She's working on a new start... e's better with computers than people. an they build a relationship that fits their new life?
Fresh-out-of-cosmetology-school Jessica and whiz-software-engineer Austin have been thrown together by mutual friends. They even escaped a wildfire together. But do they have something more than friendship?
Maybe a singles’ camping trip will make their future clear.
When they encounter someone who needs their help, the relaxing weekend away becomes anything but. As the danger mounts and the challenges reveal who they truly are, will it pull them together or push them apart… for good?
You will get lost in Over Her Head because the biggest adventure is falling in love.
Jessica is a young woman trying to get her feet back on solid ground. She is an alcoholic and has been sober for many months. Moving back in with her parents and starting a new job while watching her friends and family get married and move on with their lives really has her pondering hers. The guy she is interested in, Austin, is really unlike any other she has dated. He gives her many conflicting signals so she is not really sure where she stands with him.
Austin is a smart guy and he just has a personality that he likes to stay prepared and in control. He is very detailed oriented and a very private person. He is interested in Jessica and that confuses him along with some family issues he is dealing with.
This is a third in a series that I had not read. There is some backstory for these two that the author does touch on. Along with their relationship and job situations and trying to just live their lives, there is an undercurrent of evil that we are also glimpsing in the form of trafficking. This will eventually throw Austen and Jessica and some of their friends in the path of danger.
This was an interesting read as it shows how people get busy just living their own lives, then BAM! something serious drops right into their laps that will show them just how capable and strong they really are.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
This is the third book in the Shadow series and although technically I found it okay to read as a stand alone I think it would've filled in some holes for me to know a bit more of the story but I caught up quickly. You definitely get drawn to the main characters Jessica and Austin. This story definitely deals with the tough topic of human trafficking so if that is something that bothers you then you may have a hard time with this book. It is a topic that I'm a huge advocate for so the book was definitely something that I could get behind.
Although this started a bit slow the suspense definitely picked up and you just ad to find out what was happening. The romance was nice and the faith element was woven throughout the story.
Overall I thought this was a good story. If you like romantic suspense you may just enjoy this one!
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.
This has been a wonderful series with each one delivering an edge of your seat adventure. Who knew that going on a camping trip would find our characters in the middle of mud slides, human trafficking and relationships on the cusp of developing. It was easy to get into the book because the author writes stories that come to life. I became very invested in Jessica and wanted to see where her faith would take her. Yes the faith element is good in the story and emphasizes how important it is to follow God’s direction.
Now I could go into detail about the story but for this review I want to focus on two things. The first one is how Jessica seems to have this need to prove herself to others. She isn’t quite confident in herself yet she does something that others would not risk. Jessica has this heart for helping others and when she sees a young girl needing rescuing she doesn’t hesitate to step up and help. I loved how she shared Jesus with Mia and continued to reassure her that she would be safe. She shared how God loved her and no matter what she had done, she was forgiven. Jessica stepped out, trusted God and in doing so helped her to see her calling in life.
The other point I want to cover is Austin. This character is a typical nerd as some would call him. He is very intelligent but shy. He lacks confidence in himself and tries so hard to show others he can be a leader. When he and Jessica start seeing each other, I think this was a great way for them to help each other with their insecurities. The adventure they have while camping really shows how strong these two are. They are grounded in the Word and begin to trust each other. They do have a few stumbling blocks but it shows how depending on God can help you in any situation. There is danger, secrets and a mystery that really heightens the story. I loved the message of trusting God and helping others.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Over Her Head is the third book in the In The Shadow series, and the first that I had personally had the chance to read. While I think it read okay as a standalone, I must admit that in the beginning I could certainly tell that I had missed something. I wouldn't say I was lost exactly, I could just tell that I was coming in somewhere after the story between this group of friends had already begun. Despite that, it didn't take me long to catch up and feel myself being drawn into Jessica and Austin's story.
This is the second book that I have read within just the past few weeks that takes on the very difficult topic of human trafficking. I must admit that had I realized that this was the topic of this particular suspense, I might not have read it quite just yet. That is not to say anything against this story, I just find that because it's such a difficult topic, I needed a bit more of a departure from it.
That said, I still found this to be an enjoyable suspense read. It perhaps started a bit slow, but once it got going, I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to find out what was going to happen next. The romance was nice, though I do think I'd have enjoyed it more had I read the previous books in the series. Overall, a good read and one that fans of romantic suspense will want to check out.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book for consideration. All thoughts are my own.
"Over Her Head: In the Shadow" by JL Crosswhite is the third book in the series. I recommend reading all three books in order because the books have the same main characters. There is plenty of suspense, intrigue, tension and romance in this book and all three books. This book deals with sex trafficking as well as alcoholism and dementia.
These books are clean reads and leave the readers believing in the power of love both from God and from humans. Yes, some of the characters in these books have happy endings but not all of the characters have that happy ever after making these books seem "real life".
The scenes were written so well, I could picture them as I was reading the words. It was easy to feel the characters thoughts and emotions as well. I think I would like watching this series of novels as a movie.
These books have moments that might be triggers for some that may have been in situations that are scary but if you want to read a book that keeps you glued to your seat turning the pages to see what happens next then this is the series for you.
I received a complimentaary copy of "Over Her Head: In the Shadow" by JL Crosswhite by the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
Over Her Head is written by JL Crosswhite and is the third book in the In The Shadow series. This is my first exposure to this author. While I did not have any issues following along, I feel like this should be read as a series so you get the full picture of what is going on. This book does take on an issue that has been talked about the last few years. Human Trafficking. The author does a wonderful job handling it - but it is a difficult subject to read about.
Jessica and Austin have been thrown together by mutual friends. They go on a singles' camping trip. They have a good friendship. They both have pasts, and they have each other to lean on for support. However, on this trip they run into someone that needs their help. The book has a great mix of suspense and romance in it, and I had fun going along for the ride. The author has done a phenomenal job writing her scene descriptions, you feel like you are there watching everything unfold around you. Her characters are well written and well developed (which is why I am sad I did not read the other books in the series)
I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program, all thoughts are my own.
Jessica knows that she could slip back into alcoholism again. She sometimes feels overwhelmed in her fight against that addiction. When she finds herself in tough situations, she wonders if she can tough them out. Thankfully her friend, Austin, is nearby to support her. He has struggles of his own since his father has dementia. Jessica and Austin seem to be really different. Can they find common ground? This book definitely connects with the first two "In the Shadow" series. I would recommend reading the other books first. This book tackles the tough subject of trafficking in a realistic yet appropriate way and still with a hopeful tone. With alcoholism and dementia also included, this book is not a light weight. I do think it is an enjoyable romantic suspense book. I recommend this one as well as the whole series. I did read this book as a part of a literary tour. A copy was provided for me. I signed up to be a part of the tour because I wanted to leave a review. All opinions are my own.
This is a fun romance for career age readers. Both the main characters, Jessica and Austin, are in times of career stress. Jessica just started working at a hair salon and has to do her best to have a chance at getting hired permanently. Austin is challenged by the possibility of an advancement but has trouble giving suitable reports of his progress. Readers in the midst of career stress will be able to identify with Jessica and Austin.
There are a couple of brief periods of suspense but the narrative by far is on romance. Crosswhite has added the troubling issue of human trafficking to give the novel some depth. We see from Jessica's experience how quickly we could be presented with the opportunity to help a young woman in trouble.
Crosswhite's writing style is straightforward and easy to read. The plot is also very clear and a bit predictable. This would be a good novel for readers who are put off by a complex plot.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Filled with danger, human trafficking, relationships and more, this book packs a punch. Jesica tries to rebuild her life and that includes starting a new job at a salon. Meanwhile, software engineer Austin builds a life for himself in California. Friends and circumstances throw the two together, including at a Church fellowship single’ camping trip. But so much more happens during that trip.
I love the dynamics between Jessica, Austin, their family, and friends. I appreciate how Jessica, Austin, and most of their friends refuse to abandon someone in trouble, even when they find themselves in danger. The author creates masterful plotlines and characters that will draw you into the story. The descriptions of events and scenery help build the world in this book as well. Plus, the author masterfully builds suspense throughout this book. It demonstrates how powerful prayers and faith in God can be. So check out this book for yourself.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but it in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Over Her Head is another gripping romantic suspense by JL Crosswhite. Jessica is now sober and graduated from cosmetology school. She's got her life on track and working hard to keep it that way. Austin is much more comfortable with computers than people. Jessica has been a good friend to Austin. Could she be more? The move from friendship to romance is a very rocky road for this couple, but there is a great HEA for them. I enjoyed reading about the faith of both main characters. The suspense part of the story concerns human trafficking. There are no graphic details, but the horror of these trafficked girls is dealt with well. Between a natural disaster and being chased by the traffickers, the level of suspense is incredible! I highly recommend this book. I plan to read more by this author and am looking forward to the start of her next series. I received a complimentary copy. I am sharing my opinion of this extremely well-written book.
This book is in a series and while you can read it as a stand alone, I think it makes more sense if you read them in order so you know the back stories. If not, I think you will feel that you are missing something. It tackles some tough topics but the author handles it well.
Realistic characters are easy to connect to in the story. I liked Jessica and Austin. They were both in real life situations and making the best they could of them. There is plenty of suspense that kept me intrigued and I liked how it all unfolded. A really good read.
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.
Over Her Head is the third book in the In The Shadow series, but I haven’t read the previous books. I really enjoyed this book, as it’s full of suspense, drama, action, and romance. I was instantly drawn into the story and characters. This book will definitely keep you reading late into the night! I really loved that the issue of human trafficking was addressed in this book, as it is something that needs to be advocated for. The challenges in this book definitely reveal who the characters really are, much like real life.
“She might have made bad decisions in the past, but she wasn’t defective. She was worthy of love, and she was capable of making the right choice, the self-sacrificing one, when it mattered.”
• I like that the author included human trafficking as part of her plot line. She handled the subject matter very well.
• There was lots of suspense, intrigue, tension and romance in this book.
• My interest was caught right away with this book's delightful group of characters.
• I'm glad I read the previous books in this series. I felt it added a lot of depth to Jessica's and Austin's background and knowledge base for a lot of the other characters.
• I really enjoyed this Christian romantic suspense and I am looking forward to reading more books by JL Crosswhite.
I loved Austin and Jessica's story! Austin learns he's got to open up to Jessica, or he'll lose her. Jessica realizes that she's worthy of love and that she's capable of making the right decisions. She really wants Austin to see it, too. Austin realizes why he doesn't like doing presentations, and Jessica helps him with ways to cope. Will they get together, or will it take too long for Austin to open his eyes to the fact Jessica is just who he needs?
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
A Singles Retreat They Said. A Camping Trip They Said. It Will Be Fun They Said. She's working on a new start. He's better with computers than people. Can they build a relationship or is it doomed before it can begin? A relaxing weekend away becomes anything but when a storm kicks up and our characters get stuck between a mudslide and a deadly trafficking ring. As the danger mounts, the challenges reveal who they truly are. The third and last book in this wonderful series kept me turning the pages from first to last in record time! ~Jo’s Attic
Over her Head is a book a lot of people need to read. It is a subject we need to be aware of. Human trafficking can happen to innocent people. Jessica is working in a salon when her and her friends discover some teenagers in trouble. Will they be able to save them? Will they find who is behind the human trafficking before it is too late?
Over her head is an exciting book with a lesson to learn.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. This book review is my own opinion.
A genuinely enjoyable story with characters and details that draw you in comfortably and keep you completely interested throughout. Contemporary and relatable with very real relationship, personal and social issues explored thoughtfully and honestly. This new to me author has done a truly fine work with this one with a highly engaging and unique voice and writing style. I very highly recommend this one! Enjoy!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was not required, no compensation was received, and all views expressed are my own.
I thought this one was the best of this series. I have liked all of the characters in these books - both series I have read so far - but Austin and Jessica were extremely great and likable. She, a former alcoholic, is living for God now and doing her best to live the life she should. Austin, new to the area, is different from most male heroes of stories. He is not really a people person, and is awkward and shy, but capable of so much more than he realizes
So glad I discovered this author. She is really, really good
Wow! I started reading and was really hooked. I loved the characters. They were real people with quirks and faults, but yet, they showed their walk with Jesus. So often books show such good people that they don't seem real. The further I got into the story, the hard it was to put it down. No more, because it would tell the actual story. It is a subject that I really believe in and love the ending too.
This book was fantastic! This was my favorite in the series. I couldn’t put it down and found my self speed reading. I was on the edge of my seat through the entire book. The story takes you on a journey and just keeps you on a roller coaster ride. Mystery, danger, and romance tied up in one neat package that keeps you fully engaged. Once you pick this book up be prepared for a all nighter because you won’t be able to put it down! Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
As a bunch of friends take a road trip, she finds a young girl she knows is missing. And so they try to help her. BUT have they bitten off more than they can handle? Will this harm them — or heal them? AN ABSOLUTELY AMAZING BOOK. I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and comments are my own.
I had the pleasure of reading other books by J L Crosswhite and was excited to have the opportunity to read her Over Her Head: In the Shadow. Since I have not read the first two books of the In the Shadow series, I believe this one can be read as a stand alone. However, it probably would be best to begin with the first book. I enjoyed getting to know Austin and Jessica. I wanted to find out how it would all end for them. It is a quick read that has a good faith element added to it. I liked it.
I am getting Over Her Head: In the Shadow four stars. I recommend it for readers who enjoy reading Christian romantic suspense. I will be looking to read the first two books in the series, Off the Map and Out of Range.
I received a copy of Over Her Head: In the Shadow from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
Over Her Head is a whole lot more fabulous romance and suspense in the In the Shadow series. I’ve enjoyed getting to know all of the characters and follow along with their adventures.
Another exciting book by JL Crosswhite It’s not alcohol. It’s not a forest fire. It’s just as tragic and inspiring as the first two books in this series. A MUST read! Same people as the first two books that you grew to love. WOW! What a good book.
This is a book you don't want to miss. It is full of suspense, drama, action and romance. Austin and Jessica's story will keep you on the edge of your seat. I highly recommend this book. Loved it!!
JL Crosswhite does it again. This book was very good and shows God's love very clearly. The suspense was very good and keeps you wondering what was going to happen next.