She's been working as an undercover cop in Chattanooga, but Alexis Stone has her heart set on becoming its first female chief of police. Hopefully, a short stint as the interim chief deputy in her hometown will add to her resume and increase her chances. Easy peasy...right? What she doesn't count on is becoming bait for a serial killer and needing the protection of the Pearl Springs police chief, a man that she once loved.

Counter Attack is the first book of a new series by veteran suspense author Patricia Bradley and it doesn't disappoint! It has well-developed characters, twists and turns, a peek into the dark web, and a serial murderer obsessed with the game of chess. I'm not a chess player so I was very intrigued with the Queen's Gambit Killer's calling card: a white pawn and a chess move for the police to ponder! I was also eager to see if the embers of a past relationship were strong enough to be ignited once again. Alexis and Nathan Landry definitely shared a powerful connection but is it enough? Will they turn to God for guidance in planning their future?

This book is a must-read for anyone wanting a thrilling adventure, a Southern setting, and inspiring romantic suspense. Counter Attack will keep you turning the pages to see if the Queen's Gambit Killer can be outwitted, and it will leave you anxious for more Pearl River novels!

I received a copy from the author and a complimentary copy courtesy of Revell through Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion. There were no obligations for a positive review.

A powerful read from beginnng to end this book from Patricia Bradley does not disappoint. Alexis had a plan to become the first female police chief of Chattanooga.

Bradley uses suspense and romance to lead Alexis to her true calling. In learning that our plans are not always what God knows is best for us, Alexis must face old fears and a return of a young love.

Checkmate!
A gripping and intense romantic suspense novel with characters you will fall in love with and a whirlwind storyline that never slows down!
“Once Dylan hit enter, Nathan’s stomach clenched. This was a mistake. He felt it in his bones, but Alexis wasn’t listening to him. She was so determined to catch this killer that she was willing to risk her own life.”
I received an ARC of this book for review. I was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions in this review are my own.

4/5 stars.

I really enjoyed this read! Patricia Bradley is a new-to-me author, and I'm definitely excited to check out more of her books. (And I'm proud of myself; this is the first book in a new series, so I'm already reading in order for a change! Hah!)

The action kicks into high gear early on in the book (yay), and doesn't let up until close to the end--just how I like it, with sufficient time to get in a satisfying denouement. I clued in to one of the mysteries midway through the read, but was certainly caught off guard on other aspects--a pleasant surprise!

I know very little about chess (just enough to get me in trouble), and felt Bradley did well at educating a noob reader like myself but also not going overboard in nuance or details; there was just enough there to appreciate the complexity without being too niche.

Not a book to read before bedtime, both due to subject matter and because I had to find out what happened next! "Just one more page/chapter" was definitely true here, haha.

Very well done, and again, I look forward to reading more by Bradley--not least in upcoming books in this series.

I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Great book! I always enjoy Patricia Bradley's books, though...and this was no different. Filled with mystery, action and suspense...along with romance, this books has it all! It kept me interested all of the way though. Loved it!

Patricia Bradley has very quickly become one of my favorite authors of romantic suspense. I've read all 3 of her previous series and can confidently say that her new, Pearl River series will be a great addition to her booklist.

Alexis Stone has a goal to be the first female police commissioner of Chattanooga, TN. Her only social life is her job, so when her grandfather suffers a heart attack, she's not prepared for what he asks of her. He's the Sheriff of Russell County and wants her to step in as his chief deputy. This means stepping down from the job she loves and moving to Pearl River. She's been on the trail of a serial killer in Chattanooga, so she's stunned when the killer strikes in Pearl River just days after she takes the job there. All the women killed have borne a striking resemblance to Alex. Could she be the link that ties everything together?

Pearl River Police Chief Nathan Landry fell for Alexis in high school but even though law enforcement drew both of them, Alexis dreamed of bigger things than tiny Pearl River. He can't believe she's back, or the leap his heart takes when she's around. When danger seems to dog her steps, he can't help wanting to protect her. Can they work together to bring a killer to justice before the next victim is Alexis?

I love romantic suspense books and read many different authors, so I was thrilled when I found Patricia Bradley's books. She is one of the best at keeping me guessing until the very end and she nearly always has a twist at the end that gives a little extra jolt of adrenaline. This book is no exception! Just when I started breathing easier, that the "bad guy" had been caught, another one creeped out of the woodwork to threaten our heroes.

Readers who love a good "whodunit" or are fans of romantic suspense should snap up Counter Attack. I, for one, cannot wait until Fatal Witness publishes!!!

I liked the story and the characters. I do love a second chance and a small town. That being said, I did figure out the who not the why pretty early in the story, which made parts of the story not as enjoyable because I kept thinking how could they not realize who it is. Overall, it was a good story and I do want to read the rest of the series.

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

This is one that has intrigued me since it was announced. The storyline and the location thrilled me. I have been to Chattanooga several times in the last 5 years since my bestie's family moved there so it was fun to read a story in a setting I am well familiar with. In fact, my besties lived not far from Earlanger which is mentioned several times in the book. So that was cool. I liked the dual mysteries in the story and how they kept me guessing at the culprits. I also really liked the chess elements to the mystery, that was fun. It was a quick, easy and enjoyable read and a good start to a new series I know I'll enjoy. Looking forward to more of this series!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

Bradley kicks the story off with a dangerous situation and an unexpected reunion between high school sweethearts. The second-chance romance element of this story was fun, especially since Alexis and Nathan’s history plays a huge part of the way they interact with one another.

The serial killer angle provided plenty of conflict while keeping these two characters working together. I quickly got sucked into the mystery and Alex and Nathan work against the clock.

Bradley surprised me with the big reveal, but the pieces fit together well. The ending is sweet and satisfying, and I felt like she tied up all the loose ends. I’m very curious about the next installment in this series.

Overall, Counter Attack is an engaging suspense with a sweet reunion romance that romantic suspense fans will love.

Lots going on:
This was an enjoyable start to the new Pearl River series and there was plenty of action to keep things interesting. The hits kept on coming and the investigative aspects of the book did take precedence. I was kept wondering and second guessing who the culprit actually was although I must say it was who I thought it was from early on.
Unfortunately I didn't find the relationship aspects of the book quite as fulfilling. Nathan and Alex were a nice couple, I just didn't feel much chemistry between them and most of their conversations and interactions were related to the case. I did like the small town feels and I would be interested in spending more time in this community. There was a light Christian message but I think this book would still appeal to unbelievers.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

Counter Attack by Patricia Bradley is an action-packed suspense sure to keep you turning pages deep into the night. It is full of realistic and fast-paced suspense and twists of mystery. I loved following along in the investigation with Nathan and Alexis and building my own suspect list. I enjoyed Nathan and Alexis's second chance/friends to more romance. I felt like the timing was genuine, and I loved the slow building of their relationship from their difficult past. The romance in some suspense novels can seem forced, but I felt like for Nathan and Alexis, their relationship flowed naturally with the rest of the story. I also appreciated the inspirational themes and the references to specific Scripture as the characters grew in their faith. I love being challenged by their faith struggles while I read!
Overall, I enjoyed these characters and watching them navigate through one obstacle after another. I'm a big fan of romantic suspense novels, and Counter Attack was pure entertainment.
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Counter Attack by Patricia Bradley has it all. If suspense and mystery and a serial killer is what will keep your attention. then this is your book. There is excitement in every chapter. From the very first chapter I was hooked. Old flames are reunited and pitted against one another and then they join one another to solve the mystery of who the serial killer is. Then thrown into the mix is a chessboard with the serial killer determining the moves of the chess pieces. A chess piece and a note was left with every victim. What it meant to him and to his victims was a mystery and a puzzle to figure out. All in all this was a great read as all of Bradley's books are. I am a great fan of hers and love to read her books.... I received a complimentary e-book from the publisher through Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and the thoughts above are my own.

I need to learn how to play Chess! The way the killer was using this game to make their moves was interesting and something I didn’t read in a book previously. The shorter chapters added to the action, suspense and breath holding moments.

I love that the characters had a past. This helped make the faster pace in the relationship growth feel realistic.

There was two plot, the main one with the killer and a smaller one with drug dealers. I had my suspicion of who the killer was and the connection early on, but only by the end of the book I realised who was involved with the drugs.

If you enjoy fast-paced suspense you should pick this one up. Even though murder was involved, there was no detail of the murders for readers who prefer suspense without too much detail.

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Received for review: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I received this as part of the publisher's blogger team.

My Overall Thoughts/Impressions: Bradley is an author I've read a lot by, and so I have high expectations for her. Combine that with an amazing premise, and to say I went in with high expectations would be a major understatement.

A serial killer who kills by referencing chess and appears to be making a game of it in more ways than one sounded like a book I would devour and absolutely adore.

And Bradley did a good job creating a really engaging serial killer, who was twisted in the ways you'd expect for a serial killer. "Phame's" thoughts were interesting to see. I do wish that the chess elements had been explored just a bit more, but the whole premise was excellently crafted. So that is something I give Bradley major props for.

Bradley's writing is always tight and engaging. The pacing was fast and everything you'd hope for a serial killer suspense novel.

However, I locked into who the serial killer was very early in the book. I like books that keep me guessing or leave me surprised at the end, and this one didn't. I also know this is a series, but I would have liked to see more growth and exploration of the FMC and the romance since this is a romantic suspense. But I'm sure that's to come still.

While I enjoyed this one a lot, it wasn't my favorite by Bradley. However, this was a fast, intense, enjoyable suspense novel that I read in one sitting and was totally engrossed in. I can't wait to see how Bradley builds here. Bradley is a great author, and I can't wait to see what she does next.

Content: Violence, murder, drugs. Otherwise, it's a "clean" read as Christian novels are.

Love,

Danica Page

You can read more of my reviews at http://danicapagewrites.com or by connecting with me on Instagram @danicapage.

I was in my happy place reading this book! Patricia Bradley can be counted on to deliver quality Christian romantic suspense novels! Alexis stops her plans to rise in the ranks in the Chatanooga police force to be interim sheriff as her grandfather needs to step down in small town in Tennessee. She runs into a former friend while undercover and their paths keep crossing. Nathan is attracted to Alesis, but both are focused and determined to try to stay alive while chasing down the Queen's Gambit Killer. Both have to try to keep one step ahead of the killer and pray for help. Now I cannot wait to read the next book in this series!
I greatly appreciate being able to read this book, compliments of the author. The opinions expressed are my own.

Phillip is dead and Phame is seeking revenge. The target appears to be Alexis Stone, formerly an undercover detective and now the newly appointed chief deputy of her hometown. Women who bear a resemblance to Alexis are being murdered. Why? Newly reunited with her former boyfriend Nathan Landry, now Chief of Police of a nearby town, they find themselves working together to stop a serial killer.

This well plotted and fast-moving story happens over a short period time. Alexis and Nathan find themselves going from one harrowing situation to another. There is a sense of foreboding that is present throughout the entire story. Filled with suspense, twists, danger, surprises, and even romance, readers will be engrossed from start to finish. Highly recommended.



I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own

Title: Counter Attack
Author: Patricia Bradley

Ch: 72

Pg: 378

Series: A Pearl River book 1

Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

Rating: 4.5 stars

Publisher: Revell



I wasn’t sure how I was going to like Counter Attack by Patricia Bradley because even though I tend to love small town law enforcement stories I’m not a huge fan of second chance romance stories. But I didn’t need to worry. As the romance in this one is only a small part of the story.


Alexis Stone is a Chattanooga police officer who wants to be police chief. She has no desire to go back to her small hometown of Pearl River though the grandparents who raised her are still there. Nathan Landry is the police chief of Pearl River. He never wanted to leave his small town and he’s Alexis high school boyfriend. Neither one is looking for romance when an emergency lands Alexis back in town as the acting sheriff and both of them trying to stop a serial killer.


As someone who only likes a little bit of romance with my romantic suspense this one was perfect. What I loved about this one the most was the faith aspect, while Alexis is running from God he’s running after her and he uses her grandma to do it. The faith of that woman reminded me so much of my own grandma. And I just loved her stubborn grandpa.


Counter Attack was a quick read I kept turning pages because I just had to know what happened. It’s not every day you find a romantic suspense set job in a small town that involves a serial killer. The only drawback for me as a reader is that I figured out the bad guy before the heroine and hero did. Even though there are clues throughout the book it’s not enough for most readers to pick it up, but if you read as much suspense as I do then you may also piece together the clues. However, it didn’t take away my enjoyment of the book and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.



I received a copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher as part of a blog tour I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

New Pearl Springs interim Sheriff Alexis Stone must deal with a serial killer who has followed her from Chattanooga to her hometown and taunts her with chess moves. Police Chief Nathan Landry joins his former high school sweetheart in this showdown, which challenges both their police skills and their safety. The exciting plot keeps readers rushing through the pages to see what will happen next. I did guess who might be Phame, the murderer, but wasn’t sure until the end. If you enjoy thrillers, don’t miss this one. I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own. #CounterAttack #NetGalley

Counter Attack by Patricia Bradley is as intense as it gets! Alex Stone takes a job in her hometown as the interim sheriff, but a serial killer is targeting women that look like her. Police Chief Nathan Landry is her ex-boyfriend, and sparks fly when they both take on the task of stopping a serial killer in his tracks.

I love the intensity of the story and I do like second chance tropes. Alex and Nathan make a great couple as Alex does a lot of soul searching throughout the story and realizes what she truly wants in life. Sometimes we must let go of our dreams for something better. But this story has lots of action and suspense – you know a story is good when the main characters are frequent flyers at the local hospital!

Definitely add Counter Attack to your summer reading list!

I received an ebook review copy of this book. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Counter Attack is the latest suspense by Patricia Bradley. The author introduces Alex Stone on the opening pages. This undercover detective has her hands full trying to track down a serial killer. When Alex enters the bar where several of the victims had lost their lives, she suddenly gets the sense that someone is watching her. She never identifies who has their eyes on her, but Alex is surprised when she looks up and sees Nathan Landry, her high school crush. As she exits the bar, matters take a severe turn when a man suddenly tries to drag Alex away. Before you know it, both Alex and this man are shot. One is barely holding on to life, while the other is dead!

The man they assume to be the serial killer is now dead; however, Alex wonders if the man she killed is actually the Queen’s Gambit Killer. After Alex’s grandfather has a heart attack, she is moved into his position temporarily to act as Russell County’s sheriff. On her first day on the job, the Gambit Killer turns up in her town. When on her second day on the job she needs to hold a press conference, she knows she needs help. Alex turns to her friend and colleague Nathan!

When this serial killer continues leaving messages referring to a chess game, Alex teams up with Nathan to lean on his chess expertise to decipher these clues. This chess game gets rather complicated by the end of this tale. You will be surprised when the identity of the Gambit Killer finally comes to light!