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With Me in the Storm

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If she escapes her past, can she survive the storm to come?

Maddie's California dream-turned-nightmare is a perfect storm of abuse, trafficking, and unwanted pregnancy. She sees only one way out, until a network of strangers offers a solution that could save her life and her baby's.

But escaping back to Minnesota hinges on Chris, the fiancé she rejected for the drug dealer who now owns her. After all she's done, is it too much to hope Chris will perform this generous act of love?

And what if love isn't enough to protect Maddie when a deadlier storm closes in?

270 pages, Paperback

Published September 19, 2022

2 people are currently reading
28 people want to read

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Karen E. Ingle

1 book9 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
Profile Image for Kristina Hall.
Author 19 books431 followers
April 16, 2023
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Maddie, Chris, Tricia, and the rest of the characters pulled me into this novel. I found them all to be sympathetic, relatable characters and enjoyed seeing them grow over the course of the story.

Suspense, action, and a developing romance kept me reading right along. The tough topics presented in this novel were handled thoughtfully, and I appreciated the pro-life theme. I was also glad that Karen Ingle kept both the romance and the language clean.

Overall, With Me in the Storm was a thought-provoking read that I'd recommend to those who enjoy Christian fiction and romantic suspense. I'm looking forward to Karen Ingle's next book!
Profile Image for Susan.
28 reviews1 follower
September 15, 2022
When I picked up With Me in the Storm, the action pulled me in from the first page, and I had a really difficult time putting it down. However, as good as the action was, for me it was the characters that carried the story. These well-developed characters are people I could know, and I quickly came to care about them – what was happening to and around them, how they would deal with the challenges and set-backs, how things would wrap up in the end.

There are a few things this story is not. It is not cookie-cutter with easily predicted actions, reactions, and outcomes. It is not preachy. It is not filled with perfect people who always make the right decisions and take the right actions. It is a believable story with real people who are doing their best in challenging situations. Sometimes they get it right the first time, but it is those times that they don’t that make them relatable.

I am thrilled to recommend With Me in the Storm. However, I would suggest that you do not start reading it late in the day – unless you are in a position to stay up late reading, because this book is difficult to put down once you start.
1 review1 follower
September 15, 2022
With Me in the Storm captured my attention in the first pages and kept it throughout. I volunteer with an organization committed to helping human trafficking victims navigate a healthy path from victim to survivor. I have become much more aware that human trafficking is not a problem that is “out there” – it’s “here”. This issue is tackled in an engaging and gracious way. This compelling novel weaves together stories of the characters and the fascinating ways in which their paths come together. My only disappointment was reaching the end and having to leave behind the characters who had become “friends”. I will be reading With Me in the Storm again!
Profile Image for Jola.
76 reviews8 followers
November 8, 2024
(2024) I just finished re-reading this book while attending SD Literature and Latte's. Again, i found the book hard to put down, and i was pulled into the story, compelled to do what I can to help women in similar situations. Thank you, Karen E. Ingle!

(2022) I read quite a bit, and I can’t think of any book like this, but if you like Dee Henderson and Irene Hannon, you’ll like Karen E. Ingle. I love her characters. My favorite parts are when Maddie, our young woman trapped in human trafficking with a pregnancy to “take care of” is treated with great care and dignity by my besties, Tricia, Paloma and Avery, women who know how to help women in crisis. And, once the story takes off, even if you do manage to put this book down, it stays with you. The plot is compelling, and the tension seems real. The only drawback was I WANT MORE!! The ending left me in tears!
1 review
September 18, 2022
I normally do not read fiction, but this book had me hooked from the first chapter. The story and the characters jump off the pages and send you on an emotional ride! This book brings to the surface the true to life horrors that woman who are caught in sex trafficking experience, but it offers light and hope in the midst of darkness! Highly recommended!
Profile Image for Charity.
603 reviews81 followers
March 21, 2023
Ok, before I even start this review, I need you to go add this to your cart. I'll wait.

Got it?

I was hooked from the first line. I did NOT want to put this book down, and was put through the whole gamut of emotions. I was so furious at points, literally on the edge of my seat, terrified, heart breaking. Listen. I was so engrossed that I forgot to take notes. Completely forgot about quotes. Before I could even type this in, I had to go blow my nose (sorry for the visual) and clean up my tears.

Ugh. I'm not doing this book justice. Please. Just go add this to your cart right. now. Don't even wait for the free shipping. Just order it.

~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
Profile Image for Jan C..
Author 1 book2 followers
September 17, 2022
Maddie never meant to get into this mess, but now she’s trapped. This well-written story had me rooting for the main character right from the start. As she flees from betrayal and abuse, Maddie learns through flawed friends and kind strangers that even our worst mistakes don’t have to define us. Between the suspenseful twists and its relatable characters, I loved this book and couldn’t put it down.
1 review
September 18, 2022
I love Christian fiction (with elements of truth), and while not all books draw me in, this one did. I could not put it down. Maddie’s situation and how she ended up there was so sad, but the story of redemption that was revealed with time gave hope in a dark world, both for Maddie and the reader. Looking forward to hearing more from this author!
3 reviews
September 16, 2022
With Me in the Storm is a quick read, simply because you won't be able to put it down. From the suspenseful opening scene in chapter 1, I was captivated.
The author delicately and tactfully covers such difficult subjects as human trafficking, drug abuse, an unexpected pregnancy, and a prodigal heart. The story is masterfully woven with believable and endearing characters. I found myself wanting to emulate several of the older women.
And while I sometimes felt I could predict an outcome, each new twist resolved itself unexpectedly .
I look forward to more from Karen E. Ingle.
Profile Image for Heather Smith.
2 reviews
September 3, 2022
I was truly blessed when I read this redemptive story. To know it is not just a feel-good, make-believe story, but is a compilation of many young women's stories who have been in similar situations makes this read so relevant in the world. I highly recommend this book.
231 reviews
September 19, 2022
I will start this review with a disclaimer: This is not my genre of choice. My usuals are Theology, Military History, Science, and Medicine, but definitely not Christian Romantic Suspense. To be honest, until this book, I did not even know that category existed. With that said, I truly liked this book. A lot!
One of my reading rules is that a book must catch me in the first chapter. If not, there are too many good books in the world to waste my time on a slow starter. This book is not one of those. From page one I was pulled into the narrative and then pulled along until the final sentence where, I might add, I found myself wiping away tears (Yes, I’m a guy who gets emotional with good books! Get over it!)
The character development is outstanding, and the plot lines were clear enough to follow without getting lost, but complicated enough to hold my attention as the author kept the surprises coming. I also found this book to be technically accurate in the areas of medicine and law enforcement. As a retired deputy I watch for those details.
The book deals with all too real and all to current issues of drugs, human trafficking, abortion, and does so in a way that shows these situations are not all hopeless and the victims are not all helpless. Help is out there. The only thing I did not like in the book was the presence of a “bad cop.” This too is an unfortunate fact of life, but one that was dealt with well in the narrative.
I do have one burning question for the author: What happened with Maddie and Chris? Is there going to be a Maddie and Chris and Lucas sequel? I need some closure here!
9 reviews
September 19, 2022
I enjoy reading Christian romance and “With Me in the Storm” captivated my heart and kept me turning pages, as it swept me off my feet and into the lives of Maddie, her friends and those helping her through the gale of a storm, in her life. My heart was left beating fast different times throughout reading this novel. The author told this story in a very believable manner in how such events could have taken place. I haven’t read a lot of suspense romance, but would highly recommend this novel to others.
Profile Image for Christine Steffens.
52 reviews
September 18, 2022
Emotionally powerful!
By the end of the first chapter you are completely invested in the characters and their outcomes. The roller coaster of emotions you experience reminds you of the importance of even just One can affect so many lives. A must read for all!
1 review2 followers
September 17, 2022
I was curious (and quite honestly, dubious!) how a romantic suspense fiction novel would address difficult, “real life” topics like sex trafficking and unwanted pregnancy in a believable way. However, I was hooked on the very first page and couldn’t put it down!
This book tells Maddie’s harrowing story in a gripping, yet heartwarming way, all while sensitizing the reader to the many layers of ongoing trauma and healing that are needed for victims of trafficking.
The author also paints a fascinating picture of how healing happens within the broader scope of the Body of Christ. While each part does it’s beautiful, albeit sacrificial work, MUCH good is brought out of a very bad situation. This book inspired and changed me. Highly recommend!
2 reviews1 follower
September 15, 2022
This book had me at the edge of my seat especially in the beginning. I was hooked....and then I didn't want to put it down. The author paints a picture that is easy visualize this dramatic sequence of events. You will have to keep your A game on, and think clearly however, as the dialogue scene goes from one series of events to another throughout the book. The title gives way to a great adventure as the book is so based on--and as our own lives as well...With Me in the Storm! A must read!
Profile Image for Amanda  H.
834 reviews54 followers
February 23, 2023
This is the first book that I have read by Karen Ingle and I must say, it is an excellent read! I thought that she did a wonderful job of writing about some difficult situations, with there being sex trafficking, unwanted pregnancy, and regrets on past choices. The characters are well written and it feels like you really get to know them as the story progresses. I really appreciated the message of hope found in this story.
I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.
Profile Image for Susan.
28 reviews1 follower
September 15, 2022
When I picked up With Me in the Storm, the action pulled me in from the first page, and I had a really difficult time putting it down. However, as good as the action was, for me it was the characters that carried the story. These well-developed characters are people I could know, and I quickly came to care about them – what was happening to and around them, how they would deal with the challenges and set-backs, how things would wrap up in the end.

There are a few things this story is not. It is not cookie-cutter with easily predicted actions, reactions, and outcomes. It is not preachy. It is not filled with perfect people who always make the right decisions and take the right actions. It is a believable story with real people who are doing their best in challenging situations. Sometimes they get it right the first time, but it is those times that they don’t that make them relatable.

I am thrilled to recommend With Me in the Storm. However, I would suggest that you do not start reading it late in the day – unless you are in a position to stay up late reading, because this book is difficult to put down once you start.
Profile Image for Carrie Meyers.
3 reviews1 follower
October 1, 2022
I’ve not read another book that gave me as many wonderful “chills” as this novel did! Maddie’s heartbreaking story gripped me from page one. The heroes who appear throughout this story, helping this young woman on her journey, are extraordinary characters in that each one is simply living out his or her passion and conviction, resulting in an incredible network of support for the young Maddie. The cries for help, the answered prayers… I believe the reason this book brought about so many “chills” is that it is possible for ALL readers to find a place in this story! Inspiring read! I look forward to more from this author!
Profile Image for Meagan Myhren-Bennett.
Author 29 books162 followers
February 20, 2023
With Me in the Storm
By Karen E. Ingle
She made a mistake, she trusted the wrong person and is trapped in a world she doesn't control. The man she trusted now controls her life and she is a commodity. If she doesn't end the life of her unborn baby today she will pay for it - possibly with her life.

Reaching out for help will take a courage she had lost years ago. And starting over even more. And admitting the mistake she made to the people who knew and cared for her before she turned her back on all that she had, almost impossible to imagine. The ugliness that she has been part of could turn them against her.

With Me in the Storm is a book that takes the reader into the life of someone who has been caught in the web of trafficking. Lies, manipulation, and a cycle of abuse have trapped Maddie in a life she doesn't want to live. But knowing what she has been a part of makes her feel as if she has no choice but to continue living it, all the while trapped in the web she unwittingly allowed herself to be drawn into when she was at a low point in her life.

What Maddie has been caught in is not portrayed on the page but rather alluded to so the true depth of humiliation and cruelty isn't graphically portrayed. But the reader gets an idea of what she has been through as she slowly reveals just how low her misplaced trust has taken her. But we also are offered a glimpse of how those who she left behind have suffered from her mistake.

This book looks at difficult topics - sex trafficking, drugs, abortion- and offers hope to those who have been trapped in it. But there needs to be a hand ready to reach out and offer help to those who want to escape. I found it interesting how Maddie was living life amongst others who looked with envy at the life they thought she was living. Maddie was controlled and manipulated into thinking she was optionless. In a way, her unwanted pregnancy saved her life, it gave her the chance to get away from her abuser - her handler. But leaving this life behind is more than walking out a door and this book does address that and just how difficult it truly is.

The story while difficult, is presented in a way so that the reader is drawn into it. This is a Romantic Suspense but it is also a story of second chances and new beginnings. It also offers hope that it is never too late to change. But it also warns one of the far reaching tendrils of the darkness that have trapped so many within its grasp. Overall I'd say this was a well-written story that entertains while sharing a difficult message that all should be aware of because anyone could easily find themself in a similar situation because of a single choice or misplaced trust. In my opinion this book, though written for an adult audience, could be read by teens who are in need of the cautionary warning this book offers. This would also make a great community read because there can never be too much awareness.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own

** Of note there are contacts in the back of the book to help people to get help or aid others in the effort to stop trafficking. **
Profile Image for Connie Hill.
1,881 reviews47 followers
February 23, 2023
With Me in the Storm is written by Karen E. Ingle. This is the first book that I have read by this author and it will not be my last. The author has crafted a beautiful story of a lost and broken woman, who lost site of God, to find herself in the darkest of situations to a story of restoration and redemption. This book does deal with drug dealing and human trafficking. The author does a phenomenal job in shining a light to dark areas.

Maddie finds herself pregnant and scared. Her drug dealing boyfriend/pimp tells her to get rid of it or he will get rid of her and she is so scared and broken. She starts dialing numbers for assistance and gets Tricia the executive director of the Dos Almas Pregnancy Center. Tricia recognizes the fear in Maddie's voice and helps her make some connections to escape.

Zach is a scary dude. He is used to getting his way and will hurt women to do it. Maddie is terrified of him. He is a very dangerous drug dealer and human trafficker. When he finds Maddie gone - he manipulates her only friend to telling him where she is.

This story drew me in within the first few pages. I did not want to stop reading. I could relate to so much of this story. I was pregnant at a young age - while I was not a victim of trafficking I was not in a good situation. I actually stayed in a maternity home for unwed teen moms which was similar to Dos Almas. They were an amazing resource for those who chose life. So I felt Maddie's story.

The author has crafted a wonderful reminder that God forgiveness is for all. No matter what we have done in life, God will forgive. Thank you to the author, publisher and JustRead Publicity Tours for allowing me to read a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Becca Rae.
560 reviews38 followers
February 26, 2023
*3.5 stars
The author’s heart for women in domestic abuse and human trafficking was easy to spot right from the beginning. The style of writing made it nearly impossible to put the book down because I couldn’t help but need to know what happened next. Without spoiling, I have to admit that I couldn’t get over the likelihood of certain events that happened particularly in the beginning. I’m not sure if it was simply because they were rushed, under-developed, or if there was some other reason unexplained. Some of the content didn’t seem to add up for the danger of the situations, but then it seemed to turn up even hotter than expected in others. And in my opinion there were too many POV’s that were unnecessary. I wish my mind didn’t keep thinking about the likelihood about some of it, because really even though I kept thinking about it, I still couldn’t put the book down. I think it’s because while some of the content itself might not have added up… the hearts of the characters were impossible to miss. The trauma, the fear, the anger, the healing, and every other emotion they went through.. Human trafficking is no joke. It’s easy for people to think it doesn’t happen locally, but the truth is it can (and does) happen everywhere. One of my best friends works with a ministry that works to hep ladies escaping human trafficking. It’s a huge undertaking and stories like this can help not only call attention to the horrors of the reality, but the heroes who help them. Overall I did enjoy the read, and would be interested in reading more from the author again in the future.

*I received a copy of this book through JustRead Tours. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.
Profile Image for Katie Cundiff.
1 review2 followers
September 19, 2022
Page turner! So well written!
I love to read but don’t have time for a book that doesn’t grab me instantly and keep me eagerly coming back for more - this book checks both of those boxes. A suspenseful and emotional book that might require some tissues, but ultimately fills you with hope. A compelling story with themes and characters that could have been snatched from real life. I was unsure of the “romance” in the description, as I avoid romance novels as a rule, but there is just a smidge of romance-it rounds out the story well. If you have a heart for the vulnerable, especially those in need of rescue from trafficking and those in need of life affirming pregnancy resources, then this book needs to be on your “to read” and “to share” lists! The first step in helping with these huge issues is awareness. Read this book and spread the word!
3 reviews
January 7, 2023
Excellent and Captivating Read

I was pulled into this story immediately. It is written well and the subject matter is dead to my heart. Teaching those who have been used and abused by sex traffickers is something that is greatly needed in our world today. And babies are precious gifts that need to be protected. This is a story that will touch hearts and captivate all who read it.
Profile Image for Glenda Cates .
34 reviews158 followers
February 20, 2023
With Me In The Storm is a book that will capture you from the first word that once you begin reading you will not want to out down because its full of characters you want to get to know better. Christian Suspsense with Fiction thrown in touching on a subject of sex trafficking we all need to know more about and to make others around us aware of. I can't wait to see if this Author has written more books.
1 review1 follower
September 19, 2022
I enjoyed the main character, Maddy, as she was full of life throughout the book. Her transformation and backsliding is believable. I was on the edge of my seat in certain chapters and brought to tears in others. I thought the drug dealer was not as believable in certain instances but maybe that is exactly how it would be in today's world. I definitely saw the weaving of God.
1 review
December 14, 2022


Terrific! The suspense keeps going without “suspense-fatigue “. Happily there wasn’t syrupy romance, just real love and relationships. If you are a good-hearted man, read this story about a sex-trafficked woman who finds the help she needs. It will open your eyes.
1 review
September 19, 2022
An enjoyable and engaging read. The story moves fast and weaves together in some exciting ways!
Profile Image for Holly Larsen.
1 review
September 20, 2022
Excellent book!!! A page turner for sure and I love how real the characters are and how their lives merge. Highly recommend!!
Profile Image for Heather Weseman.
Author 1 book7 followers
July 14, 2023
This book was hard to put down. I work in a pregnancy center and the author got it right how things work there!!

I highly recommend!!
Profile Image for Jodi Haen.
12 reviews
September 20, 2022
I am someone who likes to read reviews and know is this a book I'm going to read? Is the person writing this review a real person who's actually read the book, or someone who's paid to write reviews.

Well I am a real person I wasn't paid anything but the ability to read this book! I had 0 expectations going in. Finishing it I'll be reading it again shortly!

This is an amazing book that takes you into the life of human trafficking, drugs, abuse, unexpected, and unwanted pregnancy, regrets, and the thought that there is no coming back, but there’s always hope.. This book sucked me in from beginning to end. I want to hear what happens next for Maddie, Chris, Lucas, Trish, and yeah even Jarvis.

As I've been writing this review I've been trying to think who is similar to this author. A mixture of suspense and romance definitely drama, I think Dee Henderson is close, maybe Samantha Price or Jeane Cooney, those are the first few that come to mind, and some authors I really enjoy. If you are anything like me reading this book will not be a regret of yours. I highly recommend it and I will be getting this for those in my life who enjoy a good book, and even better yet, I have a new favorite author!
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