I have been a fan of this author for years, but this book fell a little flat for me. The main characters, Torie and Joe, were likeable, and Joe's daughter Hailey was adorable. Joe's job training sea mammals for the Navy added a unique and interesting element to the story. However, the suspense didn't draw me in as much as the author's novels usually do. The ending felt rushed, and I finished the book without really understanding the perpetrator's motives for committing the crimes. It wasn't as satisfying as a conclusion as I would have liked. Still, that may just be my preference, and if you are a fan of this author and/or genre, I would recommend giving this book a try!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

So I had never heard of Jekyll Island prior to this book but the synopsis caught my attention right away. Romantic suspense? Count me in! The setting of this book was perfect for a mixture of romance tied in with a roller coaster ride of danger and suspense.

I really loved the descriptiveness of the island that allows you to be able to place yourself there. I also thoroughly enjoyed the characters especially Torie, Joe and Hailey. This book had me fully emersed in the story up until the dramatic mysterious ending. There are also some very heartwarming family moments throughout the book that just warm your heart. Definitely recommend giving it a read.

A STRANGER'S GAME by Colleen Coble

Revew:

As soon as I saw a friend's review of this book, I knew I wanted to read it. I have heard about Jekyll Island from my in-laws for years. It’s on my bucket list to visit someday. The description of the island was great. The view of the sunset was beautiful.

Torie Berg went to Jekyll Island to seek justice for her friend. Her unexpected meeting with Joe and Hailey brought them closer. Joe and Torie’s slow burn romance was a roller coaster ride of mystery and danger. I love Hailey’s addition to the story. She’s a dear child with a bubbly personality. It shows the unconditional love of a parent to his child. I love how Joe and Hailey converse in Bible verses. Torie was also amazed when she witnessed this scene. Simon, the sea lion, sounds amazing.

I felt the risks Torie took as she tried to uncover the truth of her friend’s death. The threats were a puzzle. I didn’t like her aunt. I was suspicious of some of the characters. I thought I knew who it was but then something came up that made me doubt my theory. Be prepared for a heart thumping story with some sweet family moments. It was a mystery till the end.


Rating: 4.5 stars
Pub date: 04 Jan 2022

Thank you Thomas Nelson for the complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.

I have to say that you need to be on your toes to read this one! It takes you in a lot of different directions because several things are happening to arrive at the conclusion but it's a fascinating story! It does take a couple chapters to draw you in but stick with it! It's a great book! I love Colleen Coble's books and this is the first one that didn't pull me right in from the beginning but that's ok, it just needed to do a "slow burn" this time! Torie is investigating her best friend's death but because she's the heir of the hotel owner's daughter, she knows she won't get answers showing up as herself so she fakes her identity. She meets Joe and his daughter, Hailey (who is adorable!) the first day and feels she can trust Joe to help her somewhat. Joe's story is also interesting and suspenseful! The high and mighty aunt who runs the hotel is always fun as a villain but you just never know what she's up to! Torie's dad is a great guy - different than Torie expects as he is changing for the better! It's a great story with so many twists and turns! Who is constantly toying with Torie and not really trying to kill her but cause her grief? I really enjoyed it!

Another thriller from a master! In perfect Colleen Coble fashion, non-stop action and a dash of romance mix into a story that thrills and excites. From the opening paragraph to the satisfying ending, the adrenaline keeps you going well after the last page is flipped. The setting is brought to life with imagination fueling detail and characters that last long after they finish telling their story. Torie has lost her best friend and she can't let go of the details that scream murder to her. So she heads to the scene of the crime to find the clues law enforcement has refused to look for and catch a killer. With no one to trust and an identity she needs to hide, how will she get through even one day? Especially when a stalker tails her every move, knows more than she does about what is happening, and thrives on keeping her terrified and jumping at every shadow. Enter Joe and Hailey. She is a little girl missing her Mom, loves the turtles, and invites Torie into a new relationship that scares Torie with the ability to tear down her walls. And then there is her Dad, who further shakes those walls with his devotion to family and willingness to trust her and her instincts. Together they search for the clues needed to bring a killer to justice. But as they delve deeper they discover more than a murderer, but plots to do damage to everyone on the island. Now they are racing to stop these plans while trying to avoid kidnappings, bombs, and other death traps. Do they have enough time to unmask the culprits?
With great research and attention to detail, Colleen Coble takes the reader on a trip to Jekyll Island with beautiful beaches, locations rich in history, and breath-taking sunsets. The adrenaline she adds to this thriller leaves you holding onto the story well after the reading is finished. Torie and Joe will stay with me long after this book is tucked away. I loved every heart pounding moment and can't wait for the next trip she will take me on. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The story in this book kept me reading because I wanted to know who the “bad guy” was, so I finished it. However, about halfway through I wanted to pitch it!

I know this author, having read her books before and enjoyed them. This one seemed to need more editing, too many trite phrases used for one. Disappointed in the writing.

I received this book from the publisher via net galley in exchange for an honest review.

I have been a big Colleen Coble fan for many years. I have read most, if not all, of her contemporary mystery and romantic suspense stories; my favorites being her Rock Harbor, Pelican Harbor, Hope Beach, and Aloha Reef series. A Stranger's Game is, for the most part, a riveting tale with multiple mysteries converging during Victoria Bergstrom's investigation of her best friend's death. I say for the most part because the final two chapters fall a little flat, as if the author felt rushed to wind up the story. I read an advanced galley copy, so maybe the last two chapters will be a bit more fleshed out in the final release.

I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of A Stranger's Game from Thomas Nelson via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

Torie is back on Jekyll Island undercover to try and solve the disappearance of her best friend. Torie does not believe that her friend has drown and starts looking for clues at the resort that her friend worked at, and that Tories family owns. Torie can not let anyone know who she is but when the head of security figures out her cover, she has no other option but to trust him. As clues reveal themselves, there are ties that link not only her friends drowning, but the tragic death of Tories mother years ago. What lengths will the killer go to, to hide the truth?

I enjoyed this book by Colleen Coble and her writing style. The characters were interesting, and I loved all the animals that found their way into the story. For me though, Torie’s cover was blown way too soon and her relationship with Joe and his daughter happened too quickly. It also took me awhile to figure out all the characters but once I did, the book flowed effortlessly. Thank you to Thomas Nelson Publishing for an advanced copy of the book to review in exchange for my honest opinion.

Wow this book had me on the edge of my seat! I was taken by complete surprise too many times to count. My favorite type of books to read are ones I have no way of guessing what might happen next, and A Strangers Game is one of those. Coble is a master at mixing just the right amount of suspense and romance, and I couldn’t get enough. Torie and Joe were easy to like even though they were from different worlds. Torie being from a world where she must always be on guard and put her best foot forward, has caused her to hide her true self behind perfection. Playing a part all the time can be exhausting. Joe on the other hand, only knows how to be his true and open self. He’s a “what you see is what you get” kind of guy. I loved seeing their chemistry together, and how they brought out the best in each other. I couldn’t put this book down. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Suspense with the perfect amount of romance thrown in. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishing and was in no way forced to post a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

This was a great romantic suspense. There was so much going on and I often thought I knew what was happening, but I was wrong. I enjoyed all the suspense and intrigue and really enjoyed Torie and Joe's story. They work so well together and were perfect for each other. This was another home run for Colleen Coble.

When Torie's friend Lisbeth is found drowned, she knows it can't have been suicide as is claimed, because Lisbeth was deathly afraid of water - so she returns to the island of her childhood to try to discover the truth. Unfortunately, despite her assumed name, someone seems to know why she's there and to be desperate to stop her. Joe, a co-worker who trains sea lions for the Navy in his spare time away from the hotel, helps, but faces threats himself - some endangering his beloved daughter Hailey. Will the pair be able to get to the bottom of Lisbeth's death and these threats before someone gets hurt or worse? And will Torie finally work out what she really wants in life?

I've read some of the author's books that are part of series and felt a little disconnected at times - but this was nothing like that. It held my attention from start to finish, though I might have to read through bits of it again to feel like I completely understand the motivations in a few spots. Nevertheless, there's some enjoyable suspense, which all comes together fairly neatly, and a delightful romance (complete with a kid who's thrilled at the idea of a new mother). I was also intrigued by the mention of training 'sea mammals' - I'd never come across such an idea before. A good read - recommended.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is a Romantic Suspense. I feel this book is a great mix of Suspense/Mystery and Romance. The beginning of this book took me a little bit to get into the story, and it also took a little bit to figure out what was going on. Once, I was into the story I really was pulled into it. There was a lot going on, but I feel it was done so well. I love the characters in this book, and I also loved all the animals in this book. The plot/storyline was so great in this book as well. This book will keep you guessing and wanting to find out what is going on. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Thomas Nelson) or author (Colleen Coble) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.

When Victoria “Torie” Bergstrom’s best friend drowns on Jekyll Island, she knows that this was no accident; Lisbeth was terrified of the ocean. She arrives to find out what happened to her friend as Torie Berg, the new IT employee. Her father Anton owns the resort, but she has not visited for the past eighteen years since her mother died from a fall from the resort roof. Her first day she meets Joe Abbott and his daughter Hailey who moved to the island after the death of his wife. He and his team are training seals, for the Navy, that detect unauthorized divers as well as patrol the surrounding waters. When Torie is threatened, Joe steps in to protect her, unknowingly placing him and his daughter in harms way. There was almost too much happening in this story as strange threats and “accidents” occur. Are they involved with Lisbeth’s death, the important meeting that will soon take place or possible foreign agents who seem interested in Jekyll Island? I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)

A Stranger’s Game, by Colleen Coble, Is a suspense you will not soon forget. This tale opens up with Torie Bergstrom returning to Jekyll Island. She had not been back to this place since she was a child; however, Torie has a secret mission. To discover what was behind the recent drowning of her best friend, Lisbeth!

As Torie begins to explore the seashore, she meets Joe Abbott. Joe works with security at the hotel, where Torie is to work. Not only is Torie hoping to solve the secret behind her friends death, but she has a secret of her own, that she must keep undercover!

This tale reaches a high pace, as Torie and Joe are attached as they are scuba diving. Danger seems to lurk around every corner. At the end of it all, you will not believe who was behind Lisbeth’s drowning!

Enjoyed the story. I was drawn to the mystery of Lisbeth's death and the reason Torie returned to Jekyll Island. I kept wondering if it was related to the death of Torie's mom. The police did a horrible job investigating Lisbeth's death. Throughout the book there were constant attacks to Joe in the water and Torie kept getting taunted with break-ins, music playing, board games and items being moved. Plus there was another death at the hotel. What was going on at this resort? Was everything connected? With all that was happening to Joe and Torie I couldn't wait to find out the truth behind everything. I'm still confused by the ending. I thought it could be explained a little more. Why were those two people involved? Did something happen to them to cause all that hostility? The measures that they took were so extreme. Everything seemed so far-fetched and unbelievable. I still have so many questions about the death of Torie's mom. Was it suicide or did someone push her? What was with Torie's aunt? How did she not recognize her? Torie wore her hair just like her mother. Not many people wear a crown of braids. Genevieve was far from a loving aunt. I enjoyed everything leading up to the ending. The story took a turn I wasn't expecting. Maybe if the reasons behind people's motives were explained a bit more I would have liked it a bit more and given the book 4 stars.

Definitely recommend the book. I enjoyed the characters, story and writing style. Look forward to reading more books by the author.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson--FICTION through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

A Stranger's Game
by: Colleen Noble
Thomas Nelson-FICTION, Thomas Nelson

Gorgeous Jekyll Island is the setting for both romantic and suspenseful tension, as hotel heiress Torie returns to her childhood community. Seeking answers to her best friend's death and confronting painful memories of the past lead her directly into dangerous, unexplained situations.
Author Coble certainly keeps the action and intrigue moving at a fast past on the southernmost of Georgia's Golden Isles. Torie gets right to work at her dad's Club Hotel resort. She quickly meets sea-lion trainer Joe and his daughter Hailey, thus enhancing the chances for an island romance in the midst of unsolved secrets, puzzles, and clues.
Torie is a compassionate, hard working professional woman who displays bravery and courage throughout the book. The island's mysterious atmosphere is palpable as both Torie and Joe diligently seek to stay safe and find connections to the strange happenings. I was fully engaged with this engrossing, well-written story, from Tories' arrival on Jekyll Island to the stirring, dramatic conclusion.
Thanks to Net Galley and Thomas Nelson-FICTION, Thomas Nelson for the advance reader's copy and opportunity to provide my unbiased review.
#AStrangersGame #NetGalley

This is another engaging novel by Coble. The plot is multilayered. The heroine, Torie, has come to investigate the death of her best friend who had in turn been investigating the death of Torie's mother years ago. I do wish there had been a bit more character building of Torie at the very beginning, explaining her background.

I appreciate that Coble has included the issue of trusting God after the loss of a loved one. I also like it when I learn something from fiction and this novel contained good information on the training of sea lions for use in underwater detection. I had no idea one could be trained to slap a cuff on the ankle of an intruder.

I like the setting of Jekyll Island off the Georgia coast. The location allowed Coble to include in the plot controversy surrounding the creation of the Federal Reserve on that very island as well as criticism by some of its actions today.

This is an entertaining and informative novel. There is a little suspense but nothing very intense until the very end. There is a good developing romance. What I liked best about the novel was the setting and the use of sea lions by the navy.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.

This is a well written romantic suspense that hooks you on the first page. It is full of drama, suspense and romance and will keep you turning the pages to see what happens next. If you like a book that will keep you on the edge of seat and keep you guessing until the end, grab this book.
I received a complimentary copy from Thomas Nelson--FICTION via NetGalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

I always enjoy books by this author. The characters are always well developed and interesting. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy.

Jekyll Island, Georgia is the lovely setting for the suspenseful read where all old memories and new meet. Torie Berg is working at her family's island resort hotel undercover to find out what happened to her best friend, Lisbeth. It was reported that she committed suicide by drowning herself but Torie knows that Lisbeth was afraid of the water and would not put a foot in the water. Her mother fell from their family balcony eighteen years ago when Torie was just ten years old and she hasn't been back to the resort since so even her Aunt Genevieve doesn't recognize her. Only her father is in on her secret. She meets the handsome former Navy man Joe Abbott and his daughter Hailey, she falls for them but someone is trying to frighten Torie away. This is a suspenseful tale with a lot of different things going on at the resort and island, including a coming up meeting of the Federal Reserve and the arrival of a nuclear submarine. Joe trains sea lions to detect intruders who try to get close to the military on the island and nearby King's Bay, nuclear submarine base. Multifaceted issues abound amongst the budding friendship and romance developing along with the danger. This is a read that is a page turner from start to finish with great characters in the great setting of the Golden Isles of the coast of Georgia, a truly lovely area. In addition to the mystery going on in the current day, there are answers to a mystery from the past.
I received a complimentary ARC from Thomas Nelson and NetGalley but all thoughts are completely mine.