I can't believe this series is over!! As usual, I thoroughly enjoyed Mrs. Kendig's work.

I loved the way she portrays the relationships in these books. You've got the familial relationship that abounds throughout Wraith--they'll tease each other mercilessly, sometimes over the smallest things, but at the end of the day, they've always got each others backs. There's also the relationship between Tox and Chiji, yes that one is familial as well, but I feel like it goes the slightest bit deeper just because he was the one who's kind of been there to start pulling Tox out of his deep dark hole that he threw himself into. Then you've got the romantic relationships which are amazing! I love Tox and Haven's relationship. It's awesome that they've come so far and (especially after some of Tzaddik's reveals) they always seem to find their way to each other (even if Tox is being a bit of a butt and not wanting to acknowledge it)

Speaking of Tox and Haven, I'm glad things seem to be heading on an upward trajectory. But I have to question Tox's consideration of "domestication." Not that he doesn't deserve if it's what he wants, but he just doesn't feel like someone who could just sit back and not be out there helping the world. I think it'll be fun to see he and Haven starting a family and what that all entails, especially since he's now officially alive again...

Ram was interesting. I was shocked and surprised at some of his actions. At least a little. In the other books, while I could tell that he was definitely loyal to Wraith, it always felt like he was holding something at least to the side. He'd give information without actually saying anything outright or he'd speak in vagueness. And I did get frustrated with him towards the end, mainly because of the way he went about things. I was a little happy that he seemed to once and for all choose exactly where all his true loyalties lay.

Mercy was such an awesome character. I loved the way she kicked butt but also had her obsession with superheroes. I liked that she could handle herself and while she did occasionally get herself into trouble she always managed to find a way out. With and without help.

One of those books that you’ll get to the end, close it, and just sit there in your chair, your mind and emotions left reeling.

In this stunning, elegantly written conclusion to the Tox Files, Ms Ronie Kendig neatly ties up all her loose threads left from Crown of Souls and Conspiracy of Silence (COS & COS2), while still managing to introduce new characters for her readers to fall in love with. Or hate. Depending on which side they’re on.

In true Ronie Kendig form, the whole novel will keep you on your toes, with sudden twists you may or may not see coming. Following on the return of Leif in the previous book, he comes into the team with attitude and swagger, and it’s just fun to watch his interaction with Wraith.

There’s comedy, a la Barclay Purcell, drama, courtesy of basically everyone...and a touch of romance, thanks to a few couples. One thing I have always appreciated about Ms Kendig’s work is she’s able to keep things real, and the more tender moments never seem forced or just there for the sake of being there. It’s natural, and just as well written as the action scenes.

Overall, loved the book. Total rereading session coming up soon, and it will be the whole series. They’re all just that good. Massive kudos to Ms Kendig at writing another suck you in adventure!

– I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

To say it in one word: BRILLIANT! A few more: the plot, ancient mystery, secrets, and twists are perfectly executed.

In Thirst of Steel, secrets, friendships, loyalties, and fortitudes are tested as the challenge of a lifetime faces the Wraith team — and especially Tox, Haven, Ram, and Tzivia. With more POVs, details about team members, and TWISTS you will never see coming, this story is one that will have you turning pages late into the night to see just what happens next! And, you’ll need to be prepared for action, adrenaline rushes, and around-the-world locations.

The Wraith TEAM is as funny, precise, and cohesive as ever. Tox and Haven are ALL THE FEELS and a big part of the emotional upheaval of the story (Ram is attributed the rest of the emotions and tears). A particular favorite of mine was Haven’s involvement in ancestry research… and the way Tzi Tzaddik and Chiji work with her.

Readers will be ecstatic that we get a few more perspectives in this story, especially more time with Ram and Tzivia. RAM. His loyalty, sacrifices, ties to Mossad, and even his romantic life are front and center this time — further complicating the mission and forever changing the team dynamic. And Tzi? She’s as gorgeous and fierce as ever — especially when it comes to her efforts for her family and even in her blindness about her own self-worth. Her growth and arc in this book are impressive. AND, a lady named Mercy shows up as an important part of the story — and she brings to light the incredible symbolism and meaning behind some of the character names.

Thirst of Steel is more than a thriller. More than an undercover paramilitary black ops story or an ancient mystery-turned-international threat plot. It’s a story of humanity, of sacrifice and integrity, of family and brotherhood, of the true character revealed by a person’s actions, and of spiritual warfare, the very real fight against evil, and a powerful and all-knowing God we can choose to serve. This fictional story points to truth, light, and the salvation found in the greatest sacrificial Love humanity has ever known. Read it, friends. It’s quite the adventure.

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. All opinions are honest and my own.

Ronie Kendig has done it again! In her latest novel Thirst of Steel, she brings together the final pieces in the centuries old conflict while bringing Biblical history alive. Tox and his team return once more to recover the blade that was used to kill Goliath and curse the Nizaris. It kept me on the edge wanting to read more and more into uncovering the truth of Thefarie and Cathey and I was in suspense of whether or not the AFO was going to find out what Tox and his right hand man and friend Ram were doing. New characters were introduced to bring more light onto characters like Ram. The introduction of Mercy shed some light on the man and Kendig brought out the internal conflict he was going through. As being partial to dark heroes, I enjoyed learning more about Ram and his past and watching him go through the conflict he was facing. I was completely blown away by the plot twist in the final showdown and I admire Kendig’s ability to parallel the events that took place in the past with the events in the present that were playing out and eventually show that history doesn’t always repeat itself but it can pave the way for a different outcome, a different future and Ronie Kendig give us that with the epilogue. While it is closure for a wonderful series, the characters truly live on in all of us as we struggle to deal with what comes our way and with faith in God… all things can happen. Thank you Ronie Kendig for another great adventure.

I finished this UH-MAZING book yesterday and I still can't think straight. My emotions have been completely wracked and I don't know how or when I will recover from this book.

Ms. Kendig calls her books Rapid Fire Fiction and that is exactly what she delivers. Her latest, and final book of The Tox Files is an emotion packed thrill ride, filled with suspense, action, and romance.

As I read this book I kept wondering where and how Ms. Kendig came up with all she put in this book. Her story creativity and character development is some if not the best I've read all year. Her ability to keep a reader on the edge of their seat, thinking they've figured it out and then surprises the daylights out of them is the qualities of a brilliant author, which in my opinion Ronie Kendig is.



My Bottom Line:

I am very sad to see the Tox Files end. Thirst of Steel finishes the series off perfectly. The pacing of the story is perfect. I found myself holding my breath, crying, cheering, and wanting to throw the book across the room. The spiritual truths that were braided into the story had me doing some real soul searching. I love when books touch my heart and soul, and this one definitely did.

I highly recommend it!

Looking for jaw-dropping awe inspiring suspense? Look no further than Thirst of Steel, the conclusion to the Tox Files series. Kendig is at the top of her game. Known for keeping readers on their toes, and always mixing things up, Kendig constantly falls under the “expect the unexpected” category. I found myself trying to figure out what would happen next, and yet delightfully surprised when I was wrong. This book is perfect for a vacation straight to the edge of your seat. They don’t call it rapid-fire fiction for nothing. Thirst for Steel follows Tox and his team and they fight against time and a mysterious ancient group bent on destruction.

The sword of Goliath is more than meets the eye. Not only did it save the Hebrews from slavery and death, but it also has a mysterious power. The Arrow and Flame Order will stop at nothing to reassemble what they believe will free them from a curse that has haunted them. Finding a sword that’s been missing for centuries shouldn’t be that difficult right? Lucky for them, they have leverage over the best artifact finder the world knows. Tzivia Khalon would do anything for her father, and when his life hangs in the balance she is even more desperate to give the A.F.O. what they want. Unfortunately no one else wants the sword to fall into the wrong hands. In a race against time and their enemies, Wraith must protect the innocent at all costs. Who will come out on top?

Gosh this book was good. I can’t tell you the range of emotions I went through while reading. I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen next, and often turned the page holding my breath. No one does military fiction like Ronie Kendig. She is obviously a favorite of mine, and I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next. I loved reading every book in this series and recommend if you don’t own them all that you change that. This book can also be a stand alone novel, you just won’t know the characters as good as I do. I have to say you’ll be missing out. I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was in no way forced to post a review, and all opinions expressed are my own.

While I'm not normally a fain of historic fiction, this is one series that I have thoroughly enjoyed. Kendig does a nice job of alternating historic facts with suspense and a tad of romance. Skillfully written and carefully plotted, the story-line throughout all 3 books nicely connects the characters and easily draws the reader in. This is a series, however, that should be read in order, especially if the reader wants the full story. I cannot stress enough how much I have enjoyed reading The Tox Files! I give this book 5 stars!

I was gutted at the end of Thirst of Steel, the astounding conclusion to The Tox Files. It's a good thing no one was here. Seriously, my husband would have thought I was crazy, crying over a fictional character like I did but I was totally stunned and almost sick to my stomach—the emotional tension in the final chapters was off the charts! Yes. I know that sounds unbelievable. We are talking about fiction, after all. But I think that is the sign of an unquestionably good book, when the author can draw the reader so far into story that you connect with the characters, feel invested in their lives and the choices they make or don’t make. Every book I choose to read, I hope this is the way I am going to feel.

The Tox Files has been one of the best series I have read and certainly Kendig’s finest! There are many memorable characters that deserve mention. No doubt about it. But the two that impacted me most are Tox and Ram and their relationship. They are not only brothers-in-arms but brothers-in-Christ. The trust between them is unwavering. At a critical moment, they quote the Special Forces Creed to each other. As the parent of an active military member, I know firsthand the bond and allegiance that forms between compatriots and my tears flowed.

Incredible amounts of energy and emotion are prevalent in Thirst of Steel. It resonates with the purest and most perfect example of well-written characters, dialogue, mystery, and sacrifice. No quarter is taken in the pacing, action or intensity of this story. Be prepared for the ride of a lifetime as Tox, Ram, and the Wraith team slake the Thirst of Steel!

I was provided an electronic copy of the book from the publisher through Netgalley. I was not required to write a review. No compensation has been received.

I feel like I’ve just had the life drained out of me—although I’m pretty sure that’s just the adrenal letdown after finishing the most intense and epic conclusion to a series I’ve read in I don’t know how long. I know I’ve gushed about Ronie Kendig’s books before, but... Wowser! That was masterful. And brilliant. And...heartbreaking! But still right, somehow. And now I have to figure out how to function in the real world while I recover…

If you haven’t read the previous books in this series, I highly recommend doing so, (a) because it’s one of the best series I’ve ever read; and (b) because you’ll have a much deeper appreciation of the characters and their motivations as you come into this story. However, it’s probably fair to warn you that you will also be much more deeply invested in the characters, and, well, see first paragraph above. Tears will be shed, I promise you, because this author doesn’t shy away from hard reality, but you won’t be left without reasons to smile through the tears.

As far as the story goes, Thirst of Steel is Ronie Kendig at her brilliant best: The deep, robust characterisation; the complex, heart-pounding plot; the vivid, powerful writing; and, of course, the healthy sprinkling of one-liners and witticisms from the members of Wraith. As always, I take my hat off to Cell in that last department, but he definitely had some worthy competition in this one!

Thirst of Steel is paramilitary black ops that packs a punch both physically and emotionally, and throws in a dose of speculative archaeology for good measure. It’s 400+ pages of pure awesomeness, so just get it already!

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.

Sharp, Precise, Target, Danger, Espionage, Secrets, Enemies, Courage and Determination is a great description of this book by the brilliant and talented author. The characters are fierce and their job is to complete their mission at all cost.

It is a race that will takers readers around the world as the coveted artifact is the prize. Many are willing to die for it and others will destroy their enemy to possess it. The story is action packed and full of surprises. It is a nonstop thrill a minute as one common denominator prevails. Will the enemy tear a team apart? Who can be trusted as the story goes to a high octane level?

I love the feel of a special forces team at command in the story. The author delves a bit more into the characters we have grown to love. We see a glimpse of the symbolism of Christianity embedded into the story that leaves a message of hope and keeping your eyes fixed on God.
The story is a well oiled machine that brings intrigue, danger, and a closure to a series I have loved. The characters were well represented and I will miss them greatly. The ending is powerful and one of a surprise to me. Well done Ronie Kendig.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Thirst of Steel is the final book in the Tox Files series. It did not disappoint with the Rapid Fire action. I felt like I had fast roped into the middle of a fire fight that did not let up until the final page of the book. Kendig threw in a few flash bangs to rattle my brain throughout the story. I loved it. You do need to have read the other two books for the back story to have a complete understanding of this book.

Tzivia is on a mission to save her father, who was thought to be dead. Ram and Tox are working to save Tzivia from herself and her mission to put together Goliath's sword. The CIA and Mossad are trying to dismantle the AFO (Arrow and Flame Order). This mission to defeat the AFO is complex, and gives the reader an action packed ride. Tox's team is left to wonder where he is, when they are called to solve some mysterious killings happening inside the United States. Wraith team soon learns that these killings are somehow linked to the AFO and Goliath's sword. Will the sword be put together? Will Tzivia save her father? Will Tox return to the US and marry the love of his life, Haven? Read Thirst of Steel to find out.

My thanks to Bethany House Publishers and Netgalley.com for the ARC in exchange for my review.

Ronie Kendig promises rapid-fire fiction and that is what she delivers. What an epic, emotion-twisting ending to a fantastic, blood-pumping series. I’m going to miss the guys with Wraith but I’m interested to see what Ronie has up her sleeve next for her readers. #morecellplease #andmercy #ramforever

HOORAH! Tzi, Ram, and Tox take the world by storm in this last installment of the Tox Files. Wow! This is by far my favorite of the series. There are new twists and turns around almost every corner. Kendig keeps you guessing as you navigate this adventure with Wraith, and friends. What an exciting end to this complex drama! Way to go Ronie Kendig!

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. All opinions are my own. There are too many favorite scenes and quotes to list them all. Now that this novel is unclassified you need to go read it for yourself!

Heart stopping intensity. I kept wanting more and more as the story unfolded. Tox & Haven are a mystery. Ram is in hiding separated from the team. A new mystery unfolds drawing Tzivia to find a missing sword. History comes to life in this contemporary final novel of The Tox Files. Outstanding...Wraith team finishes with an epic conclusion in a battle of the ages.

Wholly satisfying with a true to character ending. Still processing the commitment and honor of this team. This truly is Rapid Fire fiction at its best. I want to say so much more but I don’t want to give away any spoilers. It is important to read all the books in the series to fully understand The Thirst for Steel! A lot of questions are wrapped up in this final chapter.

I was provided an ARC copy though I would have willingly paid for it. I am giving my honest opinion...I absolutely loved it!

Thirst of Steel will keep you up at night and crossing the globe as you accompany Tox on his quest to save the world from the Russian terrorists bent on destroying it. It's a journey that will play out before your eyes as you read it and will haunt your dreams after you finish.

It did this to me - literally. I often read late into the night, but I found myself up with Thirst of Steel much later than usual, completely unable to put the book down and go to sleep. I literally read until I slept, something I never do, and found myself with my book before me again first thing the next morning, starting again where I had left off the night before.

The whole Tox series is that way, but this one reads a bit differently. I don't want to spoil anything, but a few of the main characters have unexpected roles in this one, and so at first I was sloshing through it, a bit ungainly at times, enthralled with the premise but trying to understand the new parts. I soon had it all figured out, though, and by then the action had risen to new heights, and there was no putting this book down.

No. Stopping. Points. Whatsoever.


So, me, who can function with little sleep, actually read herself literally and completely to sleep, and then woke up the next morning, turned back a few pages, and dove back in.

It's that good.

I couldn't wait to see what was going to happen, although I really didn't want to, all at the same time, because I knew that would signal the end of the series, and I loved it way too much to want it to end. Alas, that is how I feel, now that I've come to the last page: Thirst of Steel has an epic ending, and I loved it.

Which means that there's nothing to do but to go back to the very beginning of the series and read it all again.

This time, I'll read a bit slower. I'll be able to savor parts I was too excited to read slowly the last time and consider details more, not because I didn't understand what was happening, but only because I was too excited to think but could only devour.

I think that Thirst of Steel creates a Thirst for Words. Be forewarned.

I received a free copy of this book from the author and from NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

From the first page, "Thirst of Steel" puls you in with action around the globe. As I continued reading, it was obvious that there was a lot of back story from earlier books in the series that was needed in order to have a full understanding of the characters. As I looked online, this book is mentioned as the "thrilling ending" to a trilogy of books. The storylines and characters interest me & seems to be in a sweet spot of my reading preferences - so, I'm putting this book on pause to go back and read the first two books before continuing.

Nothing in the book description/subtitle/etc. on NetGalley indicated that this was part of a series (& actually an ending story) - if that had been more clear, I probably would not have requested this book and just focused on starting at the beginning of the series. The upside is I've discovered a new series to read.

A free ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This book is available July 31st.

I’m having a hard time processing all that I experienced through this book.
There were moments of questioning and thinking I had it figured out.
Saying out loud, “Wait! that can’t be!”
Followed by, “OH! I knew it!”
Then there were those times I wanted to stop reading because I didn’t want to read what I was reading. The emotions were so raw.
All this to say, Ronie Kendig is a HIGHLY GIFTED STORYTELLER!
She knows how to twist and turn the story in so many ways you don’t see what’s right in front of you and when you see it, you can’t believe it!
She also has a fantastic way of bringing the right amount of spiritual truths in each of her stories which help you dig deeper into your faith. I know I did in this book. We all thirst for something in our life, whether it’s physical, relational, emotional or spiritual. For me personally, I believe it’s only Christ Jesus who will quench that thirst we have.
I like to share quotes from the books I read and in this book there were many, I find this one to be just what I’m talking about:

“Is it not God who is the same yesterday, today, and forever? You accept that He cursed
man, that He wrought great miracles - water turning to blood, snakes to staffs, dead
brought back to life. What were those miracles, but demonstrations of His power to turn
hearts back towards their Creator?”

The characters in this book and the other books in this series are so real, I found myself laughing with them, getting mad and sometimes VERY angry at them, loving them and also crying over them. They will be forever special in my heart. They became a family to me. I know this is the last book in this series, yet it would be fun to read about them in maybe another book. Hint Hint!
If you want to read a book packed full of intrigue, suspense, action, drama, military struggles, and a bit of romance, then this is the book for you! You might need a day or two to process all that happens in this book. Believe me, you won't be able to breathe deeply until the end, but it will be worth it.
I highly recommend reading the book. Pick it up and start on the adventure of your life.
I was given this book by the publisher for an honest review, all opinions are my own.

This conclusion to The Tox Files is Rapid Fire Fiction at its best. As with the other books, there is an ancient artifact in play…Goliath’s Sword. It is believed to have brought down a curse that many are desperate to break. It seems that everyone has a different agenda in hunting for the pieces of the sword from the CIA to the Mossad, the AFO in Russia, Tox, Tzivia, and even Ram. It’s wonderfully interwoven but still pretty easy to follow. Secrets are revealed bit by bit and make for some interesting twists. The story and action remind me of a cross between Warehouse 13 and Indiana Jones. It’s pretty exciting.
I love the camaraderie that Tox has with his team. They go to great lengths to protect each other and live out the Special Forces creed beautifully. “I will not fail those with whom I serve. I will not bring shame upon myself or Special Forces.” But even these bonds may be tested in this tale of ancient curses and betrayal.
This book has it all: a good mystery, suspense, action, romance, evil villains, desperate heroes, special forces, spies, and a race against the clock. It’s a great read and I’d highly recommend it. If you haven’t read the prior books, I’d encourage you to start at the beginning. They fill out so much of the backstory and add lots of depth to the relationships and events.
Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with a copy of this book. I was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.
The Tox Files:
Prequel Novella: The Warrior’s Seal (free for Kindle on amazon.com)
Book 1: Conspiracy of Silence
Book 2: Crown of Souls
Book 3: Thirst of Steel

This amazing book was a thrilling page turner well worth the wait. All the questions raised by the previous two books in this series are answered as Tox and Ram fight against a mighty enemy! Their friendship and dedication to each other and the their team are inspiring! There is so much tension between government agencies that I was constantly wondering who would come out on top. And the redemption of people and relationships that are broken was so beautiful. There are plot twists that will leave you breathless especially the final ones at the end! The author is so creative. The characters are consistent from the beginning of the series only growing in depth and richness.

This book is unique in the creativity of the plot and the depth of the characters. Not many other books can deal with fighting a secretive society like the AFO while not becoming unbelievable but I never felt that the book became beyond the possible. And I am love the weaving in of the storyline from the middle ages, showing us we play just a small part in the fight against evil. Be faithful in the small part you can do. I love this book!

Genre: Christian Fiction/ Action/ Suspense!/ Romance
My rating: 4 stars!!! (I knocked out a star, only because someone dies... that I didn't want to die.
Also, there is quite a bit more romance in this final story)
Language: Clean! (The writer does have some of them saying, "That's bull", or "He cursed
and ran outside")
Age Range: 16-17+
Content: There is kissing, and scene where it "suggests" that something more could happen -
it doesn't though.
Favorite Character: Cole Russell (Aka - Tox!!) and Vvolt.
Favorite Quote: "'Yeah, well, then you owe me a penthouse overlooking Central Park, Dog.'
'Sheepdog. I live to protect the flock and confront the wolf.'" (Conversation
between Cell and Mercy).

Conclusion:
Wow, what an ending! I am still in shock that this series is officially over. It was a great story and ending for this series! It had some humorous moments, some deep moments, and some sad moments (which I'm a cryer... so, not cool). However, I highly recommend this series to anyone who loves Biblical history (This is the coolest part of the series! Just FYI, some of it is twisted into fantasy for more fun), action and suspense (with some romance).