The Keeper

Narrated by Jonathan K. Riggs
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Book 4 of The Murphy Shepherd Series
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Pub Date Apr 01 2025 | Archive Date May 02 2025

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Description

USA TODAY and ECPA bestselling series

Combine James Patterson and Colleen Hoover and you'll start to understand why readers are riveted by the Murphy Shepherd series from New York Times bestselling author Charles Martin: gripping action, heart-wrenching emotion, and deep questions that deserve to be considered.

Bones--Murphy Shepherd's teacher, mentor, priest, and friend--is gone. Devastated by the loss and unsure how to continue the rescue work they started, Murph has no choice but to jump back in when the worst happens. His longtime friend and current United States vice president, Aaron Ashley, has been a silent partner in the fight against trafficking. But in spite of having the best security available, his three daughters have been taken bound and blindfolded from their home by an extraction team that left no clues and no trace--just an empty house, a bereft mother, and nine dead Secret Service agents. Only Murph and his team have a hope of finding them.

Bones may have made the ultimate sacrifice by taking down his own brother and the dark network he led, but there are still others in this network where evil is the currency and power is the prize. Soon Ashley drops out of the presidential race and a new candidate emerges--someone who is ready, too ready, to step into the race and the Oval Office.

Bones taught Murph that the needs of the one, the lost one, outweigh those of the ninety-nine. In his first rescue without Bones beside him, Murph's fight against human trafficking takes him across the globe and through the halls of government to destroy the network and save the lives and souls of those taken.

The Murphy Shepherd series is simultaneously a tender love story, a heartrending search for freedom, an exploration of the terrible cost of human trafficking, and an anthem to the power of love to create change when it shows up regardless of the cost. The Keeper raises the stakes even further, so be ready--you won't want to put it down until you reach the very last page.

USA TODAY and ECPA bestselling series

Combine James Patterson and Colleen Hoover and you'll start to understand why readers are riveted by the Murphy Shepherd series from New York Times bestselling...


Available Editions

EDITION Audiobook, Unabridged
ISBN 9780840722492
PRICE

Available on NetGalley

NetGalley Shelf App (AUDIO)

Average rating from 55 members


Featured Reviews

I’ve read several Charles Martin books and essentially, he can do no wrong in my opinion. The latest, The Keeper was a winner.

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I love this series!

Charles Martin is such an amazingly talented writer. I have enjoyed this series throughout the last few years, so imagine my joy at the opportunity of receiving this ARC. In typical fashion, I was hooked by the storyline. The first few chapters with several timelines made it hard to stay engaged in the beginning; however, I stayed the course and was rewarded. I loved this next chapter in the Murphy Shepherd series. The writing is strong and heartfelt. Themes of faith, hope, redemption is present in the midst of horrible sex trafficking atrocities.

"The needs of the one outweighs the ninety-nine." This book left me tearful at times and hopeful at others. Give this book a try if you want to experience all the feels!!

Thank you Netgalley and Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio for this ARC!

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Charles Martin is such a powerful storyteller! The Keeper picks up where the Murphy Shephard trilogy ended. This beautiful story of grace and redemption deals with the difficult subject of human trafficking with a mix of disgust (for the perpetrators) and compassion (for the victims). There are several flashbacks so you can easily follow this novel of forgiveness and mercy.

Jonathan K. Riggs narrates the depth of characters so well.

Thank you Harper Collins and NetGalley for the early copy. All opinions are my own.

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The Keeper is the fourth novel in the Murphy Shepherd series and hopefully not the last! Publication date 4/1/2025‼️
This has been an incredible action packed, suspenseful and emotional experience.
All of the stories addressed the serious issue of human trafficking of children and young women and what extreme measures others are prepared to take to save these innocent lives.
There is love, sadness, hope and friendship throughout the narratives. Charles Martin’s writing is rich in detail, which helps to create an immersive experience. He incorporates local history adding depth to the stories he tells. Jonathan K. Riggs is the most entertaining narrator I’ve encountered so far in my new adventure with audiobooks.
Thank you to the author/publisher for the opportunity to read this advanced copy. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.

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I just knew bone can not die like that, ehhhhh. The twixt, the storyline, the actions, the everything. I was so happy that my guy did not die or was missing in action.

"People in darkness don't know they are in darkness until someone comes along to on the light." Darkness can not win when there is light ✨️

Jesus is the light.

Thank you, Charles Martin, Harper Collins, and NetGalley, for the early copy.👏 🙌 👌 😍

#Netgalley #Charles Martin #Harper Collins for this beautiful read. Thank you to everyone that made it available for me to read

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This book was heartbreaking, action-packed, and full of surprises—but also filled with so much hope. From the very first page, I was just so happy to be back with Murphy and the crew. The story and action here was engaging while also feeling new. I was caught between wanting to fly through this and also desperately wanting to slow down so it wouldn't end.

I never expected another book after the last one, so this was the best surprise. The new characters added so much to the story and I'm interested to see if we get to hear from them in the future. The way it ended makes me hopeful that there’s still more to come, and I’ll be first in line to read anything that comes after this!

As always, the narration was so well done!

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I’ve been wanting to try a Charles Martin book for the longest time. I just didn’t know what was the best place to start. When I saw this on NetGalley, I thought here is my chance. While I could have read this one without reading the first three books, I decided to go all in and get the entire experience. Let me just tell you—I had no clue what I was getting myself into!

Just going of the covers of the Murphy Shepherd series, the reader sees these serene, contemplative, dreamy scenes and immediately thinks this will be a good, calm read. Uhmmm…no! Not even close! These stories are high action, intense plot, continuously moving and evolving, involving hard topics and powerful themes of self-worth, selflessness, and forgiveness.

Each story picks up where the last left off. And Charles does a good job with story telling and flashback recollections that the read can easily pick up any book without foreknowledge of the previous and not be lost to the overall plot.

With that being said, do not, if at all possible, pass up the chance to read all of the books in order. There is just too much good stuff in there miss one moment with Murphy and his team.

Love this series and the narrator is fantastic!

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Though the topic of sex trafficking is hard to read about, I think it's been helpful for me as I see what a pervasive problem it is. I hope there are people like Murphy Shepherd and Bones out there kicking down doors to free the captives.

This book had a slower pace and less action than the others I feel as it focused a lot on Murph trying to figure out how to go on without Bones. His grief was intense. It's hard to change roles when the mentee becomes the leader. It was interesting seeing him start to train others as Bones had trained him.

This story was also a beautiful testament to marriage. Summer's support was incredible. A man like Murph needs a woman like Summer in his corner.

I listened to the audiobook as well and the narrator was great. There is a lot of back and forth timewise in the book so a time or two I had to back it up to keep it all straight.

Excellent book. Charles Martin is a special writer. Thank you to Thomas Nelson for providing me with a free audiobook . All opinions are my own.

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Such an inspirational story and definitely brings and draws attention to human trafficking, which is much needed and more prevalent than anyone is aware.

Martin is such an exquisite writer, tons of details, research is out all of his topics and military type techniques that you can just almost feel like you are right there in the heart pumping action. I love a good rescue story in this book is several examples of that. Also does an excellent job of adding spiritual elements throughout the story that really tug at your heart. All the emotions!

Love following along in the series and think this is the next excellent installation. Excellent narration in this book as well!

Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson books for my Audible early release copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

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Thank you to #Netgally, #CharlesMartin, and #ThomasNelson publishers for the ARC of this book. I listened to the audiobook version. All opinions are my own.

Charles Martin is a master storyteller, and somehow he gets better and better. In this fourth book in the Murphy Shepherd series, his trusted mentor and treasured friend Bones is gone. Murph is devastated and at a complete loss, but knows somehow he has to continue their work, fighting evil and saving vulnerable people. When is dear friend and US vice president Aaron Ashley's three girls are abducted against all odds, Murphy knows he and his team are the most experienced and equipped to go after these bad guys and attempt to save the girls. While this book draws the reader in with drama and suspense related to their rescue, this is also a story of healing for Murphy Shepherd after experiencing one of the greatest losses of his life. Charles Martin's ability to convey humility, brokenness, unconditional love, vulnerability, authenticity, commitment, the importance of doing hard things--is remarkable. When I read his books it's impossible for me to have just one favorite character, or one person in particular I am pulling for. Each of his characters are so vital to the stories and there are many to root for, seeing in each of them (in the good guys, and maybe in even a few of the bad guys) qualities of sacrifice, deep investment in others' good, and love. This story of rescue, redemption, and valuing of others more than yourselves is one not to miss! I can't recommend it highly enough! Thank you, Charles Martin, for another winner!

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The Keeper by @storiedcareer
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️


By far my favorite one of the series. It’s hard to put into words what these books do to my heart and my mind. This one had a few backstories mentioned previously in the series, but I would highly recommend reading all the books in order to fully understand all that happens.
I love the way the narrator reads, the way the story is woven together, and the beautiful unwavering love and hope threaded throughout.
This book is the 4th in the series and releases in April!

I received an ARC of this audiobook in exchange for a review. All opinions are honest and my own. @thomasnelson @storiedcareer @netgalley

#goodreads #netgalley #charlesmartin #thekeeper #murphyshepherd #bookstagram #literarypearlsof25

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Another absolutely beautiful installment in this series. Charles Martin has long been a favorite author of mine but this series has been some of his best writing.

Murph is on the hunt for the Vice President’s daughter who were stolen by some “bad men with bad intentions.” Unfortunately this time he is without Bones. The journey made me laugh and cry. I won’t give it away but there is one spot where I was actually sobbing.

The narrator was great.

Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for allowing me to read and review this title. All opinions are my own.

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I am obsessed with this series, and I was so impressed with this one! Charles Martin has a way of brining the reader in that is unmatched. I loved this book so much, and it was a perfect fourth book to this series!

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So hear me out. I'm going to state right up front that the first half of this book is repetitive of the first three books in The Keeper series. Like word for word repetitive. I assume the purpose of this is was to refresh the reader of the backstory and help to reinvest in the characters. Maybe it was so the book could be read as a stand alone. I don't know. I do know that I had reread the first three books in anticipation of this fourth one, so the repetition was super noticeable to me and honestly it was a little tedious at times. I thought the whole book was going to continue that way and that this was going to be the first Charles Martin book that I wasn't going to be head over heels in love with.

I WAS WRONG!!!

Through this reminiscing and repetition of the past, the overriding theme that Murph keeps wrestling with is the challenge of doing the "right" thing even if it is with great harm, and trying to learn how much is too much. How far is too far?

About halfway (?) through the book, Martin brings back the storytelling as we are are used to it in all new material. In hindsight, I realize that the internal struggle and back to the old content approach played a big part in portraying how "stuck" Murph was and then the transition towards the middle was representative of him moving on without Bones. It was about the grieving process and growth. At one point Murph says, "Will you cut me a little slack while I stumble through being human?"

This book did not disappoint. You have to hang in there and wait for the bigger picture Martin is painting. It all comes together and will leave you breathless (and hoping and praying there will be another book!).

I don't usually hold on to quotes from books too tightly but once again Martin nails it with his messages of Christ's love woven into his stories when he says, "To love is to become vulnerable." and "...his love was deeper than his hate."

Another 5 stars from me!

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Whew. This will break your heart 25+ times, but then heal it and put it back together again.

I can’t think of anything more horrible than human trafficking and those who engage in it. It is powerful to read about someone actively fighting against it. But whew, it’s so heavy.

This has several throw backs to previous books with extra details added in. I’m not sure that this series will ever truly be done. There will always be evil to fight and I pray there will always be strong fighters to actively stand against it.

Huge thank you to NetGalley, Thomas Nelson, and Zondervan Fiction Audio for publishing this series and for providing the opportunity to enjoy this audiobook. I am so glad Jonathan K. Riggs has continued to narrate these books! Outstanding work!!

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This story was everything that the Murphy Shepherd series needed. I cried. I laughed. And I felt so much hope while listening to this story. I appreciated how Martin used the flashbacks of stories from the past to shed more light on the future and continue to round out the characters I've come to know and love. While there is so much darkness in this story, there is also so much hope and love and redemption.

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Oh. My. Stars. Get ready. As soon as you start this book, you will not be able to put it down. Grab your tissues, get comfy, and get ready for quite the ride. You will not be disappointed. Murphy Shepard proves once again that love shows up for the one. Even when he is hurting and not quite sure of what’s next, he does what he’s trained to do. He shows up. I was thrown for quite the loop, in the best possible way. Ashley and the team bring an awesome energy and new angles to explore the depth of evil, hope, and the power of love. There are so many poignant and noteworthy quotes and thoughts. Aside from being completely captivated by the story, prepare to be inspired and challenged. I am already waiting with bated breath for the next story. The hooks have been set…
The narrator did an excellent job capturing the energy, the urgency, and the emotions. I really enjoyed listening to this story come to life.
I received a complimentary audiobook from the publisher and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

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Charles Martin delivers another poignant story regarding Murphy Shepherd in The Keeper. If you are new to this series, you will be able to follow along because Martin uses a lot of flashbacks from the previous three novels to guide the reader. Martin plunges Shepherd into the depths of grief and despair due to the death of Shepherd's mentor Bones. Moreover, Shepherd must process his grief while struggling to solve the abduction of the Vice-President's daughters. Can Shepherd answer the call to leadership and mentor others the way Bones did for him? Find out.

Audiobook: Jonathan K. Riggs continues to narrate the Murphey Shepherd series. He has a crisp, clear voice> He uses inflection and intonation to denote which characters are speaking. Riggs provides a pleasant experience for the audiobook listener.

Thank you #CharlesMartin, #HarperCollinsChristianPublishing, and #NetGalley for my audiobook ARC in exchange for my honest review.

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“Bones would not dismiss Frank. Never had. So, for the last time, he left the ninety-nine to attempt one more impossible rescue.“

I literally don’t understand how Charles Martin manages to make each book in this series better than the one before! He has a way of drawing me into the me heart of the story and making me feel every single emotion. One minute this story had me chewing my nails I was so stressed and just a minute later, I was crying. Just a few minutes later, I was laughing. Charles Martin is truly an amazing author and this series has easily become one of my favorites. In The Keeper, Martin doesn’t just deal with the dark world of human trafficking, he also brings in the shady underside of the political elite and the things some people will do to stay in power. The entire series had me enthralled but this one was absolutely my favorite. There were so many surprises, and even with the heavy, sad moments, there were some truly beautiful scenes. I really hope this isn’t the last of the series!

Thank you, Charles Martin, Thomas Nelson Publishing, and Netgalley for gifting me an e-arc of this book. My review was not affected by this.

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Let me start by saying I didn't realize this was book 4 in a series (yes, I know it says it but I missed that memo, apparently haha!!) That being said, I feel like I didn't miss a thing. I could very easily follow along with the characters and story. So, if this is your first book in the series, I promise it'll be okay.

I absolutely loved this book! The way Charles Martin story tells is absolutely incredible. I loved every single character. I loved the themes. I loved the pace. I loved the action packed moments and the beautiful moments the same. Listening to the audiobook - the narrator was fantastic. His voice was perfect for this story. This story broke my heart, made me smile, made me angry, made me laugh out loud, made my heart warm...you name it, I felt it while listening to this.

I have now downloaded the other 3 books in this series because I haven't been able to get enough of this author. This was amazing in every way possible!!

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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.

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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

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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?

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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!! 📚⭐️

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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.

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