because there is so many different directions in this book. From what I did see of his character, I liked.
The mysteries are involved and have a multitude of characters. Sheila Menke, the young girl involved in the case Meghan is working, her partner, Sean’s partner on his case, and the villains of this story. Again, It was like reading two books at once.
I don’t normally read many mysteries, so I may not be the best judge of Unveiling the Past since I am not well versed in this genre, especially one where there isn’t much romance. Nonetheless, I enjoyed Unveiling the Past. I loved the strong Christian message in it. If you enjoy whodunits with intricate plot lines, then Unveiling the Past may be the book for you. Happy reading!
Unveiling the Past is a well written Christian mystery with interesting characters and an involved plot. There are two mysteries, and two separate cases involving the two main characters. I felt like I was reading two novels at once. Personally, I found it distracting, other readers may not.
Meghan DeFord is the female lead. I have mixed feeling about her character. I believe it’s because there is so much going on in Unveiling the Past, it was hard to become fully vested in Meghan. Her back story is interesting though, but her emotions toward it are a bit weak.
Sean Eagle is the male lead. He is also an investigator of cold cases. I had a bit of a hard time becoming vested in his character as well. Again, because there is so many different directions in this book. From what I did see of his character, I liked.
The mysteries are involved and have a multitude of characters. Sheila Menke, the young girl involved in the case Meghan is working, her partner, Sean’s partner on his case, and the villains of this story. Again, It was like reading two books at once.
I don’t normally read many mysteries, so I may not be the best judge of Unveiling the Past since I am not well versed in this genre, especially one where there isn’t much romance. Nonetheless, I enjoyed Unveiling the Past. I loved the strong Christian message in it. If you enjoy whodunits with intricate plot lines, then Unveiling the Past may be the book for you. Happy reading!
May 12, 2020
I enjoyed this book so dang much! Everything about it was great. This is the second book I have read by this author but I believe I have a new one to add to my favorites list. The story was exciting and captured my attention from the first chapter. The characters were fun and inviting to know. I love the way the story came together and the amount of faith throughout the book. This is exactly what I am looking for when I read a book. I couldn’t put it down.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for an advanced copy of this book. The reviews are my own.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for an advanced copy of this book. The reviews are my own.
August 16, 2020
Another good book by author Kim Vogel Sawyer, I encourage you to read Bringing Maggie Home first. Things will make more sense if you do. I enjoyed visiting with some of the characters from it. Besides, it’s a really good book too.
Characters Sean and Meghan are strong and determined, which is good for business but not so good personally. We see them work through things, although it’s not easy.
There are several twists and turns in this story, making it one I had trouble putting down because I need things to be resolved. There were a few late nights in my life, but it was so worth it. I highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Characters Sean and Meghan are strong and determined, which is good for business but not so good personally. We see them work through things, although it’s not easy.
There are several twists and turns in this story, making it one I had trouble putting down because I need things to be resolved. There were a few late nights in my life, but it was so worth it. I highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
May 7, 2020
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is a beautiful Christian fiction story. Meghan is at a crossroads. She wants to learn more about her biological father, she is trying to convince her husband to start their own PI business, and her husband just dropped a bomb he wants to start having children. She is overwhelmed and has a new cold case to solve as well. The story really displays God's love and our faithfulness in a very beautiful way. Very enjoyable.
May 14, 2020
This takes place a few years after the previous book in Arkansas and Nevada. I didn't like this one as much as the previous book. It was the new character Sheila that ruined the story for me. I did not like her. Most of the rest of the characters were fine. There were a couple that got more likable as the story went on. There isn't much romance, but there is mystery and family and faith.
August 29, 2020
Those who have read Bringing Maggie Home will enjoy catching up with the DeFord women in Unveiling the Past. Meghan and Sean are partners at work as well as in life now. Diane is living with her mother in Nevada but keeps in touch with her daughter.
When Meghan and Sean are given the choice to work together on a case or split up in order to keep working both cases, the second choice reigns. This couple is now forced to work with other detectives. If that isn't stressful enough, Meghan is also dealing with whether she wants to meet her birth father—a man who had no part in her life over the years.
As Diane attempts to bridge the gap between Sean and her daughter, Meghan discovers truths about herself she's never believed possible. With their evident faith, Sawyer's continued character growth is phenomenal and the intricate stories lines come together to form a satisfying conclusion.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
When Meghan and Sean are given the choice to work together on a case or split up in order to keep working both cases, the second choice reigns. This couple is now forced to work with other detectives. If that isn't stressful enough, Meghan is also dealing with whether she wants to meet her birth father—a man who had no part in her life over the years.
As Diane attempts to bridge the gap between Sean and her daughter, Meghan discovers truths about herself she's never believed possible. With their evident faith, Sawyer's continued character growth is phenomenal and the intricate stories lines come together to form a satisfying conclusion.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
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