EXCERPT: PROLOGUE
Somewhere on the dark web in an encrypted chat room:
MAN 1: "Money received. Target address?"
MAN 2: "See attachment."
MAN 1: "Security protocols?"
MAN 2: "Same package."
MAN 1: "House schematics?"
MAN 2: "Same."
MAN 1: "Target?"
MAN 2:"Three. And I want them all."
MAN 1: "Collaterals?"
MAN 2: "The mother. Hands off. Not to be harmed."
MAN 1: "Dogs?"
MAN 2: "Yes."
MAN 1: "Trained?"
MAN 2: "Very."
MAN 1: "Father?"
MAN 2: "Away."
MAN 1: "Secret Service?"
MAN 2: "Make a statement."
MAN 1: "Define 'statement'."
MAN 2: "Leave bodies."
MAN 1: "Orders following extraction?"
MAN 2: "Photographed. Then taken and held at this address until further notice."
MAN 1: "And once there?"
MAN 2: "Keep them alive."
MAN 1: "Any restrictions? I need to be specific with my men."

A pause.

MAN 2: "The spoils of war. Enjoy the fruits of your labor."
MAN 1: "Much obliged."
MAN 2: "Pleasure doing business with you."

ABOUT 'THE KEEPER': Murphy knows Bones didn't hesitate to give his life to stop the evil perpetuated by his brother, but there's still work to be done. Though Frank is gone, his organization is not, and almost even before Bones's funeral in Arlington is complete, Murph receives a call that the three daughters of presidential hopeful Aaron Ashley have been taken and there are no leads.

The girls' lives on the line and time is of the essence. But Murphy has never done this without Bones. How can he grieve his friend and mentor, figure out who he is without Bones, and navigate a new role for himself with team . . . all while putting total focus into finding these daughters?

When his daughters are finally rescued, Ashley steps back from the presidential race. But Murph knows something about the timing is a little too convenient for the senator who steps in to take his place. The far-reaching tendrils of Frank's organization are entangled even here, and Murph and his team will stop at nothing to root them out.

MY THOUGHTS: I love Charles Martin's writing and have enjoyed this series but think this may just be my last visit with Murphy Shepherd.

The Keeper is very long and repetitious. There is one very long section basically pasted and copied from the previous book, The Record Keeper. I commented in my review of The Record Keeper that I had 'a few rolled eyes at the pages detailing bullet trajectories and other technical information (just a tad TOO MUCH, Mr Martin), and I have exactly the same comment on The Keeper - FAR TOO MUCH TECHNICAL INFORMATION, Mr Martin. If you are a reader and not an aspiring marksman, just how many lectures on bullet trajectories does one person need?

And again, far too much information in the blurb. It's okay to know that the three daughters of the US presidential hopeful, Aaron Ashley, have been kidnapped. It ruins the tension of the read knowing, before we even start, that they get rescued.

Other than the unwarranted repetition and excess of technical information, The Keeper is action packed and beautifully written. I applaud Charles Martin for his recurring themes of the fight against human trafficking and the rehabilitation of the trafficked. In The Keeper, Martin also highlights the abuse of power and trust.

I love Charles Martin's beautiful and empathetic writing. Even during the darkest moments of this narrative, the was always the light of faith, love and hope shining. While I may be parting company with this series, I will continue to read his stand-alones, of which 'Chasing Fireflies' is so far my favorite.

If you are a fan of technical thrillers, the Murphy Shepherd series is for you. But please do start at the beginning to get the full benefit of the history between Murph and Bones and their relationships with the other characters.

I was able to complement reading with listening to The Keeper by Charles Martin and narrated by Jonathan Riggs. As always, Riggs narration is superb. Please note that the repetition of large chunks of information and all the technical intricacies detailed mean that this is an extremely long book. The audio is 14 hours and 52 minutes in length, the book in excess of 400 pages.

⭐⭐⭐.5

#TheKeeper #NetGalley

MEET THE AUTHOR: Christy and I married in 1993. If you include dating, I’ve known and loved her for more than half my life. She is and always will be the home for my heart. We have three boys. Charlie, John T. and Rives. Folks often ask me, which of my books do I like the best. You might as well line up my sons and ask me who I love the most.

My hobbies are bow hunting, working out (a blend of old school stuff and martial arts, called Fight Fit) and Tae Kwon Do. In October 2012 I earned my black belt but I’m still the least flexible person you’ve ever met. The guy that trains me, laughs everytime I start warming up. My boys are far better at Tae Kwon Do than I but I doubt they have as much fun – I get to do and watch. They just do.

I also like to write, but that’s another story. (source - charlesmartinbooks.com)

DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction via NetGalley for providing an e-ARC and an audio ARC of The Keeper by Charles Martin for review. The audio ARC is narrated by Jonathan Riggs. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.

This is the fourth installment in the Keeper series, which do need to be read in order for full understanding and context. Charles Martin is a favorite author for a reason...he crafts stories with beautiful prose, lots of depth, a faith-based message and characters who make real mistakes with messy, relatable pasts and hope for the future.
There are some surprises in this one sure to bring a tear or two. Like the others in the series it had action scenes and strategic lead-ups in the continued fight against trafficking. I am so glad Martin does not shy away from this topic and puts it out into the light.
I also love to listen to this series narrated by Jonathan Riggs. He does a stellar job and has just the right soothing tone and accent.
I also love Martin's Southern-style stand-alone novels and can't wait to hear when that next one might be. In the meantime hopefully we'll get to see some more of his stories adapted for the big screen!
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for this ARC. All opinions are mine.

Charles Martin delivers another deeply emotional and immersive story with The Keeper, a novel that explores the bonds between people and the lessons learned through shared experiences. The audiobook, narrated with care, brings the story to life in a way that enhances its emotional weight.

One of the standout aspects of the book is the detailed storytelling. Martin crafts a vivid world, allowing readers (or listeners) to gain a deep appreciation for the unique profession and responsibilities of the characters. The depth of research and realism adds authenticity, making the listener feel connected to the story’s themes of loyalty, duty, and personal growth.

While the detail adds richness, the pacing may feel a bit prolonged at times. Some sections could have been more concise without losing the story’s emotional impact. However, for those who appreciate a thorough and immersive narrative, the length contributes to the depth of the characters and their journey.

Overall, The Keeper is a heartfelt and thought-provoking listen, offering an insightful look into a remarkable profession while delivering the signature emotional depth Charles Martin is known for. Despite its length, the audiobook remains engaging, especially for those who enjoy character-driven stories with a strong emotional core.

I was so excited to read this series! It's a gripping story from the beginning, and it's perfect for the reader who wants a mystery that still holds lots of emotion and depth. This is a beautiful story and absolutely worth the read!

3.5 stars, rounded down for too much repetition.

I love Martin's writing and I really like this series, but I felt like this book was much too long and repetitive. There is a huge amount of backstory and lots of telling. There's a bit of action but it gets really lost in the reminiscing and remembering. It could have been 100 pages shorter and still been very impactful.

This is the fourth book in the series and I think it is necessary to read the first three before this one as you will be incredibly lost as to who the people are and how they are connected to each other.

The faith message is beautiful and the examination of human trafficking, loss, grief, and power is both fascinating and touching. I have really liked this series, but I feel like the story is been there, done that, we need to move on now. I listened to most of this series as audiobooks, and the narrator Jonathan Riggs does a fantastic job giving voice to David's first person storytelling.

Overall I do recommend this series with its beautiful message about how valuable and important each person's life is and is worth saving.

Happy Publication Day!!

Murphy Shepherd has a hard time without his mentor and friend Bones. But he receives a call that the presidential candidate's daughters have been taken and he has to help get them back. He has to put his grief aside to get the girls back.

I don't want to give away any spoilers but this book was exciting, intriguing and action packed with twists thrown in. This book also brings attention to human trafficking, which is a topic that isn't really discussed. I feel like this book is heartbreaking in places and filled with joy in others, and the book has a good message. I definitely shed some tears throughout the story.

If you haven't read books 1-3, I highly recommend going to the beginning and start with those ones, however, the author does a great job of filling in the gaps from the previous books and doesn't leave you wondering what happened previously. I did find there were actually a lot of flashback scenes to this that didn't add to the story but it still made the book good.

I listened to the audiobook version and the narration by Jonathan K. Riggs was just on point. The pace was great and the characters were easy to distinguish.

Thanks to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson for an advanced reading copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Where do I even start?
I started crying in the beginning.
Continued crying in the middle… and then cried multiple other times throughout! 🫣😢🥹
Don’t get me wrong…. There were tears of sadness, yes!
But… there were also tears of happiness, of love and mostly… of joy!

**** WARNING- IF YOU HAVE NOT READ BOOKS 1 thru 3…. STOP. 🛑 🛑 RIGHT. 🛑🛑 HERE!! ****
Please go back and read them first! It will make so much more sense if you read them in order!

We open up with Murph grieving the death of his long-time friend and mentor, Bones.
This is NOT a spoiler. This is how book #3 ended. But for me, the flood gates opened up all over again!

Murph and Bones shared such a beautiful, special bond… and it seems like even through death… it will still shine through! 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

Much of the book recounts past stories from previous books, as well as how the two met and formed the bonds they had through the years….❤️

Additionally, there are other problems coming to the surface now that Frank is also dead! And these problems present themselves right in front of Murph and his crew. So, although ALL he wants to do is mourn the death of his friend, he must get back to work. And… God Bless his wife, Summer… for being the powerhouse supporter that she is! It seems like she will be the new anchor that Murph had lost in Bones. ❤️ And, she will guide him. 🥹

Once again human (and child) trafficking is highlighted in this one. And it seems to really hit very close to home too! And, as usual, time is of the essence!!

As Murph assembles a team to try to do the impossible, once again, well…things are quickly changing in the government… and more specifically, The White House! Who can he trust? Who can he rely on?

Also love the aspect that God is subtly interspersed throughout the book. Not thrown in your face, but whispered in a prayer… or echoed in some guidance that’s offered. This is truly a remarkable talent on the authors part, and fully appreciated by this reader!

And then, of course, there’s the backdrop phrase of the entire series…. ‘BECAUSE THE NEEDS OF THE ONE OUTWEIGH THOSE OF THE NINETY-NINE!!’ Which is why Murph will ALWAYS go back for that ONE who is suffering, mistreated, or left behind by someone else…

Truly HEART-WRENCHING words!!!

And,let me just say again…. Charles Martin is a very gifted, talented writer who weaves a book together where YOU feel like you are a part of it, and the characters in the book are like your family… or friends. And for this, I will strive to read each and every book he ever writes!!!! He. Is. Terrific!

ONCE AGAIN, ALL THE STARS (AND THEN SOME) for me!!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫💫💫💫💫✨✨✨✨✨

#TheKeeper by the one and only #CharlesMartin and narrated phenomenally by #JonathanKRiggs, who has narrated the entire series and truly brings each character in every book to life!!

Thanks so much to #NetGalley, #HarperCollinsChristianPublishing and #ThomasNelsonFiction for an ARC of the audiobook, in exchange for an honest review.
*** Release date is tomorrow, 4/1/25, so look 👀 for it on shelves soon !! ***

You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Insta @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine

Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️

The 4th book in the Murphy Shepherd series was yet again another emotional read. Following the death of Bones, Murphy is at loose ends. Bones wasn’t just his best friend, he was his teacher and mentor.

Even though in the previous book the head of a human trafficking ring was killed. That doesn’t mean the end of this barbaric group. What follows here in The Keeper is a prime example of how powerful it is. This was a gripping story that is slightly repetitive in that it goes over things from the previous books which would work for those that have not read them or those who have not binge read this series like myself. However, I feel for this series you really do need to start with book 1 to really feel the emotional impact as each story continues.

Again, this was a telling story that does come with some action. There are the great characters that I have come to love, including Gunnar the dog who is part of the gang. A twisty story that took this reader on a ride that felt a little bit more predictable than his previous books.

Will there be a sequel to this one? I’m not sure. But for now I will dive into Charles Martin's backlist, though I wish Jonathan K. Riggs was the narrator of some of those because he did an awesome job with this series.

My only criticism about the series is that the endorsements state two well known authors that combined is what the series is made of. To me that is off-putting as one of the authors is one I do not read anymore, and I feel that could be a deterrent for possible readers.

My thanks to Harper Collins for the e-audio (via Netgalley) in exchange for a honest review.

This is the fourth book in the Sheperd Murphy book series.

Yes, there are times once again where the author repeats parts of other books...I swear word for word. Also, you get a great lesson on the history of specific weapons. Which was interesting.

I do like how this book tied a few things up from the past books. I like the addition to Murph's team and the opportunity for second chances. These books are about human trafficking and recreating yourself after you are found.

Murphy Shepherd is back in this fourth book dealing with the emotional turmoil of losing his mentor. Despite knocking out the lead of the human trafficking ring, his organization is still active and has targeted the presidential hopeful, Aaron Ashley’s family. Murphy must now find Aaron’s family without his mentors help this time.

This Christian based book still packs an emotional heart breaking punch, but feels more introspective and slightly repetitive from the past books. Despite some of the repetitiveness, I would recommend reading the others first to lay some of the groundwork for this one. The first half, being the more introspective, was a slower pace. The second half picks up the pace and throws in a couple of interesting and unexpected twists. As with his other books, faith and family are strong themes.

3.5 stars. This was a mixed bag for me.

Great action and heart as I’ve come to expect from this author and series.

I wanted to love it fully, but unfortunately for me, this one dragged and felt a bit clunky. Lots of flashbacks and tangents that took me out of the flow of the story.

I spent the last week binge reading this series after my book club kept saying how good the series is. It did not let me down. It was action packed. Murphy and Bones are two rememberable characters but Gunnar, the dog, takes top spot in my heart. This latest book in the series felt a little repetitive to me I believe because I binge read the series but I think it would be super helpful for those who had a gap between the first three books and this one. Overall, I loved where this book took us and would recommend.

I have absolutely loved this series and was so excited to see that there was a book 4 since I thought it was ending with The Record Keeper. Murphy Shepherd is one of my favorite characters and it was amazing to see more of his past with Bones in this latest installment. Even with Bones gone, Murph jumps right back in to finding trafficked girls. It's a heartbreaking scenario and one I don't read about often but Charles Martin is a master story-teller and I can't resist his wonderful books! I'm not sure if there will be any more in this series, but if there are, I am definitely up for it!

If this looks interesting to you but you haven't read the first three books in this series, that is a definite must in order to get the most of them!

Many thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this fantastic audio book! All opinions are my own.

Publication date: 1 April 2025

This is one of my favorite Charles Martin series. Murphy Shepard and team has to tackle a tough assignment and rescue a friend's daughters after losing their beloved leader Bones. The book is mostly told from Murphy's point of view and we get a glimpse of how much he's sacrificed to track down missing children who have been subjected to human trafficking and his love for Bones. The novel is fast paced and many biblical themes of God's love are woven through out. You can read this one as a stand alone due to the recap of novels 1-4 through out the book, but it's better to read them in order to get the full effect.

The Keeper by Charles Martin gives readers more Murphy Shepherd! Now I highly recommend you read the entire trilogy before jumping into book 4, but it's definitely worth it. For those that haven't read the series, Murphy isn't your average superhero. He's dedicated his life to seek and save the lost. He tracks down missing and trafficked women and children, and takes on some very dangerous criminals. He and Bones defend Freetown, a place where victims can recover and rebuild. But after Bones is killed, Murphy shoulders the burden alone. Will he continue the work he started? He's called in when the Vice President's children are abducted, and he has to choose to leave the ninety-nine to search for the missing.

I love this series! Martin weaves amazing tales filled with heart and grit, not to mention amazing spiritual threads. This story gives a little more history as to how Murphy Shepherd becomes the man he is today. I'm so glad we got a 4th installment in this series. I think we all needed some closure and time to reflect along with the characters in the story. But the action and fast-paced energy of the book is what keeps me reading. I love the adventure and suspense that Martin brings to the story. 

I also received an advanced copy of the audiobook, which I love audiobooks. The narrator brought this story to life...and in order to catch up for Book 4, I had listened to the previous 3 books again (which I generally don't re-read books, if that tells you how much I love the series. It's the same narrator (Jonathan K Riggs) and I highly recommend the audio version. 

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

Murphy Shepherd is still reeling from the death of his mentor and friend, Bones. When the Vice President's daughters are abducted from their home, Murph must go find them something he's never done on his own. With his wife, colleagues and friends with him, Murph explores his grief and tries to find his way in this new world.

I first want to say that I love Charles Martin. He is a great writer and I have enjoyed the Murphy Shepherd series. I have read them all. With that said, the Keeper fell flat for me. I understand the premise of who is Murph without Bones, but the waxing poetic about the guns which felt endless to the endless monologues about how much he missed Bones,, it was a long, long, long book. I also found the accent of the narrator distracting. I might have enjoyed this better on the page, but it's hard to say. Here's to the next novel being better.

Wow, wonderful.
Having listened to all four books back to back, it felt a bit repetitive in places but it would be really useful if some time had passed between the stories.
Murph is grieving the loss of his best friend and mentor, Bones. Then suddenly a call from the vice president, who has taken his three daughters from their high security home? It’s a race against time.
Wonderful side stories going on. Easy to listen to, great story telling. Loved the combination of a thriller with a Christian element.
Thoroughly enjoyed it.
Does this open up for a book 5? Please?

This is the 4th book in a series so i had a hard time following along when it goes to flash backs and past characters etc.
the story itself is well written and the narrator is great.

I plan on going back and starting at the beginning so I understand better what’s going on and what has been transpiring throughout each book.

Thank you NetGalley for the copy

AN ACTIO-PACKED AND HEART-WRENCHING DRAMA

SUMMARY
For years, two men have been side-by-side rescuing women and children who have been victims of human trafficking. But now Murphy Shepherd’s best friend, mentor, and spiritual advisor is dead. Bones was everything to Murphy, and though devastated, he realizes he must go on.

Shortly after Bones's funeral, Murphy gets a call from long-time friend, Aaron Ashley. Ashley, Vice President of the US has always been a behind-the-scenes supporter of the trafficking rescue work that Murphy and Bones have performed. Now, despite the best security in the world, Ashley’s three daughters have been kidnapped without a trace, and nine Secret Service agents are dead. Ashley needs Murphy to find his daughters and bring them home safe.


REVIEW
The Keeper is an action-packed and heart-wrenching book that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Its characters and story will leave you speechless and yearning for more. The theme of human trafficking continues with this evil kidnapping, and despite his devastating loss, Murphy Shephard will stop at nothing to bring these three girls home.

Charles Martin is a great storyteller, and I loved the backstory of how Aaron Ashley and Murphy Shepherd became friends. You can’t help but feel the intensity of the drama of this epic story, particularly when Ashley is compelled to resign his position, unknowingly clearing a path for a man with no morals.

I have read and loved all of Charles Martin's works of fiction. In them, he writes of Christian themes in a soulful and meaningful way and a light touch. Martin is a depth, particularly in this series, at giving readers a look at both evil and love. While this book has innumerable flashbacks, I highly recommend reading this series from the beginning.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance reading copy of this book. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

“…the needs of the one outweigh the needs of the ninety-nine”

Publisher Harper Collins Christian Publishing/Thomas Nelson
Published April 1, 2025
Narrated Jonathan Riggs
Review www.bluestockingreviews.com

Sometimes I read a book and wonder how the author has eluded me for so long. The Keeper, the fourth book in Charles Martin’s Murphy Shepherd series, is a political thriller that combines action with a profound sense of purpose, wrapped in compassion and love for one another. That may sound like a lot, but Martin has effortlessly crafted a book that stands out – because there is no other book quite like this one. It has been one of my favorite reads this year.
Murphy Shepherd, the protagonist, and his team have one of the most important jobs imaginable – finding kidnapped and trafficked people. This crucial mission underscores the author's emphasis on faith, family, country, and honor throughout the novel. Even more impressive is how Martin tells a compelling story without resorting to sensationalism. The narrative is rich with emotional depth, making the reader feel the weight of each rescue mission and the personal stakes involved.
When the three daughters of presidential hopeful Aaron Ashley are taken, Murphy and his team are called upon to bounce back from the loss of his mentor, find the girls, bring them home, and restore justice. Murphy finds solace with his family, friends, and his dog as he grieves the loss of his friend while simultaneously trying to figure out who would take Ashley’s daughters and who would benefit from their kidnapping. Thus, "The Keeper" begins its political thriller subplot, weaving a complex web of intrigue and suspense.
"The Keeper" is not only a superb thriller that tackles dark subjects like trafficking and kidnapping but also provides hope and light. Martin's writing shines a spotlight on the goodness that can emerge even in the darkest of times. The book is a testament to the power of community and the importance of standing up for what is right. Murphy’s interactions with his team and loved ones add layers of warmth and humanity to the narrative, making the reader root for their success. You won’t want to put this book down, and you’ll walk away feeling better about community and relationships. We need more Murphy Shepherds in this world. I highly recommend The Keeper by bestselling author Charles Martin.