Reviewed by Maria Victoria Beltran for Readers' Favorite

Riven (Riven Republic Book 1) by H. L. Wegley is a Christian thriller set in the contemporary United States. The country is on the brink of civil war as the fight between the left against the right intensifies. President Wendell Walker, a far-left radical, wants to unify the nation by force. As it happens, the leftist governor of Oregon, Sandra Harper, has already declared martial law, and the Constitutionalists are organizing themselves in Eastern Oregon to restore their country’s unity through a movement of God. One of the leaders of the group is Zach Tanner, a popular radio host who has been exhorting the Oregonian Constitutionalists to flee to Eastern Oregon to defend their country. The story takes an interesting romantic twist when the governor’s niece, Kate Alexander, joins the Constitutionalists. What follows is a series of events that will make it difficult for readers to put down this book.

H. L. Wegley’s Riven (Riven Republic Book 1) is the first installment in a series and it is certainly a thought-provoking read. The author has created imaginary characters and situations that depict the present political situation in the U.S., so much so that it is easy to relate to the narrative. Action-packed and emotionally driven, one can easily empathize with the flawed but likable protagonists of Riven. As the story develops and the stakes are getting higher, there is no let-up in the suspense. Author H. L. Wegley has proven once again that he is a master storyteller and I look forward with eager anticipation to the next installment of this series. Highly recommended!

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Dark Liaison is a work of fiction in the thriller and Christian fiction subgenres and serves as the first installment of the COIL series. It is suitable for the general reading audience and was penned by author D. I. Telbat. The book tells the tale of spy Corban Dowler as he works to see God’s will on Earth done by founding the Commission of International Laborers. COIL aims to come to the aid of persecuted Christians through the deployment of strike teams with strictly non-lethal principles As the team at COIL works hard to care for their people, it becomes apparent that they’ve become a direct target for the forces of evil.

I was particularly drawn into this book by the fascinating world-building surrounding COIL and its enemies, thoroughly well-designed lore that was introduced to the reader at a pace that constantly walked the fine line between overwhelming readers with information and keeping them informed about the nuances of what was happening. Author D. I. Telbat’s prose consistently brings the world of the story to life as characters are given a delightful nuance that makes them feel real and grounded. The narrative that the author tells using these characters is a dynamic tale of good versus evil that explores the idea of publicly wearing your faith in a world that has become hostile to it. Overall, Dark Liaison is an excellent opening installment in a series, doing a great deal of heavy lifting in establishing the world of COIL whilst still finding room to tell an enjoyable story that stands on its own merit.

Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite

Children of the Third by Suzanne Leonhard is a post-apocalyptic Christian thriller and the third book in the Goliath Code series, preceded by the award-winning and critically acclaimed book one, The Goliath Code, and book two, Prophet. The book revolves around the plight of the world in the seven-year Tribulation, an end-times war where the likes of individuals such as protagonist Sera Donner are fighting for their lives in the name of something greater, under the direction of words that come from the mouth of a powerful prophet but are enveloped in a higher decree. Sera is now a recipient of the genetic transformation of The Goliath Code, which strengthens her body and sensory channels. A series of battle losses that cost the lives of those close to her are devastating, but there are also reunions and blessed moments of grace that strengthen Sera and her compatriots' faith that they might prevail in the inevitable war to come. “The fallen angels are those who chose Lucifer’s side against Yahweh... In the end, they’ll all be punished by being thrown into the Lake of Fire with Lucifer.”

Children of the Third is a superbly written follow-up in The Goliath Code series and Suzanne Leonhard once again proves herself as a force in the genre of dystopian fiction. Sera is flawed and relatable. She is fragile and doubtful in a way that anyone thrust into a horrific universal war at such a young age would be. Crushing deaths that almost rain down around her, her own twin brother turning into an agent of the worst possible evil, and a father she might never see again...it's all pretty intense. But she's also strong and determined, emboldened by a growing sense of purpose and love of the Lord and we are continually reminded of what we are capable of in the darkest times. As the book of Micah 7:8 says in scripture: “Rejoice not over me, O my enemy; when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the Lord will be a light to me.” Very highly recommended.

Reviewed by Lesley Jones for Readers' Favorite

In the second installment of the Cody Musket series, No Pit So Deep by James Nathaniel Miller II, four years have passed since Cody and Brandi have married. Cody and Brandi still fight tirelessly to end child trafficking, when their 7-year-old daughter is snatched by a South American cartel with an old score to settle with Cody. Together with a group of elite fighters, Cody and Brandi track down the cartel to Librador in Central America, hoping Knoxi remembers the survival skills Cody has taught her. Their mission uncovers a gruesome operation of child trafficking and torture on a huge scale. As they head into the Amazon jungle, they are pursued not only by mercenaries hired by the cartel boss but also must survive the dangerous animals that live there. As they arrive back home, another deadly event leaves Cody fighting for his life and he finally discovers the meaning behind his strange visions and dreams.

No Pit So Deep by James Nathaniel Miller II is an intense and gripping story and knowing it is based on true life events made it even more emotional. I loved the relationship between Brandi and Cody; they were soulmates and the bond they shared was truly remarkable. Knoxi was a little firecracker, sweet, brave with a heart filled with love for others. Even though she was facing her own horrors, she put her own fears to one side to reassure the other children. This quote from little Knoxi really brought a tear to my eye:
“And I remembered you told me that just because you’re afraid, it doesn’t mean you aren’t brave.” Every character was well developed and extremely memorable. Even though the commandos were amazing fighting machines, their softer side shone through too, which made them all the more realistic and likable. The fast-paced storyline was interspersed perfectly with moments of conflict and endearing scenes between the characters. I thoroughly enjoyed Cody's spiritual journey and the tension-filled ending. The sinister and powerful network they uncover will really make you question the motives of some influential members of society. An emotional read by an amazing author.

Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite

The third installment in The Lighthouse Series by Charles Besondy, The Snare is a spiritual and psychological thriller that continues to tell the story of Charles Austin, yet it can be read as a stand-alone. As the series progresses, the face of evil continues to take shape and the Figure in Gray will continue to torment the protagonist. Charley is about to graduate high school, but as he crosses a new threshold in his life, a tragic episode from his past continues to haunt him. His world view and faith are being tested, all because the Figure in Gray, who now goes by the name of Phobley, uses Charley as a pet project as part of his sinister and seductive plan. Failure is not an option for Phobley this time, especially when he has a timetable to follow.

The Snare is an ambitious, ensnaring Christian thriller that brews with intensity as you keep reading. You not only keep track of what Charley will do next; you similarly keep track of what the villain, Phobley, is also going to do. The theme of the battle between good and evil is so amplified that it is an indication of the plot’s central idea. It gives the storyline the kind of bite necessary to sustain your curiosity. Every scene feels necessary in the plot’s thematic importance, and there is so much to like about Charley’s existential angst as he goes through his test of faith. The Snare is an enjoyable read, and you will likely pick up the first two stories after reading this one. The story is captivating in that it revels in its figurative artistry, yet it has a solid hold on realism.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Prophet by author Suzanne Leonhard is a work of fiction in the thriller and post-apocalyptic sub-genres. Forming the second novel in The Goliath Code series, this novel takes place after the previous adventure, in which protagonist Micah Abrams was transformed from his old cruel ways by the newfound connection with Sera Donner and the mission to find her twin brother David. Determined in his new mission to spread the word of hope and healing in a wasted world, it is only when Micah is separated from Sera that he begins a new spiral into doubt. So begins a new trial of a prophet in training in a dark world with suspense, terror, and thrills.

Author Suzanne Leonhard has done a superb amount of worldbuilding to frame this story and ground it in a solid conceptual base as our characters struggle through a barren and lawless land. The complexities of the previous plot continue as we enter Micah’s point of view and witness his emotive and psychological struggle with his duty to God and adherence to God’s teachings despite the ruin of the world around him. The story combines a dedication to deep character development with effective dialogue that feels highly realistic of the time and place and offers a truly cinematic atmosphere of the wastelands of the world, giving a visual and visceral reading experience. Overall, Prophet is a highly readable novel with fascinating Christian themes set realistically in a dangerous new post-apocalyptic world. A recommended read.

Reviewed by Joy Hannabass for Readers' Favorite

When Allie Petrenko's father is murdered, she retrieves the contents of his bank box and contacts Grady Jamison. Petrenko's warning to his daughter was to trust no one but the Jamisons and to clear his safety deposit box. Now Allie and Grady are on their way to Grady's parents, trying to keep her father's killer at bay. But it's not easy when the killer knows their every move, trying to take them out, but thankfully not succeeding. As Allie reads the journals out loud so Grady can hear them, she finds out things about her dad that turned her world upside down. The Janus Journals by H. L. Wegley will take you on a wild, suspenseful thriller of a journey that will keep you on the edge of your seat as you turn every page of this amazing story.

Wow! The Janus Journals has it all. Espionage, mystery, thrills, romance, family and it all comes together with faith in God that gets them through. I fell in love with Allie and Grady from the start but I was really frustrated at Allie's father as she continued reading the journals and uncovering secrets. I could understand Allie not wanting to talk about a relationship with God, with losing her mom so young and now not sure about her dad. And when you read this book you will find all details. I have to admit, there were times I wasn't sure if Allie and Grady would make it to their next stop, and to be honest, they didn't at times without a fight. H. L. Wegley did an outstanding job of keeping my interest throughout the book. With so many twists and turns, it was impossible to guess what was coming next. I like the faith element running throughout the book. And I like the way Grady tries to introduce Allie to faith in God in his own subtle way. I love everything about this book. The Janus Journals is a fantastic read and I can't wait to read more from author H. L. Wegley.

Reviewed by Samantha Gregory for Readers' Favorite

Carbon-14: The Shroud of Turn (An Amari Johnston Novel Book 1) by R. A. Williams is the story of Amari, a criminal justice major at the University of Arizona, with a detective for a father. Two mysteries pull them into each other's worlds when a priest is brutally murdered and Amari discovers some information that could change everything. Her university is in charge of carbon dating the Shroud of Turin, but they claim it is a forgery. Are they hiding something? When the killer sets his sights on Amari, her father must stop him before he gets to her.

R. A. Williams has written an interesting book with Carbon-14: The Shroud of Turin. I didn't quite know what to expect, but the mystery drew me in and it moves at a good pace. It is like a cross between a police procedural and a new adult novel. Amari is a great character and I enjoyed reading about her. You can tell the author has put a great deal of research into this book and it shows. That being said, I wouldn't be an expert myself, so I do not know how carbon dating works. There is a strong religious element to the story, which I think fans of Christian fiction would like, but there is a mix of genres here too. I think any thriller and mystery fans would enjoy it and people who like upper YA and NA novels too. I would recommend it as a decent thriller.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Missing Peace is a work of fiction in the personal drama, religious and emotive sub-genres of writing, and was penned by author N. K. Holt. Taking us deep into the hearts and minds of its protagonists, this bittersweet tale speaks of the power of overcoming grief, facing terror head-on, and trying to keep the faith when everything around is collapsing. The protagonist is Janey McKay, who receives a mysterious rosary from her brother John, serving in Iraq. What follows is a plot with sharp, painful twists, but an everlasting thread of hope that Janey can find peace as time goes on.

Author N. K. Holt has crafted a powerfully emotive story that will be sure to please fans of uplifting personal drama, but also those who want to see real struggle and deep hardship in their dramas. The narrative voice gives us a close insight into Janey as a character, and the speech and thought presentation is well crafted as we sit on her shoulder and feel every heartbreaking moment of her personal journey. The plot of the novel really centers around the characters and their emotions, but the wider terror plot does produce some very poignant and exciting action moments to ramp up the tension. What results is an accomplished novel with plenty of highs and lows, and excellent realistic dialogue which keeps the characters and their feelings grounded. Overall, I would highly recommend Missing Peace to all drama fans, especially those who believe in hope, faith, and family.

Reviewed by Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite

The Tree of Knowledge is a psychological thriller written by Daniel G. Miller. Professor Albert Puddles lived an orderly, quiet life. His serene and logical universe was only marred by the opening day of class each semester. For some reason, the stage fright he experienced in those first few moments facing those new faces was as relentless as it was incomprehensible. His choice of a woolen suit and his resulting overheated state contributed to the feeling of being out of control. When his graduate assistant, Ying, asked to speak with him outside during his class, Albert was reluctant to lose any control over his carefully planned performance. When he heard that the police were investigating a murder and thought he “might know something about it,” Albert's nimble mind began churning: how could he ever be involved? Maybe they really meant another professor?

Daniel G. Miller’s The Tree of Knowledge is a stunningly accomplished debut novel. Reading the blurb convinced me to give this book a try, and I’m so glad I did. The storyline is plausible and frighteningly on point in today’s world. Miller’s cast of characters is one of fully dimensional, living beings who kept me enthralled as I followed their efforts to cope with an amoral, brilliant, and relentless adversary. I love how this story is so much a coming of age tale for the 34-year-old professor whom adversity deals a series of stunning blows, while also freeing him to experience so much more of life than he had ever realized existed. Watching Albert Puddles come of age, face his fears and become a full-fledged human being is a high point you really don’t want to miss. Seeing how he gets there alone is well worth the price of this book and the time you put into reading it.

But there’s so much more going on here. There’s romance, mystery, math, logic, and adventure all wrapped up in a thriller that had me happily reading until I hit the last page. I can’t help but wonder and hope that Mr. Miller will decide to give these characters a sequel to work with. It would be a shame not to see them again. The Tree of Knowledge is an awesome, fast-paced, and beautifully written debut novel that demonstrates the promise of a talented author. It’s most highly recommended.