Her Darkest Secret was such an intense read!! I was quickly drawn into the story and could hardly wait to see how it would end.

I loved the romance and that it was a second-chance story. There were some truly heartbreaking moments in the book and it was a darker read, at times.

All in all, though, this was an intense read that held my attention. The story had SO many twists and I did not guess the ending. I can hardly wait to read the next one!

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

Buckle up, dear readers, because Jessica R Patch delivers one stunning surprise after another in Her Darkest Secret! Like the master storyteller that she is, Patch reveals several compelling layers to the characters and the serial killer and the case itself, one at a time, at just the right moment to keep you hanging on every word. A truly evil serial killer – who is more complex than first appears (like so many things in this riveting novel) – meets his match in the victim that got away, a survivor turned FBI special agent determined to take him down if it’s the last thing she does. (And it may very well be.) Fiona’s obsession with the Nursery Rhyme Killer (oooo doesn’t that nickname make you shiver with all the creepy possibilities?!?) has already cost her on a deeply personal level, and his obsession with her may cost her even more dearly before all is said and done. This game of cat-and-mouse stole my breath on multiple occasions, and the times the killer gets waaaaay too close for comfort had my heart skipping several beats. I was so invested in this story that I’m sure anyone watching me read would have been highly entertained at my facial expressions throughout. I’m also pretty sure I literally jumped a couple of times… so there’s that. haha!

I loved, loved, loved Fiona’s “former” team. They are the best of the best when it comes to solving strange crimes, each person adding a different layer of expertise to the mix, and their dynamics are like a loud, crazy family that’s simultaneously overwhelming and lovable. Patch’s trademark humor comes through often in the team members’ interactions with each other, giving readers some lighthearted respites from the intensity of the serial killer investigation and the horror that character embodies. Ty and Owen quickly became favorites of mine for their manchild banter, yes, but also for their friendship and their willingness to be there for each other and the rest of the team in a heartbeat. Violet is another fave of mine (she reminds me of Detective Rosa Diaz from the TV show Brooklyn 99), but honestly I loved them all… and I especially adored the still-there passion and chemistry between Fiona and Asa, even with all the hurt between them. Oh – and I also really appreciated Asa’s newfound faith in Jesus and determination to – with His help – live as a new creation, making a marked difference that Fiona can see in him right away.

Bottom Line: Her Darkest Secret by Jessica R Patch is chilling and creepy and compelling – an alliteration trifecta that, when added together with Patch’s masterful plotting (complete with several surprises!), layered character development, and thoughtful faith notes, produces a novel you will eagerly lose yourself in from start to finish. There is deep darkness and brokenness portrayed in this story, yes, but there is also goodness and healing – and the presence of the Light of the world shining into that same darkness. This is the hope we have as followers of Jesus – light in the darkness – and Patch reflects that so well on these pages without sacrificing the tension of the suspense. Absolutely wonderful read in every way!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of <i>Her Darkest Secret</i> in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

<h4 style="margin-top: 84px;">The Gist</h4>

<i>Her Darkest Secret</i> by Jessica R. Patch is a riveting and emotionally charged suspense novel that delves into the complexities of trauma, memory, and the quest for justice. Patch, known for her gripping storytelling and nuanced character development, delivers a page-turner that keeps readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

<h4>The Details</h4>

The novel follows the story of FBI Special Agent Fiona Kelly, a woman haunted by a dark past and a relentless desire to bring a serial killer to justice. A killer resurfaces and Fiona is determined to catch him before he claims more victims.

Fiona Kelly is a compelling protagonist, characterized by her strength, resilience, and vulnerability. Her traumatic past is intricately woven into her current pursuit, adding layers of depth to her character. Patch masterfully explores Fiona's internal struggles, making her both relatable and admirable. Her determination to overcome her fears and confront the darkness that has haunted her for years forms the emotional core of the novel.

The Nursery Rhyme Killer is a chilling and enigmatic figure. Patch expertly builds suspense around his identity and motives, keeping readers guessing until the very end. The killer's use of nursery rhymes to taunt his victims adds a disturbing and memorable element to the story, heightening the tension and sense of dread.

Supporting characters are well-developed and add richness to the narrative.

The plot of <i>Her Darkest Secret</i> is tightly paced, with twists and turns that maintain suspense and keep readers engaged. Patch's writing is sharp and evocative, capturing the intensity of FBI investigations and the psychological intricacies of both the protagonist and the killer. The alternating perspectives between Fiona and the killer provide a comprehensive view of the cat-and-mouse game, adding to the narrative's complexity and intrigue.

The setting is vividly described, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the novel. Patch's attention to detail brings each scene to life, making the reader feel immersed in the story's world.

<h4>The Verdict</h4>

Overall, <i>Her Darkest Secret</i> by Jessica R. Patch is a masterfully crafted suspense novel that combines psychological depth with relentless tension. With its well-drawn characters, gripping plot, and thoughtful exploration of trauma and healing, it stands out as a compelling read in the suspense genre. Fans of psychological thrillers and crime fiction will find much to admire in this haunting and powerful story.

This is my kind of book and it did not disappoint. If you're looking for a great mystery with a great romance, read on!

Fiona Kelly is obsessed with finding her sister's killer. Her obsession lead her to a job tracking down sordid killers, and cost her her marriage. A new kill has her returning to Memphis and working alongside her ex-husband.

A dark thriller, darker than I usually read. The plot was intriguing, but I personally wasn't a fan of the darker themes. The romance was also interesting with Asa having moved on some since Fiona left him.

In the end this one just wasn't for me. The subject matter was just not to my taste, and at times it was slow going so I resorted to skimming to make it through those longer scenes. I did like the second chance romance though.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are my own.

Overall, this was an interesting story. The mystery/thriller aspect was good. The characters were less enjoyable for me. I can't put my finger on exactly why I didn't click with them, but I just didn't feel connected. I think it is because the "romance" part of the story was just so not working for me. Like, at all. So, overall, I was conflicted with this book. I liked the mystery and the killer aspect, but the rest was just not my cup of tea.

When you see a book described as a “taut psychological thriller”, there should be a picture of Her Darkest Secret, Jessica Patch’s newest faith-filled romantic suspense.
FBI Agent Fiona Kelly has been obsessed with catching and stopping the Nursery Rhyme Killer (aka NRK, or as Fiona calls him, “Rhyme”) for as long as she’s been an agent. But not just because she’s an FBI agent. She’s also his only living victim…the one who got away. The case has affected her life so much it tore her marriage apart, resulting in her transferring out of the Strange Crimes Unit she was a part of in Memphis, and moving on to Chicago.
Rhyme’s been quiet awhile…but he’s back.
Agent Asa Kodiak is the head of the Strange Crimes Unit in Memphis, and Fiona’s ex-husband. He still struggles with their divorce and the emotions that go with it, but is trying to move on. He’s also found the Lord, and his newfound faith has been a great blessing to him. Still…he knows as soon as Fiona hears about the new case, she’ll be on a plane to Memphis immediately, and he’s not looking forward to that.
She gets there, and somehow they come to terms on how they can work together with the rest of Asa’s team. But can they do more than just “work together”? Even amidst all that is going on, can they somehow pick up the fragmented pieces of their relationship and put it back together?
Rhyme is…scary. Stealthy. Manipulating. He gets under your skin and gives you goosebumps. Oh, but those elements of faith throughout the book are like a deep breath of fresh air on a cool Spring day.
Jessica weaves a captivating tale with as many twists and turns as a creepy bare tree with its gnarled, coiling branches.
You’ll want to read this…just leave the light on!

‘“Here, kitty, kitty. His voice echoed through the forest. Disoriented and unable to gauge distance, she pressed on, her brain pushing her feet faster than they could carry her.”

Wow, talk about an intense start! Patch wrote a psychological thriller that kept me guessing right to the end. Her link to the Nursery Rhyme Killer was downright creepy, yet totally enthralling. Intense and captivating! You won’t want to put this one down!

I loved the romance of second chances, too. It brought hope in the midst of this psychological roller coaster. There was a thread of how to connect with God in the middle of chaos and evil. The faith development was encouraging and enlightening. I did not see that ending coming…it was so good!

I also liked this reminder…
“While darkness lurked in the halls of God’s house and hypocrisy abounded, light also shined in people who were trying to live their faith the best they could.

I was given a copy of this book through NetGalley by the publisher. All opinions are my own, and have been given honestly.

Nice book. From start to finish it’s a good read.
Holds your interest. Keeps you on edge. Has you turning the pages.
This author always gives her best and this one is no different.

Thank you for the ARC.

Wow. This is my favorite Jessica Patch novel ever. It was so intense. So fast paced.

Let's start with the opening. I was just so floored by it, I read it out loud to my family. And then I read it a third time to myself. Yes, it was that good. The characters were engaging. The suspense was nail-biting. The faith thread was spot on. Subtle, yet beautifully woven into the story.

Fiona and Asa!? Um yes..... I can't say anything more than that because of spoilers. But their scenes are perfectly scripted. You are going to love them. And Fiona had such a great character arc. Patch made her character come alive in such an amazing way. I could feel her emotions. I could see her pain, her passion for catching this criminal, and her guilt. Goodness it gave me goosebumps!

This psychological thriller is in a world of its own. It is Patch's best work. I cannot wait for the next book to come out. I know I'll love it just as much.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Fiona is a FBI special agent who who kidnapped back in the day by the Nursery Rhyme killer that was never found. Now it seems that person is back to their old ways and stalking her and leaving bodies similar to before. Asa her ex and a FBI agent are not working together to find the person before he gets her.

This was such a great read. I was hooked from start to end. I will admit I was confused at first what was going on because it felt like I fell into the middle of a case that might've had more to it but then once I kept reading I caught up. I kinda thought that this book may have been connected to anther the way it it was written but it cleared up eventually. I loved the way the book progressed and seeing the killer throw in tid bits of his own perspective which made it more sinister seeing his thoughts. I loved watching how they worked on solving the case. Honestly there was never a dull moment with this book and I really enjoyed it.

A serial killer held Fiona when she was 17. After she escaped, she became a Strange Crimes expert, but 20 years later, her sister’s killer is still on the loose.

This is an interesting story that is thoroughly implausible. The gospel is presented so the nook falls into the inspirational fiction category, but make no mistake, this is a grim mystery.

Her Darkest Secret was an absolutely chilling tale that kept me guessing from the very start of the story until the author revealed who was behind the serial killings that had haunted the Memphis area for years. This story is definitely not for the faint of heart as it deals with a very ruthless and vicious killer.

My favorite part of the book was seeing the connection between Asa and Fiona as they worked together again to try to catch Rhyme. Their broken marriage and the broken hearts each carried with them impacted how they interacted and created the perfect amount of romantic tension. Yet Asa was not the man he used to be. He was now a believer and was dating a truly kind woman who was also working the case. Fiona was not a believer and neither were the other members of the team. This felt very realistic to me.

The way the team ran the investigation was fascinating to me. I loved watching them go over the old cases and reinterview persons of interest. It was exciting to see certain clues fall into place. Yet, the author was adept at showing patterns and creating possibilities while also placing plenty of doubt about who could be the villain. I am so excited to read future books in this series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

This is a change from previous Love Inspired titles I’ve read. The religious undertones are there, but the subject is much darker than usual. An engaging thriller for a weekend read.

Totally creeped me out, which is very hard to do! Her Darkest Secret is by far the most intense and tightly woven story I've read this year--and I've read a LOT of books this year. I'm eager for more!

I received an advance copy from the publisher. My review was not solicited in exchange.

I really enjoyed this suspenseful thriller book. I thought the Nursery Rhyme aspect of the book was well written in relation to the killer’s clues. Fiona and Asa were both great characters and I liked their chemistry and character development. I found the whole book was suspenseful and enjoyed the fast pace and twists. Check this out if you’re looking for a great psychological thriller.

When a cold-case serial killer returns, FBI special agent Fiona Kelly has one last chance to stop him before he claims the prize he's always wanted--her
Fiona was the only victim of the nursery rhymes serial killer who managed to get away. Now he's back and won't leave without claiming the ultimate prize. This book was gritty, very scary and put me on the edge of my seat. I couldn't stop reading. It was a great thrilling suspense book.

Her Darkest Secret by Jessica R Patch is a Christian mystery/thriller with a touch of romance. Well plotted novel that I enjoyed from start to finish. Fiona is obsessed with finding the Nursery Rhyme killer who abducted her and her sister. She was able to escape but her sister didn’t. She became an FBI agent. Her obsession resulted in losing her marriage to fellow FBI agent Asa Kodiak. I adored Asa and totally understood where he was coming from. There were so many great scenes between the two of them; funny and serious.
The serial killer is definitely creepy and following their chase of him was fascinating to watch. I was totally surprised by her secret. The story was also a great balance of hunting down the killer and learning more about Asa and Fiona. I enjoyed how the author wove the faith element into the story as to how Asa could handle his job. Hoping some of the other agents get their own stories next.

If you enjoy a thriller with faith elements you can’t get much better than this story.

This book had all of the elements of a good mystery, with a crime-fighting team, and a past she cannot escape. She is forced to work with her ex-husband and his new girlfriend. This is a fast-paced quality read that I enjoyed. Personally, as a non-religious person, the talk of religion throughout the story was a little off-putting but otherwise, the story was fun to follow, I did enjoy every twist turn, and discovery I made throughout the book trying to figure out who the killer really is.

Man, this book is something else. :)I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. I loved all of the twists and turns, and that ending, OMG!

Special Agent Fiona Kelly was a victim of a serial killer when she was just a kid. She manages to escape, but her sister wasn't so lucky. Since then she dedicate her life to finding him. Every part of her life is affected and it's a big reason why her marriage was destroyed.

Now there is a new murder with the killer calling card. She is determined to find him before he gets what he really wants, her.

It's such a thrilling, suspenseful story, I couldn't stop reading, I had to know what happened next, it's so so good!

received from Netgalley, all thoughts and opinions are my own