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In the Midst #2
In the Midst of the Darkest Hour
She’s running from her past. He’s seeking vengeance. When their worlds collide, will they be able to forge a future together? Or will their secrets keep them apart? After disappearing for two years, Lily Cooper returns home broken and pregnant, carrying secrets that will only hurt those she loves. Burying them deep inside, she focuses on creating a future for her child.
Six years later, Lily’s life finally has a semblance of normalcy. Her past is concealed, and her son, Levi, is the light of her life. But when her heart gets entangled with handsome FBI agent Malcolm James, secrets come bubbling to the surface.
After years as an FBI agent, Malcolm James has turned away from God and built walls of steel around his heart. Until Lily Cooper. Her quiet strength and strong faith draw him to her, cracking the walls.
As secrets come to light, they discover their pasts are more intertwined than they knew. Their trust in one another shatters, leaving them picking up the pieces.
When danger strikes Lily and Levi, will Malcolm find the strength to forgive? Or will he allow anger and hurt to harden his heart once again?
In the Midst of the Darkest Hour is book two of the In the Midst Series. It can be read as a stand-alone. Content This book may be difficult for some readers. Themes of human trafficking, while not graphic or shown on-page, are dealt with, along with mentions of forced abortion and rape.
Six years later, Lily’s life finally has a semblance of normalcy. Her past is concealed, and her son, Levi, is the light of her life. But when her heart gets entangled with handsome FBI agent Malcolm James, secrets come bubbling to the surface.
After years as an FBI agent, Malcolm James has turned away from God and built walls of steel around his heart. Until Lily Cooper. Her quiet strength and strong faith draw him to her, cracking the walls.
As secrets come to light, they discover their pasts are more intertwined than they knew. Their trust in one another shatters, leaving them picking up the pieces.
When danger strikes Lily and Levi, will Malcolm find the strength to forgive? Or will he allow anger and hurt to harden his heart once again?
In the Midst of the Darkest Hour is book two of the In the Midst Series. It can be read as a stand-alone. Content This book may be difficult for some readers. Themes of human trafficking, while not graphic or shown on-page, are dealt with, along with mentions of forced abortion and rape.
334 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 7, 2023
30 people are currently reading
583 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
March 16, 2023
How can I even write a review for this book?!😭🥰
This is the most amazingly tender and precious Christian suspense novel ever! I know it might seem strange to mix tender and precious with suspense, but you'll understand when you read the book.
I'd been anticipating this book ever since getting a sneak peek in the back of In the Midst of the Storm. Mac had definitely become a favorite character in that first book and I couldn't wait to see how his and Lily's story would play out.
And it was everything I could have hoped for and more. The development between them, the painful pasts they both carried, the suspense of when everything was going to go awry and the big show down appear...it all had me tapping to turn those digital pages like crazy. Again, I devoured Sexton's book in 4 nights because I just couldn't not!!
While there is deep, deep content on human trafficking, rape and such, it was handled delicately and realistically from a Christian viewpoint and was quite enlightening and terrifying to think of what people go through in this horrid industry. I never once felt uncomfortable with the way the author tackled the topics though, and that was much appreciated. She used it as an incredible way to show the power of God's redemption, that there is hope and healing, and happiness can be renewed.
It was so sad the way Lily thought she was ruined and nobody could love her, but Malcolm and Olivia and all the family were such amazing supporters and showed her the unconditional love of God. Forgiveness is a key element through the story too.
I also enjoyed the single mother trope and the fighting and self-sacrificing love Lily had for Levi. It was so sweet and endearing.
And I have to say...I have never been so emotionally wrecked by a first kiss. It was the most tender, precious thing ever. Like Mac...ahhh. I've just been reduced to a puddle. He was so considerate and understanding of Lily's needs. Man, the feelings were so real and I went through every emotion with these characters. I felt like I was a part of their life.
Oh, and I have to say Don is totally a favorite side character who has stolen my reader heart. Dare I hope he gets a story somehow? 🤭 The bond between him and Mac was also something I really liked in the story.
In closing, an all around astounding book I'll not soon forget and was once again filled with inspiring quotes that touched my heart and I had to highlight. Would definitely read again and cannot wait for the next in the series! I'm clearing my reading schedule for then right now. Haha!
This is the most amazingly tender and precious Christian suspense novel ever! I know it might seem strange to mix tender and precious with suspense, but you'll understand when you read the book.
I'd been anticipating this book ever since getting a sneak peek in the back of In the Midst of the Storm. Mac had definitely become a favorite character in that first book and I couldn't wait to see how his and Lily's story would play out.
And it was everything I could have hoped for and more. The development between them, the painful pasts they both carried, the suspense of when everything was going to go awry and the big show down appear...it all had me tapping to turn those digital pages like crazy. Again, I devoured Sexton's book in 4 nights because I just couldn't not!!
While there is deep, deep content on human trafficking, rape and such, it was handled delicately and realistically from a Christian viewpoint and was quite enlightening and terrifying to think of what people go through in this horrid industry. I never once felt uncomfortable with the way the author tackled the topics though, and that was much appreciated. She used it as an incredible way to show the power of God's redemption, that there is hope and healing, and happiness can be renewed.
It was so sad the way Lily thought she was ruined and nobody could love her, but Malcolm and Olivia and all the family were such amazing supporters and showed her the unconditional love of God. Forgiveness is a key element through the story too.
I also enjoyed the single mother trope and the fighting and self-sacrificing love Lily had for Levi. It was so sweet and endearing.
And I have to say...I have never been so emotionally wrecked by a first kiss. It was the most tender, precious thing ever. Like Mac...ahhh. I've just been reduced to a puddle. He was so considerate and understanding of Lily's needs. Man, the feelings were so real and I went through every emotion with these characters. I felt like I was a part of their life.
Oh, and I have to say Don is totally a favorite side character who has stolen my reader heart. Dare I hope he gets a story somehow? 🤭 The bond between him and Mac was also something I really liked in the story.
In closing, an all around astounding book I'll not soon forget and was once again filled with inspiring quotes that touched my heart and I had to highlight. Would definitely read again and cannot wait for the next in the series! I'm clearing my reading schedule for then right now. Haha!
February 22, 2023
Wow 😭♥️ I may actually love Lily and Malcolm more than Olivia and Will.
The characters literally leap off of the page and pull you into this whirlwind story. I love the pacing. I flew through this book because everything had me wanting to finish just one more chapter. I literally read it while doing household chores because I needed to know what happened next. I cried in my kitchen (making dinner and trying to read 😂) reading Lily's POV thinking about her past and how ashamed she was and afraid to tell her parents. I thought about the book for days after I finished, wondering what I would have done if I were in Lily's place. I just uuugghhh LOVE THESE BOOKS SO MUCH! The raw emotion in this book is perfect. I literally can't get over it!
Similarly to ITMOTS, the rating has a tiny spoiler in it that won't really give anything away.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Faith: strong and beautiful, with characters growing closer to God throughout the story.
Romance: a few kisses and lots of tension/lingering looks.
Violence: human trafficking, mention of rape and forced abortion, trauma resulting from rape, and kidnapping.
The characters literally leap off of the page and pull you into this whirlwind story. I love the pacing. I flew through this book because everything had me wanting to finish just one more chapter. I literally read it while doing household chores because I needed to know what happened next. I cried in my kitchen (making dinner and trying to read 😂) reading Lily's POV thinking about her past and how ashamed she was and afraid to tell her parents. I thought about the book for days after I finished, wondering what I would have done if I were in Lily's place. I just uuugghhh LOVE THESE BOOKS SO MUCH! The raw emotion in this book is perfect. I literally can't get over it!
Similarly to ITMOTS, the rating has a tiny spoiler in it that won't really give anything away.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Faith: strong and beautiful, with characters growing closer to God throughout the story.
Romance: a few kisses and lots of tension/lingering looks.
Violence: human trafficking, mention of rape and forced abortion, trauma resulting from rape, and kidnapping.
March 7, 2023
So I started this book just to read a chapter or two before getting up to do something else. Did that work? Nope. Immediately, I was completely engulfed in Lily's world, and now I've finished the book.
This is only Latisha's second book, and as much as I liked her first one, which just released in January, I think, this one is written in a much more sophisticated way than her debut. Ok. Not gonna lie. This one is head and shoulders above her first. And I gave her first one 4 stars!
I just. I can't quite pull my thoughts together yet. I was in the midst (see what I did there?) of everything in this story. Lily's fear is palpable, and I was sweating, heart racing right along beside her. I BAWLED throughout the book. My heart was pounding, I was on the edge of my seat, and I was kept guessing until the end.
The way God's forgiveness was woven all through the book was a breath of fresh air. Friends talking to friends about God and His forgiveness. His grace. Unapologetically, which is how it should be.
And the suspense??? WHEW!!! Listen. If you like suspense, if you like Christian fiction, you need to read these books. These are books that will have a place on my physical shelves.
Whoa. This has turned long. Obviously I loved this book.
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own, and no positive review was required.~
This is only Latisha's second book, and as much as I liked her first one, which just released in January, I think, this one is written in a much more sophisticated way than her debut. Ok. Not gonna lie. This one is head and shoulders above her first. And I gave her first one 4 stars!
I just. I can't quite pull my thoughts together yet. I was in the midst (see what I did there?) of everything in this story. Lily's fear is palpable, and I was sweating, heart racing right along beside her. I BAWLED throughout the book. My heart was pounding, I was on the edge of my seat, and I was kept guessing until the end.
The way God's forgiveness was woven all through the book was a breath of fresh air. Friends talking to friends about God and His forgiveness. His grace. Unapologetically, which is how it should be.
And the suspense??? WHEW!!! Listen. If you like suspense, if you like Christian fiction, you need to read these books. These are books that will have a place on my physical shelves.
Whoa. This has turned long. Obviously I loved this book.
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own, and no positive review was required.~
March 12, 2023
This is worth all the hype. This book was everything.
Moments of comic relief and light, sweet romantic moments, lovely family moments and a lot of heart wrenching moments as well. Latisha Sexton does not shy away from the horrors of this fallen world as she tackles the tragedies of sex trafficking, abuse, etc… and the questions we find ourselves struggling with as believers in the midst of all of that.
And yet she still weaves the hope and truth that we can find in Christ and His Word, and she has done it not only beautifully but honestly.
I could not help but cry a lot during certain moments in this book, because it paints a very real picture of what others might have or certainly have gone through. And yet there’s still hope. There’s still light.
Now not all of this book will make you cry, I promise! You will certainly have fun watching these characters leap off the page and interact with each other. The friendships, the families, the faith in this book just warmed my heart so much and made me feel like I could spend hours and hours with these characters even after I finished reading!
This book was a bit of an eye opener to me and definitely brought even more awareness to me about sex trafficking and how it can happen. I appreciate it and love the author’s note and resources shared as well.
Highly recommend to those who love Christian romantic suspense. In The Midst of The Darkest Hour is perfect for those who love sweet but gritty Christian fiction!
I received a free advanced reader's copy from the author. I was not required to give a positive review and all opinions expressed here are my own.
Moments of comic relief and light, sweet romantic moments, lovely family moments and a lot of heart wrenching moments as well. Latisha Sexton does not shy away from the horrors of this fallen world as she tackles the tragedies of sex trafficking, abuse, etc… and the questions we find ourselves struggling with as believers in the midst of all of that.
And yet she still weaves the hope and truth that we can find in Christ and His Word, and she has done it not only beautifully but honestly.
I could not help but cry a lot during certain moments in this book, because it paints a very real picture of what others might have or certainly have gone through. And yet there’s still hope. There’s still light.
Now not all of this book will make you cry, I promise! You will certainly have fun watching these characters leap off the page and interact with each other. The friendships, the families, the faith in this book just warmed my heart so much and made me feel like I could spend hours and hours with these characters even after I finished reading!
This book was a bit of an eye opener to me and definitely brought even more awareness to me about sex trafficking and how it can happen. I appreciate it and love the author’s note and resources shared as well.
Highly recommend to those who love Christian romantic suspense. In The Midst of The Darkest Hour is perfect for those who love sweet but gritty Christian fiction!
I received a free advanced reader's copy from the author. I was not required to give a positive review and all opinions expressed here are my own.
August 24, 2023
Ohhhhhh… y’all! I thought book one in this series was an intense ride toward the end. But In the Midst of the Darkest Hour had my heart in my throat for nearly the whole book! Not just because of the suspense thread either, though that was responsible for some of it, to be sure. No, I hardly dared to breathe in large part from all the emotion that swirls through these pages, including a few twists that had me gasping out loud. This is not an easy read, but it’s an important one because it raises further awareness of something we all need to pay more attention to.
We met Lily (Will’s sister) and Malcolm (Olivia’s brother) in In the Midst of the Storm, and I was hoping we’d get their stories. I didn’t realize, however, until I picked up book two that their stories (plural) would really be their story (singular) or what a beautiful and heartwrenching journey it would be. Many times I brushed away tears over Lily’s history – over what kept her from home for so long, over what brought her home, and over what just might destroy her romance with Malcolm before it really has a chance to flourish. Some of these moments also took me by complete surprise, even though I had an inkling of where the storyline was going… but I was woefully unprepared for how it would affect my emotions.
Speaking of emotional… oh my goodness. Malcolm’s faith journey nearly undid me with its layers and exquisitely-drawn feelings. The author did such a phenomenal job of writing these scenes in such a way that took us inside his grieving heart without feeling inauthentic alongside his ‘big, strong, FBI Agent’ personality. And his interactions with Levi? Oh be still my heart. Totally unfair to make me shift my allegiance from Will to Malcolm like that haha.
Bottom Line: In the Midst of the Darkest Hour by Latisha Sexton is simultaneously overflowing with heartache and hope. It’s not a pretty story, per se. Nor an easy one. But it IS a supremely tender look at brokenness and restoration, one that will linger in your heart for quite some time. Like book one, the suspense is pitch perfect and will take you through a roller coaster of tension and twists. The romance between these two cautious hearts is beautifully written with swoony kisses and sweet affection, and I am still thinking about the characters. If you love Susan Sleeman, Christy Barritt, and Jessica R. Patch, then you absolutely must pick up the In the Midst series by Latisha Sexton!
Reviewer’s Note: Readers may want to be aware that there are references to human trafficking, forced prostitution, rape, and forced abortion in this book. They are written with lots of tact and grace, but I realize it still may be triggering to people who have experienced any of the above.
(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I read via Kindle Unlimited.)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
We met Lily (Will’s sister) and Malcolm (Olivia’s brother) in In the Midst of the Storm, and I was hoping we’d get their stories. I didn’t realize, however, until I picked up book two that their stories (plural) would really be their story (singular) or what a beautiful and heartwrenching journey it would be. Many times I brushed away tears over Lily’s history – over what kept her from home for so long, over what brought her home, and over what just might destroy her romance with Malcolm before it really has a chance to flourish. Some of these moments also took me by complete surprise, even though I had an inkling of where the storyline was going… but I was woefully unprepared for how it would affect my emotions.
Speaking of emotional… oh my goodness. Malcolm’s faith journey nearly undid me with its layers and exquisitely-drawn feelings. The author did such a phenomenal job of writing these scenes in such a way that took us inside his grieving heart without feeling inauthentic alongside his ‘big, strong, FBI Agent’ personality. And his interactions with Levi? Oh be still my heart. Totally unfair to make me shift my allegiance from Will to Malcolm like that haha.
Bottom Line: In the Midst of the Darkest Hour by Latisha Sexton is simultaneously overflowing with heartache and hope. It’s not a pretty story, per se. Nor an easy one. But it IS a supremely tender look at brokenness and restoration, one that will linger in your heart for quite some time. Like book one, the suspense is pitch perfect and will take you through a roller coaster of tension and twists. The romance between these two cautious hearts is beautifully written with swoony kisses and sweet affection, and I am still thinking about the characters. If you love Susan Sleeman, Christy Barritt, and Jessica R. Patch, then you absolutely must pick up the In the Midst series by Latisha Sexton!
Reviewer’s Note: Readers may want to be aware that there are references to human trafficking, forced prostitution, rape, and forced abortion in this book. They are written with lots of tact and grace, but I realize it still may be triggering to people who have experienced any of the above.
(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I read via Kindle Unlimited.)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
April 16, 2023
Wow
This was a super intense, yet worthwhile read. So much darkness, but Sexton used the darkness to shine the bright light of God's love. It did go into a fair amount of detail, so if human trafficking is a trigger, this will be a difficult read. What is rightfully a horrific, terrible subject could have weighed the story down, yet I finished it with hope instead.
I'm still processing what I read, so I may or may not add to this review eventually, but definitely read it.
This was a super intense, yet worthwhile read. So much darkness, but Sexton used the darkness to shine the bright light of God's love. It did go into a fair amount of detail, so if human trafficking is a trigger, this will be a difficult read. What is rightfully a horrific, terrible subject could have weighed the story down, yet I finished it with hope instead.
I'm still processing what I read, so I may or may not add to this review eventually, but definitely read it.
March 13, 2023
In the Midst of the Darkest Hour is the best kind of story—highly readable, keeps the reader engaged, yet also packing a powerful punch of truth and hope. The topic is heavy, but Sexton does a good job of balancing heartbreak and hope. As with the first book in the series, the side characters are well-developed and engaging without stealing the show.
June 20, 2024
Y'all... she's done it again! I can not commend Latisha enough for her realistic, raw, and faithfilled stories. Oh, and did I mention wickedly suspenseful? Good gravy! I listened to it on audible (which was fantastic btw), and I was at a point where I said, "Alright, things are going to well... crap is about to hit the fan." Then low and behold a terrible blow that then leaves you in knots and needing to read the rest of the book so you know how it turns out! I love both the male and female main characters as you watch them grow and heal from their grief and terrifying past. God's Grace is for all and is sufficient for all if one only believes and puts their faith in Christ. Amen and Amen!
If you can't tell, I highly recommend this read. Go read it! Or at the very least at it to your TBR list (but make sure you move it up the line). 😉
If you can't tell, I highly recommend this read. Go read it! Or at the very least at it to your TBR list (but make sure you move it up the line). 😉
March 7, 2023
Laitsha Sexton is a new, powerful voice in Christian romantic suspense. In the Midst of the Darkest Hour is the second book in the In the Midst series and it packs a powerful punch. In this story, the author doesn’t shy away from difficult topics such as sex trafficking, abortion, affairs, sexual assault, and murder. While she’s respectful to reader sensibilities and doesn’t go into nitty gritty details, she paints a vivid picture of what it would be like to go through these very real, horrific situations. But, along with the heavy subject matter, is a beautiful message of hope, forgiveness, and love. She also manages to lighten the suspense with humor, romance, and sweet friendships. It’s a second chance suspenseful love story that will keep you turning those pages with endearing characters you’ll want to cheer for.
Lily Cooper has gone through the unimaginable. Forced into sex trafficking, she barely escapes with her life. Six years later, she’s returned home and born a son who is her world. She’s resigned herself to a single life after what she’s gone through, but Malcolm aka “Mac” changes all that. Malcolm’s sister is marrying Lily’s brother, so this makes for lots of opportunities to get to know each other. As they grow closer, Lily thinks she might finally be able to fall in love, but her past has a way of coming back to haunt her.
Malcolm James is an FBI agent whose past is littered with regret. He’s lost his faith and blames himself for the loss of a previous love. The feisty, strong Lily has a way of getting under his skin. Her mysterious past draws him to her. But, when her secrets may have links to his past, he must decide if their relationship is worth fighting for.
Lily and Malcolm have a sort of enemies to lovers vibe that really works well in this story. Their relationship naturally progresses from antagonistic to friends, to more. I loved Malcolm’s tenderness towards Lily. She’s been through the worst imaginable yet he accepts her and offers her that unconditional love she’s yearning for. Lily is so beaten up over her past and blames herself. She’s ashamed to tell her family and friends what happened to her. I loved her growth during the story as she opens up more and recognizes her infinite worth.
The entire book is fast-paced and full of suspense. Lily is constantly looking over her shoulder as the bad guys who kidnapped her are still out there, and you feel this tension throughout the book. The last few chapters are nail-bitters! It was impossible to put down.
Highly recommend this book to those who like realistic, more edgy Christian romantic suspense. Though it’s the second book in the series, it can be read as a standalone. Although, I highly recommend reading the first book in the series. The author also includes a list of helpful resources at the end of the story. Looking forward to more books by this author! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
Lily Cooper has gone through the unimaginable. Forced into sex trafficking, she barely escapes with her life. Six years later, she’s returned home and born a son who is her world. She’s resigned herself to a single life after what she’s gone through, but Malcolm aka “Mac” changes all that. Malcolm’s sister is marrying Lily’s brother, so this makes for lots of opportunities to get to know each other. As they grow closer, Lily thinks she might finally be able to fall in love, but her past has a way of coming back to haunt her.
Malcolm James is an FBI agent whose past is littered with regret. He’s lost his faith and blames himself for the loss of a previous love. The feisty, strong Lily has a way of getting under his skin. Her mysterious past draws him to her. But, when her secrets may have links to his past, he must decide if their relationship is worth fighting for.
Lily and Malcolm have a sort of enemies to lovers vibe that really works well in this story. Their relationship naturally progresses from antagonistic to friends, to more. I loved Malcolm’s tenderness towards Lily. She’s been through the worst imaginable yet he accepts her and offers her that unconditional love she’s yearning for. Lily is so beaten up over her past and blames herself. She’s ashamed to tell her family and friends what happened to her. I loved her growth during the story as she opens up more and recognizes her infinite worth.
The entire book is fast-paced and full of suspense. Lily is constantly looking over her shoulder as the bad guys who kidnapped her are still out there, and you feel this tension throughout the book. The last few chapters are nail-bitters! It was impossible to put down.
Highly recommend this book to those who like realistic, more edgy Christian romantic suspense. Though it’s the second book in the series, it can be read as a standalone. Although, I highly recommend reading the first book in the series. The author also includes a list of helpful resources at the end of the story. Looking forward to more books by this author! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
February 24, 2024
Ahhh, what a story!
I adore Mac… so much! Ever since Olivia’s story I knew he’s be a special one. True, he’s a bit of a burnt cinnamon who’s been through the wringer. But he’s very protective of those he cares about, including Lily and Levi.
My heart broke for Mac & Lily. Both had been through so much. (Human trafficking & SA are a huge part of the storyline.) But the beautiful message of learning to live without guilt and shame because of Jesus was so well done! 😭
I adore Mac… so much! Ever since Olivia’s story I knew he’s be a special one. True, he’s a bit of a burnt cinnamon who’s been through the wringer. But he’s very protective of those he cares about, including Lily and Levi.
My heart broke for Mac & Lily. Both had been through so much. (Human trafficking & SA are a huge part of the storyline.) But the beautiful message of learning to live without guilt and shame because of Jesus was so well done! 😭
March 24, 2023
What I love about Latisha Sexton’s romantic suspense books is the romance takes front stage. And I’m all about the love story. Don’t get me wrong. There’s plenty of suspense and though I had my suspicions about some things, she held onto those details for a good long time. And by then I was so invested in these characters that there was no way I could stop reading. I loved getting a glimpse of Will and Olivia from the last book too. I really loved Lily and Malcolm and the wounded pasts they were healing from and how they encourage each other that with God’s help, they could overcome. The beginning is tough. It’s sad to think that those kinds of things actually happen in this world. There aren’t perfect answers but this story shows there is always hope and a way forward when we lean on God for strength. Lots of romance and even more faith—another great book in this series.
I was given an early copy of this book and I agreed to leave an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I was given an early copy of this book and I agreed to leave an honest review. All opinions are my own.
February 21, 2023
This book is 🔥🔥🔥! Bold is the word that comes to mind with this story. As so many women have experienced different forms of sexual abuse plus the horrific side of sex trafficking that is rampant in our countries today this book, although fiction, portrays so much truth to what some have been through. The love story is so sweet as many walls need to be broken down between both characters as they learn how to love and trust each other. I love stories that point us to the importance of accepting the forgiveness and grace that Jesus gives us with his death on the cross in order to offer that to others and be able to move forward in a healthy way. There’s romance, suspense, and mystery all throughout, so who wouldn’t be sucked in!? I feel extremely honored to be apart of this ARC team.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2023
I really empathized with Lily and Malcolm as they struggled with the pain, trauma, and difficulties of their past, including shame, guilt, and blaming themselves for the wrongs committed against them and the losses they've suffered. Their griefs and hurts weren't contrived or cheesy, and the way they dealt with those problems felt realistic. It was easy to root for them (and for them to cling to the truth of Jesus and to His Word) as they fell in love, grew as characters, and fought the forces of evil in this heart-wrenching book! I think you will absolutely love this book. I found myself relating to Lily and her shame over her past as well as how she overcame that with the truth written in the Bible.
thank you to the author for my ARC; all opinions are mine
thank you to the author for my ARC; all opinions are mine
February 20, 2023
I absolutely loved being able to read Lily and Malcolm’s story. They were introduced in In the Midst of the Storm, so if you haven't read that book, I'd really recommend reading it first. Lily is a good friend of Olivia's and Will’s sister. Malcolm (Mac) is Olivia's brother. He is an FBI agent and between what he's seen and what he's personally experienced has turned away from God. Lily has a past that had been teased but no details given in the first book. Though she remains faithful to Christ, and even helps and encourages Olivia in book one, she has a lot of baggage that we finally get to discover in book two.
As much as I enjoyed the first book, I truly love this book more. I do love that we get a continuation of Olivia and Wills story, though it is in the background of Lily and Malcolm’s story.
The first book deals with a stalker while this one deals with human trafficking and the effects it has even after a woman escapes the horror.
Unlike the first book where we weren't sure who the stalker was for sure, it is evident a lot sooner (though not too soon) who the bad guy is and part of the suspense is wondering when and how he's going to impact Lily's life again.
I really appreciated the spiritual truths. Here are some of the passages that stood out to me.
“But God was just. God was loving, even when things didn’t seem that way. And God was a God of redeeming forgiveness.” And then the question that haunted both Malcolm and Lily, “But God couldn’t want him after all he’d done. Could he?”
Then the reminder, “’You’ve been living with this burden when all you have to do is look to the cross. God, in His sovereign grace, doesn’t make us wait for heaven to be made new. As soon as we are saved, He gives us freedom from our sins. Run to the cross, Mac. God’s grace is big enough to cover it all.’”
I enjoyed watching both Mac’s and Lily’s spiritual journey and growth.
There was just the right amount of suspense and there was nothing too graphic.
Definitely a book I recommend.
I received this book for free from the author as a part of the launch team and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own, honest thoughts.
As much as I enjoyed the first book, I truly love this book more. I do love that we get a continuation of Olivia and Wills story, though it is in the background of Lily and Malcolm’s story.
The first book deals with a stalker while this one deals with human trafficking and the effects it has even after a woman escapes the horror.
Unlike the first book where we weren't sure who the stalker was for sure, it is evident a lot sooner (though not too soon) who the bad guy is and part of the suspense is wondering when and how he's going to impact Lily's life again.
I really appreciated the spiritual truths. Here are some of the passages that stood out to me.
“But God was just. God was loving, even when things didn’t seem that way. And God was a God of redeeming forgiveness.” And then the question that haunted both Malcolm and Lily, “But God couldn’t want him after all he’d done. Could he?”
Then the reminder, “’You’ve been living with this burden when all you have to do is look to the cross. God, in His sovereign grace, doesn’t make us wait for heaven to be made new. As soon as we are saved, He gives us freedom from our sins. Run to the cross, Mac. God’s grace is big enough to cover it all.’”
I enjoyed watching both Mac’s and Lily’s spiritual journey and growth.
There was just the right amount of suspense and there was nothing too graphic.
Definitely a book I recommend.
I received this book for free from the author as a part of the launch team and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own, honest thoughts.
February 28, 2024
I absolutely loved Malcom & Lily's heartbreakingly beautiful, intense, sweet, caring, forgiving, loving, redemptive, swoony story!!
January 10, 2024
Oh my goodness this book. I don't even know how to sum it up in this review other than everyone needs to read it. There are books that you read that you can quickly forget, but this one will be with me for a long while.
Latisha expertly uses her talents to weave a tale of heartache, despair, anger, and grief, but she shows that through Christ there is hope to be found even in the darkest of circumstances. She shows that though we may not ever forget the hard things we go through it doesn't ever define how Christ sees us. No one should ever have to go through what her characters have, but it is happening every day. I'm so proud of Latisha for using her talents to spread light on a topic that so many shy away from.
Her characters are real, broken and in many ways drowning in the darkness. But I love that we get to see their journey back to the light, back to Christ and find love in that process. I love that she shows that when it is true love there is so much more than attraction. There is forgiveness, there is patience, there is hope, and there is strength together. These couples aren't perfect and yet they are perfect for each other.
I loved this duology so much and can't wait to see all that Latisha has in store in her writing career!
If you are looking for a couple books that give you hope when you feel there is none, love when you feel unlovable, and peace in the storm try these books out.
Physical Intimacy Lvl 2 (Non descriptive longer kisses)
Zero Swearing
Multiple POV
Triggers: topics such as prostitution, rape, forced abortion, etc. These topics do not go into detail but it isn't shied away from either.
Latisha expertly uses her talents to weave a tale of heartache, despair, anger, and grief, but she shows that through Christ there is hope to be found even in the darkest of circumstances. She shows that though we may not ever forget the hard things we go through it doesn't ever define how Christ sees us. No one should ever have to go through what her characters have, but it is happening every day. I'm so proud of Latisha for using her talents to spread light on a topic that so many shy away from.
Her characters are real, broken and in many ways drowning in the darkness. But I love that we get to see their journey back to the light, back to Christ and find love in that process. I love that she shows that when it is true love there is so much more than attraction. There is forgiveness, there is patience, there is hope, and there is strength together. These couples aren't perfect and yet they are perfect for each other.
I loved this duology so much and can't wait to see all that Latisha has in store in her writing career!
If you are looking for a couple books that give you hope when you feel there is none, love when you feel unlovable, and peace in the storm try these books out.
Physical Intimacy Lvl 2 (Non descriptive longer kisses)
Zero Swearing
Multiple POV
Triggers: topics such as prostitution, rape, forced abortion, etc. These topics do not go into detail but it isn't shied away from either.
March 3, 2023
This is one tough book but so very well done! I loved reading Will and Olivia’s story in book one and I love Lily and Malcolm even more! This story takes you through quite the whirlwind and continues to point the characters to Christ in the midst of deep suffering. The ending was absolutely perfect and 1000% Lily I couldn’t have loved it more! Thank you Latisha, for braving such a tough story but putting it together so beautifully!
January 1, 2025
Triggers:
Abortions
Human trafficking
Lives unknowingly intertwined in one tragic event.
Strong Christian themes
"Edgy," hard topic
Things I loved:
Mac: kind, protective, patient. The way he connects with Levi and helps like overcome anxiety. He's proud of her and encouraged her all while learning from her ability to trust God. Mac has deep hurts and covered sins and learns of God's forgiveness.
Lily: strong, forgiving, brave. Lily overcomes secret tragedy to stand strong and protect Levi. She shows a great amount of continued growth and is learning God heals the broken hearted.
Olivia and Will's wedding
♥️“Surrender, Lily. Let God mend all those broken pieces of your heart. He’s the only One who can.”
♥️She gasped softly, her eyes wide. “You-you love me?” Chuckling, he pressed a kiss to her forehead. “With every fiber of my being and every beat of my heart. Is that really so hard to believe?”
Abortions
Human trafficking
Lives unknowingly intertwined in one tragic event.
Strong Christian themes
"Edgy," hard topic
Things I loved:
Mac: kind, protective, patient. The way he connects with Levi and helps like overcome anxiety. He's proud of her and encouraged her all while learning from her ability to trust God. Mac has deep hurts and covered sins and learns of God's forgiveness.
Lily: strong, forgiving, brave. Lily overcomes secret tragedy to stand strong and protect Levi. She shows a great amount of continued growth and is learning God heals the broken hearted.
Olivia and Will's wedding
♥️“Surrender, Lily. Let God mend all those broken pieces of your heart. He’s the only One who can.”
♥️She gasped softly, her eyes wide. “You-you love me?” Chuckling, he pressed a kiss to her forehead. “With every fiber of my being and every beat of my heart. Is that really so hard to believe?”
September 22, 2023
Latisha Sexton has taken a very revealing and realistic look into one of the most evil practices of our time, human trafficking, and shown us God's unfailing love and that redemption is there for us all.
Mostly, she shows us that God does not always remove us from bad situations but is ALWAYS there with us working on our behalf. He gives us what we need to make it through - not without scars - but always there is hope when we accept it.
Her characters are totally human and totally believable. Her ability to address this issue with grace and mercy through the horror of it is without a doubt divinely given to her by a gracious God.
Mostly, she shows us that God does not always remove us from bad situations but is ALWAYS there with us working on our behalf. He gives us what we need to make it through - not without scars - but always there is hope when we accept it.
Her characters are totally human and totally believable. Her ability to address this issue with grace and mercy through the horror of it is without a doubt divinely given to her by a gracious God.
October 27, 2025
Probably would have liked it more had I read the other books in the series first 🤭
Quotes I Liked:
“All this time, he’d lived with guilt over his sins. He lacked the faith to keep standing on God‘s promises when his world was crashing down around him. But God was just. God was loving, even when things didn’t seem that way. And God was a God of redeeming forgiveness.“
“You’ve been living with this burden, when all you have to do is look to the cross. God, in His sovereign grace, doesn’t make us wait for heaven to be made new. As soon as we are saved, He gives us freedom from our sins. Run to the cross. God’s grace is big enough to cover it all.”
“God has forgiven us. He’s washed us clean and when he looks at us, He doesn’t see our sins. All He sees is Jesus’s blood.”
Quotes I Liked:
“All this time, he’d lived with guilt over his sins. He lacked the faith to keep standing on God‘s promises when his world was crashing down around him. But God was just. God was loving, even when things didn’t seem that way. And God was a God of redeeming forgiveness.“
“You’ve been living with this burden, when all you have to do is look to the cross. God, in His sovereign grace, doesn’t make us wait for heaven to be made new. As soon as we are saved, He gives us freedom from our sins. Run to the cross. God’s grace is big enough to cover it all.”
“God has forgiven us. He’s washed us clean and when he looks at us, He doesn’t see our sins. All He sees is Jesus’s blood.”
January 23, 2025
Oh my heart..😭 I'm still processing everything I read. I knew from the beginning that this book would hit hard. Lily... my heart breaks for everything she had to endure😭💔one of my favorite quotes from her was this “You’re amazing, Lily.” “No. Christ is. There’s no way I could do any of this without Him giving me His strength.”
I loved Levi, he's a sweetie and is most definitely going to grow up to be a biker along side his Daddy🥲😆 Malcolm had gone through his own struggles, and although he strayed, I loved seeing him rediscover his faith.
I did guess most of the plot twists really early on, but it was still engaging to see everything unfold. Latisha's writing is incredible, and I'm definitely checking out more of her books now.
I loved Levi, he's a sweetie and is most definitely going to grow up to be a biker along side his Daddy🥲😆 Malcolm had gone through his own struggles, and although he strayed, I loved seeing him rediscover his faith.
I did guess most of the plot twists really early on, but it was still engaging to see everything unfold. Latisha's writing is incredible, and I'm definitely checking out more of her books now.
March 4, 2024
I flew through this book which is of Lily and Malcolm, whom we met in the first book of this series. Sexton addresses the topics of trafficking, rape, and more delicately and skillfully in this story.
Both Lily and Malcolm have deep hurts from their pasts. Malcolm, who has turned away from God because of a tragedy, questions how God can let bad stuff happen and must decide to stop running away from Him and start running to Him. Lily struggles feeling worthy after what she endured.
The story kept my attention, and I enjoyed the romance between the characters.
Both Lily and Malcolm have deep hurts from their pasts. Malcolm, who has turned away from God because of a tragedy, questions how God can let bad stuff happen and must decide to stop running away from Him and start running to Him. Lily struggles feeling worthy after what she endured.
The story kept my attention, and I enjoyed the romance between the characters.
June 16, 2023
In the Midst of the Darkest Hour doesn't shy away from addressing the hard realities that some face, but it meets them with the love and mercy of God. The characters are engaging. The plot has some twists and definitely kept my interest. There's a lovely HEA for our characters. Latisha Sexton is a new to me author, and I would definitely read more of her books and recommend this one to family and friends.
I got my copy through KU.
I got my copy through KU.
March 9, 2023
Goodness but this book will take you through an emotional wringer. It’s not a bad thing at all but I definitely felt like I was right in the middle of everything while I read. There was so much to unpack and explore throughout the story and Latisha did an excellent job of telling Lily’s story with just the right amount of detail needed without becoming overly descriptive. I loved this story of redemption for not just Lily and her family but for Mac as well. Each of them have some very real hurts and grief they needed to work through and we got to be there for it all. I couldn’t help but hurt, laugh, cry, swoon and happy dance right along with them. This story is one that takes you down to the very bottom of loss and pain and then brings you back up to joy, peace, forgiveness and love. Do yourself the biggest favor and get this fantastic book on your TBR. It will definitely be one you won’t soon forget.
I received this complimentary ARC from the author via BookFunnel. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
I received this complimentary ARC from the author via BookFunnel. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
March 16, 2023
Great second book from a local author! I can’t wait until the next one !
March 9, 2023
"You've been living with this burden when all you have to do is look to the cross"
Just how many times we want to look tough and make it seem that we don't need God?
And how we surrender not everything but just parts of our lives?
This book showed that you can experience real joy and freedom by surrendering your whole life to Christ.
I loved the first book, but this, In The Midst of the Darkest Hour, I loved it even more!
First chapters were heavy and there are times that while reading, I wanted to close my eyes. 😅
I enjoyed every everything, it was well written for me and the christian elements were not forced.
(Some trigger warnings: mentions of rape, abuse, human trafficking).
I highly recommend this book to everyone! 😊
Just how many times we want to look tough and make it seem that we don't need God?
And how we surrender not everything but just parts of our lives?
This book showed that you can experience real joy and freedom by surrendering your whole life to Christ.
I loved the first book, but this, In The Midst of the Darkest Hour, I loved it even more!
First chapters were heavy and there are times that while reading, I wanted to close my eyes. 😅
I enjoyed every everything, it was well written for me and the christian elements were not forced.
(Some trigger warnings: mentions of rape, abuse, human trafficking).
I highly recommend this book to everyone! 😊
April 3, 2023
Ok so I finished this book on March 8th…it’s taken me this long to write a review because wow. Just. Wow. This is the second book in the series In the Midst. Lily and Malcom’s stories separately are both raw, gripping and soul crushing. When you put them together you get all things lovely, healing and beautiful.
There is the perfect mix of suspense, romance and a very natural and poignant faith thread throughout the novel. The content is deep, but was handled so well that it wasn’t uncomfortable. I truly loved how real the characters where, they grew and developed at such a natural pace.
This book may be hard for some to read, it has off page: forced abortion, rape and human trafficking.
There is the perfect mix of suspense, romance and a very natural and poignant faith thread throughout the novel. The content is deep, but was handled so well that it wasn’t uncomfortable. I truly loved how real the characters where, they grew and developed at such a natural pace.
This book may be hard for some to read, it has off page: forced abortion, rape and human trafficking.
January 12, 2024
This book was really good. Parts of it were hard to read/listen to. I really enjoyed the positive messages in this book. I listened to the audiobook version of this one. The narrator was really good and I enjoyed her singing during the one part. Now I want to go back and read the first book.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
May 25, 2023
Just wow! As soon as we are saved, He gives us freedom from our sins. Run to the cross, Mac. God’s grace is big enough to cover it all.”
You are not defined by your past. No matter how ugly. You are redeemed. Washed clean. A new creation in Him.
You are not defined by your past. No matter how ugly. You are redeemed. Washed clean. A new creation in Him.
March 13, 2023
redeemed, not ruined
Wow! I really like how real each of the characters are in this story. I also have learned a lot about this kind of tragedy. I imagine one could feel so unworthy after having lived through that. God sees us so very differently than we see ourselves. Very well done!
Wow! I really like how real each of the characters are in this story. I also have learned a lot about this kind of tragedy. I imagine one could feel so unworthy after having lived through that. God sees us so very differently than we see ourselves. Very well done!
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