Review of Dark Design by Nancy Mehl

About the Book

ISBN-13:9780764243370

Publisher:Baker Publishing Group

Publication date:10/21/2025

Series:The Erin Delaney Mysteries , #2

Pages:336

When Erin Delaney learns that a serial killer has mimicked the murder portrayed in her bestselling novel, she joins her friend Kaely Quinn-Hunter, a former FBI profiler, in Virginia. Their reunion, only a few months after fending off an eerie killer in the woods of Tennessee, is bittersweet, as Kaely has been tasked by the FBI to recruit Erin’s help to identify a suspect. The FBI’s team is stumped by the murderer who re-creates killings from the books of multiple authors, with only ominous notes left behind. As Erin is drawn further into the web of fear and chaos, Kaely begins to fear for Erin’s safety.

On top of tracking down a murderer, Erin must shoulder the weight of a haunted past and claims that she stole the plot of her novel from one of her sources. As she struggles on multiple fronts, the enemy looms closer than ever—and Erin’s life hangs in the balance. (Synopsis from Barnes and Noble)

My Thoughts

The newest book by Nancy Mehl is an Erin Delaney thriller that had my heart pounding and my head spinning with the fast-paced action and the surprising twists. I have read most of the author’s books and I just have to say that this book is her best one ever! I could not put it down except to eat and catch a few hours of sleep. I was totally invested in the story, in what would happen to Erin, in who the serial killer was and in how Kaely and Erin would be able to find the killer before he killed again. The plot is terrifyingly brilliant and includes the signature and much appreciated faith foundation of the author. The story is edgy and includes a strong message of hope as well as plenty of skillful misdirection. I was captivated by the characters and their God-given intuition that helped them make wise choices while chasing down a determined and intelligent villain. This book was a page turner, with dynamic characters who are realistically flawed and believable. The good guys are easy to cheer for and the killer is one that is complex and satisfyingly revealed. I loved every minute that I spent devouring this well-crafted book and I am already looking forward to the author’s new Erin Delaney book next year. If I could give this book more than five stars, I certainly would because it is amazing in its clever twists and relentless tension.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.

Rated PG for description of victims’ manners of death; Christian fiction with no bad language or violent scenes

About the Author

Nancy Mehl is the bestselling author of 50 books. She’s won the Daphne Du Maurier Award, as well as an ACFW Mystery Book of the Year Award and a Carol award. She was also a finalist for the prestigious Christy award. Her short story, Chasing Shadows, was in the USA Today bestselling Summer of Suspense anthology. Learn more about her on her blog, the SuspenseSisters:  www.suspensesisters.blogspot.com.

All of Nancy’s novels have an added touch – something for your spirit as well as your soul. “I welcome the opportunity to share my faith through my writing,” Nancy says. “God is number one in my life. I wouldn’t be writing at all if I didn’t believe that this is what He’s called me to do. I hope everyone who reads my books will walk away with the most important message I can give them: God is good, and He loves you more than you can imagine. He has a good plan for your life, and there is nothing you can’t overcome with His help.”

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Review of SHATTERED SANCTUARY by Nancy Mehl

About the Book

ISBN-13:9780764243363

Publisher:Baker Publishing Group

Publication date:03/18/2025

Series:The Erin Delaney Mysteries , #1

Pages:336

Grappling with the aftermath of a tragic incident that altered her life, ex-police officer and bestselling mystery author Erin Delaney finds solace in the tranquility of a cabin nestled deep in the Smoky Mountains. But her restful stay is shattered when cries pierce the night, hinting at a lurking presence haunting the woods. When local police chief Adrian Nightengale seeks her help with a carefully arranged murder scene, she is thrust back into the world of crime solving. As they delve into the investigation, Erin’s intuition reveals chilling truths about the killer’s motives and strategically perfected methods.

Joined by the enigmatic Kaely Quinn-Hunter, a former FBI behavioral analyst, Erin not only embarks on a quest to stop the merciless serial killer, but also confronts the revived ghosts of her past. In a race against time, Erin must defeat her own demons while outmaneuvering a cunning killer or risk becoming the next victim in this deadly game of cat and mouse.

My Thoughts

Sanctuary, Tennessee, should be an idyllic place to escape from stress and to just spend time with a friend, or that is what former police officer Erin Delaney expects when she decides to spend a week with her friend and phone counselor Kaely Quinn. Quinn, a former FBI profiler, sets up the plans for the trip and convinces Erin to leave the safety of her apartment and travel to the mountains to spend a week talking and shopping, just relaxing basically. Plans went awry quickly when Erin is called to a murder scene the first night that she is there. A young woman has been killed and the signs immediately point to a serial killer. Erin feels useful since she can use her skills as a former police officer as well as her current knowledge as an author of a best-selling murder mystery. But nothing prepares her for the evil that lurks around the small town of Sanctuary as she and Kaely have to use all of their skill to try to catch a killer before they become the target. Filled with red herrings and lots of clues to follow, this book has the signature style of a master author who knows well how to captivate her audience and keep us all reading. The tension in the story is relentless as a blizzard threatens, a young woman is missing and the town is at the mercy of an unknown killer. With clever twists that are satisfying and edgy and a brilliantly complex plot, this book captured my imagination, making it so that I could not turn the pages fast enough or get enough of this book. With an intriguing plot and relatable characters, this is a fast-paced thrill ride into the heart of a killer storm and the murderer who waits in it for his next victim.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley, I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.

Christian Fiction with intense suspense, rated PG

About the Author

Nancy Mehl is the author of more than fifty books, a Parable and ECPA bestseller, and the winner of an ACFW Book of the Year Award, a Carol Award, and the Daphne du Maurier Award. She has also been a finalist for the Christy Award. Nancy writes from her home in Missouri, where she lives with her husband. To learn more, visit NancyMehl.com.

Purchase Links

amzn.to/4iNecIq (Amazon)

bit.ly/3RbDuEk (Christian Book)

bit.ly/3RarK4X (Barnes and Noble)

bit.ly/41QuQQP (Target)

bit.ly/43KZsWb (Baker Book House)

bit.ly/4kTlUTd (Powell’s Books)

bit.ly/3FylkKr (KOBO)

bit.ly/41xHHXS (Books-a-Million)

adbl.co/3FwmMgu (Audible)

With appreciation to Baker Publishing Group, Revell Fiction and Netgalley for the ARC to read and review. And with heartfelt thanks to author Nancy Mehl for the hard copy she sent me along with a keepsake bookmark that I will treasure forever.

Review of COLD VENGEANCE by Nancy Mehl

About the Book

ISBN-13:9780764240478. Publisher:Baker Publishing Group Publication date:07/16/2024 Series:Ryland & St. Clair , #3 Pages:336

When a renowned crime podcaster vanishes without a trace, former FBI behavioral analysts turned private investigators River Ryland and Tony St. Clair are called upon to track her down. As they wade through the evidence she left behind, they unearth a startling connection—she may have discovered the existence of an unknown killer, and he will stop at nothing to carry out a deadly plan.

As the pair delves deeper, they soon find themselves the targets of a relentless enemy determined to silence them. With their lives—and hearts—on the line, can they confront the evil that threatens them before it consumes them both?

My Thoughts

Wow! This book is a faith-filled thrill ride and the perfect conclusion to River and Tony’s story. In this final book in the Ryland and St. Clair series, River and Tony are investigating a missing podcaster, April Bailey at the request of her boyfriend Nathan. They begin to methodically research and end up delving into the cold cases that she covered in her podcast. This novel is a propulsive thriller and impossible to put down. Expertly crafted to weave faith into the storylines, Cold Vengeance is multi-layered and a gripping tale with escalating tension as the story unfolds. The second layer is one of family and relationships as River struggles with forgiving her father for walking out on her mom. This is heart touching and so realistic that I found myself praying for her to do the right thing before I reminded myself that she is a fictional character. The third layer is the helper of the Salt River Strangler who is still stalking River; the danger that he presents to her life is always there, just beneath the surface, as Tony won’t even let her out of his sight. Tony makes a good, determined protector and even shows his vulnerable side when he is personally attacked. I enjoyed the chemistry between the main characters and their humorous banter. I really liked River’s endurance and steadfast faith as she faces the unimaginable. I especially enjoyed the glimpses of the villains and the clues they gave me into who the perpetrator was. This is intriguing, complex and brilliantly written Christian fiction that balances faith with action and suspense with romance in a masterful way.
Disclaimer
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley, but I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

Christian Fiction, Rated PG

About the Author

Nancy Mehl is the author of more than fifty books, a Parable and ECPA bestseller, and the winner of an ACFW Book of the Year Award, a Carol Award, and the Daphne du Maurier Award. She has also been a finalist for the Christy Award. Nancy writes from her home in Missouri, where she lives with her husband, Norman, and their puggle, Watson. To learn more, visit NancyMehl.com

.

Purchase Links

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Audible

With many thanks to Bethany House and Netgalley for the ARC to read and review.

Five-Star Books Releasing Tomorrow

From the Back Cover


Twenty years ago, several people were murdered in Des Moines, and the only evidence left behind was a snowman ornament hanging ominously on a tree in the victims’ front lawns. With a suspect behind bars, the killings have come to an end–or so everyone thought. But now crimes with a similar MO are happening in a small Iowa town, and a local detective believes the killer is back and ready to strike again.

With little time left on the clock before they have another murder on their hands, private investigators River Ryland and Tony St. Clair must work alongside Tony’s detective father to find evidence that will uncover an evil that has survived far too long. As the danger mounts and the suspect closes in, it will take all they have to catch a killer–before he catches one of them.

Product Details

ISBN-13:9780764240461

Publisher:Baker Publishing Group

Publication date:01/23/2024

Series:Ryland & St. Clair , #2

Pages:336

Purchase Links:

amzn.to/3NV3EtG (Amazon)

bit.ly/3vvCqDX (Barnes and Noble)

adbl.co/3TTd6l8 (Audible)

bit.ly/3vvu9Qb (Baker Book House)

bit.ly/41SIPVA (Christian Book)

bit.ly/48L3xJp (Target)

bit.ly/3TVFWBw (Walmart)

Book Synopsis


Can this officer stop a trafficking ring? Or will deadly criminals stop her first?
A search for a missing young woman becomes a nightmare for K-9 deputy Charlotte Walker when she stumbles on a trafficking ring and is captured. Death seems certain until she’s rescued by rancher Jonas Knowles. Together, they take shelter in the Amish community he left behind. But they can’t hide forever–not when the criminals are still after them and countless girls are at risk…
From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

Product Details

ISBN-13:9781335597885

Publisher:Harlequin

Publication date:01/23/2024

Pages:224

Purchase Link:

Deadly Mountain Escape

Book Synopsis


Seeking refuge from danger… with threats at every turn
When her daughter is the only witness able to identify a group of bank robbers, single mom Penny Jackson knows their lives are in danger. These men will do anything to keep Missy quiet–permanently. Escaping to a small Texas town was supposed to be safe, but when the criminals track them down, police chief Caleb Harmon becomes their only hope for survival…
From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.
Cowboy Protectors
Book 1: Kidnapped in Texas
Book 2: Texas Ranch Target
Book 3: Dangerous Texas Hideout

Product Details

ISBN-13:9781335597878

Publisher:Harlequin

Publication date:01/23/2024

Series:Cowboy Protectors , #3

Pages:224

Purchase Links:

Purchase Links:

amzn.to/3tKrEZL (Amazon)

bit.ly/48qSu8y (Harlequin)

bit.ly/3H7Wu1p (Barnes and Noble)

bit.ly/4aNzene (Christian Book)

apple.co/47ynKBi (Apple Books)

I reviewed each of these books and give all of them five stars and a big thumbs up. They are clean Christian fiction and ready to be enjoyed by all readers TOMORROW!

With much appreciation to Harlequin, Bethany House Publishers and Netgalley for the advanced copies to read and review!

Review of COLD PURSUIT by Nancy Mehl

About the Book

ISBN-13:9780764240454 Publisher:Baker Publishing Group Publication date:07/11/2023 Series:Ryland & St. Clair , #1 Pages:336

Ex-FBI profiler River Ryland still suffers from PTSD after a case that went horribly wrong. Needing a fresh start, she moves to St. Louis to be near her ailing mother and opens a private investigation firm with her friend and former FBI partner, Tony St. Clair. They’re soon approached by a grieving mother who wants them to find out what happened to her teenaged son who disappeared four years ago. River knows there’s almost no hope the boy is still alive, but his mother needs closure, and River and Tony need a case, no matter how cold it might be.

But as they follow the boy’s trail, which gets more complicated at every turn, they find themselves in the path of a murderer determined to punish anyone who gets in his way. With a killer on the loose set on finishing the job he started, will River be pulled back into her tormented past or finally face the demons that haunt her?

With her trademark blend of page-turning thrills and intricate plots, Nancy Mehl delivers a spine-tingling thriller that will keep readers up all night.

My Thoughts

With edgy and fast-paced suspense, this book had me hooked from beginning to end. The author includes a compassionate and sensitive exploration of mental issues that was informative as well as thoroughly researched. I enjoyed the sharp writing in the plot and the rich story of two former FBI agents who start their own detective agency. River Ryland has PTSD due to her near-death experience with a serial killer. Her partner Tony St. Clair suffers from memory loss from the same encounter with a man who personifies evil. The book is addictive and action-packed as River and Ryland throw themselves into a case looking for a young teen who disappeared after a concert. There are a lot of twists and some brilliantly written red herrings in this intricately woven plot. As River and Ryland search for Chris, they are also evading a serial killer who is targeting them and the danger seems so realistic that it is terrifying at times. I thoroughly enjoyed the tight plot that crackled with tension and the insightful look at synesthesia and aphasia. The novel is also infused with faith and is a clean read that is thought-provoking and fascinating. Since this is the first book in a new series featuring River and Tony, I am really looking forward to the other ones already! This riveting page-turner has me ready for more of this dynamic duo!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Bethany House Publishing via Netgalley as well as a hard copy. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

Rated PG due to intense suspense

About the Author

Photo and Bio from the author’s website at http://www.nancymehl.com

Releases on 7-11-23. Available for preorder! Purchase Links:

https://amzn.to/46HVsVG (Amazon)

https://bit.ly/44yuWfx (Christian Book)

https://bit.ly/3O6Dc0Y (Barnes and Noble)

https://bit.ly/3riNLoL (Baker Book House)

https://bit.ly/3NKwnk9 (Powell’s Books)

https://bit.ly/44fNKR3 (Walmart)

https://bit.ly/46HX7u6 (Books A Million)

https://bit.ly/3JRq7pz (Target)

https://bit.ly/43cxcbj (Kobo)

https://bit.ly/3XI4NZm (Google Play Store)

https://apple.co/3D6qtoC (Apple Books)

With many thanks to the author and publisher for the ARC of this exciting book to read! I loved every minute I spent with River Ryland and Tony St. Clair and I’m truly looking forward to the next book in this new series.

Review of FREE FALL by Nancy Mehl

Featuring FBI behavioral specialist Alex Donovan and her teammate Logan Hart, this book had me spellbound with the intense action and intrigue. The plot revolves around young women who are being kidnapped by an unknown psychopath. Unfortunately for her, Alex resembles the kidnapped victims, so she really needs to get the profile right before she becomes a victim herself. There is a sub-plot about Logan’s health that sidelines him from action with the team, but it does not keep him from praying for and supporting the team. I really enjoyed the faith parts of this book, especially as more of the team members begin to pray and focus on belief in God. The action was non-stop and heart-pounding. I enjoyed all of the characters but none more so than Alex who was feisty, courageous and selfless. All of the characters were portrayed realistically and made the story an engaging read. The plot was written well, with plenty of suspense and multiple clues and red herrings along the way. I have read all of the Quantico Files books and this one is my favorite because of its character development and dual plot line. This book can be read as a standalone even though it is part of a series. Fans of romantic suspense, with the emphasis on suspense, will enjoy this faith-filled testimony to the power of believing in God in tough situations.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Fiction. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed here are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

Rated PG. Intense action but not at all offensive.
All of Nancy’s novels have an added touch – something for your spirit as well as your soul. “I welcome the opportunity to share my faith through my writing,” Nancy says. “God is number one in my life. I wouldn’t be writing at all if I didn’t believe that this is what He’s called me to do. I hope everyone who reads my books will walk away with the most important message I can give them: God is good, and He loves you more than you can imagine. He has a good plan for your life, and there is nothing you can’t overcome with His help.”

Photo and Bio are from the author’s website at http://www.nancymehl.com Check out her booklist and other information there!

Available NOW! Purchase Links:

Baker Book House

Christian Book

Bookshop

Barnes and Noble

Google Play Store

Powells

Walmart

Target

Amazon

With great appreciation to Bethany House Publishing for the copy of the book that they sent me to read and review. Great Christian fiction that entertains and uplifts!

Review of MIND GAMES by Nancy Mehl

This is a stunning and amazingly well-written first book in a series! Kaely Quinn is an FBI profiler who has a deep faith that gives her the courage to face all of the naysayers of her quirky methodology. I thought it was amusing that she had conversations with her imaginary suspects, but it worked for her. When Noah Hunter is sent to work with her at the St Louis office, the romantic sparks begin, but Kaely is totally focused on her job, i.e. finding the serial killer terrorizing St. Louis. Kaely is an engaging and mysterious protagonist who has untraditional methods that work. The elements of faith are subtly woven into the story via the character of Kaely. The villain was a surprise, even though I was sure that I had it all figured out. This was a brilliant suspense novel that will have you reading long into the night and asking yourself, “How long until I can read the next Kaely Quinn thriller?”

Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”