This was my first book by the author, and I really appreciated that, even though this was the second book in the series (and I haven’t read the first yet), it felt like a stand-alone novel and did a great job on recapping book one’s main events so that I could easily track what was happening. There were some really great Christian themes in here, and as far as the romance goes, you can’t get much cleaner than this. However, the pacing of this book was really…slow. Nothing really happened until 90% into the book, when the big reveal + showdown came, but even then, it was very anti-climatic and happened so quickly. For a thriller, this book didn’t have much until the very end for a few pages, which was disappointing. My three-star review is a reflection of the slow pacing and uneventful plot and nothing against the content. This book was super clean and, again, had some great themes in there :)

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for an eARC of Cold Threat. A positive review was not required, only my honest opinion. All thoughts are expressly my own.

Cold Threat by author Nancy Mehl is a book that you absolutely will not want to put down until all the mysteries are solved. This writer is very adept at making her characters come to life as you read. River and Tony and his parents and the villains are going to be living in your thoughts. Also Mehl sets the scene in such a way that you will smell the fire, hear it crackling and popping, and see it blaze. There are twists and turns in Cold Threat that I never saw coming. I enjoyed reading about the faith of River, Tony and his parents. There are themes of trust and forgiveness flowing through the book. Also the book deals with dementia in a straightforward but loving way. I look forward to reading the next book in the series, Cold Vengeance. I highly recommend this superb romantic suspense.
I received a complimentary copy through the publisher and am sharing my opinion of this well-written book,

Another thrilling story in the Ryland and St. Clair series by Nancy Mehl.

The second story picks up right after the first book and takes off on another mystery involving a serial killer. This time, Tony and River are helping Tony’s father, Ray, a detective in a different state profile a serial killer that began murdering his victims twenty years prior.

Ray’s theories that the serial killer is still on the loose falls on deaf ears at his department. That’s where Tony and River have been asked to help profile this killer and prove there’s a murderer on the loose and his next victim may be killed soon.

The new characters introduced in this story were a wonderful addition to the series. Meeting Tony’s family unraveled a lot of truth in River’s life and allowed her to understand what true forgiveness really means.

With strong faith elements, a tangled web of mysteries, and the continuation of the Stangler’s accomplice this book is an edge of your seat read.

Thank you NetGalley and Bethany House for an advanced reader copy of this book to honestly read and review. All opinions are my own.
Publication date is Jan. 23, 2024

This is book 2 in the series, but can be read as a standalone. I haven't read book 1 and I was perfectly fine without it.

Although this is a serial killer crime novel, it's not too intense and really can appeal to a wider audience.

I really enjoyed this page turner and I hope to read book 2 and I look forward to more by this author.

I am thrilled about the upcoming release of the new book by Ryland & St. Clair, titled Cold Threat. The story follows the journey of Tony St. Clair and River Ryland, two ex-FBI profilers who come together to work with Tony's father, Ray, to catch a serial killer known as the "Snowman" killer in Iowa.

What I appreciated about this book is that even though it is a sequel to Cold Pursuit, the author, Nancy Mehl, provides enough context so that readers unfamiliar with the previous book can still enjoy it. The book is well-written and engaging, and I found myself unable to put it down.

The story revolves around Tony and River, who are former FBI partners who have opened a private investigation firm in St. Louis. They bring their expertise to Tony's hometown to help law enforcement solve a 20-year-old crime that the Snowman killer is repeating. The stakes are high, and they must solve the case before the killer strikes again.

What sets this book apart from other suspenseful stories is the character development of River. She is on a faith journey and experiences Tony's loving family, which is eye-opening for her. The book is realistic, and the author does an excellent job of portraying River's journey in a relatable way. I especially enjoyed the scenes with Tony's family and the delicious food his mom prepares. The banter between the characters is fun, and the struggles they face make them more relatable.

Overall, I highly recommend Cold Threat to anyone who loves suspenseful stories with a hint of romance. I cannot wait for the next adventure of Tony and River!

This is one of those books that is not just relaxing fiction but it is touching your heart. The faith nuggets throughout is just mind-blown inspiring! Tony and River went through a terrible ordeal. But what do they do with the lessons learned? Ho do they impact other's lives? Will  they identify what makes them stronger? Will they see the love right in front of them? Will they be able to best evil again? I simply cannot wait for the next book in the series!!

Nancy Mehl never disappoints. I think I held my breath during that final scene! This volume of the series continues the story of Tony and River and focuses quite a lot on their budding relationship and Tony’s family. I felt that it was a bit slow at times but I enjoyed the suspense and admired how they did the profiling of the UNSUB and how they came to the correct conclusions. I also liked how Ms Mehl so seamlessly incorporated the faith elements as River grew spiritually. Can’t wait for the next instalment to know how it concludes!

4 star.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

This was my first Nancy Mehl and she surely knows how to write a good thriller. Cold Threat is fast paced, intriguing and well written . It follows Tony and River who head to Des Moines to help or dispute Tony's father theory who believes that a serial killer has started killing again. The serial killer would leave behind a snowman ornament hanging ominously on a tree in the victims' front lawns. Fast-paced, quite interesting while keeping the theme of family at the center. I loved it!

This is the second book in the Ryland and St. Clair investigator series, but it can definitely be read as a standalone. I really enjoyed the depth of the characters in this suspense thriller, with more information provided about both Tony St. Clair and River Ryland. Tony and River travel to a small town in Iowa where Tony’s father Ray is trying to solve the mystery of a serial killer who seems to have followed him when he and his wife moved. The killer has a signature of a snowman hanging near the crime scene, a horrific scene where the victims are left inside a burning home. River and Tony are called upon to use their skills as former FBI profilers to help Ray find the serial killer once and for all and put him away. The novel is a propulsive read as the tension crackles and gets closer and closer to harming favorite characters. With nail-biting suspense and an increasingly creepy villain, this story’s intricate plot threads are woven together masterfully. The writing is sharp, with dynamic and realistic characters who don’t mince words and say what they feel. The plot is fast-moving and edgy, with multiple layers and more than a few red herrings for the readers like me who enjoy guessing who the villain is. The story is a page turner that kept me guessing all the way to the exciting and surprising finale. I loved every minute that I spent with Tony, River and Tony’s lovable family. The characters were so realistic that I felt that I was with them in the situation and felt compelled at times to advise them how to act. This is a brilliantly written and suspense-filled Christian fiction novel and the author does a masterful job of weaving faith into the story. I was captured by the characters, the plot and the faith foundation and loved every minute I spent with these investigators who are intuitive and remarkably well suited to be partners in their new agency.
I am already looking forward to the next book in the series, and although this book can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend that you not miss a single page of this intriguing series.
Disclaimer
DIsclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

Cold Threat by Nancy Mehl is the second book in the Ryland and St. Clair series, and I advise reading the first book in the series. The detective agency is tasked with investigating a series of arsons and murders allegedly committed over twenty years by the Snowman, a serial killer who leaves a snowman ornament as their calling card. This second book is even better than the first as Mehl explores more of the forgiveness journey and growing love between the two main characters. When is book #3 coming out?

LOVED this book. Her writing, characters, raw emotion, chilling suspense, and honesty are perfect!

This is the second book, It can be read as a stand-alone, but I recommend reading the first book.

Christmassy atmosphere. As the snow starts falling, the Snowman seeks revenge.

Tony's father, Head Detective Ray St. Clair, is nearing retirement and he wants to close some of his cold cases. He seeks Tony and River's help in investigating one such case from twenty years ago, which involves the Snowman Killer. As they delve into the case files, they discover that the killer may be closer than they initially thought.

This book is a fast-paced and engaging read with characters that are sure to touch your heart. The writing style is simple yet effective, making the overall flow of the story feel very smooth. The suspense plot is intriguing, providing glimpses of who might be behind it all, but not revealing the true culprit until almost the very end. The final twist was completely unexpected and added extra excitement to the story. POV: River, Tony, and the serial killer.

Christian fiction and suspense with a hint of romance...The book's theme revolves around guilt and the process of forgiveness despite the lack of willingness.

This is a captivating read with well-written characters, engaging dialogue, and a thrilling plot. I'm eagerly anticipating the next book.

Posting Reviews: Goodreads and BookBub immediately and on Amazon and Barnes & Noble publication date.

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

Cold Threat
Christian Romantic suspense
#2 in the Ryland and St. Clair series

The weather isn't the only thing 'cold' in St. Louis this winter!

Suffering from PTSD after a case went horribly wrong and unable to continue as a behavioural analyst for the FBI, River Ryland moves to St. Louis for a fresh start. In addition to being closer to her aging mother, River is pulled by the invitation to start a detective agency with her former FBI partner, Tony St. Clair.

As Tony’s dad, Head Detective Ray St. Clair is edging towards retirement, he wants to tie up loose ends and needs fresh eyes to look over some of his cold cases. Tony and River are given a cold case from 24 years ago, featuring the Snowman Killer. As they dig into the files, they soon realize that the killer is closer than they think. Can they uncover his identity and stop him before he strikes again?

A few things to consider:

1) It can stand alone. I unknowingly jumped into this series at book two…but didn’t realize it until I’d finished the book. So, if you’re wondering if it can stand alone…it worked for me. That being said, I enjoyed it immensely and will be reading book 1 and putting in a pre-order for book 3.

2) It features a serial killer. It wasn’t creepy. He randomly appeared in the narrative and readers get to see things from his point of view, but I couldn’t figure out who it was until closer to the end. I loved this as it increased the tension immensely.

3) It’s a Christian fiction novel. It’s a clean read (language and romance) and with references to verses from the Bible.

Although the theme of this book is being ‘lost,’ it also touches on:
🔎 questioning true humility
🔎 dealing with immense guilt
🔎 fighting evil
🔎 vengeance
🔎 forgiveness; how you forgive someone when you don’t feel like it.
🔎 letting go and letting God; putting things in His hands

I appreciated the point that wisdom from God is always peaceful, but most often our reactions to the wisdom aren’t.

The treacherous circumstances, tension, mystery, and love interest held my attention. River’s questioning faith and the manner in which the author dealt with it, was the ribbon that tied it all together. The masterful plotting, authentic characterization and interaction, and chilling suspense had me putting this new-to-me author on my auto-read list.

I was gifted this copy by Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.

I am so excited for this highly anticipated Ryland & St. Clair book! I thoroughly enjoyed Cold Pursuit, but the author gets readers up to date very well in Cold Threat. In this story, Tony St. Clair and River Ryland head to Iowa to work alongside Tony's father to catch the serial killer nicknamed the "Snowman" killer. Tony's dad Ray brings them in as a set of fresh eyes to help solve a 20 year old crime, that is being repeated in his small town.

River and Tony are ex-FBI profilers who help point law enforcement in the right direction. They are former FBI partners who opened a private investigation firm in St. Louis. Can their expertise figure out this case before any more people die?

Author Nancy Mehl does an excellent job with suspenseful stories. I could not stop turning pages. And I didn't get too creeped out which I really appreciate.

River is on a major faith journey and the reader gets to go along with her. It's very realistic as she finds her way. She really enjoys meeting Tony's family and seeing the love, the struggle with almost losing Tony in a previous case, the fun banter, and the delicious food his mom prepares. She did not experience family or faith this way growing up and it is eye opening to her.

I recommend Cold Threat to lovers of suspense with a hint of romance, and I cannot wait for the next adventure in store for Tony and River!

Thank you to the publisher and Net Galley for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.

A serial killer is back in the game. Tony and River are called to Burlington to help Tony's dad develop a profile before the killer strikes again.

I loved this book. Tony and River are so good together. They care for one another more deeply than they're prepared to admit and try to protect one another even if it is misguided at times. They have a delightful way of teasing and talking to each other. They work well together.

The mystery was solid. Mehl does a good job writing about serial killers and getting in their heads. I liked seeing how Tony and River worked their profile. There was a big twist I didn't see coming. I love it when I'm surprised. It was an exciting read and it sets up the next book nicely. I can't wait to read it.

Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

Cold Threat is the second book in the Ryland & St. Clair series. While the events of the previous books are talked about and there are definitely some aspects of the story that carry through both books, I do believe that this could be enjoyed as a standalone as well.

This picks up River and Tony's story from the previous book, seeing them working on a new case. The great thing about series like this where it's focusing on the same main characters is that we really get to see their growth as the series continues. For the romance, that means it's slowly building in a very realistic way that I really enjoy. In this particular series though, I have to say I also really enjoy seeing River's faith grow as well. It's such a big part of this story and I was glad to catch back up and see where she was on that journey.

Aside from that though, the case was absolutely fantastic. Right from the first page, I found myself drawn into the story and at the edge of my seat to the very end. I love how the author gives us a glimpse into the bad guy's head, adding another level of creepiness to the story in that way... not that serial killers alone don't make it creepy enough as it is! The story takes place over the holidays, though certainly isn't MY typical holiday read. While the timing IS important to the story, I wouldn't really consider it a holiday read at all.

If you love romantic suspense- heavy on the suspense- this is definitely one to check out.


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

Thrillers are my favorite ever. This was great! It’s not necessary to read the first one as this could be a standalone. It kept me on my toes and it was well thought out.

Wow! Once again masterful author, Nancy Mehl, has written a brilliant, chilling suspense that is absolutely unputdownable! I was totally mesmerized as I tried to solve the mystery behind the evil mastermind, aka The Snowman—responsible for a series of murders spanning 20 years.

The dynamics between best friends and private investigators, River Ryland and Tony St. Clair are not only proficiently adept, but their humorous quips and banter helped to lighten an otherwise dark plot. I'm also sensing a burgeoning flirtation going on, so we'll see in Book 3 if this dynamic duo ever moves out of the friend zone or not. I particularly enjoyed the snow-covered Christmassy atmosphere—just not sure I'll ever look at a snowman the same way again! 😳

Also a beautifully written, compassionate story of the plight of some foster children who get lost in the system, PTSD victims, and redemption from severe guilt...I predict many an award for Cold Threat!

I received an ARC of this book from Bethany House via NetGalley and was under no obligation to write a favorable review.

This book was so good!! It hooked me from the first page and kept me on the edge of my seat the entire book.
I loved the characters and the plot line. It was well written and intensely thought out.
I would recommend this book to anyone.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own*

Cold Threat blows it out of the park when it comes to serial killers, suspense, and a very strong thread of faith that’s woven seamlessly throughout.
In this series there’s a plot with an underlying plot that connects each book to the others. It makes for an intriguing read that poses questions yet to be answered.
River and Tony left the FBI after being targeted by a killer and barely making it out alive. River still has a target on her back and Tony isn’t about to let her face danger alone.
When Tony’s dad asks for their help with a case they may have jumped right back into the fire.
I love the way the building personal relationship between Tony and River is written. It’s not insta-love but rather care and respect built upon shared experiences. Perfect!
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House. This is my honest opinion of the book.

COLD THREAT is the second novel in the Ryland & St. Clair series by NANCY MEHL, but it can easily stand alone. I am really enjoying this series and cannot wait for the third and final book. Not only is Cold Threat exciting and literally “unputdownable”, but there is a strong Christian message flowing through it that really spoke to my heart!
As we see the serial killer “righting wrongs” in his own delusional and diabolical way, we see how people in law enforcement like Dan, Tony and River, are committed to bringing justice in an evil world. As Tony’s mother, Beth, says to River ,“I believe bringing justice is a high calling. I thank God for people like Ray and Tony. And you.” And speaking of the words in Philippians chapter four verse eight, she adds, “defending those who have been hurt by evil - bringing justice - is the enbodiment of that scripture”.
Tony St.Clair and River Ryland have left the FBI where they worked as trained profilers and are now in partnership in St Louis as private investigators. They both experienced trauma at the hands of the Salt River Strangler, which has affected them badly. We also see that he has not given up on his pursuit of River…..
Tony’s father, Ray, is determined to prove that the latest murder in Burlington was committed by a copycat and not by the “Snowman”: whose first murder was committed in Des Moines twenty four years ago. Two of the more rescent murders in Burlington have the same MO and Ray has asked Tony and River to do a profile for him so that he can catch the murderer before there are any more victims. It is particularly important as it is December and heavy snow is predicted, making the conditions perfect for the man who has been dubbed the “Snowman.”……
I like to see how River enjoys family life with Tony’s parents, how she is growing in her faith and is even learning to forgive her parents for her messed up childhood. In fact the subject of dysfunctional family life plays a big part in the story.
I cannot recommend this enjoyable and riiveting read highly enough.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.