Long Shadows

Hope Again #3

by Cathe Swanson

Old sins cast long shadows.

Mona Vickers is forging a new life, building a safe and loving home for her girls far away from the ghosts of the past. She’ll do whatever it takes to make it work, including sending her girls to the Christian-based after school program despite her own lack of faith.

Roy Strough, Director of the Unity Plenkiss Community Center, wants to help the hardworking mother who’s captured his heart, but he’s already offended her pride once. Asking Mona to teach a class at the community center in exchange for tuition seems like the perfect solution.

Mona’s growing faith is put to the test by the shadows of her past. One of her students is caught up in an all-too-familiar human trafficking scheme, and a vengeance-bent stalker pushes Mona into hiding. She’s forced to decide if she can trust the powerful God she’s only beginning to know—as well as the charming man she’s beginning to love.

Dive into this gripping romantic suspense with compelling characters, intriguing twists, and an inspiring happily ever after.

Genres: Mystery

400 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 6, 2021

About the author

After 40 years of wandering (but always in lovely places and not in a desert), Cathe Swanson has recently returned to her childhood home and family in Minnesota.

In the summer, she and her husband enjoy spending time with their grandchildren and being outdoors, gardening, hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking. The long winters are perfect for writing books, playing games, reading, and indoor hobbies. Cathe's been a quilter and teacher of quiltmaking for 35 years and enjoys just about any kind of creative work, especially those involving fiber or paper.

Everything inspires new books! A lifelong love of quilting, Cathe’s Swedish heritage and an interest in genealogy led to The Glory Quilts series, and the Hope Again series is inspired by her life in the Midwest and experiences with the elderly, the military, and inner-city ministry. As a child of the 60s, she’s currently having fun writing about hippies and the Jesus People movement.

Cathe writes books with creative plots and engaging characters of all ages, to glorify God and entertain and bless readers. Her heartwarming stories will make you laugh and make you cry—and then make you laugh again.

Reviews

[Tina at Mommynificent · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been wanting to know Roy and Mona's story since reading what has become book 4 in this wonderful series by Cathe Swanson. One of my favorite things about this author is that her books aren't formulaic in any way I can see, so I think it's fitting that she has written and released the books in this series in a non-formulaic order - 1, 2, 4, and now 3. :)

I love how this book defies being classified into a single genre as well. It's part romance, part mystery, part women's fiction, along with several others I don't even know names for because they are so unique. I love how this book tackles some really tough subjects with both grace and mercy, and I have even found it influencing some of the decisions I have made over the past few weeks since reading it with regards to my teen daughters' outings and use of social media.

I highly recommend you read this book (but I really think you should start from book 1 for the full effect!)

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this book is like reading the front page news where the headline grabs your attention. Human trafficking has become more prevalent lately and I’m glad that we are becoming more aware of this dire situation. The author tackles this subject head on with realistic characters that make you want to join them in the fight against this crime. I applaud the author for her authentic look at what has become a crime that cannot be solved without everyone working together. I thought about this phrase as I read the story, “See something, say something.”

I really liked how the author gave us great information about how human trafficking can be done on dating sites and how they are pretty savvy about the computer in general. Mona is the perfect one to teach the class for the girls at the after school program. I won’t give out much info about her past since it is a very vital part of the story. I was surprised about something and had no idea that her girls were extra special to her for a reason. Mona is not one to take charity and I wanted her to learn to swallow her pride. It is a hard road she travels and she is very relatable. Some of you readers can understand how hard it is to raise children on your own while dealing with a past traumatic experience. I admired her for her attitude of never giving up and through her own experience helping others not to be victims.

I really liked how the author takes us inside a community center to see how it is run. There are children there that need someone to accept them and guide them. Mona finds herself volunteering at the center and begins to feel like maybe her and the girls will be safe. I loved how the girls learn scriptures and tell Mona all about God. Her slow desire to know more is encouraging and brings hope to Mona and the children.

The author also addresses PTSD in a way that emphasis the need for more help and understanding for people who deal with it on a daily basis. Not many places are available to get help and this story demonstrates how important it is to reach out to everyone with grace. I was very happy to see the story focus on many people who come and go from the center and the church. God knew Mona was ready and placed someone in her pathway to minister to her.

I appreciate an author who tackles hard subjects and shows readers the ugly side of them. Our youth are vulnerable and if we don’t reach out to them they could easily fall victim to a crime that is sweeping our nation. The story is powerful and emotional as we follow Mona on her journey to be free from her past.

For me this story is a wake up to all of us. Don’t let an opportunity pass you by if you can help someone. Share God with everyone and always show compassion to those who need it. I kept thinking about all the people who enter our lives even if it is for a brief moment. Have we missed a chance to share Jesus with someone? We all want to feel safe and loved, so again I will emphasis, “See something, say something.”

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion

[Kelly-Ann ~ Sassy Bookish Mama · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the third book in the Hope Again series and my first by this author and I must say that it can be read as a stand alone. I will like to go back and read the previous ones just to know more about the other characters in this story. This is definitely one of those fiction books that has very real life issues in it that for some can be very relatable. Cathe Swanson definitely did a great job at the portrayal of teens and how online interactions can be dangerous.

If you enjoy slow burning romances with suspense then I recommend this series! I will be on the lookout for more of her books.


I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Sara Davison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Long Shadows should be compulsory reading for every teen and every parent of teens. Cathe Swanson does an amazing job of portraying how easy it is for teens to be lured into dangerous situations through online interactions, even if they feel they are taking precautions to be safe. The slow-burning romance and suspense add to the intensity of a story that held my attention from beginning to end.

[Esther · Rating 5 out of 5]

Long Shadows, a novel by Christian author Cathe Swanson, tells the sweet but subtle romance of Mona Vickers and Roy Strough. Mona is the devoted mother of four young daughters who struggles to protect them from their dark past. She moves from ignorance about Christianity to faith in Jesus. Roy works at the Unity Plenkiss community center, where much of the story takes place. Difficult yet realistic topics are woven into the story, especially human trafficking, as well as PTSD and homelessness. Phoebe, an employee at the center confronts such issues with strength while also facing personal frustration. The center serves people such as Nick and Toni—whose stories involve sadness but also hope.

I enjoyed reading this book. The writing was clear, interesting, and at times clever without being overdone. The characters were realistic—understandable and easy to relate to but also complex. The romance was a happy element. The darker themes kept the story anchored in reality; I appreciated learning more about those topics in the context of an engaging story. While the story moved slowly, it held my interest by constantly unfolding new details. The climax was not completely surprising but fitting. The conclusion left me satisfied and also curious. There were some small proofreading issues and one or two minor plot questions, but they were so insignificant that they didn’t distract from the story.

If you are looking for a book that is engaging, easy to read, but doesn’t shy away from reality, I recommend giving Long Shadows a try.

[Faith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a good book! The characters are so real I felt like I was living with them throughout the whole book. I love that Mona was so protective of her girls and had a heart so big that they were her priority even in the circumstances surrounding her as a single mom. And Roy! Wow! What a patient, understanding, loving guy, but not like usual perfect characters, he's real and has struggles, too. The collection of characters that Ms. Swanson has created are inspirational as they give themselves to serve God and the people around them.

Though fictional, Ms. Swanson as created very believable situations, addressing some very real events and circumstances. It is a good look into the needs of people that are in peril because of poverty, the location in which they live, things beyond their control in their lives. This book addresses some of these issues and even includes the needs of our Vets that have come back from serving our country to a life that has been turned up-side-down, internet safety and human trafficking.

But this is not a morbid book! It illustrates reality and how people can overcome their fears and anxieties through hard work and faith in God. It also is a great illustration of what God's people can do to help those in need physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

There is mystery, suspense, romance, light humor, and more. Something for everyone.

This is another wonderful book by Ms. Swanson who never fails to create a story that grabs and holds the reader from beginning to end.

[Becky Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Human trafficking, rescue missions, homeless shelters, and small-town missions are the focal point of this book, along with personal dignity, personal responsibility, but also pride that keeps us from accepting another person’s help. The first part of the book was fast-paced, full of chaos, confusion, and suspicion as much as the last part was suspenseful and surprising. I did not actually figure out who the perpetrator was until it was revealed. There was an emphasis on the respect and dignity we all should expect from others, just because God created us and highly values us. We also saw the evil, greedy desires of some, and the apathy and ignorance of others. The best part was seeing the change that salvation can have on a person’s life, especially Mona’s. I loved that the story used children, friends, and other people’s actions and words to help Mona begin to understand salvation and learn to trust God and His faithfulness. It is the perfect story to read at Palm Sunday and Easter.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well written book that you don't want to miss! It tackles some tough subjects and the author handles them beautifully. This is the first book I've read in this series and I had no problem knowing what was going on, but I do want to read the first two books in this series now. This is a very inspirational story that will keep you turning the pages to see what happens next and it stays in your mind long after you've read the last page.
I received a complimentary copy and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own

[R.j. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed this!

I really enjoyed this next addition to a series I have loved. I think my favorite is book one, but this is excellent. I loved seeing more from “old friends”.

[Trudy Cordle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great read! It deals with some tragic realities of our world, but handles them in a caring, positive manner. The kids steal the show, of course!! I love that Roy loves Mona without question. He's a great listener, and even when she finally tells him the hard stuff about her life, he's there to be compassionate and empathize, not judge. Even before Mona liked him, she trusted him. Roy showed her Jesus, even though she didn't realize it at the time. Mona has a hard time trusting, but once she finally opens her heart to Jesus, there's room for Roy, too. Roy has had to step back since he thinks Mona isn't a Christian. When she tells him she has accepted Christ, nothing can stop Roy from falling the rest of the way in love with Mona. Add in the four precious girls, and you've got a great family!

I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.

[Heidi Morrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an excellent continuation of the series! Mona and Roy's story includes some adorable, and fiesty children! Several holidays were experienced as well: from Thanksgiving to Easter! God's grace was displayed in several situations and characters, and I loved how the story was believable. Due to topics of sex trafficking and stalkers, I would recommend parents read first before sharing with your older teens.

[Faith R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting Personalities

Cathe Swanson has an interesting way of conveying the prickly way people interact with each other based partly in their varying personalities and partly on their character and conscious choices. This is the most interesting part of the book to me.

In this book, the dangers of entrapment “boyfriend” and “catfish” human sex trafficking are dramatized. Social media is criticized for its part in this but a few tips are generally applicable. The book honestly shows the dangers but in a respectful manner which I really appreciated.

One thing I observe is that women unfortunately voluntarily participate in OF or other platforms so they are not always tricked into trafficking today. Mainstream culture seems to have absorbed and now eagerly embraces what was once hidden. Women, girls, and boys are still vulnerable so the book is useful for parents to start thinking and kids to be warned.

I especially appreciate the honesty with which Cathe Swanson writes about the inner workings of a Christian ministry. She is not afraid to discuss the problems as well as the good the ministry does. The characters do not always get along but they genuinely care. They do not always get things right but remain teachable.

I love how real Mona’s experience with teaching is portrayed. Anyone who works with teens will chuckle and recognize the interactions. The way her children are portrayed is realistic as well. Sometimes it is hilarious and other times heartwarming or heartbreaking. Any parent will understand and feel “seen.”

I think the writing gets repetitive at times, characters’ internal dialogue reminds readers of the same things said previously. I do not like when authors do this in general, and I read internal dialogue used like this in a lot of books. I also think the characters in books are similar in some ways. Phoebe and Mona are both insecure but try to hide it in their fierce independence.

The book sets up Phoebe for the fifth book (which I read before this one—don’t judge me) in a really good way. It also sets up the next book for Carrie really well. Anyone who enjoys books with complex characters and comical as well as prickly social interactions will enjoy this book and the whole series. The strength is in the way characters interact with each other and vignettes of real life are enacted with such humor, honesty, and love. Cathe Swanson gets people and writes about them with clarity, humor, and compassion. (Now I’m the one being repetitive 😉)

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romance and Mystery all in one book is a GREAT combination! Long Shadows by Cathe Swanson is just that type of book genre. It is Book 3 in the Hope Again series. I have not read the first books in this series, but I didn't feel lost when reading this book.

Mona Vickers is a single mom to 4 girls. She has recently moved and is settling into a new life with her girls. The move takes her away from things that she wants to forget. She has decided to enroll her girls in a Christian School, although Mona's faith in God is not very strong. Roy Strough is the Director of the Local Community Center. He notices that Mona is struggling and really wants to help her. He wants to offer her a teaching job at the Community Center, but he recently discovered that Mona likes to be independent and doesn't exactly like "hand outs". He does ask and she gladly takes on the job. Mona finds herself helping one of her students with more then studies. Mona recognizes that this student is in a Human Trafficking situation, because this is a "demon" of Mona's past that she moved away from. Will Mona be able to help steer this student away from Human Trafficking? Will Mona be able to keep her own "demons" away and rely on God to help her help the student? Will Roy and Mona grow a friendship or even a romantic relationship?

WOW, this book is a page turner from the very first Chapter! I really like how Mona does what is BEST for her girls and herself and wants to do so independently. I saw lots of growth in Mona throughout the book and that was a GREAT aspect of the story. Growth in using her past to help others, growth in being a mom to her girls, growth in her faith. Roy was a genuine person from the beginning and he has a heart for others. I really enjoyed watching the relationship between Roy and Mona grow and mature. The book touches on some very sensitive topics, especially Human Trafficking, but does so with grace and very eloquently. The actions of this book definitely kept me on the edge of my chair at times. I highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys Christian Romance and Suspense! I am looking forward to reading more from this series! WONDERFUL BOOK!

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Long Shadows is a romantic suspense book that is written by Cathe Swanson. This is book three in the Home Again series, and the first book that I have read by this author. It will NOT be my last. This book will draw you in as soon as you start reading. Now, this book does deal with human trafficking, however the author does it with tact and grace.

Mona is a very protective mom. She has started over and gotten away from her past. While she has gotten the fresh start, her faith has taken a hit. She isn't sure if God is still there. Despite her lack of faith, she sends her children to a Christian School. Roy is the director of the Unity Plenkiss Community Center. He is intrigued by Mona. He asks her to teach a class in exchange for tuition. Little does he know this brings out some of her darkest secrets and demons.

There is a lot going on in this book. It moves at a fast pace, but not fast enough that I got lost. Human Trafficking, unknown of who to trust, homelessness, rescue missions and lost faith are the center points in this book. Mona sees another student in a scary situation that she is confronted with her past. She has a hard time knowing who to trust - and this is where God steps in and begins her healing process.

Well written characters, SO much action and suspense, intriguing storyline, real life situations, GREAT reminder that God heals all wounds. I absolutely loved this book.

I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program - all thoughts are my own.

[Tabitha Bouldin · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great book about finding faith despite the shadows of the past. Mona is one of those characters who has every reason to never trust again, yet she continues to push forward and do what is best for her daughters, even when it's hard. I love Cathe Swanson's ability to put me into the life of the characters she portrays and make me feel what they feel. Long Shadows was an eye-opening experience and though I've not read the first two books in this series, I had no problem following the story and being completely pulled into this thrilling tale. Mona and Roy show a genuine character arc that endeared them to me and made me want the book to never end. Mona was hard to love at first, but as soon as I realized why she had the prickly personality, it all made perfect sense and I couldn't wait to see her learn and grow. I love a good redemption arc and spiritual message. This book had both and I was not disappointed. I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

[Randi Sampson]

Long Shadows is the third book in the Hope Again series, but seemed to read just fine as a standalone. I personally had not read the previous books in the series and didn't feel as though I was missing anything in this one.

This story takes on some very difficult topics like human trafficking, PTSD and homelessness. While that can certainly make a story difficult to read, the author did a great job of handling them with grace with great messages of faith that kept the story from being too heavy... though certainly while keeping realistic as well. The characters were written well and drew you into their stories.

Overall, this is well written read that fans of romantic suspense are sure to want to check out.

**I received a complimentary copy for consideration. All thoughts are my own.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Long Shadows" by Cathe Swanson covers many issues such as human trafficking and single parenting and special needs children and homeless vets.
This book really kept me glued to my seat because I had to know had it all ended.

I really liked this book and it pulled on my heartstrings.

This book is "Real Life". I think this story has taken place in many places in today's world. Only the names have been changed.

This book is not real graphic even with the topics discussed. This book shows that even when faced with fear a person can still do the right thing such as Mona did with teaching the class about internet safety.

This is book 3 of the "Hope Again" series, but it can be read as a standalone.

I received a contemporary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Long Shadows is the third installment from the Hope Again series by Cathe Swanson. Even though it is part of a series and it is the first book I have read from it, I believe it can be read as a stand alone. However, I would like to start with book one to see what has happened previously. This is a book that many readers can relate to with some real life issues. I thought it was a pretty good that took me no time to read.

I am giving Long Shadows four stars. I recommend it for readers who enjoy reading romantic suspense. I would love to read the next book from the Hope Again series, Hope for the Holidays.

I received a digital copy of Long Shadows from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Ashley Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I adore a good romantic suspense story. The romance in this one is a slow burn and not the center of everything. I love how devoted of a mom Mona is. She has her hands full with her girls.

The book does a great job showing how we can be careful and think we are taking precautions to keep our kids safe and still miss something. Bad people have perfected being bad and luring especially young girls in. I think the author did a great job with this book and will be recommending it to a lot of my mama friends.

4/5

Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.

[Colleen Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Long Shadows reminded me of the opening of a rosebud. Mona is the rosebud, but through the story she opens up to reveal more and more layers of petals - beautiful at every stage, but also hiding secrets that are slowly unveiled.

I enjoyed the development of the characters and the way the author was able to weave together many stories as they intersect at Unity Plenkiss Community Center without confusing the reader.

Long Shadows has elements of: mystery - danger - secrets - compassion - dignity - cooperation - trust - friendship - hope - redemption - affirmation

“The knowledge of their worth and their dignity can protect them from being easy prey.”

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

So excited about this book! I’ve been interested in Mona ever since I first read about her in Snow Angels, and this book did not disappoint. I LOVE Mona! I’d also like to give her a little lecture about how not everyone who wants to do something nice for her thinks she’s a pathetic charity case. And Roy needs to quit treating her like one in an effort to make her like him! 😉 The characters were well written (making me want to shake some sense into them!), the story was engaging, and then there was the mystery of Mona’s past! I loved it! I was given the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book, and was not required to write a review. All opinions are my own.

[Becky Dempsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was fun to be able to be back to Unity Plenkiss for a visit, even though you could read this story as a standalone and not be completely lost. I was excited to get Roy and Mona's story. I found the book to be well written. I think that the author did a good job of bringing the dangers of online human trafficking. I can't wait for the next book in the series and to read other books by Cathe Swanson.

I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.

[Amanda H · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has it all, suspense, thought provoking situations, romance, and well drawn characters. I thought that the author did a wonderful job of bringing the characters to life as they deal with some very difficult things, like poverty, trafficking, and moving forward after difficult circumstances come your way. I really enjoyed Mona and the strong character that she is. This is a wonderful, hard to put down story!

I received this book from Celebrate Lit. This is my honest review.

[Jennifer J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intriguing, inspiring, encouraging, and riveting. Here is a carefully constructed and well- designed story with believable characters in very likely situations. Budding romance, true and abiding faith, fierce family loyalty with plenty of reality checks fill the pages of this fine story. Swanson has done it again – she is a master at the craft of story telling! I highly recommend this one to be enjoyed and remembered.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Long Shadows

This story did not disappoint! I've been looking forward to reading Long Shadows to find out about Mona and her girls! This was such a great story that I couldn't put it down!

[Tricia Cox garrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Long Shadows

A great book about tough subjects. Sex trafficking is too prominent today. It was handled in an informative way to make you think and to keep track of young teens in your care. Good clean romance.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

learning to let God

Mona had trouble receiving help for her and her girls. God can use a persistent loving man to help introduce her to the Lord. Very well done!

[Pamela J Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

wonderful, inspiring!

This is so full of God, so awesome! I was blessed with their talking about God and getting to know him.

[Pat Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m enjoying this series so much. New author for me and will definitely read more of her books.

[Janelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can’t remember if I have read anything by Cathe Swanson before, so I’m going to assume that Long Shadows is the first work by her that I’ve read. I should also mention that I tend not to read romantic suspense – in the past it’s just not been something I’ve enjoyed. However, after reading Long Shadows, I think I have found a new favorite genre.

I had no idea what to expect from Long Shadows, besides what was stated in the synopsis. However, I was intrigued by the fact that it deals with the topic of human trafficking – which is something I had some vague knowledge about, but I wanted to learn more. Also, I don’t know if I had read anything that covers this topic, if I have it has usually been glossed over in other works. My only complaint is that I had kind of hoped we had seen a little bit more of what happens to the girl who shows signs of being a trafficking victim, however, I also understand why the author chose not to, and in a lot of ways I am glad there wasn’t anything grittier. ( I know, I know, I just contradicted myself!). But the plot was really good and I found myself unable to put it down – especially once I got to the halfway point. I also loved the message of redemption and being a child of God that is woven throughout the novel.

I liked getting to know the characters throughout the book, although Mona came off as pretty brusque at first. But as readers learn more about her and watch her development over the course of the novel, she becomes more likable and admirable. I also liked getting to know her daughters, and I hope to see them again in another book. I also enjoyed getting to know Roy and how he genuinely cares for everyone he comes into contact with, I also like his character development as he realizes he cant’s do it all and he needs to sometimes take a step back and listen. Phoebe was also a great characters, however it did feel like her point-of-view kind of got thrown in somewhat randomly, however I did like that we get to see her struggle with various things such as fatigue from constantly helping others. I really want to get to know her more and find out what happens to her, and it looks like I’ll get to because one of the next books in the series follows her.

Overall, I really enjoyed Long Shadows and I hope to read more about these characters in the future. I am really looking forward to reading more of Cathe Swanson’s books in the future! 4/5 Stars.

*I received a copy of the book from the author and Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review.