An unexpected, late-night visitor. And a missing teenage girl.
Holly’s quiet evening at the investigative agency takes a curious turn when a frantic woman shows up on the doorstep after closing with a tale about a missing prostitute.
With JGH Investigations in financial distress, and a client who can’t afford their services, Holly decides to tackle this investigation on her own time. She soon learns, however, that this missing girl isn’t just missing—she’s been taken. Holly’s questions dredge up more danger than answers, and if she’s not careful, she might disappear just like the girl she’s trying to find, the girl some people believe is already dead.
Determined to keep Holly safe, Jordan joins the investigation, and together, they wade through a world of prostitution, wealth, and lies in search of the truth. But the truth is hard to find, when even the witnesses have secrets.
Note from the author: This is NOT intended to be a standalone novel. While you can understand it without reading the previous books, the experience will be richer and more enjoyable if you go into it with the backstory and relationship growth of the characters. If you're unsure where this book fits in, here is the reading order I recommend: Criss Cross (A Holly Novel) Winter Memorial Cross Fire (A Holly Novel) Crossed Off (A Holly Novel) Injustice for All (Seeking Justice) Holly Jolly Christmas (Seeking Justice) Imperfect Justice (Seeking Justice) Cross the Line (A Holly Novel)
Jesus and laughter have brought C.C. Warrens through some very difficult times in life, and she weaves both into every story she writes, creating a world of breath-stealing intensity, laugh-out-loud humor, and a sparkle of hope. Writing has been a slowly blossoming dream inside her for most of her life until one day it spilled out onto the pages that would become her first published book.
This book was so good, I read it a second time! Holly has to be one of my favorite heroines and Ms Warren one of my favorite authors. She writes Holly with such authenticity. Holly is a hurting soul who has gone through so much. She has her staunch team of mentor/friends behind her, but she just cannot seem to stay away from danger. A request for help finding Cami, a teen prostitute, brings Holly to the seedier side of life. Her compassion for the underdog means she will not turn away. “I have the same drive to protect people as the rest of you, and that is not gonna change because God made me sample sized.” Ms Warren does a superb job of tackling gritty situations while putting humor, faith and caring people into her stories. I am in awe of the descriptions and the scenes. They flow effortlessly. Nothing seems forced or gratuitous. Everything has a purpose and is effective in teaching lessons. She captures the right balance of suspense and humor along with compassion and caring friendships. I loved the cameo that included her wheelchair bound husband in a scene with Jace, Holly’s best friend. I am so glad another Holly novel is in the works. I cannot wait for Jordan to get past Holly’s defenses. Holly and crew just grab me and will not let go! * I received a complimentary ecopy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
Another excellent novel by C.C. Warrens! While technically the 4th in the Holly Novels series, this book does come after the events of the Seeking Justice series. Because there are a lot of spoilers from prior books included in this one, I definitely recommend reading the other Holly Novels and Seeking Justice novels before reading this one, even though the story in this one could potentially stand on its own.
Now that Holly is “safe” from the threats that had been tracking in the prior novels, she works with Jordan in his private investigation firm as well as doing freelance photography, which is how she was making ends meet at the beginning of the series. When Holly is at the PI office after hours working on photos and a knock comes at the door, she finds someone on the other side of the door that she knows needs her help. In true Holly fashion, she makes a few poor decisions in the guise of not wanting to bother anyone for help and finds herself in some sticky situations. This book was not as intense as the others in the Holly series, though it did still have some tense moments, but it still full of mystery, action, and of course humor and relationships. Fans of the series will be glad to see at least one relationship resolution in this book with promises of more on the horizon. I loved the growing dynamic between Holly and Marx, Holly and Jace, Holly and Jordan and it was good to see her healing from her past circumstances. This book also had a solid faith thread as Holly continues to love others because of Jesus. One of the things I love about these books is that Holly is a broken person and she loves other broken people and doesn’t try to be perfect before coming to Jesus, but allows Him to love her in her brokenness. I think that’s what makes her so appealing a character. That and her leaning towards mischievousness and her proclivity for sweets and not recognizing her own height deficiency. While I picked up these novels because I really enjoy a good suspense novel, it’s not just the storyline, but the characters that keep me coming back time and again for more. Holly worms her way into your heart – just like she did Marx, Jace, Jordan and Sam – and you can’t help but want to see more of what’s going on in her world. I would recommend this book and series to fans of suspense novels and novels with great character development.
Special thanks to the author for an advance e-copy of this novel. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
Another excellent story featuring the complicated characters we have grown to love: Holly, Marx, Jordan, Sam, and Jace. I love how this author does relationships at a reasonable pace and shows hardships and healing w/ realism and some humor. Hoping for many more books in this series :)
The first book was so good that the rest of this series seems to be failing to measure up. The best thing about this series is the found family.
At this point Holly is putting herself in these positions she upset me in this book 😭 The woman is hard headed, she doesn't listen and is very impulsive she doesn't think before she acts. She runs toward trouble despite her past traumas. I understand she has a heart for helping people but she loves putting herself in Compromising positions.
I was hoping her and Jordan end up together in this book but poor Jordan getting nowhere fast. Hopefully he can at least get a hug in the next book. I did enjoy the plot twist at the end of the story I did not expect that person to be the one responsible for everything.
I love all the books by C.C. Warrens I've read, and this latest offering is no exception. It was such fun revisiting some of my favorite characters, including Holly, Marx, and Jordan. I especially enjoy Marx's protective nature regarding Holly, but it was nice to see Holly allowing Jordan to take on that role to a certain extent in this book. Holly has come a long way from her traumatic past, and it's heart-warming to see her working through the pain and taking steps to healing.
Warrens has such a wonderful knack for addressing relevant, difficult topics in her stories while balancing the hard stuff with humor, which makes Cross the Line another to add to my favorites list!
I highly recommend this read if you enjoy Christian suspense.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book. A review was not required, and all thoughts are my own.
Now that Holly is free from her abuse she is working with Jordan in the detective agency when they come on a missing person. The woman is a prostitute and Holly must face her fears and go to the part of town that can be dangerous. When the case get heated will Jordan and Holly find a serial killer on the loose hurting prostitutes? Can they help without being a killed themselves? I really liked book 4 in the Holly novels. We are going to new places with Collin being in prison and I like the direction the book went. I still give this book a 5 stars and definitely recommend this whole series!!!
I loved being back with Holly again! Cross the Line is the fourth book in the series, and you NEED to read the first three books to have proper context. The Holly series follows a select group of individuals and is best read in order.
I had no idea there was going to be a fourth book in the series, I don't recall the third leaving off on a cliffhanger. However, I am thrilled that this book exists (and it does leave on a minor cliffhanger, so I expect there to be a book five!!).
Holly once again finds herself in danger through no fault of her own. She handles it like she does everything else, immediately jumping in with no thought of the consequences to herself. While she may be impulsive, she is not stupid and is determined to help Hope find her friend. Even in the midst of danger, Holly's spunk and determination shine through. While this could be a heavy read, Holly's mischievous spirit lightens things up.
This is one of my favorite series and I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys suspense with little to no romance in their novels. While this is Christian fiction, it is not preachy or intense. Holly mentions her faith a bit, and it talks of her praying, but again, it is not in your face.
Thank you to C. C. Warrens for providing an e-copy of this book. I am not required to provide a favorable review, but I am happy to do so. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review: To be honest, I feel crushed. I'm so sad that this series had to end, although I'm secretly hoping that CC Warrens will come out with a fifth. This series was absolutely fabulous. So well written, fast paced, hopeful, thrilling and gripping, heart racing. I have gotten attached to these characters as if they were real people 😅. I love the relationships these these characters had. I loved the dynamic of it all. I liked the plot lines and the characters and even new characters that passed through. It felt as if I was in the story. I don't know what else to say other than, wow! One of the best series I have read since mindf*ck. But this was totally opposite of course LOL. Not even in the same category. But still, this was well done, well written and I enjoyed every second.
Another great book from C.C. Warrens! The characters always come alive and you get swept away in the story. Cross the Line is another great mixture of suspense and humor. I really like the character of Holly. She always shows a strength through anything she deals with. She has a heart for other people despite what she has been through. I love how she finds the humor in any situation, even in the suspense. If you like a mystery this is the book for you. I was so sure I had this one figured out. Imagine my surprise when I read what to me was a jaw dropping twist. You do not want to miss this book!
I wish I could give this book and all her books at least a 10 star rating! C.C. Warrens is my favorite author! This book was so meaningful and touching. I plan to read it again soon! She has a way of bringing her stories and characters to life in ways few authors achieve. I truly feel like I am watching everything take place in detail and my mind rarely does that. Start with Criss Cross and work your way through all her books. Fair warning. Be prepared to stay up all night reading if you start in the evening!
This book, like all of C. C. Warrens books that I have read, was fantastic! She is an amazing writer! She has such a gift at reaching our every emotion in each book she writes! I appreciate how she can take emotional topics, heavy emotional things and mix them with laughter and always balance them out with faith! I recommend this book to everyone but encourage readers to start out with the first book in series to get the full understanding and love for each character!
I have been reading this series in the order that C. C. has suggested.....including the Justice series. I read when I go to bed and I just can't seem to quit reading. I have had many sleepy mornings going to work! As long as she keeps putting out the books I will keep reading.
I love to see Holly continue to grow, heal, and become stronger as she pursues the passion God has placed in her spirit even if it puts her in danger at times. The support and love from her family and friends is heartwarming. All the sleepless nights to read this series are worth it!
Can I just gush for s moment? I love these Holly Cross novels. This one was not as intense as the first two. But that is definitely ok. This book was a heartwarming respite that had me cracking ip more than once. I can’t help but love all the characters.
Thank you CC Warrens for keeping the expectations high and your story telling higher. Thank you for writing book series that get better with each book. These novels aren’t cozy mysteries but they handle gritty issues with grace and God.
I love Holly and the gang and to get to spend time with them again is such a blessing. Holly has gone through so much in her life but her steadfast faith in Christ is so refreshing and... simple yet not. That's what I love about her. Oh, she's up to her usual shenanigans. But I absolutely LOVE how she has moved on from her trauma. That doesn't mean that all is well and she's all healed up. I love how the author brings in her panic attacks, which are understandable and I would expect that. But Holly has chosen to trust the men around her. I love seeing her relationship with Jordan, second best friend according to best friend Jace. It's such a sweet relationship, where she's willing to trust him a little more so that he can cross the boundaries she's set up. And of course there is Marx, who is about to get married to his love. Holly has some anxieties about that but he is such a tender father figure to her. His lines had me tearing up more than anything else. Over all, I loved spending time with Holly and the gang. I was so sad to see the book end. So... I shall reread the first series lol. Thank you for some wonderful, exciting, clean entertainment. Here is one of those funny, sweet, and totally Marx and Holly moments: "Why is this thing so tiny?" He paused and glanced at me, and then muttered, "Never mind."
Absolutely phenomenal as always! CC knocks it out of the park with every book she writes and this one is no exception. I've loved Holly since the beginning, her quirkiness and her fire, CC does a wonderful job of bringing her characters to life and I'm happy to see her story continue after Collin. I had wondered when beginning this book if I'd be as "on the edge of my seat" as I usually am with a holly novel, I can assure you I was, we still find Holly getting into scrapes and getting stronger every day, I love seeing the faith aspects and faith getting shared through out the book and I can't let the review slide by without mentioning how much I adore Jordan, Marx and Mrs Marx! I love all the characters but Holly and those 3 just have a special place in my heart. Absolutely loved this one, it's a must read! I can't wait to see whats in store next for Holly and the crew
That hard rattling at the front door of Holly and Jordan's investigative agency in the dark of night? Just a very young girl scantily dressed and carrying broken stiletto heels, that's all . . . . that's all???? Of course trouble would come knocking when Holly was there alone, but we all know that she would never pass up a desperate plea for help, even if investigating Camilla "Cami" Chen's disappearance would take her straight into the most dangerous part of the city.
"I wasn't a licensed investigator, and I didn't know the first thing about navigating digital trails, but I was an excellent snoop."
It would take all of Holly's street smarts to arrive back home safely after her trip to Bushwick, but she did manage to return (barely) with clues that she didn't fully realize at the time that she had accumulated. Of course her business partner (and second-best friend )was frantic with worry, but even with Jordan's help, this story was destined from the beginning to become terribly complicated and a lot more dangerous.
Spending more time with these characters seems like a rare privilege, their diverse personalities and wide ranging life experiences fit together so perfectly, forming a ring of support around Holly that she so desperately needs. The humor! It's so refreshing. And the faith elements! They are everywhere just waiting to be discovered, for yes, "God always comes through".
It felt so good to be back with Holly, Jordan, Marx and the rest of the gang. I truly didn’t know how much I missed them until I started this novel. Then it felt like I was home again with my favorite characters!
Holly is a trouble magnet with the largest heart I know! And because of that, she keeps Jordan, Marx and Sam constantly in high anxiety. This story started out like a homecoming for me and then got so interesting and intense that I had a hard time putting it down.
I highly recommend this novel. It deals with tough subjects of human trafficking, prostitutes and abuse, but the author deals with it with such compassion. This is a clean novel, no bad language, of course with the subject matter—sex is involved but nothing explicit. A mild Christian message because some of the characters are Christians and they live what they believe.
Read the whole series. This is basically a stand-alone, but so much is mentioned of previous events and back-story, you really need to read the others to get the full appreciation of the characters. You won’t regret one word of all these novels. I’ve read all of them twice with the exception of this one that just came out, but I’m sure I’ll read it again
Another incredible page turner from C.C. Warrens! If you’re at all a fan of suspense and haven’t picked up the Holly series, please do yourself a favor and start this Summer! I’m pretty sure you’ll blow through all the books within a very short amount of time. C.C. Warrens has built an incredible world full of amazing characters and depth. You won’t be able to put them down.
This is book four of five, so I don’t want to say too much and risk giving away points regarding the previous stories. I will say that I really enjoyed the plot of this one and while this is VERY much a Christian fiction novel, it doesn’t shy away from tough topics such as prostitution. As always, the faith elements are fantastic. Holly has a heart and determination to serve and protect. She sees a path to redemption in people who others would easily turn their back on. She may be small in stature, but Holly is fierce and sassy and will fight for what’s right in a world full of brokenness.
Plenty of heart pounding chaos and as well as tender moments that might just make you tear up. One of the best series I’ve ever read!
*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
Cross the Line by C.C. Warrens hit it out of the park. This is the first time we get to see Holly apart from the fear of her obsessive foster brother, and it’s a wonderful new side of her. As we endured the pain with her, we get to heal with her—Holly style, which includes inserting herself in more dangerous situations to help the less fortunate. As always, the book touches on hard topics and it causes you to think, not being a light read but rather a book that challenges you—which is the point of books. It will walk you through situations most of us can’t imagine and cause you to see your life through a different lens. It does what a good book does: it changes you. It’s a fantastic and engaging story with a great plot, beyond endearing characters, and an ending that leaves you clinging to the book, wishing there was more. Five out of five stars. Thank you Mrs. Warrens for another brilliant installment…and I’m sending up prayers there will be more to come.
Wow! This story was full of action and suspense, with some fun relational moments mixed in. I love CC Warrens writing. She packs so much into her books. I haven’t read the first few books in this series, but now I’m definitely going back to read them all. Holly gets into the most interesting (and sometimes life-threatening) situations. In this story, we get a glimpse of the hard life some individuals have, when life throws them to the ground. It shows just what they may have to resort to so they can survive. CC Warrens paints pictures of what life is like on the streets, and what we as people need to be aware of. She doesn’t sugarcoat her stories. If you love books that will keep you spellbound until the very end, then this is one for you! I highly recommend you put this book up and read it. I was given this book by the author which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Absolutely loved this book. If you haven’t read the rest if the Holly Books I would recommend it before you read this one. It will give you a better picture of just how far Holly has grown.
I am so glad we got to catch up in all our favorite characters in this book. Some characters I wish we spent more time with but this book is more about Holly coming out of her cocoon. Of course while she is building her courage it also lands her in some bad spots. I love watching her heal while helping others find their way too. The guys have to learn to let Holly find her own way but make sure she knows they are always there too. As always it is fun to anticipate their reactions when they find what new trouble Holly manages to find.
If I could I would give all of these books 10 stars. Looking forward to the next Holly adventure.
Cross The Line is a book I couldn’t wait to read. I love the characters in this book and their growth throughout the series. Each one is a unique person with their own quirks and personalities that add to the realism and depth of the stories. Holly and Jordan are hired to find a missing girl. The clues are few at first, but Holly is determined to help despite what danger may be lurking in the shadows. This is a well written story with a great message of family and faith in the face of danger. It also deals with the consequences of trauma and how important it is to have a support system in place filled with people you can trust. I highly recommend this book and if you haven’t yet read the Holly series or Seeking Justice series, now is the time to start at the beginning with the first book so you become more intimately related to the characters.
Once again, I was up all night reading c.c. Warrens book! It had a lot of twist and turns and kept you guessing throughout. I loved the name 'Hope' that the author gave one of the main characters of this book. I think that is really what this particular book speaks loudly.... That no matter how far you may have fallen, or what disgrace you may be living, there is hope and a way out. Also, I loved the way the book speaks to the two different ways we as Christians view those living a sinful life. She also brought in the very real truth that even Christians can be tempted and fall if they entertain worldly ideas and go where they shouldn't, do what they shouldn't. The other books did not disappoint, (They are a must read to get the full impact of this book). I thoroughly enjoyed reading this series and am hoping there is more of it to come!
I absolutely, 100% loved this book! I was thrilled to be able to continue Holly's story. The way Imperfect Justice ended, I wasn't sure if C.C. Warrens was planning to continue writing stories about Holly, and Marx, and Jordan, and Jace, and Sam. When I learned that Cross the Line was in the works, I was so excited. I was even more excited to be chosen to be on C.C. Warrens ARC Team, so I could read the book as soon as I could. Each of these books have been a roller coaster of emotions, and this newest book was not any different. There wasn't as much in the heart breaking, devastation department as some of the other books, but this was definitely a thriller and very suspenseful at times. But the humor was there (especially in the interactions between Holly and Marx, and Holly and Jordan), just like it was in all the other books. I was constantly laughing out loud, causing my family to glance my way in concern. And I highlighted so many hilarious encounters. But there was definitely a serious side as C.C. Warrens was dealing with the topic of prostitution (so, yeah, probably not a book for teens). But the love of Christ shines through. Holly is Holly, and we see her thinking about others instead of herself, and heading into danger, even when told not to. If you've read the previous books, you know what I mean. And let me say, if you don't like spoilers, make sure to read all the previous books first so you are caught up with the story. And yes, that includes the novellas and the Seeking Justice books. If you love thrillers, and twists and turns and misdirection, you'll love C.C. Warrens' Holly books, and this one is just as awesome. Thanks to the author for the chance to read an advanced reader copy. I was not required to write a favorable review.
Once again CC Warren does not disappoint her readers with a another suspense-filled story that will keep you on the edge of your seat, while simultaneously laughing out loud throughout at the frequent uniquely witty, comedic relief dialogue that goes on among her lovable characters! I've never read a book where I can be scared one moment, and then feel warm and cozy at the endearing interactions between the lovable main characters that Warren is so good at bringing to life. The dialogue is so believable and real. You will love this book so much and make sure to read the first three in the series first so you know exactly what is going on in this specific book.
C.C. Warrens has done it again! This, the fourth book of the A Holly Novel series, is my favorite so far! Holly continues to overcome her trust issues with the help of Marx, her surrogate dad, while being thrown in the midst of terrifying situations!…at times of her own making. Her heart is huge and she continues to try to help people with no care of putting herself in harms way. With so many wonderful characters, an on the edge of your seat plot and an ending that leaves you wanting more, this is a must read! Thank you C.C. for the opportunity to read in advance. My opinions are my own.