In the Cradle Lies by Olivia Newport is the second book in her The Tree of Life series. The story opens with the introduction of a new stranger in town. Tucker Kintzler is throwing money around and looking to ski a very dangerous slope, Hidden Run. Jillian Parisi-Duffy and her father, Nolan, along with their friends, befriend Tucker hoping to urge him from skiing the dangerous slope. Interwoven with the present is the story of Matthew “Matt” Ryder, from a child in the 1930 to an adult in the 1950s. Matt learns a dark family secret which destroys his mother’s fragile mental state and tears apart his relationship with his father, Judd. What is the connection to Tucker? Can Jillian and the others discover what he is running from before he seriously injures himself? Can he find peace with the burden he seems to be carrying?
From the opening page, In the Cradle Lies grabs you and sucks you in until you are determined to finish and discover the great secret that connects Tucker and Matt Ryder. There is so much about the book that I loved but due to possible spoiler issues, I won’t discuss them. However, I loved each character. I laughed at their banter. I gasped as the secret is revealed and I smiled as all the dots are connected. In the Cradle Lies is a great story about family, the past and coming to terms with it in the present. I am looking forward to the next book in the series which is set to be released next year. I highly recommend In the Cradle Lies as well as the first book in the series, The Inn at Hidden Run.

In the Cradle Lies
is available in paperback, eBook, and audiobook

Oh my, I couldn’t put this book down. The story and characters had me engaged from page one. I love the genealogy aspect and can’t wait for the next book!
Many thanks to Barbour Publishing and to NetGalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

We are back in Canyon Mines, Colorado with more family secrets for genealogist Jillian and her lawyer father Nolan to help unearth. In the Cradle Lies has you instantly questioning what the heck is going on, especially when you flashback from the present to 1936, tidbits of the truth scattered in both the former and the current. It took me a bit to get my bearings but once I understood what I was reading, and the dire situation that both Tucker and his grandfather were in, I was in complete shock, the subject unfathomable and incredibly heartbreaking.

What enchants me about this series is the parallel of past and present, and truly seeing just how much the choices of the past affect the future, whether they're your choices to make or not. I felt so sorry for the burden this poor family endured at the hands of one man but what really endeared me to this second novel was another piece of Nolan's past, giving more depth to his character. Though each book in the series can be read as a standalone, I think reading the first book answers questions you might otherwise have if you don't read it first.

In the Cradle Lies was a gratifying read and felt deeper to me, maybe because this book includes things from the author's personal life. I always love when authors do that! It really does help lend to that personal and authentic feel.

I am already impatiently waiting to read the next book in the series!

Olivia Newport's Tree of Life series are unique stories of suspense and family histories! Tucker learned a family secret on his grandfather's deathbed. He disappears to the ski slopes in Canyon Mines, Colorado to try dangerous hills. Tucker was asked to restitution for the horrible crimes his great grandfather committed years ago and has a hard time dealing with the truth. Jillian, a genealogist, is able to uncover interesting information and a family Tucker never knew! How would you feel if you learned your family money was originally funded by illegal and immoral activities! I recommend In the Cradle Lies. I received an advance copy of the book from NetGalley and Barbour Publishing. I was under no obligation to post a review.

‘Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.’ John 8:32 NIV

The author has done it again! Another fabulous book that brings the past to light and explains so many things in the present. Jillian, our genealogist, is a master at uncovering the family secrets of days gone by. Working almost exclusively from home, she enjoys living in the small town of Canyon Mines, Colorado. This quaint village is close to numerous wonderful ski runs, so there are many visitors in the winter ready to enjoy the snow. Tucker, a business owner, is an incredible skier and there to enjoy as many crazy fast runs as he can.

Matthew, Tucker’s grandfather seems to have an air of sadness around him. Upon his death, a sealed envelope is given to Tucker. The secrets it holds will totally change not only his life, but the lives of many others. Is he ready to step out in faith and reveal the truth?

A Genealogist Solves a Family Mystery

Although she doesn’t ski, Jill accompanies her friend Kris to the slopes. Since this is the Colorado mountain town of Canyon Mines there’s plenty of good snow. On the slopes, Kris encounters Tucker. He’s skiing like a maniac. Then they meet up with him again at the ski shop where he tries to pay for new boots for Kris.

Tucker is obviously troubled. When Jill and Kris get him to talk, he tells them that he carries a letter from his grandfather that he fears opening. Since his troubles appear to stem from a family situation, Jill agrees to run a genealogy search to see if it will highlight any problems.

I loved the genealogy part of this book. We see Tucker in the present troubled by things that happened in the past. The book is structured so that the story of the past is also told and we can get a glimpse of the terrible secret bedeviling the family.

Although this is the second book in the series, it can be read as a standalone. There are some parts of the past of Jill and her father, Nolan, that need to be understood, but they can be gleaned from the story. The characters are likable. Jill and her father are particularly sympathetic. Although because of the chapters on the past, we know approximately what the secret is, the author does a good job of keeping the suspense building.

If you enjoy romance, mystery and secrets from the past, you’ll like this book.

I received this book from Net Galley for this review.

I like Newport's writing style. There is just something about how she tells a story that captures me. Much of the narrative consists of the day to day activities of the people involved. There are no live and death suspense moments involved in the plot. Nonetheless, I enjoyed the novel.

I did not feel the plot was very strong. A man comes to town to ski and befriends people. We find he is struggling over something. Through flashbacks, we find the history behind his turmoil. Genealogy researcher Jillian and her dad help the fellow to understand his situation and come to grips with what must be done. There is sort of a love triangle included but not really. Newport does address several issues in the character interaction such as shame and guilt.

This is a novel for people who like a gentle story without any heart stopping suspense. The characters come across as good people wanting to do the right thing and that is refreshing.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

In In the Cradle Lies we again meet genealogist Jillian Parisi-Duffy and her father, Nolan Duffy. Jillian and Nolan are two of the most selfless, caring characters you might ever meet, however, this sometimes makes them the greatest busybodies you might ever meet. They may have never met a boundary they wouldn't breach, but the author successfully molds them into people you can love in spite of this character flaw, a flaw that is used to open up the way for readers to step into the lives of those around whom the stories in this series center; in this case, Tucker Kintzler and his deceased grandfather, Matthew Ryder. On his deathbed Matthew placed a heavy burden on Tucker's shoulders, one too heavy for him to bear alone.

In the Cradle Lies is a story of family secrets and the shame that keeps them buried. It is also the story of being set free by the truth, and the willingness to share the truth with others. I recommend this book to those who need encouragement to face truth and step out of shame created by themselves or forced upon them by others. I recommend it to those who enjoy books where characters unfold and wisdom is revealed. I am grateful to have received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review and received no monetary compensation.

This book really surprised me. I knew it was a mystery when I began, but unlike other mysteries, there is no murder, no stolen jewels - just the mystery of what happened to families to cause pain and separation.

I hate to say too much about it because that will give away too much of the plot.

Jillian is a genealogist working in a Colorado town in the ski area. A guy turns up who is spreading money around like confetti. Tucker is an excellent skier and always looking to much the envelope. As people in town get to know him, there are things he will not discuss and changes the topic when they come up. While they feel like they are getting to know him, he is definitely hiding something. But what?

There is a parallel story set decades ago about a family in Missouri. I don't think it's a spoiler to tell you that the two stories have a connecting figure.

Jillian's father has been estranged from a brother for many years. Tucker, it seems, has some problems with family back home.

The story is about how bad choices, shame, and secrets kept can affect not only the individual but also those around them who they love.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I was so glued to it during the final third of the book that my family wondered if I would surface for air! I read this book, the second in the series, first. I can't wait to get to the first book which is now at the top of my reading list!

4.5 stars for this second installment in the Tree of Life series. While this is book 2, it can be read as a stand-alone, but you'll have a bit more insight into Jillian and Nolan if you've read The Inn at Hidden Run prior. This book follows the father/daughter duo once again as they help another visitor to Canyon Mines, CO untangle some elements of their past. For comparison sake, I will say I enjoyed the first book better as the character of Meri was a bit more mysterious and the historical aspect didn't tie in until the very end, which made for a more fascinating journey. In this book, you knew right away how the historical piece tied in, though there were still a few surprises at the end. Also, Tucker was a bit of a frustrating character to me as he would hint around that he wanted to talk about what was happening, but then wouuld just clam up. However, once Jillian was able to get to work on his case, the story really came out and the plot-line was fantastic. I really enjoyed the use of actual history to form the fictional characters back-stories.

I enjoyed the interaction between the characters in this and the characters are both likable and relatable. The plot-line was fantastic, and the faith thread was quite present. There was also the message of how guilt and shame can carry into everything we say and do, so we should deal with it before it does just that. All in all, this was a great book and I would recommend to fans of general fiction, as it had a lot of great elements of many genres - a mystery, a twinge of romance, a contemporary story line, a historical story line, and family drama.

Special thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced e-copy of this book. I was under no obligation to write a review and the opinions contained herein are my own.

“Jillian Parisi-Duffy was of firm enough character to defend her choice regardless of the criticism, and she had faced plenty. First, from her father before she left the house that morning. “If you plan to spend most of your time sitting in the lodge with a book, at least take a novel.”“Bye, Dad,” was all she said as she shoved her choice in her bag and went out the front door to meet Kristina Bryant in her idling sedan. Then there was Kris. “That’s the book you brought to read while I ski?” - Opening lines of In the Cradle Lies by Olivia Newport

In the Cradle Lies by Olivia Newport is a continuation of the Tree of Life series which began with The Inn at Hidden Run. Genealogist, Jillian and family lawyer, Nolan are the narrators and the delightful father-daughter duo, once again, lead us through the story.

As in the first book, the split-narrative highlights the effect context can have on who we become and what we believe about ourselves and our family. Having received a piece of the historical puzzle of his family, Tucker’s world shatters. Disengaging with his world, he escapes to Canyon Mines and the locals befriend him. Amongst the present-day narrative are historical portions set in St. Louis in the 1930s where the reader follows a young boy struggling in his family home and noticing his father’s suspicious behaviour.

Working to understand Tucker’s reckless behaviour, Jillian and Nolan dig into his history and bring the two stories together. To share more would be to give away the twists in the tale which make it so interesting.

Whilst the mystery unfolds, small town life brings a joyful and fun element to the story. Jillian and Nolan are a delight and it was lovely to see other great characters in the novel again. I thoroughly enjoyed it, it’s a five out of five on the en-JOY-ment scale.

2nd book in series but can definitely be read as stand-alone. Really interesting how Jillian researches all sorts of things. I like the split timeline even though it can be confusing sometimes. It's fun to see the parallels in the different stories. Would be interested to see this story played out in another book later in the series. Good characters and lovely location! It's nice to think about the snow but wouldn't want to have to live there. LOL!
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher and voluntarily chose to review it.

In The Cradle Lies was a well woven genealogy mystery. I didn’t know if I would like this novel as I did not read the first book in the series and I have a difficult time taking an interest in genealogy. However, Olivia Newport was able to hold my attention with the excellently crafted storyline.

The second in the series and I continue to enjoy it. This book kept me on the edge on my seat even as I tried to figure things out for myself. Like the first book the story is written in the past and the future with clues to both expertly woven through. I love the flow of the story, I love the characters. This story really touched me even though I have no personal experience with the topic covered but the author really draws you into all aspects of this storyline.
I look forward to reading the next book in this series.

In the Cradle Lies is an excellent novel! Part two of the Tree of Life series, this book is the perfect addition and a great holiday read!

Life in Canyon Mines has returned to normal; however, nothing stays quiet for long, and soon a new mystery plows into town.

Plagued with anger after hearing his Grandpa Matt's last words, Tucker Kintzler has come to Canyon Mines to escape his life in Missouri. Refocusing his thoughts, Tucker becomes obsessed with the legend of Hidden Run, a ski slope that has not been found or used for decades. The slope is treacherous and unpredictable, but will his new friends, Nolan, Jillian, and Kris, be able to stop him before he takes the plunge? Families will be questioned, friendships will be tried, and loyalty will be the thing that holds them altogether!

Flashback to the 1930s, in the town of Maple Turn, Missouri, where a boy named Matthew Ryder is growing up in a home is full of secrets. Struggling to feel like he belongs, Matthew won't stop until he uncovers the truth that has been hidden for so long; however, when the day of truth comes, Matthew will have to make a decision will either set him free or lock him in chains.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It was well written and contained so much more emotion and care than The Inn at Hidden Run, book one of this series. My only complaint was that the synopsis spoils Tucker's fiance's arrival! Her entrance into the narrative would've been so unexpected had it not been written in the description. That said, I thought that the characters were relatable, the story not rushed, and the revelations shocking. I also loved the background story of Matthew's life because it brought all of the pieces together beautifully. This book is a must-read!!

~ Thanks to NetGalley, and the publisher, for providing me with the digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. ~

I really tried to get into this book but just couldn't get the rhythm of the writing and the dialog. I thought the dialog was unnecessarily descriptive. I would have liked more conversation between the characters versus all the flowery descriptions. More to the point!

I received a copy of the book from @netgalley, and chose to review it here. All thoughts are my own.


In the Cradle Lies was intense! I really enjoyed Book 1, The Inn at Hidden Run, which was awesome and recommended, but not necessary to be able to get into this book within a chapter or so! The main cast is the same, but the mystery is self contained.


This book deals with a very difficult and emotional subject and handles it well.


I witnessed a lot of trauma in the story, and it was very real, but I didn't feel like I was dragged through the mud either. It's a tough balancing act and the author does an excellent job of it!


And the reactions to the trauma were so well suited to each character. I don't know how to put what I want to say into words that are not full of spoilers, so I will just say READ IT!!


There is hope here, and some restoration. You won't be disappointed!

Another great book from Olivia Newport and a wonderful addition to her Tree of Life series! I very much enjoyed The Inn at Hidden Run, the first of the series and had been looking forward to reading this, the second book of the series, In The Cradle Lies. I was not disappointed. Well, perhaps a little, does it count that my disappointment is because I read through this book so quickly and now i have to wait for book three?

Mrs. Newport proves once again what a skillful writer she is; there is a an easy rhythm to her writing that lulls the reader into a peaceful feeling. Even with such weighty subjects as stolen children, adoptions, family discord, mental illness, etc., the reader can breathe easy knowing that our author and her marvelous characters will see us through to the end of the story. There will be tears throughout but there is also hope. She very cleverly suggests a possible direction for other stories in the series and it is one I hope comes to fruition. It is an entirely new and inventive take on the subject and one that I personally am excited to read.

As before, I strongly recommend Mrs. Newport's books and, also, as before, I very much look forward to the next book of The Tree of Life series.

Exceptional read from start to finish. The author gives you a glimpse of the past hidden for many years from all eyes, then bursts forth in a blinding reveal. I found this book intriguing and engaging. It made me wish I could jump into the past through a window in time.

The second in the series, IN THE CRADLE LIES does not disappoint. Again Nolan and Jillian, the father-daughter attorney and genealogist team solve a mystery using their blended skills. In this story, the mystery comes to town in the form of Tucker, an expert skiier and solid businessman who has been knocked off his emotional feet by the deathbed disclosure of his grandfather. Themes include the importance of truth, family, forgiveness, and redemption. I found this book especially refreshing because while the plot may include discovery and discussion of heinous crimes, the writing is wholesome and unobjectionable. Four stars from this reviewer.