Review of HOLD YOUR BREATH by Kristen Hogrefe Parnell

About the Book

Author: Kristen Hogrefe Parnell
Series: Crossroads Suspense, Book 2
Genres: Inspirational, Romantic Suspense
Tag: Recommended Books
Publisher: Mountain Brook Ink
Publication Year: 2023
ASIN: B0CGY1LS81
ISBN: 9781953957382

The end justifies the means–or does it?

Serial dater and travel blogger Jayna Scott lands a dream assignment in Bimini, Bahamas at Mario Delgado’s resort. But after she falls hard and fast for her host, she discovers his terrible secret. Her flight instinct sends her to the mountains of North Carolina on a trip with a Tampa church group, but Mario pursues her, determined to prove his actions were justified.

Private investigator Liam Bracken helps his best friend plan a surprise engagement in Beech Mountain to the woman he once liked. Now, the mysterious Jayna, the new addition to their group, tugs at his heart, but his instincts warn him she’s running from something. When Jayna emerges at the epicenter of his agency’s high-profile drug investigation, Liam prays he can save her—and guard his heart at the same time.

My Thoughts

Although this is the second book in a series, it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone. This novel tells the faith journey and perilous adventures of travel blogger Jayna Scott. Traveling to the Bahamas, she gets unwittingly trapped into illegal activity there and has to depend on new friends from her Bible study group to help her out. The genre is cozy mystery with a firm faith foundation. The characters are relatable and realistic and the plot moves along at a good steady pace that is engaging and entertaining. I especially enjoyed how Jayna interacted with the Bible study group and really wanted to be a part of it even though she did not feel as though she really belonged. I also liked Liam Bracken’s willingness to be a hero for a young woman he barely knows but who touched his heart. The mystery is just complex enough to keep me on the edge of my seat at times as I cheered for the good guys to get there on time and for the bad guys to be thwarted. This is a feel-good and satisfying read, but readers should be warned that there are triggers like sexual and emotional abuse within the storyline. This is a Christian read with no graphic details or expletives, so I found it suitable for anyone able to read on this level. With a breathtaking setting and an engrossing story, this is one not to be missed for those who enjoy powerful stories with engrossing suspense.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author as part of her launch team. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”