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Coventry Saga #5
Touch of Innocence
From a USA Today bestselling author comes a gripping story of mystery, romance, and pulse-pounding suspense.
How can she save the little girl next door from being exploited if nobody believes her?
Grace used to try to save people, but that was before she realized how powerless she is. Now, she avoids emotional ties, working from her secluded cabin, content with her aloneness. When eight-year-old Lily starts hanging around, Grace enjoys her company but carefully keeps her distance—until she discovers the girl is being exploited. Little though she wants to, she must get involved, even if it means risking her own safety to secure Lily’s.
Andrew can’t help but be drawn to his new neighbor and her beautiful foster child. When he learns about Lily’s disturbing history, he offers to help Grace prove her suspicions about the girl’s father. But the more they learn, the more puzzling Lily’s history seems. They work together to unravel the mystery, determined to ensure Lily ends up with a family who loves her.
But Lily’s father isn’t giving up his muse—or his obsession—that easily. He believes Lily is rightfully his, and he’ll do anything to get her back.
Don't miss this thrilling page-turner, the latest in the addictive Coventry Saga.
How can she save the little girl next door from being exploited if nobody believes her?
Grace used to try to save people, but that was before she realized how powerless she is. Now, she avoids emotional ties, working from her secluded cabin, content with her aloneness. When eight-year-old Lily starts hanging around, Grace enjoys her company but carefully keeps her distance—until she discovers the girl is being exploited. Little though she wants to, she must get involved, even if it means risking her own safety to secure Lily’s.
Andrew can’t help but be drawn to his new neighbor and her beautiful foster child. When he learns about Lily’s disturbing history, he offers to help Grace prove her suspicions about the girl’s father. But the more they learn, the more puzzling Lily’s history seems. They work together to unravel the mystery, determined to ensure Lily ends up with a family who loves her.
But Lily’s father isn’t giving up his muse—or his obsession—that easily. He believes Lily is rightfully his, and he’ll do anything to get her back.
Don't miss this thrilling page-turner, the latest in the addictive Coventry Saga.
378 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 25, 2022
335 people are currently reading
179 people want to read
About the author
Robin Patchen
81 books1,054 followersRobin Patchen is a USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of Christian romantic suspense. She grew up in a small town in New Hampshire, the setting of her Nutfield Saga books, and then headed to Boston to earn a journalism degree. After college, working in marketing and public relations, she discovered how much she loathed the nine-to-five ball-and-chain. After relocating to the Southwest, she started writing her first novel while she homeschooled her three children. The novel was dreadful, but her passion for storytelling didn’t wane. Thankfully, as her children grew, so did her writing ability. Now that her kids are adults, she has more time to play with the lives of fictional heroes and heroines, wreaking havoc and working magic to give her characters happy endings. When she’s not writing, she’s editing or reading, proving most of her life revolves around the twenty-six letters of the alphabet. Visit https://robinpatchen.com/subscribe to receive a free book and stay informed about Robin’s latest projects.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
December 17, 2021
I was privileged to read an early copy of this book. Wow. Just ... wow. It hits hard on the subject of children abused by internet pornography. This one will hit your heart and make you think. It's timely, engaging, and will get your blood pumping for sure.
January 23, 2022
What a situation to be in? Protect a child and commit a felony to do so or do nothing. This is where self-proclaimed hermit Grace finds herself. After befriending a young girl near her home, she begins to suspect the child doesn't have a good home situation.
There is plenty of action in the pages. All of the action seemed plausible, which is a huge measure for this reader of suspense. I would have preferred for Grace's ability to discern the character of others to have been different than described.
I loved the relationship between Lily and her dog Regis. What a sweet friend and loyal companion he was.
Warning: this novel includes the subject of child pornography.
I'm glad the series is continuing and the next novel will be about Garrett. Readers got a glimpse of him in a Touch of Innocence. The scene with Garrett giving Andrew a ride to work was one of my favorites.
My gratitude to the author for a complimentary e-copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
There is plenty of action in the pages. All of the action seemed plausible, which is a huge measure for this reader of suspense. I would have preferred for Grace's ability to discern the character of others to have been different than described.
I loved the relationship between Lily and her dog Regis. What a sweet friend and loyal companion he was.
Warning: this novel includes the subject of child pornography.
I'm glad the series is continuing and the next novel will be about Garrett. Readers got a glimpse of him in a Touch of Innocence. The scene with Garrett giving Andrew a ride to work was one of my favorites.
My gratitude to the author for a complimentary e-copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
February 14, 2022
3.5 stars
"You don't understand. I loved her, and I failed. . . . . My love was useless."
Living a quiet solitary life had been Grace Mullen's goal until a little girl who desperately needs her help comes knocking on her back door. Protective instincts kicking in, Grace makes a split second decision; she whisks Lily away from the worst kind of exploitation and goes on the run. But how long will it take for him to find them?
Andrew Middleton has been tasked by two of his friends to keep an eye out on behalf of his new tenant. The lovely blond and her little girl aren't particularly friendly, but then again they are new to Coventry and have barely gotten settled. The more Andrew is around Grace, the more curious he becomes, and the more attraction he begins to feel. . . . except there remains an undefinable undercurrent of reticence; is Grace intentionally holding back or is the truth something she cannot reveal?
Readers will find great value in this story, for it centers around an undeniable truth . . . only God's love can save.
"You don't understand. I loved her, and I failed. . . . . My love was useless."
Living a quiet solitary life had been Grace Mullen's goal until a little girl who desperately needs her help comes knocking on her back door. Protective instincts kicking in, Grace makes a split second decision; she whisks Lily away from the worst kind of exploitation and goes on the run. But how long will it take for him to find them?
Andrew Middleton has been tasked by two of his friends to keep an eye out on behalf of his new tenant. The lovely blond and her little girl aren't particularly friendly, but then again they are new to Coventry and have barely gotten settled. The more Andrew is around Grace, the more curious he becomes, and the more attraction he begins to feel. . . . except there remains an undefinable undercurrent of reticence; is Grace intentionally holding back or is the truth something she cannot reveal?
Readers will find great value in this story, for it centers around an undeniable truth . . . only God's love can save.
April 5, 2022
I have enjoyed previous books written by Robin Patchen but this book didn’t resonate with me. Perhaps it was the topic of child exploitation that made me uncomfortable, especially since the perpetrator had a significant voice in the plot. I’m not sure if the author wanted the reader to feel a bit of sympathy for the villain or see how twisted his mind is by giving him a viewpoint but it was unsettling. The suspense component was more chills-down-the-spine kind and not so much the fast-paced adrenaline rush. This book was also my introduction to Coventry Saga, so maybe if I had read the first six books in the series, this book would not have been so jarring.
Grace was a tough character to connect with but Andrew was a likable hero, with his disgraced past and desire to please and protect. There was an interesting supernatural component to Grace’s character and the faith thread in the story rang true and strong. If you enjoy romantic suspense, you may enjoy this book.
I received the book from Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
Grace was a tough character to connect with but Andrew was a likable hero, with his disgraced past and desire to please and protect. There was an interesting supernatural component to Grace’s character and the faith thread in the story rang true and strong. If you enjoy romantic suspense, you may enjoy this book.
I received the book from Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
February 23, 2022
Touch of Innocence has everything I enjoy in a great biblical suspense book. I love books with great storylines that keep me interested from the beginning. I love books with kids in them, and the fact that Grace was protecting a child made it that much better for me. I loved the attraction between Grace and Andrew, and I loved how the author did a great job weaving some heavy biblical themes into the book. This is a book I will be thinking about for months to come. Excellent job and another reason why I really enjoy this author!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was under no obligation to review it. All opinions are mine.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was under no obligation to review it. All opinions are mine.
January 8, 2022
Another great romantic suspense novel by Robin Patchen! When Grace learns that her young neighbor and friend Lily has been used for child pornography photos, and the police are unable to find evidence, she makes some impulsive decisions in order to keep Lily safe. Finding herself settling down in Coventry, NH, she finds herself in community. But has she truly escaped the danger that has been chasing her? Fans of the series will be glad to see all of the familiar faces coming back and see Andrew get his own story - he made an appearance in Traces of Virtue. If you haven't read the other books in the series, this story can definitely stand alone. But for me, it was nice to "catch up with some old friends". This book hits the ground running from the start and doesn't quite let up. There were a few things that I actually saw coming, but it didn't diminish from the enjoyment of the story at all. There was a solid faith thread as both Grace and Andrew learned to trust God better and Grace learned to see herself as God sees her. There was strong character development as the characters grew through their circumstances and an intense story line -both in the romance element and the suspense element. All in all, a fantastic read and one I'd recommend to fans of inspirational romantic suspense. Special thanks to the author for an advance e-copy of the book. I was not obligated to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
January 8, 2022
The saga continues as new characters are introduced to Coventry along with the return of some familiar folks. Grace makes her first appearance in Coventry along with Lily, a little girl she brought with her from Washington state. Grace leads everyone to believe Lily is her foster child. She even withholds the truth from her friend Cassidy who helps her by getting her set up in a condo. She had gone to great lengths for several years to maintain a distance between herself and others but she started letting down barriers when Lily came into her life. The story has an overtone of irony as Grace seeks to live a Christian life but is living a lie to protect a young girl. I have a difficult time imagining how complicated that would be, although she seems to have few other workable choices to prevent Lily from being sent back into her old environment. Andrew and many of his friends have appeared in earlier books, but he is the leading male character now. I enjoyed learning more about him and the dynamics of his family as he gets acquainted with Grace. I appreciated his strong work ethic and his high level of integrity. The faith exemplified by Grace, Andrew, and others in the story was admirable. I started to skip one of the characters but cannot ignore Regis, the Cavalier King Charles spaniel that was practically glued to Lily. I would not have been able to tolerate all the hairs he left on the floors and furniture, but he was definitely a key part of the story. I received an advance copy of this book from the author. This is my honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
March 25, 2022
"Touch of Innocence" by Robin Patchen is a good book but I didn't like all the details about Grace's attack, yes, it happens in real life and there were no swear words but the near rape was hard to read, This scene might be a trigger for someone that has experienced this in real life.
I was kept reading because I had to know if Lily was safe. I'm not sure I liked the ending, it was great for some characters but I wanted something else for one of the characters but the story is "Real Life."
If you like books that keeps you on the edge of your chair and guessing what is going to happen then I recommend "Touch of Innocence" by Robin Patchen.
This passage from the book really spoke to me.
"Touch of Innocence" by Robin Patchen is a good book but I didn't like all the details about Grace's attack, yes, it happens in real life and there were no swear words but the near rape was hard to read, This scene might be a trigger for someone that has experienced this in real life.
I was kept reading because I had to know if Lily was safe. I'm not sure I liked the ending, it was great for some characters but I wanted something else for one of the characters but the story is "Real Life."
If you like books that keeps you on the edge of your chair and guessing what is going to happen then I recommend "Touch of Innocence" by Robin Patchen.
This passage from the book really spoke to me. Won't let me share the picture.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
I was kept reading because I had to know if Lily was safe. I'm not sure I liked the ending, it was great for some characters but I wanted something else for one of the characters but the story is "Real Life."
If you like books that keeps you on the edge of your chair and guessing what is going to happen then I recommend "Touch of Innocence" by Robin Patchen.
This passage from the book really spoke to me.
"Touch of Innocence" by Robin Patchen is a good book but I didn't like all the details about Grace's attack, yes, it happens in real life and there were no swear words but the near rape was hard to read, This scene might be a trigger for someone that has experienced this in real life.
I was kept reading because I had to know if Lily was safe. I'm not sure I liked the ending, it was great for some characters but I wanted something else for one of the characters but the story is "Real Life."
If you like books that keeps you on the edge of your chair and guessing what is going to happen then I recommend "Touch of Innocence" by Robin Patchen.
This passage from the book really spoke to me. Won't let me share the picture.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
January 26, 2022
What’s not to love about this book? Absolutely nothing! It tackles a hard subject but does so discretely. Grace, Andrew and Lily were all characters that I cared about and pulled for all the way through. There was even a bit of mystery to walk through as the story unfolded.
Grace had a special gift from God although most of the time she called it a curse. She learned about others and their character through this gift. She sometimes wore gloves to avoid it. (Got you curious? Good!) She felt unlovable because of the way she was treated by her mother and others. She fought against dark feelings but sometimes they plagued her. But she did something on the spur of the moment to save a little girl which I applaud her for although I personally would never be able to do.
Andrew came upon the scene just in time to help Grace through situations that otherwise would have buried her emotionally. Intrigue, suspense, mystery and romance are all included in one low price, well worth it. Grab a seat you can hold onto, you’ll need to, and delve into their story.
I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from the author but was not required to write a review positive or otherwise.
Grace had a special gift from God although most of the time she called it a curse. She learned about others and their character through this gift. She sometimes wore gloves to avoid it. (Got you curious? Good!) She felt unlovable because of the way she was treated by her mother and others. She fought against dark feelings but sometimes they plagued her. But she did something on the spur of the moment to save a little girl which I applaud her for although I personally would never be able to do.
Andrew came upon the scene just in time to help Grace through situations that otherwise would have buried her emotionally. Intrigue, suspense, mystery and romance are all included in one low price, well worth it. Grab a seat you can hold onto, you’ll need to, and delve into their story.
I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from the author but was not required to write a review positive or otherwise.
January 6, 2022
This is a book about how a woman is used by God to deliver a child from unspeakable evil. Grace, our heroine, knows what this evil looks like, she's encountered it before. Lily, a beautiful little eight year old, is put in Grace's path. Grace tries to report the issue to the police, however their not able to uncover what this horrible man is doing. So they run and end up in Coventry, New Hampshire. Andrew, our hero, has an immediate attraction to Grace. He also judges her quite harshly at the beginning of their relationship. Thru circumstances Andrew sees a Lily fall on the playground and steps in to help Lily and Grace. This is the beginning of their lives being intertwined.
What Grace doesn't know is evil is much closer to her and Lily than they know.
Robin is a master at drawing out the suspense and keeping you on the edge of your seat. If you chose to use your time reading this story, you may find yourself having a hard time remembering to breathe. Yes, it's that good!
What Grace doesn't know is evil is much closer to her and Lily than they know.
Robin is a master at drawing out the suspense and keeping you on the edge of your seat. If you chose to use your time reading this story, you may find yourself having a hard time remembering to breathe. Yes, it's that good!
January 8, 2022
Not surprisingly, Robin Patchen handles an incredibly delicate subject with impressive sensitivity. While there are no graphic descriptions, the subject of pornography is a difficult one and readers should be aware that this is the story in Touch of Innocence.
With that said, this book is book 5 of the Coventry Saga but can be read as a standalone. It is a story that will grab your heart from the beginning as you quickly become invested in the lives of Lily and Grace. It's a bit more gritty than some but with no vulgar language or graphic images. The Christian message is clear without being preachy.
While I received an AR copy, I can definitely recommend this book and the comments here are my own.
With that said, this book is book 5 of the Coventry Saga but can be read as a standalone. It is a story that will grab your heart from the beginning as you quickly become invested in the lives of Lily and Grace. It's a bit more gritty than some but with no vulgar language or graphic images. The Christian message is clear without being preachy.
While I received an AR copy, I can definitely recommend this book and the comments here are my own.
January 9, 2022
Wow - this is one intensely awesome story. Not for the faint of heart, as it deals with a very dark issue, child pornography, but it's done very well and tasteful, if such a subject can ever be. Robin Patchen wrote it in such a way that you totally knew the issues without her having to get overly descriptive or graphic. And I'm so glad she wrote this book - it's a subject that needs to be brought out into the open to be dealt with by all of society. And as usual, her storytelling is exciting, intriguing, at times making your heart ache for the struggles of the characters, at times making your heart race as the story climaxes! And also as usual, there is redemption...the truth of God's love and its power to overcome.
May 15, 2023
This is the first book I've read by Robin Patchen. I found it interesting and well written, but several things bothered me about it. The plot deals with a pornographer who takes photos of young children or women who are forced to pose for him. This is Christian fiction, but it's a bit too graphic for me. I don't really want to get into a pornographer's head and I don't want to feel the fear and memories of someone who has been abused in this way. "Loss of Innocence" would have been a more appropriate title.
Also, Grace, the main character, has a "spiritual gift" that allows her to sense what people are like or what they are feeling when she shakes hands with them or the palms of her hands come into contact with hers. Sometimes the sensation is sort of like a vision or sometimes it's just a strong feeling. It is likened to discernment, but this doesn't seem like a Biblical view of this gift.
So it's a well-told story, just not one that fits my personal taste.
Also, Grace, the main character, has a "spiritual gift" that allows her to sense what people are like or what they are feeling when she shakes hands with them or the palms of her hands come into contact with hers. Sometimes the sensation is sort of like a vision or sometimes it's just a strong feeling. It is likened to discernment, but this doesn't seem like a Biblical view of this gift.
So it's a well-told story, just not one that fits my personal taste.
January 6, 2022
“Valuable Commodity”
This suspenseful, clean, Christian romance is about a “narcissistic psychopath” who uses children as objects that he deems “art” for his obsession of pornography. It is hard to read a story such as this one because it involves children and women being used and abused by a twisted, evil person. (There is no rape in this story.) However, it is the sad reality in many places in the world. There is a HEA to the story and it can be read as a stand-alone. It is very well written. The characters rely on their faith in God as their source of strength. A very good story about how God is always there, even throughout the most difficult times in our lives.
This suspenseful, clean, Christian romance is about a “narcissistic psychopath” who uses children as objects that he deems “art” for his obsession of pornography. It is hard to read a story such as this one because it involves children and women being used and abused by a twisted, evil person. (There is no rape in this story.) However, it is the sad reality in many places in the world. There is a HEA to the story and it can be read as a stand-alone. It is very well written. The characters rely on their faith in God as their source of strength. A very good story about how God is always there, even throughout the most difficult times in our lives.
January 25, 2022
The Coventry Saga continues with this suspense story dealing with child pornography. The author expresses the issue without graphic descriptions and with such class that you won't be offended by any portion of it. Grace is living a lie in order to save Lily. I enjoyed reconnecting with some of the characters from previous books and meeting new ones. I liked the way Grace and Andrew put their faith in God to help them overcome and save Lily. I would highly recommend it. I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review
March 23, 2022
What lengths will Grace have to reach, in order to save little Lily? Her home life isn't what it should be and somewhere, there's a huge amount of danger lurking. I'm was glad to see this book handling the topic of child exploitation so well! I was quite thankful to find that the author didn't shy away. If more Christian books would be like this one, more people might be able to help more children and save them.
There's a romance with Grace and Andrew for us to enjoy, but much more so, the suspense, faith elements, and the protection of children made this book excellent.
Thank you to Celebrate Lit, from which my digital copy hails. This review is my own and a positive review is never required.
There's a romance with Grace and Andrew for us to enjoy, but much more so, the suspense, faith elements, and the protection of children made this book excellent.
Thank you to Celebrate Lit, from which my digital copy hails. This review is my own and a positive review is never required.
April 29, 2022
Great read
As always, Robin has written a realistic, suspenseful tale with people who are easy to relate to. Love her writing!
As always, Robin has written a realistic, suspenseful tale with people who are easy to relate to. Love her writing!
January 6, 2022
Robin has done it again. It really is a page turner. The more you read the more you want to read. The story line is not a comfortable one but Robin handles it with compassion.
March 29, 2023
I'm totally hooked on this series and you can tell because I download the next as soon as I finish one. Ms. Patchen is a master story weaver and creates excellent suspense. Loved it.
May 21, 2025
So so good. Book 5 in this series. Plenty of suspense and I love the main characters in this Christian Suspense Series. I looking forward to #6.
January 13, 2022
Touching subject when it comes to abuse of children
The author has written and handled the subject very well
Good flowing plot, that catches your emotion from the beginning
Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
The author has written and handled the subject very well
Good flowing plot, that catches your emotion from the beginning
Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
May 9, 2022
3.5 stars. The writing was good, tension and romance. The themes were dark and disturbing. It ended happily, but the dark plot I found unsettling. Probably not unlikely, which is more distressing to think it might and possibly does happen.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 25, 2022
The story is not about a happy subject, in fact it is one that sickens me yet I’m glad the author wrote about it. We will never know how many children have been abused or exposed to pornography but this story shows us that it is out there. I applaud Grace for what she did. Would you be willing to risk jail, go on the run and leave everything behind to save a child? Grace never hesitated when she found out what was going on with Lily. Grace is fearful of strangers and doesn’t want to get close to anyone because she couldn’t risk her secret being discovered.
Andrew is a little suspicious of his new neighbor but senses there is a connection between them. He has his own problems to deal with. He has a strained relationship with his father, his past is not something he likes to share and his half brother seems to be his dad’s favorite. I liked that Andrew befriended Grace, although he knew she was hiding something. One of the best parts of the story is when Andrew finds out Grace’s secret. Not only is he angry because she has lied all these months to him, but learning that he can’t trust her shattered him. I thought it was interesting that for awhile he was more worried about being implicated in what Grace has done than helping her. This is a breaking point for both of them and the author uses this to help them both open up and finally be honest and let go of their past.
I could relate to Grace for two reasons. She had a hard time saying that she loves someone. Growing up my parents never once said they loved me so it has always been difficult for me to believe anyone would love a child who had been physically and emotionally damaged. Grace had no self worth and didn’t believe she mattered to anyone. Oh how I know that feeling so well. The moment she realizes how much she is loved by God brings the wall down around her. The author does an excellent of exposing lies that the enemy tries to use against us . Have you heard the saying, “if you see something say something?” That statement is perfect for this story. One person can make a difference.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Andrew is a little suspicious of his new neighbor but senses there is a connection between them. He has his own problems to deal with. He has a strained relationship with his father, his past is not something he likes to share and his half brother seems to be his dad’s favorite. I liked that Andrew befriended Grace, although he knew she was hiding something. One of the best parts of the story is when Andrew finds out Grace’s secret. Not only is he angry because she has lied all these months to him, but learning that he can’t trust her shattered him. I thought it was interesting that for awhile he was more worried about being implicated in what Grace has done than helping her. This is a breaking point for both of them and the author uses this to help them both open up and finally be honest and let go of their past.
I could relate to Grace for two reasons. She had a hard time saying that she loves someone. Growing up my parents never once said they loved me so it has always been difficult for me to believe anyone would love a child who had been physically and emotionally damaged. Grace had no self worth and didn’t believe she mattered to anyone. Oh how I know that feeling so well. The moment she realizes how much she is loved by God brings the wall down around her. The author does an excellent of exposing lies that the enemy tries to use against us . Have you heard the saying, “if you see something say something?” That statement is perfect for this story. One person can make a difference.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
January 20, 2022
Robin Patchen has taken a difficult subject and turned it into a must read page turner. Sexual child abuse in all forms is prevalent in our day. Look to be drawn into this storyline from the first few pages. Not all dad’s are loving. Here we have Grace, a woman who spent years in a children’s home because of a stepdad who wanted more than her mother. Then we have eight year old Lily, whose photographer ’daddy’ isn’t at all who he seems to be. Grace meets Lily and knows right away the little girl needs help, more than help …. she needs protection. However no one but Grace seems to notice. Grace makes a choice that will forever change her life … and little Lily’s life too.
Escaping, hiding, pretending to be someone you’re not isn’t easy, but that’s what Grace was forced to do if Lily was to be safe. They had to stay on the run, change identities and try to act normal, all the while being stalked by a sexual predator.
As you read, you’ll see Grace’s fears and feel her insecurities, and they run deep. But don’t underestimate her strength. She may feel unloveable and she may think she can’t love …. but God intervenes. She meets Andrew, who himself has family issues. But between the two of them, little Lily finally is safe in the arms of her true family, a grandmother that loves her as well as aunts, uncles and cousins.
There is drama, lots of drama. There are twists and turns, but in a world where evil can be hidden, sometimes in plain sight, emotions will run high.
📚Below are a couple of excerpts from the book:
➦ “What kind of man shoves a kid into a windowless room like that?” he demanded. Grace swallowed hard. “One who only thinks about himself and his needs. A narcissistic psychopath.”
➦ “But the hole was filling, mostly thanks to God, Who’d held her close and whispered truth into her ears—truth about who she was and Whose she was. About her gift, her value, and how He loved her.”
I was provided an advance copy of this book and am leaving my personal thoughts and opinions.
Escaping, hiding, pretending to be someone you’re not isn’t easy, but that’s what Grace was forced to do if Lily was to be safe. They had to stay on the run, change identities and try to act normal, all the while being stalked by a sexual predator.
As you read, you’ll see Grace’s fears and feel her insecurities, and they run deep. But don’t underestimate her strength. She may feel unloveable and she may think she can’t love …. but God intervenes. She meets Andrew, who himself has family issues. But between the two of them, little Lily finally is safe in the arms of her true family, a grandmother that loves her as well as aunts, uncles and cousins.
There is drama, lots of drama. There are twists and turns, but in a world where evil can be hidden, sometimes in plain sight, emotions will run high.
📚Below are a couple of excerpts from the book:
➦ “What kind of man shoves a kid into a windowless room like that?” he demanded. Grace swallowed hard. “One who only thinks about himself and his needs. A narcissistic psychopath.”
➦ “But the hole was filling, mostly thanks to God, Who’d held her close and whispered truth into her ears—truth about who she was and Whose she was. About her gift, her value, and how He loved her.”
I was provided an advance copy of this book and am leaving my personal thoughts and opinions.
March 31, 2022
I applaud Ms. Patchen for not only addressing such a horrible topic but omitting the gory details.
Sometimes it’s not a bad thing to stick our proverbial nose in where it doesn’t belong. This book throws down the gauntlet, challenging us all to stick our noses in. To step out of our comfort zone. To make us aware, even, that it’s happening all around us.
Sometimes doing the wrong thing is actually doing the right thing. [SPOILER]
Grace was securely tucked away in her cocoon, removed from heartache and risk. And her life purpose. Until Lily. Grace took up the challenge and stepped way outside her comfort zone.
[SPOILER]
Ms. Patchen takes the reader deep into the turmoil of Grace’s situation. Exposes the struggle in her heart—fighting not to love the little girl she has come to care for so dearly. Resisting even when Lily says, “I love you.” Raising the stakes, one terrifying nuance at a time. Lulling Grace into pseudo comfort. Then spilling a new hair-raising detail into the fray.
Andrew proved to be an anchor for Grace, and for Lily. Extending not just neighborly assistance, but personal care and concern.
My own heart raced as—well, there is just so much of this story that just can’t be fully expressed in this review. Let me just say this is a book you will not want to put down!
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Touch of Innocence, Robin Patchen, Coventry Saga, Celebrate Lit Publicity
Sometimes it’s not a bad thing to stick our proverbial nose in where it doesn’t belong. This book throws down the gauntlet, challenging us all to stick our noses in. To step out of our comfort zone. To make us aware, even, that it’s happening all around us.
Sometimes doing the wrong thing is actually doing the right thing. [SPOILER]
Grace was securely tucked away in her cocoon, removed from heartache and risk. And her life purpose. Until Lily. Grace took up the challenge and stepped way outside her comfort zone.
[SPOILER]
Ms. Patchen takes the reader deep into the turmoil of Grace’s situation. Exposes the struggle in her heart—fighting not to love the little girl she has come to care for so dearly. Resisting even when Lily says, “I love you.” Raising the stakes, one terrifying nuance at a time. Lulling Grace into pseudo comfort. Then spilling a new hair-raising detail into the fray.
Andrew proved to be an anchor for Grace, and for Lily. Extending not just neighborly assistance, but personal care and concern.
My own heart raced as—well, there is just so much of this story that just can’t be fully expressed in this review. Let me just say this is a book you will not want to put down!
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Touch of Innocence, Robin Patchen, Coventry Saga, Celebrate Lit Publicity
March 22, 2022
This is a good romantic suspense. The suspense is presented well with Grace being hunted by the man from whom she rescued a child. How he managed to follow her was an innovative idea, unexpected but entirely realistic. The villain is portrayed as relentless, obsessed. He is truly creepy and evil. I saw Grace as having mixed character. Even though she had professionally helped others, she struggled with her own unresolved feelings of failure. She has an unusual gift. While not typically listed as something Christian, I have known people with a penetrating insight into one's character, similar to Grace's abilities.
There are so many issues woven into the plot. The main one is thought provoking. What would I do to protect a child I was convinced was in a very harmful situation, especially when there is no recourse from the police? Another issue concerns men dealing with acceptance from their fathers. Another is being willing to love, even when there is potential for great hurt. And finally, there is the struggle to ultimately realize that, though we may think we can save someone, only God can do so.
There is a good deal of suspense near the end. There is also a sufficient amount of relationship issues, including misunderstandings, in the budding romance between Grace and Edward. Be sure to have a tissue ready when you come near to the touching end. Patchen is a prolific author and I was glad to see she has maintained her creativity in writing an engaging novel.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
There are so many issues woven into the plot. The main one is thought provoking. What would I do to protect a child I was convinced was in a very harmful situation, especially when there is no recourse from the police? Another issue concerns men dealing with acceptance from their fathers. Another is being willing to love, even when there is potential for great hurt. And finally, there is the struggle to ultimately realize that, though we may think we can save someone, only God can do so.
There is a good deal of suspense near the end. There is also a sufficient amount of relationship issues, including misunderstandings, in the budding romance between Grace and Edward. Be sure to have a tissue ready when you come near to the touching end. Patchen is a prolific author and I was glad to see she has maintained her creativity in writing an engaging novel.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
April 17, 2022
I loved this book. It’s so good. Lily is just the sweetest little girl. And Grace is quite the character herself. I have read this whole series so this was great adding onto it. I think you could read them out of order but of course, I recommend you read them as a series. If you want to just hop in on this one you can. It will make sense, but you won’t have the backstories. And I personally love a good backstory.
Okay so. What can I tell you about this story without giving it away?
Grace has a gift. Or a curse. She’s not sure what to call it. But when she touches people she knows what they are. She knows if they are good or bad. It’s like a feeling or seeing or something but it’s something she’s struggled with her whole life.
Through this gift, she knows what little Lily has seen and done. And by doing that she knows that she has to save her. But somehow Lily’s father is always step by step with them. She has no idea how or why but she’s hoping they have finally gotten ahead of him.
Can Grace let herself trust? Can she allow herself to touch others without remembering the bad that has happened to her from when she did open her heart and her mind?
I loved getting to know Grace and Lily is a doll. You’re going to love this book. It will keep you on your toes and make you have to read just one more page.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
Okay so. What can I tell you about this story without giving it away?
Grace has a gift. Or a curse. She’s not sure what to call it. But when she touches people she knows what they are. She knows if they are good or bad. It’s like a feeling or seeing or something but it’s something she’s struggled with her whole life.
Through this gift, she knows what little Lily has seen and done. And by doing that she knows that she has to save her. But somehow Lily’s father is always step by step with them. She has no idea how or why but she’s hoping they have finally gotten ahead of him.
Can Grace let herself trust? Can she allow herself to touch others without remembering the bad that has happened to her from when she did open her heart and her mind?
I loved getting to know Grace and Lily is a doll. You’re going to love this book. It will keep you on your toes and make you have to read just one more page.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
January 18, 2022
Touch of Innocence
By Robin Patchen
Robin Patchen has done it again with another great book. This is book 5 in the Coventry Saga. It’s always so wonderful to catch up with some old friends from past Coventry Saga books. One of the friends you’ll get to catch up with is Cassidy from Glimmer in the Darkness book number one. I’m so happy that Andrew Middleton from book three Trace of Virtue finally gets to share his story. You can read the books in order or they can be read as standalone. I personally would recommend reading, Trace of Virtue first just to get a glimpse into Andrew’s life.
Grace Mullen is a child psychologist, who’s living in a secluded cottage. One day Grace meets a very shy 8-year old named Lily. On one of Lily’s visits she draws a picture that leads Grace to believe something isn’t right at home. Then she meets Lily’s father and his character seems to confirm her suspension. Suddenly, Lily’s in danger and Grace makes a snap decision to take Lily and flee.
Grace and Lily move to Coventry, NH where she meets her handsome landlord Andrew Middleton. Andrew is drawn to his beautiful neighbor. As they get settled in, Lily is blossoming in her new surroundings and Grace is starting to enjoy being in a community.
As they get comfortable, Lily’s father is never far from Grace’s mind. She knows he’s not going to give up his perfect muse.
This book is full of twist and turns! It keeps you guessing and it keeps you turning the pages.
Robin Patchen did a wonderful job handling such a tough subject of child pornography.
I highly recommend this book!
By Robin Patchen
Robin Patchen has done it again with another great book. This is book 5 in the Coventry Saga. It’s always so wonderful to catch up with some old friends from past Coventry Saga books. One of the friends you’ll get to catch up with is Cassidy from Glimmer in the Darkness book number one. I’m so happy that Andrew Middleton from book three Trace of Virtue finally gets to share his story. You can read the books in order or they can be read as standalone. I personally would recommend reading, Trace of Virtue first just to get a glimpse into Andrew’s life.
Grace Mullen is a child psychologist, who’s living in a secluded cottage. One day Grace meets a very shy 8-year old named Lily. On one of Lily’s visits she draws a picture that leads Grace to believe something isn’t right at home. Then she meets Lily’s father and his character seems to confirm her suspension. Suddenly, Lily’s in danger and Grace makes a snap decision to take Lily and flee.
Grace and Lily move to Coventry, NH where she meets her handsome landlord Andrew Middleton. Andrew is drawn to his beautiful neighbor. As they get settled in, Lily is blossoming in her new surroundings and Grace is starting to enjoy being in a community.
As they get comfortable, Lily’s father is never far from Grace’s mind. She knows he’s not going to give up his perfect muse.
This book is full of twist and turns! It keeps you guessing and it keeps you turning the pages.
Robin Patchen did a wonderful job handling such a tough subject of child pornography.
I highly recommend this book!
January 12, 2022
When Grace Mullen becomes aware that her 8-year-old neighbor girl, Lily, is being exploited and used in child pornography by her step-father, she is desperate to rescue this child to the point of taking her and fleeing with her across the country. The child's mother has disappeared, and Grace searches in vain for any family members while she poses as a foster parent. She rents a condo across from Andrew Middleton who becomes acquainted with them and then becomes suspicious; so many things aren't adding up. But Grace and Lily are being followed by the step-father she is trying to elude, and the danger is quickly escalating. When Andrew discovers Grace has lied to him, he is furious, as he was coming to love both her and Lily and his feelings were reciprocated. What now--can he trust her again? Can Grace learn to accept love? And then before anything can be settled between them, his worst fears are realized--Grace and Lily are missing. Andrew and his friends join together to find them, but will they find them in time to prevent a tragic outcome? This is a very fascinating book with an insightful look, although not graphic, into the horrific practice of pornography and its devastating effects. This is a terrific, although intense, book which I highly recommend.
April 4, 2022
Touch of Innocence chronicles one woman’s quest to protect a child at all costs. Grace used to help people, but when something terrible happens, she moves away and sequesters herself in the cabin. She avoids all contact, especially touching others’ hands. But when 8-year-old Lily shows up at her cabin, Grace refuses to let the girl’s father Myron hurt her anymore.
The two wind up running away and trying to stay ahead of Myron. Meanwhile, Andrew seeks to start over after being wrongfully imprisoned. He sets out to rebuild his relationship with his father. When his father reaches out and asks for his assistance, Andrew sets out to try to help him.
Meanwhile the paths of Andrew, Grace, and Lily collide. Andrew finds himself falling in love with Grace. The two set out to find Lily’s family for her. Meanwhile, Myron sets out to ensnare Grace and Lily in his trap. This romantic suspense novel kept me reading until the very end. I love the masterful way Robin Patchen creates characters and storylines that draw the readers into her books. The suspense builds throughout this book with emotions running high as I read it.
So if you enjoy novels filled with suspense and gentle romance, check out this book for yourself. I definitely recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy o
The two wind up running away and trying to stay ahead of Myron. Meanwhile, Andrew seeks to start over after being wrongfully imprisoned. He sets out to rebuild his relationship with his father. When his father reaches out and asks for his assistance, Andrew sets out to try to help him.
Meanwhile the paths of Andrew, Grace, and Lily collide. Andrew finds himself falling in love with Grace. The two set out to find Lily’s family for her. Meanwhile, Myron sets out to ensnare Grace and Lily in his trap. This romantic suspense novel kept me reading until the very end. I love the masterful way Robin Patchen creates characters and storylines that draw the readers into her books. The suspense builds throughout this book with emotions running high as I read it.
So if you enjoy novels filled with suspense and gentle romance, check out this book for yourself. I definitely recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy o
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