Cover Image: Edge of Dusk

Edge of Dusk

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** “Normal life is not ever perfect. What kind of people would we be if God never allowed our faith to be tested? Adversity makes us stronger. … Bad things are never permanent, but neither are happy times. Life changes. It’s supposed to.” **

Colleen Coble delivers another incredible thriller and a return to her beloved Rock Harbor community with “Edge of Dusk.”

Twenty-four years after her younger sister Laura is kidnapped, Annie Pederson is still trying to come to turns with the horrific event that left her nearly dead. But when several mysterious events — and a familiar face, her former fiancé Jon Dunstan, now an orthopedic surgeon — come to her small town, she has to determine if today’s occurrences have anything to do with her missing sister’s case.

Can Annie learn to trust Jon again to help solve several crimes? And will they be able to reclaim feelings for each other once again?

As always, Coble does an incredible job of developing a plot filled with twists and turns, leaving the reader guessing until the very end. She also always seems to create characters that are extremely relatable, with very real flaws.

She also fills “Edge of Dusk” with several good themes, like when God allows our faith to be tested; it’s hard to forgive one’s self; the impact of blame; finding one’s worth; and letting go of anger and grudges.

I’m looking forward to the series’ next installment, which is due out in January, as Coble does leave the book’s ending in a bit of a cliffhanger. Fans of authors like Irene Hannon, Terri Blockstock and Lynette Eason will love this story.

Five stars out of five.

Thomas Nelson provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.

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Edge of Dusk is the first book in the Annie Pedersen series, no word on how many there will be, but if the first is any indication I am hoping there will be several. This is a romantic suspense novel. and some issues brought up in this book haven't been and will be the focus in the next book. This is a roller coaster of a suspenseful ride as one thing after another keeps you turning the pages.

The story begins with Annie and her sister Laura out in the dark at their camp investigation and watching the loons on Tremolo Island. As a rain storm is heading their way, Annie is trying to get her younger sister Laura to return before they got into trouble. A dark figure in a hoodie approaches in a canoe. The man doesn't sound threatening but there is danger for the two sisters. Annie feels a sharp pain in her neck and then she is in the icy water. She screams for her sister to tell her to run but it is too late, and she will never see her sister again.

In the present we see Annie Pederson is now that owner and manager of her families resort, but she is also a law enforcement ranger. Annie has had many losses in her life. First, her younger sister was abducted then her parents and husband were killed when their boat blew up. She only has her eight-year-old daughter Kylie. She works as a park ranger and runs her family's marina. Annie has a lot going on in her life.

Jon Dunstan is a successful orthopedic surgeon, but his return to town will bring up bad memories in the town when the bodies of two young women he was seen with years ago are found on Annie's property. Jon asks Annie to help him clear his name to find out who killed these two women. As they work together to find the killer but it puts Annie in danger.

There are strange things happening all around Annie and Jon. They will have to let their guards down in order to resolve the past in order to move forward.

I was pleased to have been able to read this book. I liked the writing style, but I was thrown by the "yooper" speak and tried to translate it so I could understand it. It did add to the rich history of the upper peninsula of Michigan and made the story even more interesting. The story in well written and the characters are likeable. I was thrown by the way Kylie was written and her instant dislike for Jon. It seems as if she was disrespectful and had poor manners, which were rarely corrected. Maybe this will be explored and explained in the next book. I really liked the story and am looking forward to the next book of the series.

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I love Colleen Coble books and eagerly awaited this one to come out so I could read it, especially since it began a new series. I would have given it 5 stars except for two things. One, the main character's (Annie) daughter, Kylie. She was only 9 years old, but she was obnoxious, undisciplined and disrespectful. Yes, she lost her father and grandparents, but Annie never seemed to correct her when she acted out or disrespected Jon. Really, when children act like that, I have no tolerance for it! You'd imagine that Annie would have been a better mother. Then, two, Annie was constantly trying to make her jerk father look better than he was! That was irritating! The more you learned about him (he was dead in the book), the more you couldn't understand her "devotion" in the book! There were a couple other things about the police work that didn't seem quite right either. I did like Jon's character though! Overall, a nice story but not the best I've read of Ms. Coble's. I will still read the rest of the series though!

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Annie Pederson is a law enforcement ranger, but also a young widow who has a young daughter. When Annie is not working, she is running the Tremolo Resort and Marina that has been in her family for decades. Annie loves the resort, but her most tragic memories are also located here. When Annie was nine, her sister was kidnapped and Annie will never forget that night. Every time she hears the loons calling, it takes her back to that tragic night. When strange things start happening on the resort, Annie and her daughters’ lives may be at risk. Who would want to cause her harm? Can the one person she trusted with her heart be able to help her now?

Jon Dustan, Annie’s first love is back in Rock Harbor trying to renovate and sell his father’s cabin. Jon is also facing his ghosts after being accused years ago of harming two teenage girls whose bodies have never been found. When two bodies are discovered, Annie and Jon must try and solve the murders before Jon is accused once more.

I really enjoyed all the twists and turns in this first novel in the Annie Pedersonseries by author Colleen Coble. The setting of an idyllic small town, a grieving widow with a young daughter, and with several mysteries surrounding the town, it has all the right ingredients. The characters were so well written, I could feel the emotions Annie was experiencing at each turn of the story. One teaser, which I did not expect at the very end of the book, really surprised me left me already excited about the next book in the series. Thank you, Thomas Nelson Publishing for my advanced readers copy. I voluntarily read and reviewed this novel. A fabulous new series.

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of Rock Harbor. Annie, a park ranger, faces the challenge of raising her daughter alone after her husband and parents were killed in a boating accident. When faced with deadly finds on her property and in its vicinity, she is haunted by past losses – of both love and lives. In this second-chance romance, Annie struggles to cope with conflicting feelings as she attempts to prove Jon’s innocence and come to grip with new realities. On the mystery side, the book was well-paced with an intricate and multi-faceted plot, with plenty of action – especially as tension built toward the story’s resolution. On some levels, the resolution was not a total surprise. At the same time, the book ended kind of abruptly leaving unanswered questions.

I must note that this book includes an over-abundance of information about celiac, which although relevant to the story on a certain level, slowed the pace at times. In addition, this book includes more Christian elements than in other works I have read by this author in the past.

Overall, a well written mystery and great choice for fans of Christian fiction.

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Edge of Dusk begins a new series set in Rock Harbor. It is centered around Annie Penderson and her daughter Kylie. It is filled with secrets and a few different mysteries. Some of which are not resolved in this book. I assume they will be explored more in subsequent books. There is at least one cold case that is solved and I enjoyed that part of the mystery. The suspect was a surprise to me.

I will be honest, I wanted to love this one, but it ended up being just kind of OK for me. Aside from the msytery, that I did enjoy, I had a hard time with Annie and Jon's reunion. It felt forced and Annie seemed kind of indifferent to reconciling. Maybe it will get warmer in the next books. I also had a few questions about the timing of her pregnancy with Kylie. Even eight years ago, a doctor would have been able to determine she was further along than she thought. So, that all didn't ring true for me. Maybe she was just in denial? As far as Kylie goes, she was insufferable. I never would have tolerated my child to be that disrespectful toward another adult. Grief or not. I'm hoping she improves in the next book. That being said, I probably will continue with the series. I do want to find out the resolution to the loose ends that were left dangling in this first book.

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Colleen Coble is a master storyteller!

This story starts with a look back to a terrible time in Annie's life. Decisions made that night altered the course of not only Annie's life but her parents and her little sister, Laura. As an adult, as a law enforcement ranger, recent widow and single mom she is still dealing with the trauma of that one night.

From the opening pages I was hooked! This book provides mystery and suspense as well as romance. The action was well thought out and characters were wonderful! (both the good guys and the not so good guys)

I enjoyed the developing chemistry between Annie and Jon as they navigated the past mistakes as they tried to figure out where the danger was coming from. I look forward to what Coble will do with this couple in the future.

I also appreciated the health issue that Coble brought to life through this story an unexpected education that fit the story well.

The only thing I didn't like about the story was the very last line! A CLIFF HANGER! Which means I can hardly wait for book 2!

As a Colleen Coble fan, you should love this book, if for no other reason than it's set in Rock Harbor and you get to see Bree and Kade! If you are new to Colleen Coble, this is an excellent book to introduce you to her writing style and storytelling abilities.

Disclaimer: I did receive this book from the publisher, but was under no obligation to provide a review. All opinions expressed her are my own.

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This is a book you don't want to miss! It hooks you on the first page and doesn't let go. It is a well written suspense novel that will keep you turning the pages to see what happens next. Great start to a new series!
I received a complimentary copy from Thomas Nelson--FICTION via NetGalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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Suspenseful yet not gory or gritty or too violent. Great balance of characters and plot - easy to get through quickly.

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Edge of Dusk by Colleen Coble is the first book in the Annie Pederson series. This book was absolutely spectacular! I could not put it down and read it in record time, even for me. Annie is a park ranger with tragedies in her past. The suspense in this novel was pretty intense and it kept the novel moving at a steady pace. Readers of suspense will love this book. Highly recommend! I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.

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The suspense is real, the romance is complicated, and the characters are so relatable and lovable!

I absolutely loved going back to Rock Harbor but, this time, with a new lead character. I was left turning pages as fast as I could to see how the story ended and I can't wait to see how the story evolves in book two!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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Very good start to a new series. Complex mystery and romantic story. Very likable characters and a villain I'd never suspected.

Can't wait for next book to get the rest of the answers!

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I didn't realize this was part of a series and would include cliffhangers. Those are not my favorite books, because I don't have a lot of patience waiting for the next book to get the answers. With that being said, I enjoyed this second chance romantic suspense and will anxiously await the next book to get some answers.

Annie and Jon are really good together. I enjoyed reading their love story woven in with some crazy mysteries. There were a lot of great secondary characters as well who added to the story.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Netgalley and this is my honest review.

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This book is an edge of your seat page turner. Annie and Jon get caught up in a cold case, a current mystery, and an attempt to navigate a second chance at love. There was plenty of suspense and intrigue in an idyllic setting with likeable and engaging characters. The book left some unanswered questions, and I am eagerly looking forward to the next book in the series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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Annie's life hasn't been the same since her the man she had hoped to marry moved away, but it hasn't been a bad life - including a relatively happy marriage and her daughter Kylie. Now, though, several months after the death of her husband and parents, Jon is back, and inadvertently turning her life upside-down. When bodies begin to appear, she's reminded of old accusations against Jon, and determines to uncover the truth. But someone wants her to fail, and is willing to go to any lengths to ensure she does so. Meanwhile, spending time with Jon has reawakened her love for him - but Kylie dislikes him. Can Annie and Jon work out who's behind the murders before the murderer strikes again? And what of the rekindled attraction between them?

Another exciting, suspenseful and yet touching read by the author. Those who've read her books before know what to expect and there's probably not a lot more I can add. Those who haven't - what are you waiting for? If you enjoy clean romantic suspense, this author is definitely one who grabs you from the first page and makes you sorry to say goodbye at the end. In this case, I particularly appreciated watching Annie come to terms with her past - though readers should note that some aspects are left unresolved for the next book(s) in the series. Nevertheless, it's a good read with a reasonably satisfying ending. Recommended.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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What a fantastic start to a new series! Colleen Coble is one of my favorite mystery writers and I loved returning to Rock Harbor this time with law enforcement ranger Annie Pederson. It’s a fast paced mystery with a smoldering romance, and inspirational elements that all make for an enjoyable read.

Annie was only 9 years old when she witnessed her 5 year old sister Laura being viciously kidnapped. For years, she’s felt guilty for not doing enough to save her and is constantly on the hunt for her sister. It doesn’t help that her father also blamed her. Now 33 with an eight year old daughter of her own, Annie is fulfilling her dream of being a law enforcement ranger all while trying to manage the Tremolo Resort and Marina left to her after the tragic deaths of her husband and parents. As if her life isn’t complicated enough, she finds a body floating in Lake Superior and is working with other local law enforcement to tie this to other mysterious happenings in the park. Her world is absolutely thrown upside down when her first love returns to Rock Harbor and Annie must decide if she is willing to risk her heart again after having it broken nine years ago.

When Jon Dustan left Rock Springs for an orthopedic residency, he never imagined he’d be back and still as taken with Annie as he was before. But, nine years is a long time and he’s not willing to endure another broken heart. He’s also returning under a cloud of suspicion after being linked to an unsolved mystery. It’s hard to stay away from Annie though. When it appears someone is stalking her, Jon is willing to do whatever it takes to help her and clear his name.

I loved both Annie and Jon! Annie’s a smart heroine who is understandably cautious, yet still harbors feelings for Jon. Jon is the successful, handsome, charming guy who is hard to resist. They both made mistakes in the past, and the consequences still haunt them. I enjoyed the way they tentatively try to get to know each other all over again this time with more maturity. Annie’s daughter Kylie becomes an unexpected obstacle to rekindling their romance when she takes an instant dislike to Jon. If you are a fan of second chance love stories, you’ll definitely enjoy this.

The suspense was intense! There were so many twists and turns. With a slew of suspects and several crimes that may or may not be linked together, it was definitely hard to put down. Adding to the suspense was the creepy setting. The forest is always scary especially when there are so many dangers lurking. I could completely imagine the haunting tremolo call of the loons. Even at the end, there were still a lot of questions left, and I can’t wait to read the next book.

I also enjoyed the spiritual messages subtly woven through the story of faith and forgiveness. Definitely a must read for mystery, romantic suspense, and/or Christian fiction fans. While fans of the previous Rock Harbor series will love seeing recurring characters, you don’t have to have read that series to enjoy this new one. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.

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Once again, Colleen Coble has absolutely knocked it out of the park with another edge of your seat suspense. As one of my personal favorite authors, I know I am in for a great story when I see her name on the cover and Edge of Dusk is absolutely no exception.

From page one, I was drawn into the story and couldn't put it down. These characters were wonderfully written and had such depth to them that I couldn't help but want to read on. There were a lot of elements to the story, and it really kept things interesting, not only for this novel, but in getting me to want to read the next. Of course, being a fan of Colleen's previous novels I was absolutely thrilled to head back to Rock Harbor and see Bree and Samson again. (Those who have not read that series can certainly enjoy this one on it's own as well, though I'd certainly recommend it as it's a great one too!) Admittedly, I did figure out some of the twists before they were revealed but I do read a lot of suspense so I definitely pick up on things more quickly because of that.

Overall, this was a fantastic read and has me looking forward to what comes next.

**I received a complimentary copy for consideration. All thoughts are my own.

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So happy to return to the picturesque setting of Rock Harbor. I am a longtime fan of Colleen Coble's romantic suspense, beginning with the first Rock Harbor books. She was one of the first Christian authors I started reading years ago. Coble fills her stories with plenty of intrigue and action, masterfully dropping clues so the reader does not guess the villain until the end. I also appreciate the depth of character development she includes. While I relished the appearances of much-loved characters from the earlier Rock Harbor books, I think Annie Peterson may be a favorite and look forward to reading more of her adventures.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the author/ publisher through Netgalley. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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A complex mystery with secrets, murder and challenges for Annie and Jon. As a young child, Annie Pederson was injured and her sister, Laura, kidnapped. Twenty-four years later will she ever have closure? Annie is a Law Enforcement Ranger for the area and lives with her young daughter, Kylie. After the accidental deaths of her parents in a boating accident, Annie manages their Tremolo Resort and Marina. When a missing hiker is found dead in the lake, this was no accident, he was murdered. Jon Dunstan, an orthopedic surgeon and Annie’s first love, returns to care for his father and renovate their cabin. Will there be a second chance for them? When Annie hires a young woman to help at the marina, is she really in need or does she have her own agenda? When more bodies are discovered, another hiker is attacked, and Annie threatened, has a new evil invaded their quiet town? As Annie continues to investigate, she deals with Kylie’s health issue and her feelings for Jon. I really look forward to the next book in this series. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)

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Edge of Dusk
Colleen Coble
July 12, 2022

Annie was only nine when she and her little sister left the house that night to watch the loons. They sat on the dock with their feet dangling in the water as they first heard the ooAHho sounds from the birds. Laura was afraid at first then remembered how they heard the yodel before the large cranes landed. It was then that the canoe glided into the waters by the dock. A voice whispered about the two girls, then Annie was thrown onto the shore. Her little sister was grabbed and thrown into the boat. Her father heard the commotion but he was too late to rescue Laura. It’s been 24 years and Laura was never found. Annie married and gave birth to Kylie, now nine years old. After her husband and parents' accident and death in the boat explosion she did her best to raise her daughter, support her. She took control of The Tremolo Marina and Cabin Resort that her folks owned. She also schooled to become a Law Enforcement Ranger on the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Her parents had owned Tremola Island which she now leased out to support the two of them.
This latest novel by Colleen Coble is the first in the Annie Pederson series. It is an excellent suspense tale giving us the beginning of Annie’s journey after her loved one’s passing. It is a thrilling escapade filled with many of the characters from the Rock Harbor series. Such a page turner, I highly recommend this one even if you have not read the series. It’s an excellent stand alone book that should not be passed by.
Coble’s novel, Edge of Dusk will be published on July 12, 2022 by Thomas Nelson of HarperCollins Christian Publishing. I appreciate their allowing me to read and review Edge of Dusk via NetGalley. Always a fan of suspense, Thomas Nelson provides outstanding books. I encourage all of her followers as well as newbies to pick this one up, such a tremendous novel. Enjoy!

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