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Small Town Secrets #1
Intent: In the Shadows
It's hard to enjoy high school when someone is stalking you . . .
Raylee just wants to get through the last two years of high school. But it's not easy when you're an outsider. Or when the most popular girl in school's goal is to make your life miserable. Or when someone starts to stalk you.
When classmate Paul befriends Raylee, she is determined to ignore Crystal's ploys. And when new student Billy arrives, Raylee finds herself drawn to his mysterious side. But Crystal is determined too, and she will do whatever it takes to keep him from Raylee and to ensure that the rest of Raylee's high school years remain angst-ridden.
Soon someone lurks in the shadows, watching Raylee, leaving scary clues, someone who wants to set her on edge. But why? Is it Crystal and her clique, or worse, someone she trusts?
This is the exciting prequel to INTENT: Deadly Secrets
Exclusive Edition: Over 60 pages of deleted scenes!
Book #2 is a mystery suspense for young adult and up.
Raylee just wants to get through the last two years of high school. But it's not easy when you're an outsider. Or when the most popular girl in school's goal is to make your life miserable. Or when someone starts to stalk you.
When classmate Paul befriends Raylee, she is determined to ignore Crystal's ploys. And when new student Billy arrives, Raylee finds herself drawn to his mysterious side. But Crystal is determined too, and she will do whatever it takes to keep him from Raylee and to ensure that the rest of Raylee's high school years remain angst-ridden.
Soon someone lurks in the shadows, watching Raylee, leaving scary clues, someone who wants to set her on edge. But why? Is it Crystal and her clique, or worse, someone she trusts?
This is the exciting prequel to INTENT: Deadly Secrets
Exclusive Edition: Over 60 pages of deleted scenes!
Book #2 is a mystery suspense for young adult and up.
262 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2020
197 people are currently reading
153 people want to read
About the author
Krista Wagner
19 books86 followersAmazon Bestselling Author Krista Wagner writes clean mystery suspense stories that reach into those chasms of darkness where deception and betrayal lie, but where faith, and victory over evil, ultimately win. Her books offer a psychological suspense twist on cozy mysteries like the Nancy Drew/Hardy Boys series, brimming with realistic characters, a dash of romance, and soul-inspiring intense storylines.
If you like books by authors like Lynette Eason, CC Warrens, and Alana Terry, you will love Krista's books too!
"Dealing with danger and handing out hope"
Krista Wagner, author of mysteries, thrills, and all that is real
Krista also writes clean billionaire romance under the pen name Cristina Ryan.
If you like books by authors like Lynette Eason, CC Warrens, and Alana Terry, you will love Krista's books too!
"Dealing with danger and handing out hope"
Krista Wagner, author of mysteries, thrills, and all that is real
Krista also writes clean billionaire romance under the pen name Cristina Ryan.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
February 25, 2021
This book brought back many high school memories for me. It’s set in the 90’s and I graduated high school in the 90’s so most of the pop culture back then they spoke of was a blast from the past for me!
Raylee is the protagonist and has been a victim of bullying by Crystal, the most popular girl in school, think Mean Girls!! However, things have escalated and now someone is planting masks at several places that are creepy and they are intentionally trying to scare her. She also feels a strange presence like someone is stalking her.
In her Senior year Raylee finally confronts Crystal about it and Crystal does apologize for her actions, but she didn’t own up to the stalking. This is a series and in book 2 you find out who is really stalking Raylee.
I enjoyed this book as it also showcased Raylee’s devout Christianity! This is a perfect clean YA suspense novel, that I would allow even a pre-teen to read.
Thank you to R & R Book Tours for my gifted copy!
Raylee is the protagonist and has been a victim of bullying by Crystal, the most popular girl in school, think Mean Girls!! However, things have escalated and now someone is planting masks at several places that are creepy and they are intentionally trying to scare her. She also feels a strange presence like someone is stalking her.
In her Senior year Raylee finally confronts Crystal about it and Crystal does apologize for her actions, but she didn’t own up to the stalking. This is a series and in book 2 you find out who is really stalking Raylee.
I enjoyed this book as it also showcased Raylee’s devout Christianity! This is a perfect clean YA suspense novel, that I would allow even a pre-teen to read.
Thank you to R & R Book Tours for my gifted copy!
December 3, 2018
(Review with spoilers - I haven't read the other books in the series)
Great book. I loved it.
Raylee seemed very realistic to me. Her doubts, her fears, her feelings. I didn't want to read what she had gone through, teasing and bullying. I suffered along her. Nobody deserves it.
I liked that Raylee was able to face Crystal. And I liked that Crystal apologized for what she did.
I liked Donald, until he was a jerk. I wanted them together.
I received an ARC from the author.
Great book. I loved it.
Raylee seemed very realistic to me. Her doubts, her fears, her feelings. I didn't want to read what she had gone through, teasing and bullying. I suffered along her. Nobody deserves it.
I liked that Raylee was able to face Crystal. And I liked that Crystal apologized for what she did.
I liked Donald, until he was a jerk. I wanted them together.
I received an ARC from the author.
February 24, 2021
Intent: In the Shadows by Krista Wagner is the first novel in the Small Town Swcreta series. It is a well written, YA suspense/thriller. Themes of bullying, cliques, and growing up – typical high school problems, are mixed in with a scary stalking situation.
Raylee is an interesting main character. She’s a pastor’s daughter with a strong faith. She’s ready to get through her last two years of high school, but is faced with bullying. I think this part is relatable. Unfortunately, the issue of bullying has never gone away and I think the author did a good job shining light on it.
The suspense was well done. I was ingested in figuring out what was going on and cheering for Raylee. I think this was a good read and would recommend it.
*I received a free copy of this book from R&R Book Tours to review honestly on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
Raylee is an interesting main character. She’s a pastor’s daughter with a strong faith. She’s ready to get through her last two years of high school, but is faced with bullying. I think this part is relatable. Unfortunately, the issue of bullying has never gone away and I think the author did a good job shining light on it.
The suspense was well done. I was ingested in figuring out what was going on and cheering for Raylee. I think this was a good read and would recommend it.
*I received a free copy of this book from R&R Book Tours to review honestly on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
October 15, 2021
Where to now ?
Great story and characters, all intertwined . Some very difficult and challenging. Clean, inspiring suspense and mystery . Good start to the series .
Great story and characters, all intertwined . Some very difficult and challenging. Clean, inspiring suspense and mystery . Good start to the series .
February 8, 2019
My review today is on the story, Intent: The Beginning. This book was sent to me to read. The words of this review are my own. This is a well written story of coming of age. The author did a great job capturing the horrors of high school. I would never want to go back to those horrible days. I'm sure you are going to enjoy this teen's journey through all the pitfalls.
Raylee Johnston is forced by her parents to go to the school she doesn't want to attend. Her parents are pastors and met at that school and are sure she will have a wonderful junior and senior year. Raylee isn't sure that is possible. Although she does have a couple of really good friends attending with her she also has her enemy and her clique that seems to be trying to destroy her. Her only joy is her English Class and Drama. When a new student arrives and takes over her heart in drama, she tries to find a way to let him know she is alive. Her bully moves in on him and breaks Raylee's heart.
A journey of traveling through the horrors of hormones, dreams, and enemies for two years. You will see Raylee grow into a strong young woman as she learns to release her worries to the Lord. God has a plan for her; a plan for a hope and a future. God has a plan for you too a good plan and not for evil. Give Him your heart and watch Him work in your midst.
Raylee Johnston is forced by her parents to go to the school she doesn't want to attend. Her parents are pastors and met at that school and are sure she will have a wonderful junior and senior year. Raylee isn't sure that is possible. Although she does have a couple of really good friends attending with her she also has her enemy and her clique that seems to be trying to destroy her. Her only joy is her English Class and Drama. When a new student arrives and takes over her heart in drama, she tries to find a way to let him know she is alive. Her bully moves in on him and breaks Raylee's heart.
A journey of traveling through the horrors of hormones, dreams, and enemies for two years. You will see Raylee grow into a strong young woman as she learns to release her worries to the Lord. God has a plan for her; a plan for a hope and a future. God has a plan for you too a good plan and not for evil. Give Him your heart and watch Him work in your midst.
January 14, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed Intent: In the Shadows by Krista Wagner, it's the first novel in her Small Town Secrets series. Intent is a well written psychological suspense novel which blends the problems faced by high school students...bullying, cliques, growing up, with the more serious adult problem of dealing with an unidentified stalker. Raylee is a pastor's daughter and all she wants is to get through the last two years of high school without problems. Sadly, the most popular girl in the school has other ideas, she wants to victimise Raylee and leave her friendless. Raylee doesn't know where to turn or whom to trust.
As a Christian I am pleased to say that this is a Christian novel and that Raylee can rely on God for help as well as those of her fellow students who are not out to make her as unhappy as possible. I would also like to underline that this would be an enjoyable YA read for anyone, whether Christian or not. I mention this only because I want to make sure this reaches a wide audience on its own merits. Recommended.
As a Christian I am pleased to say that this is a Christian novel and that Raylee can rely on God for help as well as those of her fellow students who are not out to make her as unhappy as possible. I would also like to underline that this would be an enjoyable YA read for anyone, whether Christian or not. I mention this only because I want to make sure this reaches a wide audience on its own merits. Recommended.
January 15, 2021
Intent: In the Shadows by Krista Wagner is a great Christian Suspense novel for the YA audience. I am always looking for Christian YA books to recommend to friends and family. And I would recommend this book to them! I loved that the book did not shy away struggles and insecurities that young people face. The book centers around Raylee who is being tormented by a girl named Crystal and her friend Gina wherever she goes. Raylee is a pastor's daughter who depends on and struggles with her Faith as the torment at school escalates. The torment goes so far that Raylee has the feeling she is being followed. Raylee grows in her faith and is able to face the bullies. Even though she has faced the bullies, Raylee still feels like she is being followed. I am looking forward to reading the next book to find out what happens next! Thanks to NetGalley and the Author for the opportunity to read this book! (This review is also on GoodReads.)
December 24, 2018
The prequel to Intent by Krista Wagner, is an in depth look at the high school events which set the stage for Intent. It gives important details and character clues as to why Raylee is wary of her old tormentor and gives a wholistic look at Raylee’s school life and attitude. An excellent read and fantastically written novel again by Krista Wagner. No unneeded sex nudity or otherwise!!!
June 28, 2019
Krista has captured the essence of what it’s like for a lot of people when they’re in high school. If you were in high school 30 years ago, or you’re in high school now, you will appreciate the twists and turns in the book as you cheer for Raylee to be victorious over her tormentors.
April 27, 2020
I really enjoyed this young adult story. Part 1 of the series has it all, teenage problems, boy troubles, bullying. a heart gripping story that had me crying and pulling for Raylee. I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series. I received this book for free and this is my honest review.
October 19, 2022
This is a story that can mean so much to so many. I am sure there are lots of people out there who have experienced the things that Raylee went through in this story. We all had moments in high school when we wondered what was going on, who might have it in for us, or if it was all really worth it? Thankfully, Raylee was able to remember her grandmother’s sound teaching and fall back on her faith in God. Some of the antics that her ‘enemies’ pulled took me back to my own high school day many years ago. I was so bolstered by her strength of character to keep her chin up and keep moving forward with the help of a few good friends. The extra bonus at the end of the book helped to clarify some things in my mind when I read the deleted chapters - thanks for clearing up some of the mysteries.
October 2, 2021
If you like a really good suspense, read this story! I also loved how Raylee found comfort and help in the Lord. I hope to read more of Krista's books!
December 17, 2023
[[I was given a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for a review through Voracious Readers Only]
This was a good Christian young adult novel with a simple slice-of-life plot and a bit of suspense, though it’s more of the former in terms of genre. They story felt realistic and the 90’s setting felt both authentic and nostalgic. The writing was a bit heavy on exposition in some places though and I feel the pacing could have been better. The day-to-day of Raylee’s life in her last years of high school takes up much of the story while there were other parts of the story that had a lot of potential for more drama and suspense if more time was spent on them. I kept reading to find out what was going on with the ominous things and sensations that were happening to Raylee or what was going to happen between her and her friends, bullies, and love interests. I know that this is the first book in a series but the way that these plots were dealt with/not dealt with by the ending felt somewhat unsatisfying.
It was interesting to read the deleted scenes at the end of the book and I think multiple points of view might have helped flesh the plot out and/or built the suspense more. The writing and plot in the sneak peek of the next book also seems much stronger.
I did enjoy this book though and I think readers who enjoy Dee Henderson and Christian fiction with plenty of exposition will as well.
This was a good Christian young adult novel with a simple slice-of-life plot and a bit of suspense, though it’s more of the former in terms of genre. They story felt realistic and the 90’s setting felt both authentic and nostalgic. The writing was a bit heavy on exposition in some places though and I feel the pacing could have been better. The day-to-day of Raylee’s life in her last years of high school takes up much of the story while there were other parts of the story that had a lot of potential for more drama and suspense if more time was spent on them. I kept reading to find out what was going on with the ominous things and sensations that were happening to Raylee or what was going to happen between her and her friends, bullies, and love interests. I know that this is the first book in a series but the way that these plots were dealt with/not dealt with by the ending felt somewhat unsatisfying.
It was interesting to read the deleted scenes at the end of the book and I think multiple points of view might have helped flesh the plot out and/or built the suspense more. The writing and plot in the sneak peek of the next book also seems much stronger.
I did enjoy this book though and I think readers who enjoy Dee Henderson and Christian fiction with plenty of exposition will as well.
December 26, 2020
Well, a good thing I can say about this book: At least it did no fat shaming. It did, however something else, which - in a world where being fat is apparently the worst thing to be - I absolutely cannot understand: It did skinnyshaming. While skinny shaming isn't as prominent as fatshaming, that does not make it any worse. Stop bringing people's weight into this. It's absolutely disgusting and how come we are STILL doing shit like that in 2020? Don't, seriously. Matter of fact, this was the main reason for me to DNF this book - I am sick of reading about body shaming.
I couldn't stand the characters and the plot wasn't as intrugiung as I thought it'd be, either. So...No, thanks. The style was okay, but did not keep me interested in the book - mostly because it was full of clichees, even at the beginning.
In my honest opinion - I would not recommed this book to anyone. Not just because I am not a religious person, but because body shaming is something I am sick of and I don't want to encounter anymore in books. It's almost 2021. Stop freaking out about people's body. It's theirs, not yours.
I received a free copy by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I couldn't stand the characters and the plot wasn't as intrugiung as I thought it'd be, either. So...No, thanks. The style was okay, but did not keep me interested in the book - mostly because it was full of clichees, even at the beginning.
In my honest opinion - I would not recommed this book to anyone. Not just because I am not a religious person, but because body shaming is something I am sick of and I don't want to encounter anymore in books. It's almost 2021. Stop freaking out about people's body. It's theirs, not yours.
I received a free copy by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 18, 2020
In Silver Canyon, high school student Raylee is frequently plagued by Crystal, the high school's queen bee, and her clique. Deception, mind games, and danger. Faith tested. Secrets revealed.
I loved this series. Every scene moved to the next with interest. Raylee believed the Bible to be a love letter written to her. When a note is found in her locker, the threat is taken to God in prayer. Scripture sprinkled throughout the story without coming across as preaching.
An encouraging read, with imperfect characters seeking the perfect One. In the midst of this pandemic, it's nice to read about a normal high school. If that's even possible.
I loved this series. Every scene moved to the next with interest. Raylee believed the Bible to be a love letter written to her. When a note is found in her locker, the threat is taken to God in prayer. Scripture sprinkled throughout the story without coming across as preaching.
An encouraging read, with imperfect characters seeking the perfect One. In the midst of this pandemic, it's nice to read about a normal high school. If that's even possible.
April 9, 2020
Title and cover pic grab my interest in wanting to read a book, I don’t like to know the story, and I was not expecting a high school story filled with teenage angst.
Not my kind of story, but I was drawn to Raylee and her life at school, unbelievable. It was a page turner, looking for all the wrongs to be made right. Must read to understand. Raylee is still with me, will be reading next in this series.
Not my kind of story, but I was drawn to Raylee and her life at school, unbelievable. It was a page turner, looking for all the wrongs to be made right. Must read to understand. Raylee is still with me, will be reading next in this series.
March 6, 2019
I thought this was a good story. I read an unedited ARC so my review is based on that. I liked the story. It has promise. It did end in a cliffhanger but it did not affect the story. I was engaged by the ending although the beginning was a bit slow. I believe the next book will add more depth which will add to the story.
March 31, 2022
Not as good as its sequels, but still a good book. It didn't feel wrapped up though, unlike the others. I know it's because Raylee's story is in three parts, but the other Raylee-Paul books felt like the loose ends had been tied. This one, not so much.
Still, a really good and clean book for young adults.
Still, a really good and clean book for young adults.
December 6, 2022
A Sweet, Clean Book with Mystery
This was a good sweet clean book but I felt it was more suited for a younger person. It had mystery, romance and a lot of bullying. It was centered around high school and the pressures that come with it.
This was a good sweet clean book but I felt it was more suited for a younger person. It had mystery, romance and a lot of bullying. It was centered around high school and the pressures that come with it.
May 30, 2021
Sad to say one of the more boring stories I’ve read in a very long time. Just could not get into the characters or storyline.
January 30, 2025
DNF at 45%
Long story short, I decided to give this author another try. I have previously read part of one of her other books "The Reluctant Billionaire." When she liked my (I'll admit, rather negative) review, I thought for sure some kind of mistake had been made. Then, hysterically, I thought that this must be some of that "love your enemies" way of thinking. Feeling badly that I could have judged her harshly, I decided to give this book a try.
I'm sorry in advance, but this is definitely going to become another rather negative review. Please take nothing personally, and know that this is simply my opinion. (And please, for the love of, idk, carrots or something, don't feel like you need to like this review.)
First, I fail to understand who this book is for. It claims it's for Young Adults (Christians in particular, I believe), but then carries on to have a sentence like "Paul had a fetish for Corvettes in particular." And is focused on Halloween, frightening movies, and Christmas (and, weirdly, some kind of Santa Halloween combination that was, frankly, just uncomfortable).
On top of having, potentially, more "interesting" words that may or may not be what someone else would be comfortable having their children read, this book has the most insane fusion of the most immature FL and story possible, while starring more mature and unique words than one would expect. While "indecipherable" and "plethora" aren't incredibly rare, I saw "portentous" and sat back wondering why a book on a one dimensional, annoying highschooler with more problems than exist on the back on a wonder drug advertisement, would have such verbosity. It's just so weird to me.
Moving onto things that don't make sense story wise, our very interesting FL is very scared and traumatized, to the point of having a stomach ache and paranoia, over a rubber mask covered in dirt and live worms. (Paranoia to the point where she thinks that her life is in actual danger.) And, all the while, this sentence is written: "She loved Halloween. The scary fun, the costumes, the music, all of it was exciting, entertaining, harmless." Does that sound like someone who would be scared over a piece of rubber?
I mean, apparently the mask was so scary that her dad decided to get them together for a group prayer for her safety. OVER A MASK. Some light bullying. I mean HOLY SH*T. A classmate had the audacity to call her "loser," and it's like the whole world ended. It almost feels offensive when you realize how bad bullying can actually get, while this book makes such a big deal out of something that, in comparison, hardly actually compares.
The rest of the plot is so see-through and uninspiring that I just couldn't force myself to finish it. We all know who is ending up with who, and it's just not worth the struggle to get to such an obvious ending.
I, personally, would not recommend this to any young adults I know (Christian or otherwise.)
Long story short, I decided to give this author another try. I have previously read part of one of her other books "The Reluctant Billionaire." When she liked my (I'll admit, rather negative) review, I thought for sure some kind of mistake had been made. Then, hysterically, I thought that this must be some of that "love your enemies" way of thinking. Feeling badly that I could have judged her harshly, I decided to give this book a try.
I'm sorry in advance, but this is definitely going to become another rather negative review. Please take nothing personally, and know that this is simply my opinion. (And please, for the love of, idk, carrots or something, don't feel like you need to like this review.)
First, I fail to understand who this book is for. It claims it's for Young Adults (Christians in particular, I believe), but then carries on to have a sentence like "Paul had a fetish for Corvettes in particular." And is focused on Halloween, frightening movies, and Christmas (and, weirdly, some kind of Santa Halloween combination that was, frankly, just uncomfortable).
On top of having, potentially, more "interesting" words that may or may not be what someone else would be comfortable having their children read, this book has the most insane fusion of the most immature FL and story possible, while starring more mature and unique words than one would expect. While "indecipherable" and "plethora" aren't incredibly rare, I saw "portentous" and sat back wondering why a book on a one dimensional, annoying highschooler with more problems than exist on the back on a wonder drug advertisement, would have such verbosity. It's just so weird to me.
Moving onto things that don't make sense story wise, our very interesting FL is very scared and traumatized, to the point of having a stomach ache and paranoia, over a rubber mask covered in dirt and live worms. (Paranoia to the point where she thinks that her life is in actual danger.) And, all the while, this sentence is written: "She loved Halloween. The scary fun, the costumes, the music, all of it was exciting, entertaining, harmless." Does that sound like someone who would be scared over a piece of rubber?
I mean, apparently the mask was so scary that her dad decided to get them together for a group prayer for her safety. OVER A MASK. Some light bullying. I mean HOLY SH*T. A classmate had the audacity to call her "loser," and it's like the whole world ended. It almost feels offensive when you realize how bad bullying can actually get, while this book makes such a big deal out of something that, in comparison, hardly actually compares.
The rest of the plot is so see-through and uninspiring that I just couldn't force myself to finish it. We all know who is ending up with who, and it's just not worth the struggle to get to such an obvious ending.
I, personally, would not recommend this to any young adults I know (Christian or otherwise.)
March 22, 2025
Some books pull you in with their twists, others with their heart. Intent in the Shadows does both. From the moment I stepped into Raylee’s world, I felt her isolation, her fear, and her desperate search for safety in a town where the whispers are louder than the truth.
I’ve always loved small-town mysteries, but this one hit differently. Maybe it was the fact that Raylee isn’t just fighting against the typical high school torment—she’s being watched. Stalked. Haunted by a presence that seems to lurk just out of reach, creeping closer while she tries to hold onto her faith. And let me tell you, Wagner doesn’t just build suspense—she tightens it like a noose until you’re flipping pages, needing to know who’s behind it all.
Raylee felt so real to me. She’s not the bold, fearless heroine charging into danger—she’s just trying to survive. And that’s what made me connect with her. She’s vulnerable, but she’s strong in a way that doesn’t always get celebrated—strong in her faith, in her perseverance, in her belief that even in the darkest moments, she’s not alone. And honestly? That kind of strength hit me hard.
And the suspects? Oh, Wagner plays with your mind. Paul, the sweet and steady friend. Billy, the intriguing new guy. Crystal, the girl who thrives on making Raylee miserable. I second-guessed everyone. Every time I thought I had the stalker figured out, another eerie clue would drop, making me question everything.
But beyond the mystery, this book felt like something deeper. It’s about fear, yes. About not knowing who to trust. But it’s also about faith, the kind that doesn’t waver when life gets terrifying. The kind that carries you through when there’s no one else to lean on. And that part? It stayed with me.
If you love:
🔎 Psychological suspense that keeps you guessing
❤️ A protagonist who’s strong in a quiet, relatable way
🌙 A story that lingers in your mind long after the last page
🙏 Faith woven seamlessly into a gripping mystery
Then Intent in the Shadows is a must-read. It’s haunting, deeply emotional, and packed with tension that will have you reading late into the night.
I’ve always loved small-town mysteries, but this one hit differently. Maybe it was the fact that Raylee isn’t just fighting against the typical high school torment—she’s being watched. Stalked. Haunted by a presence that seems to lurk just out of reach, creeping closer while she tries to hold onto her faith. And let me tell you, Wagner doesn’t just build suspense—she tightens it like a noose until you’re flipping pages, needing to know who’s behind it all.
Raylee felt so real to me. She’s not the bold, fearless heroine charging into danger—she’s just trying to survive. And that’s what made me connect with her. She’s vulnerable, but she’s strong in a way that doesn’t always get celebrated—strong in her faith, in her perseverance, in her belief that even in the darkest moments, she’s not alone. And honestly? That kind of strength hit me hard.
And the suspects? Oh, Wagner plays with your mind. Paul, the sweet and steady friend. Billy, the intriguing new guy. Crystal, the girl who thrives on making Raylee miserable. I second-guessed everyone. Every time I thought I had the stalker figured out, another eerie clue would drop, making me question everything.
But beyond the mystery, this book felt like something deeper. It’s about fear, yes. About not knowing who to trust. But it’s also about faith, the kind that doesn’t waver when life gets terrifying. The kind that carries you through when there’s no one else to lean on. And that part? It stayed with me.
If you love:
🔎 Psychological suspense that keeps you guessing
❤️ A protagonist who’s strong in a quiet, relatable way
🌙 A story that lingers in your mind long after the last page
🙏 Faith woven seamlessly into a gripping mystery
Then Intent in the Shadows is a must-read. It’s haunting, deeply emotional, and packed with tension that will have you reading late into the night.
March 10, 2023
The first in its series, Intent: In the Shadows follows Raylee Johnson through her last two years of high school. Uniquely, Intent offers a female protagonist with a strong Christian Faith. In the small town of Silver Canyon, Raylee feels trapped by the same experiences and bullies year after year. When a scary prank goes a bit too far, Raylee finds herself fearing for her safety and relies on the support of her two best friends and God to get through a trying time. Raylee seeks answers, but at what cost? Will her future be shaped by her intuition and fear?
Opinion:
Intent: In the Shadows is a novel with multiple plots and a unique protagonist. Krista Wagner delivers a mystery geared toward a teen audience. Touching on multiple plot lines, she develops relatable conflict within a “cozy mystery” that leaves the reader with questions until the very end and beyond. While detail is plentiful throughout, I found Raylee a bit complex with some details suggesting she is inferior and others a confident, well-adjusted teen. However, as an adult reader, I found Raylee’s Christian Faith to be agreeable and the small town feel to be refreshing. Occasionally, what is seemingly the main conflict of the story becomes moderately lost; an emphasis is placed on secondary events that don’t directly affect the plot. Yet, I found the book hard to put down and look forward to reading book two!
Opinion:
Intent: In the Shadows is a novel with multiple plots and a unique protagonist. Krista Wagner delivers a mystery geared toward a teen audience. Touching on multiple plot lines, she develops relatable conflict within a “cozy mystery” that leaves the reader with questions until the very end and beyond. While detail is plentiful throughout, I found Raylee a bit complex with some details suggesting she is inferior and others a confident, well-adjusted teen. However, as an adult reader, I found Raylee’s Christian Faith to be agreeable and the small town feel to be refreshing. Occasionally, what is seemingly the main conflict of the story becomes moderately lost; an emphasis is placed on secondary events that don’t directly affect the plot. Yet, I found the book hard to put down and look forward to reading book two!
December 8, 2020
A fun and lighthearted story lacking any real suspense. This was a quick read after a period of enjoying literary classics so it was good as a break from heavy prose. I liked the references to Russian literature and some of the descriptions. A few inconsistencies bothered me + some of the ways the characters behaved, but all in all, it would be good for very young teenagers who want something clean with a faith focus. Wagner definitely has some clear messages to deliver about respecting your parents, etc and overall, we can learn from this story. I might not stick around for the sequel, but we'll see…
December 8, 2025
This was a fantastic series for young adults and I would thoroughly recommend it. I found the topics covered very well and it does mention Christianity.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 30, 2023
While I sympathized that Raylee was being bullied, for no apparent reason there was insufficient character development to make me really like her.
July 12, 2023
A good plot and interesting characters.
April 9, 2025
This is the first book in the series. Must read in order. The storyline follows the life of a high school girl as she struggles with finding her way as a Christian in a public school while dealing with bullying. Who's responsible for all of the pranks and why? Which guy is the guy for her? What will she do after high school?.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 22, 2023
Was a little dissapointing
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