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Secrets of Redemption #4
The Summoning
None of this was supposed to happen.
It all started so innocently. Charlie only stopped in Redemption, Wisconsin, because she was lost.
She never meant to stay.
She never meant to fall in love.
She never meant to bring the danger she was running from into this wholesome Midwestern town.
Except Redemption had some secrets of its own ... and they were even more deadly than what she was trying to escape.
It all started so innocently. Charlie only stopped in Redemption, Wisconsin, because she was lost.
She never meant to stay.
She never meant to fall in love.
She never meant to bring the danger she was running from into this wholesome Midwestern town.
Except Redemption had some secrets of its own ... and they were even more deadly than what she was trying to escape.
269 pages, ebook
First published October 27, 2020
About the author
Michele Pariza Wacek
71 books1,490 followersA USA Today Bestselling, award-winning author, Michele taught herself to read at 3 years old because she wanted to write stories so badly. It took some time (and some detours) but she does spend much of her time writing stories now. Mystery stories, to be exact. They're clean and twisty, and range from psychological thrillers to cozies, with a dash of romance and supernatural thrown into the mix. If that wasn't enough, she posts lots of fun things on her blog, including short stories, recipes and more, at MPWNovels.com.
Michele grew up in Wisconsin, (hence why all her books take place there), and currently lives there with her husband and Harvey, her rescue beagle, after spending nearly 30 years living in the mountains of Prescott, Arizona.
When she's not writing, she's usually reading, hanging out with her dog, or watching the Food Network and imagining she's an awesome cook. (Spoiler alert, she's not. Luckily for the whole family, Mr. PW is in charge of the cooking.)
Michele grew up in Wisconsin, (hence why all her books take place there), and currently lives there with her husband and Harvey, her rescue beagle, after spending nearly 30 years living in the mountains of Prescott, Arizona.
When she's not writing, she's usually reading, hanging out with her dog, or watching the Food Network and imagining she's an awesome cook. (Spoiler alert, she's not. Luckily for the whole family, Mr. PW is in charge of the cooking.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
June 7, 2022
Jesus!!
Now, that's a way to end a book...lol!! I think the next one is gonna be the best...well, I hope! Bc I really loved this one and if the next is better than it will be the best out of all of them! I'm just ready to know what the hell is going on! What started it all?? Which is why I can't wait to know the start of it all!!
Now, that's a way to end a book...lol!! I think the next one is gonna be the best...well, I hope! Bc I really loved this one and if the next is better than it will be the best out of all of them! I'm just ready to know what the hell is going on! What started it all?? Which is why I can't wait to know the start of it all!!
May 7, 2024
The Summoning is another excellent book in this brilliant series. This one is a prequel, so I got to learn more about Aunt Charlie and how she ended up in Redemption.
I’m thoroughly enjoying spending time with these characters!
I’m already reading book 5!
https://chataboutbooks.blog/2024/05/0...
I’m thoroughly enjoying spending time with these characters!
I’m already reading book 5!
https://chataboutbooks.blog/2024/05/0...
November 2, 2025
Okay, The Summoning is FANTASTIC! Having listened to all the Charlie Kingsley books, I started the Secrets of Redemption series, not realizing books 4 & 5 were about Charlie. So, I read book 1 and then jumped to book 4. I’m so glad I did! I love reading about Charlie, her life before Redemption, and how she ended up in Redemption.
The characters in this book are incredibly enjoyable. I love seeing how the characters fit into the Charlie Kingsley novels. Everything about the story is incredibly enjoyable, especially the fact that it kinda ends on a cliffhanger.
I cannot wait to start reading the reckoning. Before starting the secret of redemption series, I was never one for psychological thrillers, but since starting it I found that I absolutely love psychological thrillers. It is definitely a step outside cozy mysteries, but that’s not necessarily bad thing.
I highly recommend the secrets of redemption series, the Charlie Kingsley series, and the redemption detective agency series. All of the MPW series that I’ve read have been absolutely amazing. I very highly recommend them!
Until next time ,
Happy reading 📖
The characters in this book are incredibly enjoyable. I love seeing how the characters fit into the Charlie Kingsley novels. Everything about the story is incredibly enjoyable, especially the fact that it kinda ends on a cliffhanger.
I cannot wait to start reading the reckoning. Before starting the secret of redemption series, I was never one for psychological thrillers, but since starting it I found that I absolutely love psychological thrillers. It is definitely a step outside cozy mysteries, but that’s not necessarily bad thing.
I highly recommend the secrets of redemption series, the Charlie Kingsley series, and the redemption detective agency series. All of the MPW series that I’ve read have been absolutely amazing. I very highly recommend them!
Until next time ,
Happy reading 📖
Read
March 14, 2023It all started so innocently. Charlie only stopped in Redemption, Wisconsin, because she was lost.
She never meant to stay.
She never meant to fall in love.
She never meant to bring the danger she was running from into this wholesome midwestern town.
Except Redemption had some secrets of its own ... and they were even more deadly than what she was trying to escape.
"The Summoning" is Part 1 of Charlie's story and it ends on a cliffhanger that is resolved in "The Reckoning." Both books are a prequel to the main series and can be read before Books 1-3.
Amazon/Kindle Unlimited: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08G2W2DLD
She never meant to stay.
She never meant to fall in love.
She never meant to bring the danger she was running from into this wholesome midwestern town.
Except Redemption had some secrets of its own ... and they were even more deadly than what she was trying to escape.
"The Summoning" is Part 1 of Charlie's story and it ends on a cliffhanger that is resolved in "The Reckoning." Both books are a prequel to the main series and can be read before Books 1-3.
Amazon/Kindle Unlimited: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08G2W2DLD
March 12, 2026
Don't like cliffhangers, so the ending of this bugs me. Overall, it was interesting learning about Aunt Charlie's backstory, but Redemption is eerie asf.
Content warnings: Domestic abuse, gaslighting
Content warnings: Domestic abuse, gaslighting
November 19, 2023
Ooooh my goodness so good! Very enjoyable and already jumping in to book 5 of the series!
April 27, 2025
It's just a can't put down till u read the last page effect
A must read all nine books!!!!
Love story mixed with ghost story
Plus add a like mystery to it !!!!
A must read all nine books!!!!
Love story mixed with ghost story
Plus add a like mystery to it !!!!
October 30, 2020
The 4th book in the Secrets of Redemption series is another intriguing page turner. It’s got lots of suspense, plot twists and surprises. There is a cliffhanger, so hopefully the mystery will be resolved in the next book, the Reckoning. I’m anxiously waiting for it. This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author
November 2, 2020
The Town Gets What the Town Wants 🕯
“Redemption is a difficult mistress...”
When desperation drives battered fiancées to flee, mysterious mechanics, talking cats, cryptic dreams, and séances fulfill intersecting lives in several unsuspecting ways! I loved that this book gave us a look back at Helen and Charlie in their heyday. Will be anxiously awaiting the release of book 5...
“Redemption is a difficult mistress...”
When desperation drives battered fiancées to flee, mysterious mechanics, talking cats, cryptic dreams, and séances fulfill intersecting lives in several unsuspecting ways! I loved that this book gave us a look back at Helen and Charlie in their heyday. Will be anxiously awaiting the release of book 5...
September 26, 2023
This is a great continuation of the Secrets of Redemption series! I must admit, for the first chapter or two I was a bit thrown because I'd been reading about Becca for three books and all of a sudden I was reading about Charlie. I like how the author went back to how Aunt Charlie came to redemption, but it took me a second to put two and two together because I didn't realize the timeline was in the past from what I'd already read.
***** SPOILER ALERT*****
Charlie came to Redemption seemingly randomly...after all, she'd just gotten lost on her way out west, right? Or...did Redemption want her as the town's lore states? In her battle to decide if she should stay or go, she meets several good friends along the way, and it was neat to connect the characters in this book to the characters in the previous books. Jonathan, Jesse, Lou, even the cat. This book answers the question of the circumstances surrounding when Charlie Kingsley came to live in a little town called Redemption after she'd grown up as a New York socialite in a well known family. It gives us background that I know I personally was wondering after reading the last couple of books, and answers questions like: "How did Aunt Charlie come to own Mad Martha's house?" or "Why was there such bad blood between Aunt Charlie and the rest of the family?"
Overall, very well done. I'm looking forward to the next book.
***** SPOILER ALERT*****
Charlie came to Redemption seemingly randomly...after all, she'd just gotten lost on her way out west, right? Or...did Redemption want her as the town's lore states? In her battle to decide if she should stay or go, she meets several good friends along the way, and it was neat to connect the characters in this book to the characters in the previous books. Jonathan, Jesse, Lou, even the cat. This book answers the question of the circumstances surrounding when Charlie Kingsley came to live in a little town called Redemption after she'd grown up as a New York socialite in a well known family. It gives us background that I know I personally was wondering after reading the last couple of books, and answers questions like: "How did Aunt Charlie come to own Mad Martha's house?" or "Why was there such bad blood between Aunt Charlie and the rest of the family?"
Overall, very well done. I'm looking forward to the next book.
February 20, 2026
Charley is on the run from an abusive ex who refuses to let her go. Desperate for safety and a fresh start, she keeps moving—until fate intervenes. When her car breaks down in a small town after she stops for a meal, she finds herself stranded with no money for repairs and nowhere to stay. What was meant to be a quick stop becomes something much more significant.
Before leaving her old life behind, Charley had recurring dreams about a house she couldn’t quite place. To her shock, she discovers that house in a town called Redemption. The locals believe that if you are meant to be in Redemption, you will find your way there—and if the town doesn’t want you, you simply won’t stay. That eerie sense of destiny adds a compelling layer of mystery to the story.
As Charley struggles to secure lodging, pay for her car repairs, and stay hidden from Alan, the tension steadily builds. Is Redemption truly a safe haven, or is it just another stop before her past catches up with her?
This is a strong mystery with an intriguing premise. The town itself feels almost like a character, full of secrets and quiet watchfulness. The supporting cast is well developed, and the atmosphere keeps you turning pages to uncover what’s really going on. I would definitely recommend this book to readers who enjoy small-town mysteries with a touch of suspense and fate woven throughout.
Before leaving her old life behind, Charley had recurring dreams about a house she couldn’t quite place. To her shock, she discovers that house in a town called Redemption. The locals believe that if you are meant to be in Redemption, you will find your way there—and if the town doesn’t want you, you simply won’t stay. That eerie sense of destiny adds a compelling layer of mystery to the story.
As Charley struggles to secure lodging, pay for her car repairs, and stay hidden from Alan, the tension steadily builds. Is Redemption truly a safe haven, or is it just another stop before her past catches up with her?
This is a strong mystery with an intriguing premise. The town itself feels almost like a character, full of secrets and quiet watchfulness. The supporting cast is well developed, and the atmosphere keeps you turning pages to uncover what’s really going on. I would definitely recommend this book to readers who enjoy small-town mysteries with a touch of suspense and fate woven throughout.
November 12, 2025
Oh my gosh, this series, Secrets of Redemption, is spellbinding! The first three books, It Began with a Lie, This Happened to Jessica and The Evil that was done, must be read in order, but this, book four is like a prologue to books 1-3 and it ended on a cliffhanger to be continued in book five, The Reckoning. The whole series is so suspenseful, but believable. This author manages to create the atmosphere of mysterious happenings that if it were possible I would just read continually until I finished the last in the series. There are links to Mz Pariza Wacek 's website that provides the history of what happened in the town of Redemption in 1888. If Alfred Hitchcock were still alive, he'd want to make these books into a series! (Hitchcock made films that made him "The Master of Suspense" )
Want to Read
October 25, 2021None of this was supposed to happen.
It all started so innocently. Charlie only stopped in Redemption, Wisconsin, because she was lost.
She never meant to stay.
She never meant to fall in love.
She never meant to bring the danger she was running from into this wholesome Midwestern town.
Except Redemption had some secrets of its own ... and they were even more deadly than what she was trying to escape.
This book ends in a cliffhanger that is resolved in Book 5 "The Reckoning." Both books are a prequel to the main series and can be read before Books 1-3.
It all started so innocently. Charlie only stopped in Redemption, Wisconsin, because she was lost.
She never meant to stay.
She never meant to fall in love.
She never meant to bring the danger she was running from into this wholesome Midwestern town.
Except Redemption had some secrets of its own ... and they were even more deadly than what she was trying to escape.
This book ends in a cliffhanger that is resolved in Book 5 "The Reckoning." Both books are a prequel to the main series and can be read before Books 1-3.
May 7, 2023
Always a great story!
I love these Redemption books! There's always a great story to read.
This story goes back to when (Aunt) Charlie first came to Redemption. She was running from a dangerous person and was very afraid that he'd find her. She had no intention to stay in town, but events didn't go the way she'd planned.
A lot happens in this book. Yes, it DOES end on something of a cliff hanger. But if you're invested in this book series, then that's not a problem!
I enjoyed this book quite a lot and I really like this author.
I love these Redemption books! There's always a great story to read.
This story goes back to when (Aunt) Charlie first came to Redemption. She was running from a dangerous person and was very afraid that he'd find her. She had no intention to stay in town, but events didn't go the way she'd planned.
A lot happens in this book. Yes, it DOES end on something of a cliff hanger. But if you're invested in this book series, then that's not a problem!
I enjoyed this book quite a lot and I really like this author.
April 27, 2024
It appears that Redemption really wants Charlie there. Helen had dreams too. She knew Charlie was coming and that she would be the one to buy Helen's house. Charlie is happy in this town. She has friends, a job, a house, but most importantly she feels like her 'true' self. There is a dark cloud though. the warning she keeps getting. Is it because of her feelings for Jonathan, or because Alan is alive? Or is it both?
August 2, 2022
Wait. Is that a to be continued ending or are we done??
This book was set in Redemption like the first 3, but is it’s own story line… for the most part. I really enjoy this series as a fun not too intense “thriller” but was thrown off thinking there would be more connections to the first 3 books main characters.
This book was set in Redemption like the first 3, but is it’s own story line… for the most part. I really enjoy this series as a fun not too intense “thriller” but was thrown off thinking there would be more connections to the first 3 books main characters.
April 8, 2026
Book 4 in the Secrets of Redemption leaves us with a huge cliffhanger. Another spoke in the wheel of introducing Charlie Kingsley and her sleuthing as well as devulging the shady, spooky, paranormal past of Redemption Wisconsin and it's fun quirky citizens. Love this author and this series and this town with all it's wierdness! Closed door, quick read. RECOMMEND!
July 8, 2022
this is a good book for background on the series. I was disappointed that this was a story prior to the series. It would have been nice to read this book first. It was a good story line but there are parts that still haven been explained. Perhaps the Reckoning with fill in the gaps..
November 11, 2022
Charlie's story
It's too much of a mirror image of Becca's but I can understand the reasoning for it. I also really don't like Jonathan & want more dialogue with Claire, she obviously has the most sense of anyone in this book lol.
It's too much of a mirror image of Becca's but I can understand the reasoning for it. I also really don't like Jonathan & want more dialogue with Claire, she obviously has the most sense of anyone in this book lol.
February 4, 2024
Hmmm it was ok. Shorter than I expected and pretty much the same story. Couldn’t get too excited about it. It annoys me when you buy a book, listen to it and then a quarter of it is other stories or the start of the next book. Seems not right! Anyway rant over!
Also these books are very whiney!
Also these books are very whiney!
October 28, 2024
That ending though
I am so glad those series is as far as it is, and I can go right into the next book. I have to know what comes next for Charlie and her friends. And wasbshe really the only one who saw the mirror? I have so many questions.
I am so glad those series is as far as it is, and I can go right into the next book. I have to know what comes next for Charlie and her friends. And wasbshe really the only one who saw the mirror? I have so many questions.
March 3, 2022
This book is the prequel of the first three Redemption books. In order to have the ending you have to read book five of the series.
July 2, 2022
WOW!
Ya ever been in a town that took control of you? Here’s on that does.
How about a house that drew you in? Here’s one that does.
Quite a read —- hope you find it interesting.
Ya ever been in a town that took control of you? Here’s on that does.
How about a house that drew you in? Here’s one that does.
Quite a read —- hope you find it interesting.
January 15, 2023
Wow!
Great read, I can't get enough of redemption and all who call it home. I can picture the witch house and midnight
Great read, I can't get enough of redemption and all who call it home. I can picture the witch house and midnight
April 9, 2023
I’m hooked
I’m absolutely hooked on this series. Can’t wait to read more! Love the characters. Looking forward to more stories of their adventures.
I’m absolutely hooked on this series. Can’t wait to read more! Love the characters. Looking forward to more stories of their adventures.
May 6, 2023
3.25 stars
March 13, 2024
good
Kinda grumpy that this story was split into two books but it’s a good story. I started with the cozy mysteries of Charlie Kingsley and it has definitely gotten spooky
Kinda grumpy that this story was split into two books but it’s a good story. I started with the cozy mysteries of Charlie Kingsley and it has definitely gotten spooky
March 24, 2024
Wow
The 4th book in this series. We get some much needed history plus WOW what an ending. Can't wait to start #5
The 4th book in this series. We get some much needed history plus WOW what an ending. Can't wait to start #5
March 31, 2024
This book will keep you guessing at every turn of the page. It makes you feel like you are right there with the people in the town. Can’t wait to see what is up with Claire
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews