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Pelican Harbor #1
One Little Lie
It started with one little lie. But Jane Hardy will do everything in her power to uncover the truth.
Book one in a gripping new series from USA TODAY bestselling romantic suspense author Colleen Coble.
When Jane Hardy is appointed interim sheriff in Pelican Harbor, Alabama, after her father retires, there's no time for an adjustment period. He is arrested for theft and then implicated in a recent murder, and Jane quickly realizes she's facing someone out to destroy her father.
They escaped from a cult fifteen years ago, and Jane has searched relentlessly for her mother—who refused to leave—ever since. Could someone from that horrible past have found them?
Reid Bechtol is a well-known journalist who makes documentaries, and his sights are currently set on covering Jane's career. Jane has little interest in the attention, but the committee who appointed her loves the idea of the publicity.
Jane finds herself depending on Reid's calm manner as he follows her around taping his documentary, and they begin working together to clear her father. But Reid has his own secrets from the past, and the gulf between them may be impossible to cross.
It started with one little lie. But Jane Hardy will do everything in her power to uncover the truth.
Book one in a gripping new series from USA TODAY bestselling romantic suspense author Colleen Coble.
When Jane Hardy is appointed interim sheriff in Pelican Harbor, Alabama, after her father retires, there's no time for an adjustment period. He is arrested for theft and then implicated in a recent murder, and Jane quickly realizes she's facing someone out to destroy her father.
They escaped from a cult fifteen years ago, and Jane has searched relentlessly for her mother—who refused to leave—ever since. Could someone from that horrible past have found them?
Reid Bechtol is a well-known journalist who makes documentaries, and his sights are currently set on covering Jane's career. Jane has little interest in the attention, but the committee who appointed her loves the idea of the publicity.
Jane finds herself depending on Reid's calm manner as he follows her around taping his documentary, and they begin working together to clear her father. But Reid has his own secrets from the past, and the gulf between them may be impossible to cross.
It started with one little lie. But Jane Hardy will do everything in her power to uncover the truth.
352 pages, Paperback
First published March 3, 2020
About the author
Colleen Coble
140 books5,341 followersUSAToday bestselling author Colleen Coble lives with her husband, Dave, in Indiana. She is the author of dozens of novels including the Rock Harbor Series, the Aloha Reef Series, the Mercy Falls Series, the Hope Beach Series, the Lonestar Series and two Women of Faith fiction selections, Alaska Twilight and Midnight Sea. She has more than 2 million books in print.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 887 reviews
March 20, 2020
This was a well crafted suspense novel with a splash of romance. This is the first book in Colleen Coble’s Pelican Harbor series. A police procedural series with a strong sassy female protagonist. The book kicks off with a young girl in a cult giving birth to a baby boy. The girl is told by her father that the baby has died. Then the book jumps forward to Jane Hardy The newly appointed chief of police in Pelican Harbor. Pelican Harbor is a sleepy little town on the Alabama gulf coast where nothing much ever happens. That is until the bodies start dropping. When multiple dead bodies start popping up Jane realizes something sinister is going on. Jane is determined to prove she is up for the job as well as to prove her father the X chief of police innocence.
Jane was a great character I loved her fighting spirit. The mystery was compelling and well paced. Where this book falls a little short is in the romance. There really is no romance even though this is classified as romantic suspense. There is a potential love interest Reid, A reporter who is writing an article about small town law enforcement. Jane is pretty much forced into working with him, so their relationship does not start off on a positive note. I’m assuming there will be more to this love connection in future books. In spite of this I really enjoyed this book. It was a great crime thriller with a lot of interesting angles to it. And bonus there is a police dog who you will love!
*** Big thank you to Thomas Nelson for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
Jane was a great character I loved her fighting spirit. The mystery was compelling and well paced. Where this book falls a little short is in the romance. There really is no romance even though this is classified as romantic suspense. There is a potential love interest Reid, A reporter who is writing an article about small town law enforcement. Jane is pretty much forced into working with him, so their relationship does not start off on a positive note. I’m assuming there will be more to this love connection in future books. In spite of this I really enjoyed this book. It was a great crime thriller with a lot of interesting angles to it. And bonus there is a police dog who you will love!
*** Big thank you to Thomas Nelson for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
January 27, 2020
One Little Lie is the first book in a new series, and the first book I have read from author Colleen Coble.
Fifteen years ago, a young girl, Button, gives birth to a boy in a cult. The cult falls under attack and Button’s dad escapes with her, announcing her that her baby has died.
Present day, in the small town of Pelican Harbor, Alabama, Jane Hardy is promoted to the position of Chief of Police. A seat formerly held by his recently retired dad. At that point, her only worries are a vigilante shaming people guilty of petty stuff, such as small theft or adultery, and the detective that was eyeing the same promotion. But, soon enough, part of a body is found by fishermen in their net. The next day, another murder has been committed. Then, case after case seems to rain on Pelican Harbor as if it had been named the new Cabot Cove.
This seems a lot for it to be simple coincidence.
Almost regretting having accepted her new position, on top of all this, Jane finds herself shadowed by Reid, a renowned documentary maker appointed by the mayor, and his son, serving as interim videographer. We quickly realize Reid has a particular interest in Jane Hardy, and not only as the topic of his movie. Might that have something to do with a documentary he made about cults earlier in his career ?
When I picked this book, intrigued by the description, it was in the mystery & thriller category. It’s only afterwards that I realized it was also categorized as romance and Christian lit. Romance is a genre I stay away from. And, in spite of an open mind, I’m not too much into having religion pushed unto me. So, I was somehow wary when I finally opened the book. As it turns, my worries were unwarranted.
There is no more romance than necessary in any story where relationships are bound to evolve and, if faith is omnipresent in the book, it mostly serves the story, or remind us of values we all can get behind.
The mysteries are convoluted, maybe even a little far fetched, but the quality of the writing pulls you in, giving the requisite amount of suspension of disbelief making it possible to enjoy the unraveling of the multitude of connected events that suddenly plagued Pelican’s harbor, under the stoic eye of its Pelican mascot, Pete.
Also, there is a K9 officer in this book. And I’m a sucker for police dogs.
I recommend this title. This is a quick read, and I’ve enjoyed it cover to cover. I’ll certainly read the next entry, to be released in September 2020.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for this unbiased review.
Fifteen years ago, a young girl, Button, gives birth to a boy in a cult. The cult falls under attack and Button’s dad escapes with her, announcing her that her baby has died.
Present day, in the small town of Pelican Harbor, Alabama, Jane Hardy is promoted to the position of Chief of Police. A seat formerly held by his recently retired dad. At that point, her only worries are a vigilante shaming people guilty of petty stuff, such as small theft or adultery, and the detective that was eyeing the same promotion. But, soon enough, part of a body is found by fishermen in their net. The next day, another murder has been committed. Then, case after case seems to rain on Pelican Harbor as if it had been named the new Cabot Cove.
This seems a lot for it to be simple coincidence.
Almost regretting having accepted her new position, on top of all this, Jane finds herself shadowed by Reid, a renowned documentary maker appointed by the mayor, and his son, serving as interim videographer. We quickly realize Reid has a particular interest in Jane Hardy, and not only as the topic of his movie. Might that have something to do with a documentary he made about cults earlier in his career ?
When I picked this book, intrigued by the description, it was in the mystery & thriller category. It’s only afterwards that I realized it was also categorized as romance and Christian lit. Romance is a genre I stay away from. And, in spite of an open mind, I’m not too much into having religion pushed unto me. So, I was somehow wary when I finally opened the book. As it turns, my worries were unwarranted.
There is no more romance than necessary in any story where relationships are bound to evolve and, if faith is omnipresent in the book, it mostly serves the story, or remind us of values we all can get behind.
The mysteries are convoluted, maybe even a little far fetched, but the quality of the writing pulls you in, giving the requisite amount of suspension of disbelief making it possible to enjoy the unraveling of the multitude of connected events that suddenly plagued Pelican’s harbor, under the stoic eye of its Pelican mascot, Pete.
Also, there is a K9 officer in this book. And I’m a sucker for police dogs.
I recommend this title. This is a quick read, and I’ve enjoyed it cover to cover. I’ll certainly read the next entry, to be released in September 2020.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for this unbiased review.
March 6, 2020
Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an fair and honest review.
I've read Christian Fiction and, for the most part, not liked much of it. Not for the positive Christian message these books always have but because they are just not that good. The writing is not up to the standard I am accustomed to and the plots just aren't that interesting. I am pleasantly surprised to say that is not the case here. This is my first Colleen Coble book and, as a much published author, she knows how to craft a great plot. The first third of the book had the reader wondering just what was going on, but then it settled down to an past paced suspense and a heartrending romance. Watch out for the cliffhanger.
The book opens 15 years ago with a young girl having just given birth when the compound where she lives is attacked. Her father grabs her and tells her the baby boy died and they have to escape. With that in the readers mind the books shifts to the present day.
Jane Hardy has always respected her father and wanted nothing more than to follow his footsteps and become a police officer. She worked hard and her father, the Sheriff of Pelican Harbor, Alabama hired her and she proved herself both to him and the community. When he suddenly retired, the job was offered to Jane. A little off balance and a little out of her comfort zone, Jane is thrown into the deep end when the mayor orders her to cooperate with the making of a documentary and decapitated corpse is found and the local librarian is tar and feathered and dead. When the FBI shows up with to arrest her father, Jane is overwhelmed.
Reid Bechtol has made several well received documentaries and now is making one that will definitely receive acclaim, but that isn't his primary motive for doing it. As he gets closer to Jane he sees a woman who is in a high stress job, but handles the people she deals with empathy while doing that job.
As Jane works to find a murderer and clear her father, Reid makes himself indispensable to her and Jane finds herself drawn to him and trusting him, maybe more that she should. One thing for sure, the frame her father finds himself in is a tight one and the murderer is determined to make the charges against him stick. 4 1/2-Stars
I've read Christian Fiction and, for the most part, not liked much of it. Not for the positive Christian message these books always have but because they are just not that good. The writing is not up to the standard I am accustomed to and the plots just aren't that interesting. I am pleasantly surprised to say that is not the case here. This is my first Colleen Coble book and, as a much published author, she knows how to craft a great plot. The first third of the book had the reader wondering just what was going on, but then it settled down to an past paced suspense and a heartrending romance. Watch out for the cliffhanger.
The book opens 15 years ago with a young girl having just given birth when the compound where she lives is attacked. Her father grabs her and tells her the baby boy died and they have to escape. With that in the readers mind the books shifts to the present day.
Jane Hardy has always respected her father and wanted nothing more than to follow his footsteps and become a police officer. She worked hard and her father, the Sheriff of Pelican Harbor, Alabama hired her and she proved herself both to him and the community. When he suddenly retired, the job was offered to Jane. A little off balance and a little out of her comfort zone, Jane is thrown into the deep end when the mayor orders her to cooperate with the making of a documentary and decapitated corpse is found and the local librarian is tar and feathered and dead. When the FBI shows up with to arrest her father, Jane is overwhelmed.
Reid Bechtol has made several well received documentaries and now is making one that will definitely receive acclaim, but that isn't his primary motive for doing it. As he gets closer to Jane he sees a woman who is in a high stress job, but handles the people she deals with empathy while doing that job.
As Jane works to find a murderer and clear her father, Reid makes himself indispensable to her and Jane finds herself drawn to him and trusting him, maybe more that she should. One thing for sure, the frame her father finds himself in is a tight one and the murderer is determined to make the charges against him stick. 4 1/2-Stars
March 27, 2020
It started with one little lie.
I liked the romance that blended into this suspenseful crime fiction novel. Expertly-plotted and well-paced!
Colleen Coble knows how to construct a fantastic plot and engaging characters! Jane Hardy promises to be a compelling lead for the series (this is listed as book 1, so I’d imagine more or to follow). She has quite a backstory which is explored in this book. One thing I liked about Jane was how hard she worked to follow in the path her father took as the Sheriff of their town. She does this out of immense respect for her father, and when he retires, Jane steps in an interim Sheriff. Female Sheriffs are rare, and I’d imagine particularly in smaller towns in the south. I really enjoyed Jane as a character!
Not long after being thrown into the Sheriff role, Jane responds to a discovery of a body found in a cooler and later to another murder. When Jane is told by the mayor to cooperate with a documentary film looking into small town police departments being shot by a journalist named Reid Bechtol, she is not pleased. Jane may not have much interest in the attention brought on by the documentary, but she may eventually find herself interested in something else about it…
Not only does Jane have the documentary film, two murders, a new job, and the FBI to contend with, but then her father is arrested on suspicion of taking funds from the police department. It started with a lie, but that lie is unraveling faster and faster.
Despite the darkness of the storyline, this book also delivered on the “heart-warming” romance it promised. A great, clean romantic suspense novel with a compelling story and strong characters. I’m looking forward to the next book!
Thank you to TLC Book Tours and Thomas Nelson for my copy. Opinions are my own.
I liked the romance that blended into this suspenseful crime fiction novel. Expertly-plotted and well-paced!
Colleen Coble knows how to construct a fantastic plot and engaging characters! Jane Hardy promises to be a compelling lead for the series (this is listed as book 1, so I’d imagine more or to follow). She has quite a backstory which is explored in this book. One thing I liked about Jane was how hard she worked to follow in the path her father took as the Sheriff of their town. She does this out of immense respect for her father, and when he retires, Jane steps in an interim Sheriff. Female Sheriffs are rare, and I’d imagine particularly in smaller towns in the south. I really enjoyed Jane as a character!
Not long after being thrown into the Sheriff role, Jane responds to a discovery of a body found in a cooler and later to another murder. When Jane is told by the mayor to cooperate with a documentary film looking into small town police departments being shot by a journalist named Reid Bechtol, she is not pleased. Jane may not have much interest in the attention brought on by the documentary, but she may eventually find herself interested in something else about it…
Not only does Jane have the documentary film, two murders, a new job, and the FBI to contend with, but then her father is arrested on suspicion of taking funds from the police department. It started with a lie, but that lie is unraveling faster and faster.
Despite the darkness of the storyline, this book also delivered on the “heart-warming” romance it promised. A great, clean romantic suspense novel with a compelling story and strong characters. I’m looking forward to the next book!
Thank you to TLC Book Tours and Thomas Nelson for my copy. Opinions are my own.
January 24, 2020
I was hoping for a romantic suspense book and instead got a book heavy on suspense and very light on romance. The story took place in a small town and there were too many murders and illegal activities going on, it was hard to keep it all straight. And it just didn't seem believable to me that an idyllic town by the sea would have so many shady personalities in one place. The cult background of the main character was interesting, but I wish it was delved into more. The romance aspect was pretty much non existent for most of the book. It turned out to be a disappointment for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for providing me with an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for providing me with an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
December 31, 2023
When I write this I'm at 95% but I thought I would write the final read. I love Colleen Coble. Her writing is amazing and I never can figure out who done it. I think that why I love her books so much. I love her clean writing and the stories are always Christ based. Honestly there is never a dual moment. She is such a joy to read. I have never read her romances but I will one day give it a try. If you are looking a clean and fun read I suggest One Little Lie. Now the worst I have to wait until the next 2 books to come out!!
February 9, 2020
This is a "Christian mystery/thriller romance" or "romantic suspense," the first I've read by this author, who comes highly recommended.
In the opening scenes, a girl called Button gives birth on her 15th birthday on the commune of the cult that she has begun to lose faith in but that she and her parents still belong to. The commune comes under attack that same night. In the melee, her father informs her that her baby died, her mother refuses to leave, and they have to escape immediately. With no real relationship with Moose, the baby's father (who she's never even seen clearly), and with no hope for her baby or her obstinately indoctrinated mother, Button leaves with her father.
Fifteen years later, a series of vigilante crimes and a gruesome murder take place in Pelican Harbor, Alabama, a small, nascent tourist town on the gulf. Jane Hardy has just been appointed chief of police after her father's retirement. At the mayor's insistence, successful documentary filmmaker Reid Dixon and his son will be shadowing Jane as she works to solve the crimes, prove her worth, clear her father's name, and deal with her own emotional issues and an intersecting web of the secrets and lies of others.
A note about genre — I'd consider this a police procedural mystery/thriller, where the mystery and thrills are adequate but the procedural part seems a little loose. It's very light on romance. I suspect there will be more in the rest of the series, but that doesn't quite fulfill the happily-ever-after requirements for this first book. It's relatively moderate on Christianity — a couple of Bible verses, invitations to church, a couple of C.S. Lewis quotes, a main character and two minor characters explicitly guided by Christian perspectives.
So why only 2 stars? It's a decent story, but not a great book — too many characters introduced in the first few chapters and referred to by too many different names, too many unnecessary subplots, a couple of plot holes and fact-checking issues, and one character's intro to the narrative is jumbled. And I wasn't comfortable with some of the content — unnecessary identical stereotyping of the only two explicitly Black or brown women in the book (both 50-something described as looking like 30-somethings because of their dark skin or their dark eyes and hair), the psychological issues surrounding the cult participation weren't very well examined (though perhaps that, too, will come in future installments), the prepper lifestyle and stockpiling of a private arsenal was justified if not completely normalized, and
Content warnings: cult, underage sex and pregnancy, vigilante justice, tar and feathering, corrupt police, child abduction, death and dismemberment
My thanks to #NetGalley and #ThomasNelson for an advanced copy of #OneLittleLie in exchange for my honest feedback.
In the opening scenes, a girl called Button gives birth on her 15th birthday on the commune of the cult that she has begun to lose faith in but that she and her parents still belong to. The commune comes under attack that same night. In the melee, her father informs her that her baby died, her mother refuses to leave, and they have to escape immediately. With no real relationship with Moose, the baby's father (who she's never even seen clearly), and with no hope for her baby or her obstinately indoctrinated mother, Button leaves with her father.
Fifteen years later, a series of vigilante crimes and a gruesome murder take place in Pelican Harbor, Alabama, a small, nascent tourist town on the gulf. Jane Hardy has just been appointed chief of police after her father's retirement. At the mayor's insistence, successful documentary filmmaker Reid Dixon and his son will be shadowing Jane as she works to solve the crimes, prove her worth, clear her father's name, and deal with her own emotional issues and an intersecting web of the secrets and lies of others.
A note about genre — I'd consider this a police procedural mystery/thriller, where the mystery and thrills are adequate but the procedural part seems a little loose. It's very light on romance. I suspect there will be more in the rest of the series, but that doesn't quite fulfill the happily-ever-after requirements for this first book. It's relatively moderate on Christianity — a couple of Bible verses, invitations to church, a couple of C.S. Lewis quotes, a main character and two minor characters explicitly guided by Christian perspectives.
So why only 2 stars? It's a decent story, but not a great book — too many characters introduced in the first few chapters and referred to by too many different names, too many unnecessary subplots, a couple of plot holes and fact-checking issues, and one character's intro to the narrative is jumbled. And I wasn't comfortable with some of the content — unnecessary identical stereotyping of the only two explicitly Black or brown women in the book (both 50-something described as looking like 30-somethings because of their dark skin or their dark eyes and hair), the psychological issues surrounding the cult participation weren't very well examined (though perhaps that, too, will come in future installments), the prepper lifestyle and stockpiling of a private arsenal was justified if not completely normalized, and
Content warnings: cult, underage sex and pregnancy, vigilante justice, tar and feathering, corrupt police, child abduction, death and dismemberment
My thanks to #NetGalley and #ThomasNelson for an advanced copy of #OneLittleLie in exchange for my honest feedback.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 14, 2019
In One Little Lie the repercussions of one lie skids through the town of Pelican Harbor creating ripples of chaos and suspense. Who will survive the questions? One Little Lie is the latest page-turner from Colleen Coble. Set on the Gulf coast of Alabama, Jane Hardy is the new police chief who is fighting to clear her father. Reid Bechtol has secrets of his own as he follows Jane around town for a documentary. Together they must face their secrets and decide when a secret becomes a lie? And when does it become too much to forgive?
October 14, 2020
One Little Lie by Colleen Coble is an incredibly quick read filled with suspenseful moments, and it is completely clean for those of you who like that kind of thing. I didn't realize going into it that this is Christian Fiction, which isn't usually a genre I read. However, I loved the fact that Coble was able to infuse God into the book without making it overwhelming or preachy, and even if you aren't Christian I think you could still easily enjoy it. The mystery was a good one and even though some readers will probably figure it out, I did not so it was a surprise to me. I enjoyed the different viewpoints, as well as the snapshots into Jane's past in a cult.
I loved Jane's character and she was such a great lead, so I'm excited that this is just the very beginning of her story. I really want to delve deeper into her cult past, and now that she knows who has been keeping secrets from her and lying to her, there will be a lot more than just her past to explore. The name of the book may be One Little Lie, but it's more like one big lie, and I can't wait to see what Coble will do with that.
Even though Coble has lots of books out, this is my first time reading her and I was a big fan of her writing style. The pace was very snappy, and I finished this book extremely quickly. I actually listened to the audio and I finished it in a day since I couldn't stop listening. This was also my first time hearing a book voiced by Devon O’Day, and I was a huge fan of her narration. It looks like she narrates a lot of this author's novels, as well as Lauren K. Denton who I love, so I will definitely be looking forward to listening to more books she narrates.
I recommend One Little Lie to fans of the Christin Fiction genre, or anyone who is just looking for a good, clean, suspenseful read. The chapters were really short and the whole thing basically just flew by which made it an even more enjoyable experience. I love a fast-paced read and that is definitely what this was. It was very inspirational and even had a bit of a police procedural feel since Jane is a sheriff, which I hope is what she stays in future books. Overall a great start to a new series!
I loved Jane's character and she was such a great lead, so I'm excited that this is just the very beginning of her story. I really want to delve deeper into her cult past, and now that she knows who has been keeping secrets from her and lying to her, there will be a lot more than just her past to explore. The name of the book may be One Little Lie, but it's more like one big lie, and I can't wait to see what Coble will do with that.
Even though Coble has lots of books out, this is my first time reading her and I was a big fan of her writing style. The pace was very snappy, and I finished this book extremely quickly. I actually listened to the audio and I finished it in a day since I couldn't stop listening. This was also my first time hearing a book voiced by Devon O’Day, and I was a huge fan of her narration. It looks like she narrates a lot of this author's novels, as well as Lauren K. Denton who I love, so I will definitely be looking forward to listening to more books she narrates.
I recommend One Little Lie to fans of the Christin Fiction genre, or anyone who is just looking for a good, clean, suspenseful read. The chapters were really short and the whole thing basically just flew by which made it an even more enjoyable experience. I love a fast-paced read and that is definitely what this was. It was very inspirational and even had a bit of a police procedural feel since Jane is a sheriff, which I hope is what she stays in future books. Overall a great start to a new series!
January 12, 2020
'Faith wasn't something Jane could wrap her head around. How did you trust something you couldn't see?'
Jane Hardy fled a cult 15 years ago with her father. Now, living in Pelican Harbor, Alabama, her father has retired as police chief and she has been appointed as his replacement when she is called on to solve a series of vicious murders. But more is going on than these murders.
Reid Dixon films documentaries and is good at what he does. He has come to Pelican Harbor to film the chief of police for a few weeks as she does her job. Jane does not want him to do so, but the mayor does. Reid, however, has some secrets of his own from his past. It all started with one little lie. That lie has the potential to wreak havoc in Jane's life.
After her father is arrested for theft, Jane is on a mission to prove his innocence while dealing with her own issues.
Colleen Coble has long been a favorite for me, but not since her wonderful Rock Harbor (which I have read several times) series has she done such fine writing! Some of her very best in my opinion. And this is going to be a series! So we have more to look forward to. Coble is at her very best here. I look forward to the next book in Pelican Harbor.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers through Net Galley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
best here.
Jane Hardy fled a cult 15 years ago with her father. Now, living in Pelican Harbor, Alabama, her father has retired as police chief and she has been appointed as his replacement when she is called on to solve a series of vicious murders. But more is going on than these murders.
Reid Dixon films documentaries and is good at what he does. He has come to Pelican Harbor to film the chief of police for a few weeks as she does her job. Jane does not want him to do so, but the mayor does. Reid, however, has some secrets of his own from his past. It all started with one little lie. That lie has the potential to wreak havoc in Jane's life.
After her father is arrested for theft, Jane is on a mission to prove his innocence while dealing with her own issues.
Colleen Coble has long been a favorite for me, but not since her wonderful Rock Harbor (which I have read several times) series has she done such fine writing! Some of her very best in my opinion. And this is going to be a series! So we have more to look forward to. Coble is at her very best here. I look forward to the next book in Pelican Harbor.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers through Net Galley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
best here.
March 17, 2020
Whoa! What??? Wait....Nooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!
That was me doing a double take at the end of One Little Lie because well...not everything ends. So, reader beware of the dreaded cliffhanger. I'm not usually a fan of lots of loose story threads BUT I did feel there was enough closure in this one to keep me satisfied until September when Two Reasons to Run releases. Sort of. At least some of my burning questions were answered and the suspense aspect is mostly wrapped up. (I may be a tad paranoid but I think some of it is going carry over into book two.)
So, if you can get past that open ended finale you're going to love this romantic suspense! It's Coble at her best. Oodles of tension. A complicated plot with the occasional sinister villain POV just to put a shiver up your spine. An impossible romance between two complex characters with burdensome pasts that are about to collide. Whew! But this is a whole lot of frenzied, page-turning brilliance!
I listened to the audible version narrated by Devon O'Day who does a lot of Coble's audio books. I love when I connect with a narrator as much as the story. It's like greeting an old friend once I start listening. I hung on every word with a frantic non-stop fascination. What a great team!
That was me doing a double take at the end of One Little Lie because well...not everything ends. So, reader beware of the dreaded cliffhanger. I'm not usually a fan of lots of loose story threads BUT I did feel there was enough closure in this one to keep me satisfied until September when Two Reasons to Run releases. Sort of. At least some of my burning questions were answered and the suspense aspect is mostly wrapped up. (I may be a tad paranoid but I think some of it is going carry over into book two.)
So, if you can get past that open ended finale you're going to love this romantic suspense! It's Coble at her best. Oodles of tension. A complicated plot with the occasional sinister villain POV just to put a shiver up your spine. An impossible romance between two complex characters with burdensome pasts that are about to collide. Whew! But this is a whole lot of frenzied, page-turning brilliance!
I listened to the audible version narrated by Devon O'Day who does a lot of Coble's audio books. I love when I connect with a narrator as much as the story. It's like greeting an old friend once I start listening. I hung on every word with a frantic non-stop fascination. What a great team!
June 2, 2021
What a kickoff! This book was completely twisty. I was engrossed from the beginning. That opening scene… my goodness! I love a good tragedy, but this one wrenched my heart.
A couple of major relationship plot points were too obvious, but the mystery plot points all kept me guessing. The murders were gruesome, but thankfully, they were not dwelt upon in so much detail as to be disturbing.
I liked that Deepwater Horizon was mentioned. It was neat to have that disaster mentioned in a respectful way that brought a bit of awareness to that piece of recent American history.
It was a little weird to have “to be continued” at the end of a book, but I rather liked it. I have such fond memories of that phrase from TV shows like Promised Land and Walker, Texas Ranger. It might have been different to see it in a book, but somehow, it worked.
I can hardly wait to read the next installment of this trilogy.
Content: replacement expletives, marital affairs, a couple lived together without being married (while one of them was married to someone else), gruesome murders, gambling, sexual term, pubs
A couple of major relationship plot points were too obvious, but the mystery plot points all kept me guessing. The murders were gruesome, but thankfully, they were not dwelt upon in so much detail as to be disturbing.
I liked that Deepwater Horizon was mentioned. It was neat to have that disaster mentioned in a respectful way that brought a bit of awareness to that piece of recent American history.
It was a little weird to have “to be continued” at the end of a book, but I rather liked it. I have such fond memories of that phrase from TV shows like Promised Land and Walker, Texas Ranger. It might have been different to see it in a book, but somehow, it worked.
I can hardly wait to read the next installment of this trilogy.
Content: replacement expletives, marital affairs, a couple lived together without being married (while one of them was married to someone else), gruesome murders, gambling, sexual term, pubs
June 23, 2020
4.5 stars
Wow! One Little Lie was such a good mystery! It kept me guessing and I loved that! The opening pages had me hooked and I couldn't wait to continue reading.
I found the characters to be interesting. I thought it was intriguing that Reid's secret was discovered sooner, but I guess it could be believable...
The way One Little Lie ended has me needing the next book NOW. I wasn't ready for such a cliffhanger... and yet, it was an amazing ending. I definitely recommend this book.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
Wow! One Little Lie was such a good mystery! It kept me guessing and I loved that! The opening pages had me hooked and I couldn't wait to continue reading.
I found the characters to be interesting. I thought it was intriguing that Reid's secret was discovered sooner, but I guess it could be believable...
The way One Little Lie ended has me needing the next book NOW. I wasn't ready for such a cliffhanger... and yet, it was an amazing ending. I definitely recommend this book.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
September 1, 2020
Jane Hardy hardly has time to get her feet wet in her new job as interim sheriff in Pelican Harbor as her father has been arrested for theft. What is more is that it seems like he is connected to a recent murder. It doesn't take Jane very long to see that someone is trying to set her father up. While Jane begins her investigation thoughts of her past are never far from her mind. Fifteen years previously she escaped a cult with her father, never seeing her mother again - as well as someone incredibly endearing to her. Could what is happening to Jane's father be connected to their difficult past?
Meanwhile Jane is suddenly being shadowed by Reid Bechtol, a popular journalist who is now focused on covering her career. One thing Jane doesn't like about her new job is the political aspect, and how it makes her have to agree to be followed by Reid. So, while Jane pursues leads to clear her father, Reid begins his questions as he digs into her past.
This is where composing this review could be a bit problematic. There is a connection between Reid and Jane that begins to come to light - something that involves shocking lies and secrets. That is about all I can say about that.
What a thrilling story! I have the second book in this series for review, Two Reasons to Run , and boy am I glad that I headed to my library to get and read this book first, because this book has critical information that is necessary to be able to fully enjoy the series as a whole. The third book in this series, Three Missing Days, is scheduled for release in April 2021.
Meanwhile Jane is suddenly being shadowed by Reid Bechtol, a popular journalist who is now focused on covering her career. One thing Jane doesn't like about her new job is the political aspect, and how it makes her have to agree to be followed by Reid. So, while Jane pursues leads to clear her father, Reid begins his questions as he digs into her past.
This is where composing this review could be a bit problematic. There is a connection between Reid and Jane that begins to come to light - something that involves shocking lies and secrets. That is about all I can say about that.
What a thrilling story! I have the second book in this series for review, Two Reasons to Run , and boy am I glad that I headed to my library to get and read this book first, because this book has critical information that is necessary to be able to fully enjoy the series as a whole. The third book in this series, Three Missing Days, is scheduled for release in April 2021.
March 20, 2020
Colleen Coble has always been one of my favorite Christian fiction authors so I was very eager to pick this one up, especially after reading that it involves cults. The story started out with a bang and I was hooked.
The main character Jane was a petite but fierce woman who held her own in the law enforcement world. Reid was mysterious at first but as more was revealed about him, I was intrigued to find out more.
The story had a lot of facets and a lot of characters. I had some trouble keeping track of everyone at first but eventually it all started to click. I began to wonder how all of the different plot points were related but in the end they all came together in a satisfying way.
I enjoyed how the author left the reader wanting more at the end...I need to pick up the next book! Overall, this was a great thriller with many twists and turns. Highly recommended!
I received this book from Celebrate Lit and the author/publisher to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The main character Jane was a petite but fierce woman who held her own in the law enforcement world. Reid was mysterious at first but as more was revealed about him, I was intrigued to find out more.
The story had a lot of facets and a lot of characters. I had some trouble keeping track of everyone at first but eventually it all started to click. I began to wonder how all of the different plot points were related but in the end they all came together in a satisfying way.
I enjoyed how the author left the reader wanting more at the end...I need to pick up the next book! Overall, this was a great thriller with many twists and turns. Highly recommended!
I received this book from Celebrate Lit and the author/publisher to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 17, 2020
As always I’m not disappointed. I really enjoyed Colleens latest and am looking forward to book 2. A bit of cliffhanger ending but I was cool with that cause it makes me anxious for book 2!
March 31, 2020
"The truth is easier to handle than most people think. A lies is a betrayal that hits you where you really live."
Colleen Coble knows how to write romantic suspense. I've read many of her books and can confidently say that she knows how to reel her readers in from the prologue and keep us hooked until the very last page. In her latest offering, One Little Lie, the author weaves the lives of a father-daughter duo who escape a cult compound into a small town in Alabama that suddenly sees a multitude of murders and violence. In her trademark style, the author brings in many secondary characters into the plot to add details that only become clear at the very end of the book and to throw the reader off from the true villain. The villain actually does have a voice in the story as well, which is interesting. The plot moves fast with plenty of adrenaline, action, and unforeseen twists; romance between Jane and Reid is subtle. From one little lie in each of the character's past and/or present, their lives spiral out of control and the lies bring them colliding into each other in one brilliantly plotted story.
Jane, our heroine, is the newly appointed police chief in Pelican Harbor who still bears the scars from her childhood in a cult. She's strong, independent, intelligent, and compassionate but tends to hold on to her anger tightly. Reid is a documentary journalist who comes into town to create a documentary on small town police chiefs. He's loyal, passionate, protective, and tender but has a secret and an ulterior motive in being at Pelican Harbor which provides a subplot in the story. Both of the main characters, along with Reid's son Will, are incredibly easy to love.
When I first started the book, I didn't realize that this series may turn out to be more like the author's Rock Harbor series where the entire series focuses mostly on the main character(s). I'm so used to her series following different sets of main characters who are loosely related to each other that I was slightly confused when critical key issues were not addressed by the time I got to the last chapter. Then I realized that the second book will likely pick up where the first book left off (on an emotional cliffhanger, of course). Can't wait to read what happens next with Jane, Reid, and Will.
If you enjoy romantic suspense, you will thoroughly enjoy this book. I received a copy of the book from Thomas Nelson via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
Colleen Coble knows how to write romantic suspense. I've read many of her books and can confidently say that she knows how to reel her readers in from the prologue and keep us hooked until the very last page. In her latest offering, One Little Lie, the author weaves the lives of a father-daughter duo who escape a cult compound into a small town in Alabama that suddenly sees a multitude of murders and violence. In her trademark style, the author brings in many secondary characters into the plot to add details that only become clear at the very end of the book and to throw the reader off from the true villain. The villain actually does have a voice in the story as well, which is interesting. The plot moves fast with plenty of adrenaline, action, and unforeseen twists; romance between Jane and Reid is subtle. From one little lie in each of the character's past and/or present, their lives spiral out of control and the lies bring them colliding into each other in one brilliantly plotted story.
Jane, our heroine, is the newly appointed police chief in Pelican Harbor who still bears the scars from her childhood in a cult. She's strong, independent, intelligent, and compassionate but tends to hold on to her anger tightly. Reid is a documentary journalist who comes into town to create a documentary on small town police chiefs. He's loyal, passionate, protective, and tender but has a secret and an ulterior motive in being at Pelican Harbor which provides a subplot in the story. Both of the main characters, along with Reid's son Will, are incredibly easy to love.
When I first started the book, I didn't realize that this series may turn out to be more like the author's Rock Harbor series where the entire series focuses mostly on the main character(s). I'm so used to her series following different sets of main characters who are loosely related to each other that I was slightly confused when critical key issues were not addressed by the time I got to the last chapter. Then I realized that the second book will likely pick up where the first book left off (on an emotional cliffhanger, of course). Can't wait to read what happens next with Jane, Reid, and Will.
If you enjoy romantic suspense, you will thoroughly enjoy this book. I received a copy of the book from Thomas Nelson via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
January 31, 2020
Colleen Coble again confirmed her position as one of my favourite Christian suspense authors with first book in a new promising series. While the main female character, Jane, with her K-9 partner, Parker, reminder me a lot about Bree and her rescue dog, Samson from the Rock Harbor series, Jane still had her own voice, own baggage and struggles to work through and her own strengths and weaknesses.
At the end of the book, the author's note was that Jane was a character with too much to deal with that one book is not enough and I completely agree. By the end of the book, there was so much things unanswered for Jane, and if it were to be answered in one book, it would have feel rushed and forced.
Reid was such a great male character and though the ending was still incomplete and not at a great place for him, I do hope he will also grow more in the series, will receive closure and a happy ending.
The suspense plot was great. The author did a great job of giving clues and develop the story in such a way that I wanted to keep reading to see what happened and who is behind everything. There was moments I was so confused and finally guessed who the mastermind was like a paragraph before he was revealed. And if you are like me where you prefer the suspense to be emphasised more than the romance, this plot you will enjoy.
The secondary characters like Olivia and Meghan were also great and hope they will still play a vital role in Jane's life in the books to come.
Highly recommended to fans of Christian Susepense and authors like Dani Pettrey, Irene Hannon, Lynette Eason and Susan May Warren
"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
At the end of the book, the author's note was that Jane was a character with too much to deal with that one book is not enough and I completely agree. By the end of the book, there was so much things unanswered for Jane, and if it were to be answered in one book, it would have feel rushed and forced.
Reid was such a great male character and though the ending was still incomplete and not at a great place for him, I do hope he will also grow more in the series, will receive closure and a happy ending.
The suspense plot was great. The author did a great job of giving clues and develop the story in such a way that I wanted to keep reading to see what happened and who is behind everything. There was moments I was so confused and finally guessed who the mastermind was like a paragraph before he was revealed. And if you are like me where you prefer the suspense to be emphasised more than the romance, this plot you will enjoy.
The secondary characters like Olivia and Meghan were also great and hope they will still play a vital role in Jane's life in the books to come.
Highly recommended to fans of Christian Susepense and authors like Dani Pettrey, Irene Hannon, Lynette Eason and Susan May Warren
"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
March 22, 2020
This was such a fantastic book! It is probably my favorite Colleen Coble book yet and I have read many of this author’s works.
The story started off with a glimpse of the main character’s past and I was simply fascinated from that point on. The murders and trouble that Jane had to deal with as Chief of Police kept the book moving swiftly, while the feelings that began to slowly develop between Jane and Reid kept things very interesting.
This was a multi-layered, very intriguing story. Be prepared that while many of the problems are resolved in this novel, there are still some unresolved situations that will lead directly into book two of the series. I really look forward to reading what happens in that book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
The story started off with a glimpse of the main character’s past and I was simply fascinated from that point on. The murders and trouble that Jane had to deal with as Chief of Police kept the book moving swiftly, while the feelings that began to slowly develop between Jane and Reid kept things very interesting.
This was a multi-layered, very intriguing story. Be prepared that while many of the problems are resolved in this novel, there are still some unresolved situations that will lead directly into book two of the series. I really look forward to reading what happens in that book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
June 21, 2020
This book was a classic example of Colleen Coble's mystery-writing skills! I hate it when I figure out a mystery a couple chapters into the book, but the characters don't figure it out until the last chapter. This was most definitely NOT the case with One Little Lie! While I did figure out one little thing early, it was revealed shortly after. However, I was completely blindsided when it came to the"main" mystery!!! Wow! Really, my only complaint with this book is that it ended with such a drastic cliffhanger and the second book isn't out yet. That actually isn't a complaint, though, it just shows Coble's cunning craft. 😉
June 20, 2021
2.75 / 5
Update:
Coi kĩ lại thì thể loại quyển này vừa suspense vừa romance (vừa Christian luôn 😶) nên thêm 1⭐ vì chuyện của cô cảnh sát trưởng vs anh phóng viên thú vị phết và chiếm dung lượng đáng kể trong truyện, và đứa con trai 15 tuổi nữa ☺️ chòi oi gia đình cưng. Tui thà theo dõi chuyện gia đình này từ hồi còn ở Hội cuồng giáo còn hơn đọc về vụ án mạng nó chả thu hút gì
20/6/2021
Nv chính là 1 cảnh sát trưởng từng ở trong 1 Hội Thánh cuồng giáo (bất ngờ chưa 🙂). Được cha cứu thoát rùi nhưng mà vẫn bị những ký ức ám ảnh (trope này gặp quài lun á, kiểu 1 thanh tra có quá khứ sang chấn...)
Mình còn tò mò về đời tư nv chính hơn là vụ án, cách kể chuyện chẳng hấp dẫn j cả
Chắc mình hợp nhất vẫn là Agatha Christie, sau đến trinh thám Nhật
Update:
Coi kĩ lại thì thể loại quyển này vừa suspense vừa romance (vừa Christian luôn 😶) nên thêm 1⭐ vì chuyện của cô cảnh sát trưởng vs anh phóng viên thú vị phết và chiếm dung lượng đáng kể trong truyện, và đứa con trai 15 tuổi nữa ☺️ chòi oi gia đình cưng. Tui thà theo dõi chuyện gia đình này từ hồi còn ở Hội cuồng giáo còn hơn đọc về vụ án mạng nó chả thu hút gì
20/6/2021
Nv chính là 1 cảnh sát trưởng từng ở trong 1 Hội Thánh cuồng giáo (bất ngờ chưa 🙂). Được cha cứu thoát rùi nhưng mà vẫn bị những ký ức ám ảnh (trope này gặp quài lun á, kiểu 1 thanh tra có quá khứ sang chấn...)
Mình còn tò mò về đời tư nv chính hơn là vụ án, cách kể chuyện chẳng hấp dẫn j cả
Chắc mình hợp nhất vẫn là Agatha Christie, sau đến trinh thám Nhật
October 17, 2020
Good mystery! Good back story between the 2 MCs! Fast read!
March 16, 2020
One of the Best Things Is Introducing Mom to Favorite Authors
Seriously, aside from the fun of sharing things I enjoy, knowing that if my mom liked it I will, too is pretty awesome. Then again, when have I ever not loved a Colleen Coble book? It may happen someday, but so far, it hasn’t happened yet. I mean, when I requested and received the review copy of this book, I didn’t wonder if I’d like it. It was more of a why would I like it.
Of course, the moment I thought of that, I knew I was tempting Murphy. Maybe this would be the book–the one that disappointed me and left me wrecked in a puddle of disillusion and despair.
Okay, I’ll stop laughing now. Right? Snort.
But why did I like it? Was it because Mom did, so I felt I should?
Nope. Although, if she had and I hadn’t, I’d have wondered if there was something wrong with me, and I probably would have reread it again. Right then.
Maybe it had to do with the fact that Thomas Nelson seems to have reversed its trend of weak Christian content to the curb. WOOHOO! Look, it’s not that there was all kinds of preachiness all over this book. Can’t stand that stuff. However, Colleen Coble placed a few solid nuggets in there and left the next book wide open for a whole goldmine of ’em.
Even better than that, she grabbed me and held my attention even with chaos happening around me.
No really, I had to call the police while I was reading the book.
And not just because I was annoyed at being interrupted while reading a great story.
A multi-faceted story glistens and sparkles across the page as you dig deeper and deeper into this story. Well placed twists and turns kept me second-guessing every guess I’d made until the final showdown. Just before proof appeared with the turn of a page, I knew she’d gotten me. She’d convinced me to switch my guess to the obvious choice, and as a result, she tripped me up.
Well done, Ms. Coble. Well done.
One of the best elements in this novel is how flawed every character is–and all in different but oh, so similar ways. We see true faith in action, fear and uncertainty overriding faith, and the natural fallout of sin in people’s lives. Not once is sin glorified or excused, but in the end, we understand how it got a foothold and see what it does to those who grip it.
With a plot that keeps you riveted, pacing that never lags, and characters to root for, One Little Lie has everything you want in an excellent suspense novel and is only missing one thing.
The next book in the series.
How on earth will I make it until September?
Recommended for lovers of suspense. For those of us not dying for a strong romantic element in every book, this is the one for you. While there’s a tiny thread in there, it’s such a minor one, you almost don’t notice it. For those who love that romantic thread, no worries. I see it coming in the next book or two.
Seriously, aside from the fun of sharing things I enjoy, knowing that if my mom liked it I will, too is pretty awesome. Then again, when have I ever not loved a Colleen Coble book? It may happen someday, but so far, it hasn’t happened yet. I mean, when I requested and received the review copy of this book, I didn’t wonder if I’d like it. It was more of a why would I like it.
Of course, the moment I thought of that, I knew I was tempting Murphy. Maybe this would be the book–the one that disappointed me and left me wrecked in a puddle of disillusion and despair.
Okay, I’ll stop laughing now. Right? Snort.
But why did I like it? Was it because Mom did, so I felt I should?
Nope. Although, if she had and I hadn’t, I’d have wondered if there was something wrong with me, and I probably would have reread it again. Right then.
Maybe it had to do with the fact that Thomas Nelson seems to have reversed its trend of weak Christian content to the curb. WOOHOO! Look, it’s not that there was all kinds of preachiness all over this book. Can’t stand that stuff. However, Colleen Coble placed a few solid nuggets in there and left the next book wide open for a whole goldmine of ’em.
Even better than that, she grabbed me and held my attention even with chaos happening around me.
No really, I had to call the police while I was reading the book.
And not just because I was annoyed at being interrupted while reading a great story.
A multi-faceted story glistens and sparkles across the page as you dig deeper and deeper into this story. Well placed twists and turns kept me second-guessing every guess I’d made until the final showdown. Just before proof appeared with the turn of a page, I knew she’d gotten me. She’d convinced me to switch my guess to the obvious choice, and as a result, she tripped me up.
Well done, Ms. Coble. Well done.
One of the best elements in this novel is how flawed every character is–and all in different but oh, so similar ways. We see true faith in action, fear and uncertainty overriding faith, and the natural fallout of sin in people’s lives. Not once is sin glorified or excused, but in the end, we understand how it got a foothold and see what it does to those who grip it.
With a plot that keeps you riveted, pacing that never lags, and characters to root for, One Little Lie has everything you want in an excellent suspense novel and is only missing one thing.
The next book in the series.
How on earth will I make it until September?
Recommended for lovers of suspense. For those of us not dying for a strong romantic element in every book, this is the one for you. While there’s a tiny thread in there, it’s such a minor one, you almost don’t notice it. For those who love that romantic thread, no worries. I see it coming in the next book or two.
August 17, 2020
This book follows Jane, who has just been made chief of police at Pelican Harbor, following in her father’s footsteps. She escaped from a cult when she was younger and isn’t keen to talk about it.
The other main character is Reid, who is making a documentary on the police department, and Jane’s career and he also has secrets that he isn’t keen for her to know.
When a body gets dragged up from the sea, they are both involved in the murder investigation. This throws them together, but they aren’t sure whether to trust each other with their past.
I enjoyed listening to this audiobook. I read Colleen Coble’s earlier Hope Beach series. Those books were romantic suspense novels, whereas this seemed more like a murder mystery. It was the same narrator, and I like her style of performance. I listened to this book on 1.7 speed and flew through it.
I thought the characters were interesting. Their secrets and the relationship between them drove the book forward. Jane has an unusual past which makes her personal relationships complicated. I can see that this plot-line will continue throughout the series. I found the personal life of the characters the most compelling part of the story.
The mystery was intriguing. I didn’t guess the ending. I found the explanation a little confusing at first, but it was properly explained by the end.
The faith side to this book explore how someone with Jane’s past could come to trust God and want to engage with a church. I imagine that this will also be further developed as the series goes on.
The other main character is Reid, who is making a documentary on the police department, and Jane’s career and he also has secrets that he isn’t keen for her to know.
When a body gets dragged up from the sea, they are both involved in the murder investigation. This throws them together, but they aren’t sure whether to trust each other with their past.
I enjoyed listening to this audiobook. I read Colleen Coble’s earlier Hope Beach series. Those books were romantic suspense novels, whereas this seemed more like a murder mystery. It was the same narrator, and I like her style of performance. I listened to this book on 1.7 speed and flew through it.
I thought the characters were interesting. Their secrets and the relationship between them drove the book forward. Jane has an unusual past which makes her personal relationships complicated. I can see that this plot-line will continue throughout the series. I found the personal life of the characters the most compelling part of the story.
The mystery was intriguing. I didn’t guess the ending. I found the explanation a little confusing at first, but it was properly explained by the end.
The faith side to this book explore how someone with Jane’s past could come to trust God and want to engage with a church. I imagine that this will also be further developed as the series goes on.
February 13, 2020
One Little Lie is a rich story with so many issues going on and in a lovely setting that adds to the local flavor. As the story begins, Detective Jane Hardy has been offered the job of police chief of small town, Pelican Harbor, on the lovely coast of Alabama near Mobile. Her dad was the former chief and has recently retired. Not everyone is happy about Jane getting the job, including another detective and a councilman. The small town has been thrown into a tailspin with a vigilante attacking people and now two bodies to investigate. Reid Dixon and his son Will are in town renting a house while Will is on spring break. Reid has a company that makes documentaries and is making a documentary about small town police forces. Now there is special interest in Jane becoming a chief of a small town. Jane and her father were once in a cult until they left fifteen years ago. They have quite a history with this. Reid has a secret too. Someone is not only killing and intimating citizens but someone has set the FBI out on Jane's dad. There is an abduction of a senator's daughter. Are all events connected in someway? Why? Who can be trusted? This story is full of mystery, suspense, retribution, revenge, and maybe romance...all sprinkled with faith interwoven. Another winner by Colleen Coble.
I received a complimentary ARC from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine only.
I received a complimentary ARC from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine only.
March 10, 2020
The first book in Colleen Coble's new suspense series, The Pelican Harbor, begins with riveting suspense and continues till the very end which left me hanging with some threads and screaming in my head "don't stop now!" One Little Lie is only the beginning with many more lies adding to the danger, confusion and hurt. With lost souls and complicated relationships, the two main characters, Jane and Reid, both were struggling with a childhood spent in a cult; yet only Reid knew that there was more to their connection then just a present day spark. Will, Reid's son, was a mature young adult who knew exactly what he did and didn't want in his life, and Harry was a little one you wanted to hug, hold close and keep from all harm. Throw in a well behaved K-9 dog, along with some secondary characters who were debatedly good or evil; and the cast, along with the plot, took off like a bang and never stopped.
I loved that Coble's main female character was a police chief in a small town. It's wonderful to see a woman in a not so common vocation. This book will keep you reading and leave you hungry for the next book in this series. Please Colleen make it soon!
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
I loved that Coble's main female character was a police chief in a small town. It's wonderful to see a woman in a not so common vocation. This book will keep you reading and leave you hungry for the next book in this series. Please Colleen make it soon!
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
June 30, 2020
Eh, this kind of missed the mark for me. The blurb sounded good, and I was especially intrigued by the cult aspect of this. But, that turned out to be a very tiny part of the story. It was a mystery, filled with many secrets and lies. The romance was a small part of the story. There was also a religious aspect to the story, which I’m never fond of in fiction. I think the biggest problem I had with the story was the characters. I really did not like Jane. I found her abrasive nature infuriating. Reid and all the other supporting characters were just kind of blah to me. I’m definitely in the minority but I did not love this one.
* ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
* ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
July 26, 2020
HANDS DOWN MY FAVORITE of Colleen Coble's!! Wow!! Lies, secrets, murders, cults, and betrayals oh my!! Not to mention there is a romance brewing. This is so amazing. I have to warn readers though, there is a bit of a cliff hanger at the end. However, it didn't bother me one bit. Yay! The adventure continues!!
August 19, 2021
I have to admit one of the bookish habits that constantly has people shaking their heads at me is that I tend to read series out of order. The thing is that I never mean to, it just happens as I pick up a book and start reading, and then it's like lo' and behold it turns out to be Book #3 in the series. That is what happened to me with the series Pelican Harbour as 6 months ago, I read Three Missing Days which turned out to be Book #3 in the Pelican Harbour series by Colleen Coble. In One Little Lie, we meet our chief Jane Hardy who has been newly appointed after her father has retired and lived on his estate which is a prepper's dream as you can take the man out of the cult but not all the mindsets of the cult out of the man. The book starts with the day Jane and her father left the cult and the baby Jane had just given birth too who eventually she was told had died. Now 16 years later, Jane is living her life and now and again her heart aches for her baby boy. Reid and his son Will have come to Pelican Harbour to track down Jane, he is here under the premise of being a film director and filming a documentary on Jane being one of the world's first female Police Chiefs. Reid has a dark secret and trying to wait for the perfect time to tell Jane as he ties it to her past life, however, things are about to get way too complicated for Reid when his wife Lauren who had been declared legally dead a year ago has turned up blackmailing Reid. PS - she has been missing for eight years. If that wasn't enough for this action-packed novel, we have a vigilante killer and someone is trying to frame Jane's father for murder and fraud and discredit his reputation. If you love edgy Christian fiction, cults, and murder - then The Pelican Harbour Series by Colleen Coble is the reads for you.
January 7, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed this book from start to finish. The author's writing is compelling and engaging with twists and turns along the way. The only negative was getting to the end and realizing I need book two to find out what happens next! If you like Christian suspense, you should give this one a read.
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