This is the 3rd book in the Natchez Trace series, but it's the first I've read and definitely can be read as a stand-alone. This was also the 1st book by this author that I've read, but it definitely won't be the last!

In this book, we find Investigative Services Branch Ranger Ainsley Beaumont back in her hometown and assigned to investigate the murder of a local teenage girl. She also finds herself unexpectedly paired up with former FBI sniper (and her former flame)Lincoln Steele, whom she hasn't spoken to since they broke up several years ago.

This story involves multiple crimes, murders, political intrigue, mysterious historical events, missing diaries, an escaped prisoner with a death wish for Ainsley, family drama, and second chance romance. I really appreciated that the romance storyline was realistic and not based merely on attraction. Ainsley and Linc had some really good discussions and truly cared for one another in meaningful ways throughout the story.

The faith content was good as well. It wasn't a huge part of the story, but it was dealt with honestly - especially the struggles. Forgiveness is a key theme, and we see the repair of several broken relationships over the course of the book. Additionally, we see the change that regeneration makes in the lives of a couple key characters as well. After reading several other "Christian" fiction titles recently, where the faith content was simply a mention that the characters "went to church" (without even having an actual scene of them going to church), the way faith was handled in this book was a definite plus.

*Thank you to Net Galley and Revell Publishing for providing a free review copy for me to read, all thoughts and opinions are mine. *

A fast paced read, filled with action, that delves into the past as Ainsley and Lincoln fight to stay one step ahead of a killer.

Ainsley gave up her dreams, and now is working as an ISB ranger investigating the murder of a pregnant teen. Her investigation leads her to unexpectedly work with her former flame.

Lincoln is haunted by what almost happened to him, he wants to do everything he can to help Ainsley, but can her trust himself to protect her?

There is a lot going on in this book, from the present, past, relationships and suspense. I really enjoyed this book, I liked how Linc was challenged to face his past, and reach for the future. It was hard to read the parts from the bad guy's perspective, as that is just a personal thing I'm not a fan of.

Overall, an amazing installment to a great series, and can be read as a standalone. Engaging, with characters that I could cheer for, strong faith, and great relationship building.


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

Crosshairs by Patricia Bradley

Fantastic book filled with lots of suspense. Kept you guessing until the very end. Great characters, well-written. I recommend this book.

I have truly loved this Natchez Trace Park Ranger series from Patricia Bradley. She has such a unique gift at making the scenery come to life around you without you even noticing.
This books is full of twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end. Ainsley was such a unique and well paced character. Linc was a unique hero that was still easy to root for. All in all, I loved picking up a book and getting so much more than the typical XYZ formula of Christian Romantic Suspense. Bradley has such a unique flavor to her writing that keeps me coming back for more. This is a series/books I would recommend to a friend.
I received a copy of this book digitally via NetGalley as well as purchased it from Baker Books. I read and reviewed this book voluntarily, and all opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.

The action starts on page one and pulses through the pages. Layered in are elements of romance, twists of suspense, and a community that is fun to return to. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel.

This is book three in the Natchez Trace Park Rangers series, however I feel it is. stand alone book. This book is full of mystery, drama, suspense, surprise and more.
Ainsley Beaumont and Lincoln Steele must put aside some differences and work together while both are also hiding some past feelings and hurt.
I was given a copy of this novel for my honest opinion.

Ainsley and Linc are strong characters who come across well in this story, presented as law enforcement professionals, people with a past that ended a love relationship, and who now have a definite attraction. All those elements play a role in how they handle themselves as they work together to solve a murder and not get killed in the process.

The romance is sweet and tender, and the hesitation about renewing their love that each one has because of their past history is realistic. The “will they or won’t they” element is a perfect subplot, adding another level of drama and suspense to the story.

There’s a little dance between Linc wanting to protect Ainsley and trusting in her and her skills as a trained law enforcement officer to be able to get safely out of danger. The fact that he does have that trust, even though his instinct is to be the protector, is such an endearing aspect of his character, and it’s easy to see how Ainsley could fall in love with him all over again. It’s also so satisfying to see how she uses her skills and experience to get herself out of those difficult situations; not needing the man to save her. And hang on for the ending that showcases her strength in such a perfect way.

Linc’s faith is presented in a natural way, realistic and not heavy-handed, and it’s a nice flip of the common trope of a woman trying to convince a man to open himself up to God and religion. Not that Ainsley is against religion; it’s just she’s had challenges in her life that have made her faith waver. Does she dare open herself up to God again? To Linc?

For readers who like a sweet romance that plays out against a backdrop of mystery and suspense this is the perfect book for a weekend read. It’s well written, has engaging lead characters, and has a plot that moves along at a fast pace, with more than one surprise along the way.

Crosshairs by Patricia Bradley is definitely a thrilling escapade deep in the heart of Natchez, Mississippi. Ainsley Beaumont is an investigative Services Branch ranger in Tennessee, who is currently investigating a murder in her hometown of Natchez. The investigation is riddled with questions and suspects, making Ainsley’s job that much harder. Adding even more excitement to the mix is the fact that Ainsley is in the crosshairs of someone solely intent on taking her down and anyone else who gets in the way. Keeping a low profile in such a small community is out of the question, so Ainsley and former FBI agent Linc Steele must navigate the scene with caution. Still not exciting enough? Well, Linc and Ainsley were sweethearts back in the day, but when Ainsley chose to pursue a singing career, Linc was less than supportive. Will that romance spark back up now that the two are older and wiser, or will past hurts and other traumatic events be too much to forgive and forget?

Patricia Bradley delivers an engaging, suspenseful, Christian-based story that is laced with family dynamics, cautious relationship building, and a mysterious murder that unearths the dark world of drug addiction/dealing, which unfortunately leads to painful and even deadly consequences. Cloaked in such seriousness, Crosshairs is a heavy-weight thriller that is lightened occasionally by a few endearing characters: Rose (Ainsley’s grandmother) and her sister, Cora. These two ladies may be elderly, but they steal the show with their spunk and independence.

With such superb characterization and a triple deadly threat running rampant throughout the overall plot, Crosshairs is the perfect choice for readers craving a bit a romance with their chilling murder mystery. Correction: mysteries. Danger lurks around every corner, and Linc is sticking closer to Ainsley than her bullet-proof vest to protect her, even if he no longer packs a gun. The reason for that little tidbit is explained (and so much more about Linc), but you have to read the story to find out. I don’t want to give away all the secrets because unraveling them is half the fun. The other half of the fun comes from the charismatic exchange between Linc and Ainsley as they sort out their past and tentatively explore their present relationship, all while dodging bullets and chasing down leads, clues, and miscreants.

While Crosshairs is book three in the Natchez Trace Park Ranger series, it won’t be confusing to read it all by itself. The location and characters may overlap, but they can each stand on their own; however, Patricia Bradley’s writing is marvelous, so why not read them all?

Grab a copy of Crosshairs and immerse yourself in Natchez, Mississippi, but be prepared to be captivated by excellent characters, a Christian backdrop, a heavy dose of second chances, a little bit of romance, and some five-star suspense.

I received a free copy of this book from Lone Star Book Blog Tours in exchange for my honest review.

This is one suspense book I couldn’t put down! Main characters Lincoln and Ainsley have a history, but they have been thrown together for work and have the time to work through past issues. Ainsley has a few misconceptions about her life that are revealed as she works on a case, and Lincoln has something in his past holding him back. They both have grown up and decide to let the past rest and move forward, all while solving some murders and fighting for their own lives. Highly recommended.

Every book I have read from Patricia Bradley I have loved and is a favorite, and Crosshairs is no exception–I love it and it’s a favorite! Crosshairs is the third installment of the Natchez Trace Park Rangers series. I have read every single book in the Natchez Trace Park Rangers series and love every book thus far.

Crosshairs tells the story of Ainsley and Linc. Linc (short for Lincoln) and Ainsley are former high school sweethearts and both have ties to law enforcement–Linc, a former FBI agent, is an interpretive ranger, and Ainsley is a part of the Investigative Services Branch (ISB). Ainsley and Linc are forced to work together to solve a murder involving a pregnant teen. Not only do they have to solve a murder, but they are also solving the mystery of what happened to Ainsley’s Aunt and trying to figure out who is trying to kill Ainsley. On top of all of this, Ansley is dealing with family issues regarding her relationship with her father and what she perceives to be a failed music career. Linc is still reeling from the death of his best friend and trying to ward off the best friend’s sister who has feelings for him, all the while dealing with the anxiety of his FBI career. Plus, Linc has regrets about the way he handled things in regards to Ainsley’s music career.

Crosshairs is full of twists and turns, that kept me on the edge of my seat. Not to mention, there were surprises over halfway through the book that kept me guessing. I love reading mystery and suspense and at times the books in this genre are sometimes predictable to me. Not in the case of Crosshairs. I enjoyed the intrigue of the story and how Ms. Bradley wrote about the characters and how they evolved, both personally and in their relationship with one another, throughout the book. If you are looking for a book that’s full of mystery and intrigue that has many layers to it, then I highly recommend Crosshairs by Patricia Bradley! I cannot wait to read the next book by Patricia Bradley!

I would like to thank NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read this book. (My review is also on Goodreads and my blog, Leslie's Library Escape.)

The main characters were engaging, complex, and reacted in realistic ways to events. They asked good questions as they investigated and worked well together. The suspense came from the physical danger to Ainsley since more than one person hated her enough to want her dead. There were also several mysteries that needed to be solved: Who murdered the girl? Who wanted Ainsley's relative's diaries enough to kill for them? And is a criminal that Ainsley sent to prison the one trying to shoot her?

Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this book. The characters were likeable and realistic. The action was exciting. Just when you thought the author was tying everything up in a neat bow, more stuff "hits the fan". Didn't see that coming. I will definitely read more from this author.

Crosshairs is by far my favorite from Patricia Bradley's Natchez Trace Park Rangers series. It is getting five stars from me.

This is my first Patricia Bradley novel and since Crosshairs was Book 3 in the Natchez Trace Park Rangers series, I was concerned I had missed details from the previous books that would distract from the story. No worries there. It could have been a standalone with the way it was written.
Which is good because who wants to be distracted from a great murder mystery and suspense story with more twists and turns than the Old Mississippi River.
From a strong, but flawed female lead, to a handsome love interest struggling to overcome a tragic loss, to the most adorable Gran and Great-Aunt, I was taken in by the realistic family dynamics and past events that changed the characters’ destinies.
Then there are the antagonists. Perfect blend of red herrings and surprises that make Crosshairs a must read for any lover of the mystery and suspense genres.
Guess I’ll be reading more of Bradley’s books—especially the next in the series. Highly recommend.
I was given an advanced reader’s e-book by Revell and #NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
#Crosshairs #NetGalley

Crosshairs by Patricia Bradley is book 3 in the Natchez Trace Park Rangers Series. I've read the other books in this series and I absolutely love how unique this suspense series is. Here, Ainsley is in danger and former FBI agent Linc is dealing with his own issues around firing a gun again. Nothing is what it seems and that means everything is more dangerous. This book is full of suspense from start to finish and I highly recommend it. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.

This was an awesome book. It had intrigue, love, forgiveness, mystery, and family. The main characters both went through some individual turmoil and I felt they both became stronger afterward. I really enjoyed watching Ainsley and Linc grow back together.

Thank you Revell Publishing and NetGalley for this advance read

Crosshairs is a real nail biter, suspense novel . There were a number of moving parts to this book and the author wove them seamlessly into an exciting whodunit crime novel.
The story introduces us to Ainsley and Linc, 2 teenagers in love with decidedly different aspirations for their future. Over a decade later, they find themselves working together to solve a murder of a young girl. One by one, other characters are introduced. As the pool of suspects in the girl's murder increases, an escaped convict on a mission to kill enters the picture, as well as a drug dealer trying his hand at blackmail. The plot thickens and becomes intricately woven into the author's tangled web. As the story reaches a fevered pitch, all those moving parts are seamlessly untangled to reveal a carefully crafted and twisted finale!
5 stars.

I love writing that not only has good characters and a storyline but can also get me to pull out an atlas (or google earth) and dig deeper. This series has piqued my interest in this national park and area of our country.

I follow the GoodReads rating system. Please note that this means even the 3-star books are ones I liked.
1 star – didn’t like it
2 stars – it was OK
3 stars – liked it
4 stars – really liked it
5 stars – it was amazing; I’ll read it over and over and/or it will impact my daily life.

Patricia Bradley writes the suspense that suspense-lovers crave! Crosshairs twists around several story lines, bringing everything together in a very satisfying climax.

Investigative Services Branch (ISB) ranger Ainsley Beaumont is sent to her hometown to investigate the death of a pregnant teenager. She has no idea that her investigation could make her a killer's target.

Lincoln Steele is former FBI but he hasn't picked up a gun since the job forced him to aim his sniper rifle at a child. He's also Ainsley's former flame. Can they work together to solve the mysteries that reach their tendrils throughout the Trace?

Who keeps trying to kill Ainsley? She's been shot at, run off the road, and nearly strangled in an abandoned church. Can they find the killer be for he (or she) finishes the job?

I have loved this series, set in the Natchez Trace. Bradley's Rangers have shown me a new side to the park rangers I generally am familiar with. I didn't realize there were law enforcement rangers, too, so there's that. I always look forward to a new Patricia Bradley book, but this series has kept the excitement level high for me.

Readers who love romantic suspense need to snap this one up. It's an all-around nail-biter. I highly recommend.

Ainsley Beaumont is an investigative ranger who is back in her hometown to investigate a murder. She realizes she's been gone too long from her grandmother and great-aunt.
As luck would have it, she has to work the case with someone she once loved. Very much. Lincoln Steele. She soon realizes Lincoln has issues. Big issues. He no longer carries a gun.
The young girl who was murdered was three month pregnant. The investigation discovers someone is selling drugs to high school kids. Was this murder about drugs?
Why is Ainsley suddenly in a killer's crosshairs? Who wants her dead, and why?
Great story with suspense, action and romance.
I was given an advanced ecopy by the publisher, Revell and Netgalley. I was under no obligation to leave a positive review.