Member Reviews
Coble knows how to weave an exciting storyline that keeps you on edge until the very end. Bailey's mother is murdered and she has an obscure warning from her mother to run and hide in a small cabin in rural Washington. After being shot at, Bailey makes her way to the cabin where she is befriended by Lance, an FBI agent searching for his runaway sister. The plot thickens as what Bailey believes to be the truth about her past unravels. Danger lurks around every corner and the climax will have you glued to the pages to find out how it all ends.
A very well written suspense.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The Lavender Tides series by Colleen Coble is one I can't seem to get enough of and what she did with Secrets at Cedar Cabin took me on a journey I didn't expect.
This has been my favorite series by Colleen Coble so far, I think it largely has to do with the fact that it is the first of her series that I started at the very beginning, but still, it is my favorite. Secrets at Cedar Cabin took me on an unexpected journey as I followed Bailey Fleming as she escapes to a cabin in Lavender Tides. While she is there, Bailey uncovers many secrets surrounding her life and circumstances.
If Bailey's story wasn't enough, we meet Lance, an FBI agent who ends up working with Bailey. Lance is on his own mission, to rescue his sister Ava.
As Coble has done with this whole series, she once again transported me to the beautiful landscape of Washington's coast. She described the scenery so well that I could picture it in my mind.
Coble crafted this story in such a skillful manner. Bailey would uncover a secret about her life, then she would uncover another secret, and another, and another. Just when I thought she had things figured out, she would uncover another secret. Coble wrote this in a way that I felt like I was uncovering the secrets with Bailey, not that I knew what was going to happen before her, which was an element of surprise I enjoyed.
Since there were so many secrets to uncover, it did make the story feel like it wasn't moving as fast because each of the peaks of the story was a new secret compared to something completely new happening, but I didn't mind that for this book. Between Bailey's story and Lance trying to find Ava, this book kept me turning the pages to find out what would happen next.
Once again Coble delivered a great installment in this series.
This was a pretty perfect finale to the Lavender Tides series and easily my favorite suspense book by Colleen(and I have read a significant chunk of her suspense novels). It pulled me in from the first page and it didn’t let go during the entire book. The villain surprised me(and that is HARD to do usually) and there were a few more twists thrown in along the way. The story was superb and the ending was an exciting finale with a bitter snowstorm that made for en exciting element to battle along with the bad guys! I definitely think a reread of this set all at once is in order down the road. Love, love, love Lavender Tides and I am sorry to leave!!!
I received this book from the publisher through NetGalley and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my honest opinion.
Secrets at Cedar Cabin was the first book I have read by Colleen Coble but it won’t be the last! It is a thrilling, fast-paced novel that fans of romantic suspense will enjoy. It kept me guessing throughout the novel, and the mastermind behind everything was not who I had expected. The novel deals with the issue of human trafficking and the dangers of young women meeting men online who seem charismatic but are actually very dangerous. I would recommend readers to read the first two books in the series prior to reading Secrets at Cedar Cabin to get a better idea of the backstories of several of the secondary characters in this book. Very enjoyable novel!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
With the third full-length novel to the intriguing series, the author untangles the web of lies, crimes, secrets, and consequences of choices made, delivering a story that allured the mind, and was difficult put down until the destiny of the cast of characters were revealed.
With several subplots going on simultaneously, and all the characters, from the heroes to the culprits, getting their chance to tell their side of the story, it took an effort to keep all the lines untwined. As some of the points of the plot have been following the series from the beginning and for the number of people introduced in the tale, I would highly recommend reading the previous books before starting this one. Yes, it is mentioned in the blurb that this is a stand-alone novel, but I dare to disagree with that after reading the three books.
Even though some twist of the plot left me wondering and questioning the relatability, human trafficking comes across as very realistic, the way they hunt the prey, the way they treat them, and how they sell them, it is cruel, horrid, and brutal, giving me chills as I read through the experience of Ava and the other victims of the traffickers.
Bailey Fleming and Lance Phoenix were likable characters, who I grew to care for and cheer for as the story progress. Some of the past and current events in Bailey's life were on the edge of my imagination and understanding and even after finished reading the book I was left wondering with some questions. But the growing attraction between Lance and Bailey was not one of the questions in my mind, it seemed authentic and tangible, something that had future potential as well. The romance between them doesn't have a major part in the tale, but it clear that the feelings in their hearts taking root were more than just friendship.
There is so much going on in the book, both on the human interest aspect and on the criminal, suspense aspect, that the only way for me to read the story was completely immersing into it, and get lost in the pages of the tale of forgiveness, family loyalty, and finding your true self and staying true to it. The folks at Lavender Tides will solve another tangled web of crimes while trying to move on with their own lives.
With thrilling suspense and piquant lives, loves, and destinies of the protagonists the author tell an arresting and alluring tale, part of a series, that I can highly recommend.
~ Four Spoons
The third installment of the Lavender Tides series brings the whole family together with the most excitement and best storyline yet!
Bailey Fleming is at a loss after her mother is murdered and she finds out the man she married has been lying to her from the beginning. When her mother’s murderers come after her, Bailey flees to a remote cabin in Lavender Tides. Once she arrives, she finds out more of her life has been a lie than she knew. The cabin she is staying at has been used for human trafficking, which brings FBI agent Lance Phoenix into her life. Lance has been working the case to try and rescue his sister, Ava, who was snatched after running away from home. When his path crosses with Bailey, he wonders if her story is really as true as she says and if she can somehow bring him in touch with his sister.
I am sad to see this series come to an end. I have really come to enjoy these characters and the circumstances that brought them all together. In this installment, we finally get to meet Bailey and see what has happened in her life. The events that brought her to end up back In Lavender Tides are very interesting and really bring the series full circle. With her bad marriage at the beginning, it is hard to believe she will fall for anyone very quickly, but then again having a great guy like Lance come along after being burned so bad could be just what she needed. I enjoyed the interactions between the two of them and how they gravitated towards each other in the rough times they were going through. When Bailey finds out who she really is and that she has family she can lean on in the hard times, I was really touched by the way that played out. Going from thinking you are alone to finding out you have a family in the middle of an emotional turmoil was a great scene. I would recommend reading the first two in the series before beginning this one to get the backstory of all the characters and what is happening in their lives to bring them all to the point they find themselves in during this book. Readers will be pleased with how all the loose ends from the entire series will be tied up by the last page.
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
If possible start with book one and read them in order. I picked this one up not having read the first two and I feel I might have enjoyed it more had I have read the first two books of the series. I like how CC does not sugar coat the sex trafficking business or how someone with dementia acts. Both are horrible, but real issues and she describes them realistically. The romance in this story was lacking, the chemistry just wasn’t felt, but the mystery and suspense was pretty good. Over all Secrets At Cedar Cabin was an okay read for me. It was not great, but it wasn’t awful, just the middle of the road 3 star novel. I received a complimentary digital copy from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley.
I am a long time fan of Colleen Coble and loved this book as much as her others I have read!
This one is book 3 in the Lavender Tides series. Got to meet back up with characters from the previous two books. Fast paced suspense story with romance thrown in. Gotta have romance, right? Yes!
Bailey Fleming has moved around her entire life and never really knew why. Raised by her mother, she never knew her dad, or even who he was. She had no family other than her mom. After her mother is murdered and an attempt made on Bailey's own life, she escaped with her Savannah cat. I loved learning about the Savannah! Bailey runs to a cabin in Lavender Tides. You'll have to read this book to discover how she came to live in the cabin.
Lance pretends to be a friendly neighbor who wants to help with repairs to Bailey's cabin, but he is really a FBI agent watching her. Of course, that secret is short lived and romance buds.
Killers are still after Bailey, and who to better guard her but a FBI agent?
There is sex trafficking in the story, and Lance suspects his sister who disappeared several years earlier after an argument with their parents has been taken and is in the trade. Somehow, it all is connected with the cabin and previous owner of the cabin Bailey is living in.
I was not able to figure out who the 'kingpin' was of the operation, and when revealed, it was a huge surprise to me. Love that about Colleen Coble.
I also liked that the story was all wrapped up by the end of the novel. No loose ends. Kudos to Colleen Coble!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The plot is intriguing, action is spread throughout and builds up nicely at end, and character development is excellent. There is a little bit of romance, a lot of suspense, and a lot of mystery. It is supposed to be book 3 in a series, but I didn't even realize it was part of a series, so I didn't miss anything by not reading the others. I also didn't realize it was Christian fiction until well over halfway through the book, and it was not made obvious. I would definitely read more of the author's books.
Loved the book. It was a great ending to the Lavender Tides Series. I read the previous books long enough ago that I had a hard time remembering who everyone was again. Lavender Tides seems like such a beautiful place to live, except for all the craziness that went on in such a short period of time. I can't even count the number of times Shauna's life has been in danger. The whole sex-trafficking plot was scary. I never guessed who was behind everything.
I loved the characters, story and writing style. I ABSOLUTELY loved Sheba. She was not only cute but protective and helps save the day. How can you resist a cat who will save you from the bad people?? Sad to see the series end, I enjoyed getting to know Shauna, Ellie, Mac and Bailey. The book is definitely a thriller with a little bit of romance thrown in. I loved the cover of the book.
I definitely recommend the book. I also recommend reading the first two books in the series (The View from Rainshadow Bay and The House at Saltwater Point). I look forward to reading more books by the author
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I have loved every book and series Colleen Coble has written! This is the third
book in the 'Lavender Tides' series. I saw that it can be read as a "stand alone"
but I can never accept that! I want it all. All three of these books are amazing. I did not
want to see this series end. This book touches on "human trafficking, something
that isn't talked about enough! This series is so good! I highly recommend reading
all three in the "Lavender Tides series"
Sidenote: The first Colleen Coble books I read and LOVED so much> The Rock Harbor Series –
Secrets at Cedar Cabin – Colleen Coble
This is the third book in the Lavender Tides series, and this one is just as great as the first two. After her mother is murdered, Bailey runs to the cabin in the woods that she owns. What she doesn’t know, is that the FBI and agent Lance Phoenix, have been keeping an eye on this cabin for signs of trafficking. There are more questions than answers, especially for Bailey who hasn’t ever visited Lavender Tides before and once bodies are found near the cabin – it’s a race to find answers before the bodies continue to pile up.
This is another great thriller from Coble. I look forward to all of her books when they are released and can’t wait until the next one comes out.
** I was given a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review **
My thoughts: SECRETS AT CEDAR CABIN is the third and final book in Ms. Coble's Lavender Fields series, but it stands alone. However, fans will want to read the first two books The View From Rainshadow Bay and The House at Saltwater Point. There is also a novella I have not read Leaving Lavender Tides.
I enjoyed getting to know Bailey and Lance though I didn't understand why, if Bailey was running for her life why she didn't get an assumed name and worry about a paper trail. I love the way that Bailey met her siblings and how she showed amazing sympathy and caring for the elderly. Lance was a good guy too and I loved getting to know him.
The story does have many many different points of view and since it has been awhile I had trouble remembering who all the characters were. I didn't want to put this book down. There were some twists and turns and surprises, and some sweet moments too.
For more conservative readers, there is one soft swear word and the faith message is weak.
I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
WOW! Colleen never fails her readers. This was a wonderful book. I would have had a hard time keeping everyone together if I had not read the others in this series. But this can be read as a stand-alone.
3.5 Stars
In the third and final Lavender Tides novel, Colleen Coble brings a missing person back to town. Of course, she doesn’t realize she’s missing. I admit, I was skeptical at first about the odds of this particular person ending up in the small town where people happen to be looking for her, but Coble manages to tie all of the connections together as the story progresses.
There’s a ton happening in Secrets at Cedar Cabin—missing persons, Bailey’s connection to the residents, dead bodies, and an FBI investigation into a sex trafficking ring. With all of the story lines, there are multiple points of view which, at times, are a big convoluted. If you haven’t read the first two books, I imagine this would be even more confusing. I highly suggest starting with The View from Rainshadow Bay and The House at Saltwater Point, so you have a feel for everyone.
That said, Bailey is a great character that I cheered for. Despite her circumstances, she’s ready and willing to assist her new neighbors, she’s industrious and brave when she’s put on the spot, and open to exploring the truths she uncovers in Lavender Tides. How could FBI agent Lance Phoenix not be drawn to her?
The story climbs steadily to the climax that pays off with the intrigue, action, and answers you’ve been waiting for.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Classic Colleen Coble. It amazes me how Ms Coble's imagination and story telling ability is so deep, so fresh and so real. I love her work and always look forward to her 'next' novel. Five stars.
****I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.****
I often hear praise for Colleen Coble on the Avid Readers of Christian Fiction Facebook group. So naturally, when I came upon Secrets at Cedar Cabin on Netgalley, I immediately requested a copy of it to read and review.
Secrets at Cedar Cabin, the name alone, is intriguing and invites you onto a journey surrounding this mysterious cabin.
I must admit, at first, it took a while to get into the book. There were lots of characters that made me feel intimidated. However, the suspense quickly picked up and it was enough to keep you reading and wanting more.
Human trafficking is a very prevalent issue and not much noise is made about it. I have read a couple of books regarding this and admire them all. Colleen Coble has that ability to keep you hooked on the story and through her book, shows the effects of human trafficking not only on the victim but the devastating effect it leaves on her family. They have been kept left in the dark and not knowing what is happening or what has happened to their daughter and sister.
This is the first time I have read a book by Colleen Coble and look forward to reading more.
Secrets at Cedar Cabin by Colleen Coble is be third book in the Lavender Tides series. I have read the other two books in the series and while they were all fabulous reads, this book is the best yet! Bailey’s story is so complicated due to its circumstances and due to emotionally charged situations. Lance, the FBI agent helping her is facing just as many personal dilemmas. The action and conflict never end in this novel. It starts out grabbing your attention and never lets go. The novel is extremely well paced and will never let you get bored. I highly recommend this novel! The only thing I did not like about it is that it is the end of the series. It is a phenomenal read!! I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.
Once again Colleen Coble delivers an action packed and touching story. She also tackles a story that is impacting thousands of families today, human trafficking.
In the opening pages we meet Bailey Fleming. She is dealing with the fact her new husband is already married. As he “buys” her off with the deed to a house in Washington state, she learns that her mother has been murder. The trouble really starts when someone starts shooting at her and she has to take off to save her life.
The characters, both the main ones, Bailey and Lance as well as the secondary characters from the previous stories are just so great. I loved Bailey’s compassion for the elderly and those that are hurting. Lance was driven almost to the point of obsession.
The human trafficking story line was engaging and educational. I know that it exists, but not to the depth.
Even though this is a book three, the author gives enough backstory that you could read it as a stand alone. However, I”m a big fan of reading them in order. There is a novella that falls chronologically between book one and two, though it was released after book two.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson/Harper Collins through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I can always count on Colleen Coble to pull me out of a reading funk. Her books always have a depth and strength of character with just enough of the darkness in humanity to make you appreciate the good guys. Secrets at Cedar Cabin is no exception.
Despite her circumstances and learning that everything she believed is wrong, Bailey remains upbeat and optimistic about her future. She does have a moment of doubt but does not allow it to take away her faith that God will see her through this trial. Lance has been looking for his sister for five years, and through all that time he has never given up. While their beginning was a bit rocky, Lance and Bailey quickly found themselves not only attracted to one another but depending on the other.
The setting was picturesque with the cabins and ocean at your fingertips...the perfect place to drop in a couple of dead bodies and a sweet old lady for Bailey to care for. That's what I can always count on from Coble, nothing is ever as straightforward as it seems.
I've been making it a point to write down quotes from books that I find interesting or helpful in my life. So far, Secrets at Cedar Cabin has produced the most quotes from a single book. I had to stop a few times just to digest the weight of a certain sentence as it spoke to my heart.
As for the who-done-it...don't worry, I won't spoil it...but I will say this...you got me. Never saw it coming. In fact, when I read it, I actually dropped the book in shock. Colleen Coble, you've done it again. Excellent book.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not required to leave a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.