Member Reviews
4.5 stars
“Don’t ever forget God’s on the side of justice.“
I have so loved each book in the Pearl River series by Patricia Bradley, and Deadly Revenge is no exception. From the beginning of the story, where we open with an intense scene from Jenna’s time as a police officer in Chattanooga and then zero in on the POV of a villain with nefarious purposes in Pearl River three years later, I was hooked and couldn’t put it down.
I enjoyed getting to know Jenna as well as her backstory better in this book. She’s a genuinely likable character who was easy to root for, not only in her investigations but also where her safety and her happily-ever-after are concerned. And while she hasn’t been on the Pearl River police force for long, her roots there run deep. As a result, we get to know her dad, her uncle, and her grandmother too (all interesting characters in their own right), and it’s a great plot device to help us dig into the layers surrounding at least one of the mysteries. Namely because small towns would much rather talk to one of their own than a stranger like TBI Agent Maxwell Anderson (whose past attraction to Jenna makes for some delicious sparks when they work closely together here).
The stakes are nail-bitingly high in Deadly Revenge too, so there’s not a moment to waste when it comes to getting the information they need. You see, along with a rash of murders in Pearl River, Jenna herself seems to be the target of a different sort of revenge plot. Unless… maybe it’s just her PTSD rearing back up and it’s all in her head? I loved the fact that we readers get to see both sides of the psychological games being played with Jenna, and I equally loved how Patricia Bradley used it to insert some plausible speed bumps in Jenna and Max’s growing feelings for one another. Max is a good guy, and I enjoyed getting to know him better too. He’s steady and protective and, even though he isn’t sure that someone IS out to get Jenna, he also respects her intelligence, her instincts, and her ability to do her job. Between his past and hers – and the current dangers they face – there is a meaningful faith thread about how God is ultimately the One in control and to Whom vengeance belongs, and it’s woven naturally into the story rather than distracting from the plot.
Bottom Line: In Deadly Revenge, author Patricia Bradley deftly juggles a complex plot, a sweet romance, and even a bit of psychological suspense in this picturesque Tennessee mountain town that’s full of layered characters. I loved that we know who some of the villains are upfront but also that we see the POV of another killer who remains in the shadows until a surprising twist reveals all near the end. This makes the suspense all the more chilling and creates a sense of not knowing who can be trusted – exactly the kind of story I can’t put down. Throw in a spark-filled romance and some poignant faith discussions – both of which organically complement the suspense plot – and I’m a very happy reader. Set it in my happy place too? Yep, I’m on cloud nine! While this is the conclusion of the series, it can be read as a standalone just fine. I do hope that we might at some point return to Pearl River for another visit, but I’ll look forward to wherever Patricia Bradley takes us next! (Which is actually back to one of my fave series by her so yay!)
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
This new book by Patricia Bradley is enjoyable on so many levels! The mystery and suspense are top-notch, there is a heartwarming romance, and the characters are people that I could hang out with. Oh, there are a few that made me cringe but most of them are decent, law-abiding citizens and in fact, some of them ARE the law! Deadly Revenge is the third book in the Pearl River series and it's the perfect way to wrap up the series. Detective Jenna Hart returns home to Pearl River, Tennessee after a harrowing work incident in Chattanooga but it doesn't appear to be the peaceful homecoming she would like. Is she being targeted by an enemy or is PTSD causing her to imagine that someone is entering her house...over and over again?
Deadly Revenge is a thrilling story with second chances, friends-to-more romance, and two cases that may be connected! The central focus is on Jenna and TBI agent Max Anderson but many of the characters from the first two books are featured also. The twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat, the tension was non-ending, and I loved the strong element of faith subtly woven throughout the story. Bradley once again gives suspense fans a story that they won't want to miss!
I received a copy from the author, publisher, and NetGalley. There was no obligation for a positive review.
Deputy Jenna Hart returns to her hometown of Pearl River after things sour for her in Chattanooga, she gets tapped to help protect the a senate candidate with a dubious past, while warding off personal threats against Jenna stemming from what happened in Chattanooga.
A small town thriller, filled with suspense, strong characters, and a plot that draws you in. I liked seeing the familiar faces from the previous books in the series, but this book could also stand alone. There was a lot going, and I liked seeing Jenna and Max get to know each other as they worked together to neutralize the threats. Almost non-stop action, with mysteries that kept me guessing.
Overall, a excellent addition a wonderful series, full of action, great suspense, strong characters, romance and faith. I liked how it kept me on my toes, and am excited to read more from Ms. Bradley in the future.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
While this was a great end of the series, I did enjoy being back in Pearl River and seeing familiar faces. As well as the suspense and mystery that this book had. It was the mystery and suspense that kept me turning the page. I loved getting to know Jenna Hart better now that she’s a small town deputy. As well as seeing small town Tennessee police work with the TBI working together in the form of Agent Maxwell Anderson. However my only complaint was that the relationship between the hero and heroine felt somewhat rushed.
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.
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 so enjoyed this story that I didn't want it to end.
What a lot of twists and turns that I didn't see coming! I was kept on the edge of my seat . I finished this in one evening it was so good.
This is my go to author for suspense/thrillers. She's just wonderful and there's some pretty amazing characters that you'll like as well.
I adored Jenna. I loved her go get'em attitude to.get things done. Max was amazing too. 'Sigh'
I kept rooting for them to solve this who dun it crime.
I guessed who it was early on but I kept reading it to see if I was right..wow!
5 stars from me for an exciting adventure that kept me engaged. I highly recommend.
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.
I love a good mystery/romance and this one hit the spot. Sparks fly between Jenna and Max as they work together to solve a crime that appears to have started with a grudge from years ago. Can’t go wrong with this author. Recommended.
Patrica Bradley takes us back to the city of Pearl Springs and introduces us to Detective Jenna Hart. As the newest member of the Pearl Springs police department, Jenna is seeking to prove herself and solve the newest mystery to hit this small town. With the help of former colleague, Agent Maxwell Jackson, the two of them seek answers as prominent members of the town seem to be the biggest targets. Can Jenna and Maxwell put aside their differences, trust the experiences of the other and protect the lives that seem to be targeted?
I enjoyed reading this story and this story contained mystery components that kept me guessing!
Bring on the intensity! Deadly Revenge was full of twists & turns & definitely kept me turning the pages. In this latest romantic suspense from Patricia Bradley, it all comes down to the wire as two former coworkers must work together to protect a Senate candidate & the general public from a deadly assassination attempt.
Deputy Jenna Hart’s returned to her hometown of Pearl Springs after witnessing a drug deal gone wrong which implicated her former boyfriend. Still suffering from PTSD, she begins to question everything when someone appears to have been in her home on several occasions. She’s also in the middle of an investigation surrounding the murders of several city officials who all have ties to an eminent domain case that resulted in several residents losing their homes & the construction of a dam. It’s obvious someone’s out for revenge & the next target is the former mayor now running for U.S. Senate.
To top it off, Jenna’s former coworker Agent Maxwell Anderson has been called in to assist with the case. When they last saw each other, they shared a searing kiss before Jenna left for Pearl Springs. But, Max never contacted her after & Jenna’s reluctant to open her heart again.
As they work to solve two mysteries, they face danger at every turn. Jenna has evidence someone desperately wants & a killer who enjoys toying with her. As she & Max grow closer, they have to rely on each other & their faith to bring two killers to justice.
This book had me on pins & needles! The two cases were interesting & completely different. There’s nothing creepier than feeling like someone’s been in your house & the author captures that feeing so well. Jenna’s frustration at the gaslighting is palpable.
I enjoyed Jenna’s relationship with Max. The underlying romantic tension between them was so good. I enjoyed how they worked through their past & learned to trust each other. Loved their sweet friends/colleagues to more romance & only wish we’d seen even more of them together.
It was nonstop action with the ending culminating in a tense, race against time climax. I enjoyed getting perspectives from not only Jenna & Max but the killers too. It made things all the more intense.
Highly recommend to Christian romantic suspense fans! Though part of a series, it can be read as a standalone, but those familiar with previous books will enjoy seeing familiar faces. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.
I love series that focus on a group of coworkers or friends so they all play a part in each book to an extent. It's satisfying seeing things come together for everyone. This book focuses on Jenna and Maxwell. They had a special moment a while back and then nothing, so there's an undercurrent when they're forced to work together. They get through that but strange things start happening to Jenna. Their attentions are now pulled in a couple different directions.
There was a history of bad blood between a group of people in the town that slowly comes to light more and more and becomes more deadly. The mystery was fun to watch unfold and included some unique characters. There's a sense of danger and urgency as things come to a head. It was an exciting read. I'd highly recommend it.
Thanks to Revell for providing me with a free copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I just finished reading Patricia Bradley’s latest installment of the Pearl River Series and I absolutely loved it! Jenna Hart is such a compelling character—spunky, smart, but also haunted by the past. She's been trying to find her way after the fallout from an undercover operation, one that ended with a broken heart thanks to her ex-fiancé's betrayal. I found her journey relatable and endearing as she tackled her fears while also trying to do her job as Deputy of Pearl Springs.
When a series of murders targeting city officials hits her sleepy hometown, Jenna has to protect not just her community but also her heart. Enter TBI Agent Maxwell Anderson—tough, capable, and yet surprisingly sensitive. He and Jenna have history from their days on the Chattanooga Police Department, where sparks of attraction were always present, but things were left unresolved, leaving Jenna questioning whether he was really trustworthy. Now, with a killer on the loose and a political rally threatening to put countless lives in danger, Max and Jenna find themselves working side by side once more. The chemistry between them was so fun to watch; the way it slowly reignites was just as thrilling as the mystery itself.
Normally, I try to guess who the antagonist is, but this time, I couldn't figure it out—and honestly, that made the experience even better. It kept me on the edge of my seat, enjoying each twist and revelation as the story unfolded. The pacing of the investigation, the political intrigue, and the added tension of their complicated personal relationship kept me hooked all the way through. Jenna and Max really had to learn how to trust each other again, which added a beautiful layer of depth to the action.
Overall, this book offered everything I wanted: gripping suspense, heartfelt moments, and characters who felt real and flawed. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a blend of romance and thrilling mystery.
Disclaimer: I would like to thank the publisher for the opportunity to read this book. I was under no obligation to provide a review; all opinions expressed are my own
Jenna Hart has returned to her small hometown of Pearl Springs after being shot while working in the gang unit of the Chattanooga PD. Because of her injury and subsequent PTSD, she doesn't feel comfortable working in the big city environment. As a Deputy on the small town force of Pearl Springs, she thinks that her life will be easier.
However, she soon finds herself embroiled in a decades old controversy surrounding the building of a dam in the area. Two former city councilors involved in getting it built have died under mysterious circumstances. And, the former mayor during this time is running for the US Senate and has been receiving threats.
Enter Jenna's former colleague, Agent Maxwell Anderson, who now works for the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and has been tasked with providing protection for the candidate. As Jenna and Max try to figure out their feelings for each other, strange things start to happen in her home. Jenna is sure that the gang leader who shot her (or her ex-fiancee who is working with him) is involved in these strange occurrences. However, Max is beginning to think that she is simply suffering from PTSD and she is imagining things.
There is plenty of action and police work in this story as Jenna and Max try to find out the truth behind these deaths, as well as who or what is causing the disturbing incidents surrounding Jenna. The author has also worked in a few fun side stories about equestrian dressage and coon hunting dogs that I enjoyed a lot.
The book has a few mentions of violence, but nothing graphic. The romance is on the sweet side and the couple's budding relationship is a nice addition to the drama of the book. The book also contains many references to God and faith. My favorite quote: "Don't ever forget God's on the side of justice. He has this." This is a good reminder for us all! I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell through Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion.
When Maxwell Anderson ghosted her after they kissed, Deputy Jenna Hart never expected to see him again, that is until he shows up in her hometown of Pearl Springs, Tennessee. Now an agent with the TBI, Max Anderson is tasked with leading the protection detail for an upcoming political rally in Pearl Springs, which means he’ll have to work with Jenna, his former colleague he’s still attracted to. As a string of politically-motivated murders and other suspicious activities occur around the small Tennessee town, Max and Jenna will have to put their past behind them and work together to prevent any more deaths.🐎
Deadly Revenge is the finale of Patricia Bradley’s Pearl Springs series, and it’s chock full of suspense and political intrigue. While you don’t have to read the first two books to fully enjoy this one, I did love seeing some of the other characters from the series make an appearance. I also loved how Jenna and Max’s relationship developed throughout the story and the inclusion of the villains’ POVs.🧡
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
A big thank you to Revell Fiction for sending me a copy of this book! All thoughts and opinions above are my own.📘
Deadly Revenge by Patricia Bradley is the third and final novel in the Pearl River series and it is a great finale to an awesome series! Pearl Springs deputy Jenna Hart and TBI agent Max Anderson have a history from when they worked at the Chattanooga Police Department. They are forced back together when it seems threats against political figures that Max is protecting are related to murders that Jenna is investigating. We have seen Jenna in the first two novels of the series but it was great to get her story and background. Seeing her past and the PTSD she deals with was nicely written. I enjoy books where we get snippets from the culprit's point of view so I liked that this was an aspect of this book. I also enjoyed the romance elements between Max and Jenna as they get reacquainted. Overall this is a great novel with a great suspense element without being too creepy.
Deadly Revenge
by Patricia Bradley
Revell
Pub DateNov 05 2024
Revell
Christian| Mystery & Thrillers| Romance
Deadly Revenge has been sent to me by Revell and Netgalley for review:
A killer targets city officials only seven months after Jenna Hart begins working in Pearl Springs. A dam construction 20 years ago resulted in eminent domain taking people's land. Someone with a grudge is clearly set on revenge, as the wound has not healed with time. Jenna will have to call in backup to protect the former mayor of Pearl Springs who is now running for the US Senate.
This is where Agent Maxwell Anderson comes in. He and Jenna used to work together in the Chattanooga Police Department, and there was even a spark of attraction between them. Together, they track down the killer before a big political rally that will target not only the former mayor, but hundreds of civilians as well.
I give Deadly Revenge five out of five stars!!’
Happy Reading!
Jenna and Max must draw on every skill they possess to stay alive and prevent the wave of disaster poised to hit the community of Pearl Springs as the sparks of romance reignite and the threads of the investigation get tangled as another suspect enters the picture. Can either of them fully trust the other to protect them?
I really liked the Pearl River finale! It's well plotted and I liked we had two mysteries within the story. Patricia is one of my must reads for CF suspense and this book is a perfect example as to why!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
"Deadly Revenge" is a Christian romantic suspense. It's the 3rd book in the series but works as a standalone. Jenna discovered that her ex-boyfriend is a dirty cop involved in drug trafficking, but she's unable to prove it. He discredited her, so she moved to work as a deputy in Pearl Springs. Unfortunately, the gang-leader she was able to take down and her ex are now active in this community and work to make people question her judgment here as well.
State police officer Maxwell's tasked with protecting the former mayor during a political rally. The threating letter he received may be connected with the series of murders that Jenna's investigating. Maxwell admired her after working with her in the past, but he questioned if her mind was playing tricks on her due to PTSD. Despite this doubt, they worked well together in solving the cases.
The murder mystery was a clue-based puzzle whodunit while the suspense mainly came from the pair playing mind games with Jenna with the intent to eventually kill her. The main characters were likable, complex, and reacted realistically to events. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this enjoyable suspense.
Deadly Revenge by Patricia Bradley - 4.5 Stars
Book 3 in the Pearl River Series
What a great conclusion to the Pearl River Series! Set in Tennessee near Chattanooga in the fictional town of Pearl River, Russell County Deputy Jenna Hart and TBI Agent Maxwell Anderson work together to protect a former mayor who is running for the US Senate office. Max is also Jenna's old boss so they are familiar with each other. I loved learning more about Jenna's story and seeing her with Max was great. We see bits and pieces of her past when she was shot and is dealing with PTSD from those events, so when she is back in town, she is questioning everything -even the fact that someone could possibly be out to get her and sneaking around her home looking for some old incriminating photos she took from the past of some criminals.
I really liked the small town feel, as usual in Pat's books. As a Tennessee girl, I love her books so much for the settings and familiar towns and areas I know of, or can easily picture. The details about the dam were very interesting as I know about a lot of dams from East Tennessee where I grew up and could easily picture the issues going on there.
The romance between Max and Jenna was a slow burn, but nice because he really wanted to keep her safe, and I liked that. I did want a bit more in the romance but still a great romantic suspense overall. Fans of Christian romantic suspense will enjoy this series! The suspense element stands out for me in this one. While we knew who the bad guys were early, it was interesting to see their POV sometimes and kind of know what was going to happen next in a way as our main characters tried to figure everything out for themselves. Highly recommend.
Thank you to the publisher Revell for a copy to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I forgot I had read book 2 in this series until I picked up Deadly Revenge last week. Unfortunately, I much prefer Fatal Witness, for its characters if nothing else.
Story: 4/5
Worldview: 3/5
The story had a really interesting premise, with a great start in the first few chapters. The added element of seeing the villain's POV was really cool! With every new character introduced, I was trying to put the pieces together to see if I could figure out who it was (I didn't, haha). The mystery alone was pretty solid, but there were points where the story felt almost too complicated for the length of the novel. Even by the end, a few plot threads were left unresolved. Or they were so quickly resolved that I didn't really feel the resolution.
The two main characters, Jenna and Max, had little chemistry and most of the attraction between them felt physical more than real connection. In the first few chapters, you learn that they had kissed at an office Christmas party. Even though Jenna and Max were new characters in this book, I was left with the distinct impression that I had missed something important. (I didn't, but that initial feeling of being unsettled never really went away.) By the 50% mark, the story picked up again, and all in all I would say it was entertaining.
The worldview was fine. I didn't expect much of a faith message in this book, and it didn't have one. The main themes of the novel revolved around trust, both others and yourself. Jenna as a character struggled with PTSD and second-guessing herself. The villain of the novel played into her PTSD, but after about the 60% mark it became really annoying to see that no one believed Jenna.
Overall thoughts: In any case, if you're looking for a light, entertaining story, you'll probably enjoy Deadly Revenge. I prefer a little more substance in the novels I read, and I couldn't really connect with the characters and plot, so I was left disappointed with this one.
Note: I received a free eARC of this book from Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
As Jenna Hart and Maxwell (Max) Anderson team up to solve the revolving door of crimes this romantic suspense has a level of psychological thriller mixed in. There is a lot happening in this story and everyone seems to have a motive for causing all the trouble. But who is ultimately responsible? Will this dynamic duo unravel the pieces before it costs someone else their life?
This is another great Pearl Springs novel by Patricia Bradley. I think this is my favorite of the series. I'm not sure the synopsis accurately portrays what ultimately happens in this novel but you'll just have to read it to find out why! (No spoilers!)
I like the story line, the mystery, the way the author integrates the heroine from the first book in the series. I like the questions and was kept guessing through a lot of the story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Revell for the opportunity to review this book! All opinions are my own.
Deadly Revenge, by Patricia Bradley, introduces Chattanooga Detective Jenna Hart. She is gathering intel on some local drug dealers. Along the way, Jenna reconnects with Agent Maxwell Anderson. The attraction they formerly felt still seems to be very close to the surface!
This tale gets interesting as Jenna and Max work together on a case involving the tragic death of a city councilman. When another former councilman seems to be targeted as well, you know this case has just gotten bigger and definitely more dangerous!
After another dead body shows up, Jenna and Max have two suspects in mind. As typical with Patricia Bradley’s books, there is a surprise ending to this tale!