The Gold Digger

This is the kind of book that leaves you wanting more. Another hit in the true crimes series. This one also had me looking into the real story more which is the hallmark of a good book. This book was interesting and kept me fully engaged. I spent my morning reading it. and it was time well spent.

There is so much I want to say about this book but that contains spoilers and this book is better read without them. I did get it for free in exchange for an honest review, but I would have paid to read it had I not as I have also really enjoyed the authors previous books in this series. I liked how the author threw in a few little redirects so that you were never quite sure of what was the true story.

My overall recommendation is to read this book and the rest of the True Crimes series. You're welcome!

I have read all the books in this true crime series to date. This is the second one where I familiar with the details. The author does a great job weaving the bone chilling tale of one evil woman into a read that will keep you turning the pages. The deaths and suffering caused by Belle Gunness is almost unbelievable. And yet, even the most evil can dupe so many around them. Personally, I can’t see her committing suicide and always believed she escaped her own fire and continued her evil ways, but it can’t be proved one way or the other.

THE GOLD DIGGER by LIZ TOLSMA is a well written true crime suspense thriller which will keep you on the edge of your chair. Although the subject matter is decidedly gruesome, the author has tempered it with a sweet romance and a great Christian message of hope that shines through the darkness. The characters are well defined and I especially like Ingrid and Nils for their gentleness and kindness, and also for their courage and determination to get to the bottom of the mystery.
I really recommend the book to anyone who enjoys this genre.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Barbour Publishing. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

I normally don't read this kind of book. But I do love a good mystery and this book blew me away!!!!! Wow!
Gold Digger is about 2 sisters from Norway. One had been established, married and had a couple of children but paid for her younger sister to come join her in Chicago from Norway. When Belle's husband suddenly dies and their house and business burn down they decide to move to LaPorte, Indiana.
Belle surprises Ingrid with a business she can turn into a confectionery, (which Ingrid isn't thrilled about she would rather sell her photographs) and she will have her own apartment above the confectionery and the basement to use as a dark room to develop her photos. Ingrid is very nervous because she doesn't speak English very well and it's hard to speak to customers.
Belle advertises in the Norwegian papers in the lonely heart section of the paper for a husband. Many men have shown up but leave after a few days.
This story shows 2 stories in 1. The life of Belle and Ingrid and the life of Nils Lindherud from Detroit. His brother Sven answers Belle's ad for a husband and is excited about leaving his brother Nils auto dealership to work on Belle's pig farm.
After 6 weeks of not hearing from Sven his Mother and brother Nils become nervous. Nils does write Belle but gets no response, so he goes to LaPorte to investigate.
He meets Ingrid, and becomes interested but gets very suspicious of Belle, especially after he goes with Ingrid to Belle's farm and she kicks him off the property right away.
For months Nils travels between Detroit and LaPorte. There is an old farmhand Belle let go, Ray who is very suspicious.
This book will keep you on your toes the entire time, you think you know what's going to happen and then something else happens and you question what you think really happened!
The author's notes are wonderful, especially with the historical facts of this book. The whole thing blew me away, especially after I found out it was based on a true story. I couldn't put the book down and read this quickly because it sucked me in!
I want to thank NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for the advanced copy. I was not asked to give a positive review, just give my honest opinion, this is my honest opinion of the book.

A riveting tale of mystery and suspense based on a real crime spree in 1907 Indiana. Men go missing after answering an ad placed by a widowed hog farmer. One man's determination to find his missing brother just might uncover the truth. He will need help from the woman's sister though before others get hurt.

"Family was family and always came first."

This mystery seemed to unfold quickly, but with each turn, had me changing my mind as to who was the real culprit. Family loyalties and growing desperation made things more complex as it went along. The tension builds and had more than a few nail-biting scenes. The notes at the end shed light on the real crime and the historical details the author included were mind boggling.
Nils is a steady, but conflicted hero. He was under so much pressure to find answers, while juggling financial responsibilities at home, and striving to succeed in both. I like how the author used his circumstances to show how we need to rely on God for help, and the trap that making money can become. "When he tried to rely on himself, he was a miserable failure. He needed God's strength."

Recommend for readers who enjoy a Christian mystery with romance and some grit, based on real history. 4.5 stars

Family, that is part of this story. One a young woman who has come from Norway to be with her widowed sister and her family, the other is a man who comes searching for his missing brother. The story is how tragically it all meshes together.
Be sure to read the author's notes at the end of this book, and yes, this is a fictional story, but based on facts. This crime really happened. So very sad.
Why, I guess greed, and because they can?
You don't want to miss these True Crime series, they are riveting and page turning, but most of all or sadly they are true. yes, they really happened.

I received this book through NetGalley and the Publisher Barbour, and was not required to give a positive review.

The Gold Digger by Liz Tolsma
I love all of Liz Tokens books and "The Gold Digger" is no exception. This is the 9th book in the "True Colors" series.

Synopsis- In the year of 1907, a woman Ingrid Street move to LaPorte, Indiana to help hers sister. Belle had lost two husbands and several children's. Ingrid started to wonder about her sister when Nils Lindherud showed up looking for his brother. He had answered an ad put in a paper by Belle looking for a new husband to help with the farm. The problem is several men show up but leave soon afterwards.

My thoughts - I really liked this book and the storyline. It made me think of all the characters and wonder if I liked them. It was a page turner with a suspect from the very beginning. Ingrid started to question the facts about her sister and rather the men every left the farm from the beginning.

Recommend - I will gladly recommend this book to everyone including family and friends.

Rating - I will rate this book a five out of five

i received this complimentary book from the publisher through netgalley. all thought and opinions are mine and mine alone!

Another excellent book in the True Color Series from Barbour Publishing. Each book is based on strange but true history. This one takes place in 1907 in Indiana between a pig farm and a candy shop. Older sister Belle, widowed, owns a pig farm for which she needs help. A good husband is hard to come by so Belle advertises for a husband who will not only be a good worker, but also help raise her three children.
Younger sister, Ingrid is twenty-three and single when Belle buys a building so that Ingrid can start her own candy business. Ingrid’s real desire is to be a professional photographer but she accepts Belle’s plan for the time being.
Car dealer and salesman Nils Lindherud travels from Detroit to LaPorte, Indiana seeking the whereabouts of his brother Sven, who had planned to marry Belle but has mysteriously disappeared.
This story is complicated, tangled and horrifying and yet has a happy ending. Another great job by Liz Tolsma.

I received an ARC ebook from Barbour Publishing through NetGalley.

I really enjoyed this story! I had never heard about this crime until I happened across it a few days before starting this book. Belle is a widowed woman who puts personal adds in the newspaper to have a man come to her farm and marry her to take care of her and her three children. The problem is many men come but none of them stay. Why do they leave? Belles sister Ingrid can’t understand why none of these men can see what a loving caring woman she is. One day a man comes to town searching for his brother who answered one of Belle’s adds who has not been heard from. The book tells an incredible story of disappearance, arson, murder, and theft! I give this book 5 stars and was given a copy from Netgalley for an honest opinion.

The Golden Digger by Liz Tolsma was a creepy story. I read this story about two weeks before Halloween, and I really dove into the story. I knew who did it way before Tolsma showed us. I believe most fans of suspense novels would have figured this out too. But this in no way stopped me from finishing the novel. I wanted to see how the heroine and hero would come across the obvious clues and uncover what was happening to these poor bachelors. The story was well-written, and I totally became engrossed in the story. This is definitely a book for the keeper shelf. I can't wait to see what other books need to be read to make this series better. I have really enjoyed reading these hidden mysteries from our history. Some have captured my attention, while others left me wanting more. But The Golden Digger was definitely one of my favorite stories in this series along with The Green Dress.

I received a complimentary copy of The Golden Digger by Liz Tolsma from Barbour Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.

Men Are Disappearing in LaPorte, Indiana

If that line isn't enough to hook you, well then hold on. This story is perfect for mystery lovers and those looking for a spooky read. I loved that this story grabbed a hold of me from the first page and didn't let up. The story is set in 1907 in Indiana. A widow and quiet and pleasant lade named Belle Gunness as had her share of tragedy in her life, and is looking for her next husband. When her sister comes to visit she starts to notice things about Belle, her way of life and the mystery of her past husbands comes to light. While I want to give you more I think this story is best being discovered at the pages turn.

I loved that this story was more involved in the true crime aspect, the details of the crimes, mystery and secrets really made the story bloom. The characters are well developed and I really felt them as real people. The mix of true crime and fiction also made this story not only enjoyable but also really fun. The author takes a few privilege's within the story and it only adds to the suspense and outcome. I couldn't help but turn age after page trying to figure everything out. Another wonderful story to add to this True Colors series and a new author for me to follow.

I would recommend this story to all fictional, true crime, mystery and character driven readers. I received an ARC via NetGalley and Barbour Publishing, Inc. and I am leaving my honest review. 4.25 stars.

The Gold Digger was another great book in the True Colors series. I love that these are based on real-life crimes. In this book, especially, it made the sinister nature of the crime so much more haunting. Despite the dark premise of the story, Tolsma still includes hope and happy moments that will warm your heart.

Great characters that pull your heart into the story. This is a well written story that starts out endearing you to the characters. As a sinister plot unfolds a sweet romance is just beginning taking the reader on quite the ride. There is so much to this story that keeps your mind volleying back and forth as to who is responsible for all the strange actions that occur. I was completely taken back at some of the horrific things that happened causing my heart to just break for the characters. This is a story that will keep you reading late into the night, a quest to answer the minds questions. The reader will enjoy the romance that grows and brings comfort in a world spinning out of control. This is definitely a book that will leave you with questions and keep you entertained!
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

My goodness, I was sucked in to this so easily and couldn't put it down. I have loved these Christian true crime thrillers. There were twists and turns and moments that made me have to take a second look.

Liz Tolsma is a master in this series and has done an amazing job. I appreciated the author notes regarding the history and what is true and what is fiction.

I will never understand the cruelty of some people, but these stories manage to find the hope and the faith at the end of the tunnel in the characters that are touched by these crimes.

I had never heard of this particular killer and was amazed at the way people ignored what was happening around them.

I was fascinated with this story and was drawn in by the writing and characterizations. The characters were compelling and the clues were such that not everything was given away immediately. If you don't know the true story, the twist at the end is not something you see coming so don't research anything until you've read this cleverly spun tale.

I received a complementary copy and these are my own thoughts and reactions.

The Gold Digger by Liz Tolsma takes place in LaPorte, Indiana and although it is fiction, it is based on real crime events. Ingrid comes over from Norway to join her sister Belle who owns a farm. Belle has lost a couple of husbands. Nils, who owns a car dealership in Michigan, comes into town searching for his brother who was supposed to marry Belle. Neither Nils or his mother has heard from him since he left home several months ago. Belle takes Nils to Belle’s farm, but Belle only tells them that his brother left soon after he came. Nils sees all kinds of issues and believes something terrible has happened to his brother and goes to the Sherriff who does nothing. Ingrid believes her sister is a very good person and wouldn’t harm anyone.

A reader should definitely read the historical notes at the end of the book. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a review.

The Gold Digger by Liz Tolsma, a new author to this reader, is a well-written suspense thriller that hinges on true crimes but weaved into the strange and eerie individual that commits the crime. It is fiction based on true history of an evil woman that caused so many deaths and suffering that seems so unbelievable…and what’s more uncovering is the people she fooled. I recommend this book for those who love true crime stories that are mixed with mystery and a bit of romance. Definitely a page-turner and quick read for me.

Thank you Netgalley and Barbour Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my fair and honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed are completely my own.

This was such a great thriller and the best book I’ve yet read by this author. The author drew me in from the start with the great cast of characters she gave and the way she told the story.

I knew it was based on real events but the plot felt so twisted and gruesome, could it really be true? And then the author had me confused so many times about what happened to the men and who did it, that my head was spinning in circles about what was going on - I could probably have googled these crimes but then I would have lost the enjoyment of the journey.

And the ending was surprising and also did not feel concluded. I kept reading and feeling like something else is probably going to happen.

The romance was also secondary to the suspense story which I liked.

I’m still a bit shocked about these crimes and would probably not recommend this to sensitive readers. Though, if you love thrillers, you would love this story. For me this was the best yet in the series.

This is another really good book in this series.
It was a quick book that grabbed me from page one.
It was kinda gruesome but it was perfect reading for Halloween. I enjoyed the story and definitely recommend!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the early copy

This is a wonderful series for fans of fiction based on real crimes. While I had not heard of this particular historic story, I was fascinated. This story is based on several mysterious disappearances and deaths associated with Belle Gunness. Belle has lost two husbands, and there seems to be an endless string of men answering her ads to become her next husband. Is she responsible? Is there just a lot of unexplained coincidences between these disappearances? Or is someone else involved?

Expertly plotted, the author reveals the gory details of this serial killer's story through the eyes of fictional characters, Ingrid Storset and Nils Linderhud. Reader beware, plenty of chills and descriptive gore in this page-turner. Ms. Tolsma handled these details with a graceful pen, weaving in a faith thread of hope amidst the darkness of evil.

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

This is a well written book that hooks you on the first page. It's full of twists and turns and will keep you turning the pages to see what happens next. I loved how the author combined fact with fiction to make a gripping story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Thank you Barbour Publishing via NetGalley for the ARC copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

I am really, really enjoying this series. The subject of this one is Belle Gunness, a story which has fascinated me for years. I enjoy suspense and true crime, anyway, but this woman was a monster. Liz Tolsma tells her story well indeed. If you have not read this series yet, I highly recommend it.

I received this book from Barbour Publishing through net Galley and was not required to leave a review. All opinions in this review are expressly my own.

The Gold Digger by Liz Tolsma is a must-read! This is a can't put it down type of story. The story is based on true events that happened in the early 1900's. Ingrid and Belle are sisters that have immigrated from Norway. Belle goes the mail-order route to find a husband to help her on the farm she inherited from her deceased husband. Without going into too much detail, the story takes a very dark path. But there is confusion as to what is actually happening to all of the men that show up and suddenly disappear from Belle's farm. Could this mother-of-four actually be an evil person? Or is it her hired hand who obsessively loves her? And her innocent sister Ingrid has blinders on when it comes to seeing anything wrong with her sister. Proof that love is blind. The twists and turns in this book are so well-written and the dialogue is so believable. The descriptions of the weather and the scenery feels like you are actually there. The true crime series by Liz Tolsma is definitely becoming one of my favorites! If you are looking for a getaway to take your mind off of all of the things that are going on in our world right now I would highly recommend any of her books. But The Gold Digger is exceptional! I received this book voluntarily from netgalley.

The Gold Digger is another can’t-put-down, read-in-one-day thriller penned by Ms. Tolsma in the True Colors Crime series. It exceeded my expectations which were very high since I love all of this gifted storyteller’s books! The real-life characters are seamlessly meshed with the fictional ones, and all are well-developed and unforgettable. The evil of the horrendous crime portrayed in this story is tempered with a strong faith element and a touching romance. The fast-moving, suspenseful plot keeps you turning pages and anxiously anticipating the outcome! The historical notes at the end of the book are especially helpful in differentiating the true elements from the fictional ones. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it and the series.

I received a copy of this book in e-book form from the publisher via netgalley but am under no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Fascinating story! I have to admit once I started reading I didn't want to stop. I just had to know why men were disappearing.
I couldn't imagine why such a sweet lady couldn't hold onto a man.
She said they changed their minds and left suddenly. It sounds suspicious.
True historical account intertwined with some fictional characters.
Really good book!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Shy, kind Ingrid really is grateful when her older sister Belle provides the money for her to start a business, even though the confectionary shop isn't exactly what she wanted. She's doing her best to make the shop a success but continues to visit Belle's farm often to spend time with the only family she has in America - Belle and her children. Belle has been widowed twice and has been putting ads in the Norwegian newspapers looking for a husband to share the work of the farm. Ingrid isn't comfortable with the idea, especially since none of the men stay very long. She realizes Belle isn't attractive or easy to get along with, but wants to believe her sister is good hearted and is just misunderstood.

Nils is behind on some loan payments and worried about his car dealership, but he's more concerned that he and his mother haven't heard anything from his brother Sven for so long. Sven left months earlier to meet Belle and planned to marry her after corresponding for awhile. Nils decides to go to LaPorte to find out what happened to Sven. He meets Ingrid first and she tries to be helpful in his search, but Belle is uncooperative, and Nils is sure she knows more than she has told him. With Ingrid's often reluctant help he continues to pursue answers. Suspicions mount as they notice strange behavior and realize that none of Belle's prospective husbands have been heard from. As Nils and Ingrid get closer to the truth, they are both in very serious danger as well.

The true crimes of Belle Gunness are gruesome, but just like all the novels in this series, the story is told balancing the suspense with an accompanying story of a sweet and hopeful romance. The fictional characters of Ingrid and Nils are very believable, as Ingrid struggles to understand how the sister she loves and relies upon could be capable of such evil. This book is a real page-turner, and while the crimes are horrific, it was the enjoyable reading that kept me up late rather than any nightmares!

*I received a complimentary copy (digital ARC) of this book from Barbour Publishing through NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a review.
#TheGoldDigger #NetGalley

The Gold Digger by Liz Tolsma is an exciting story based on a real-life crime that occurred in LaPorte Indiana beginning in 1907. Belle places newspaper ads looking for a husband to assist her and running her hog farm. She tells them she needs money and they must bring it with them to be considered. The mystery begins when the men don’t stay long and move on. Or do they? Has a crime been committed and if so, who is responsible?
This book is an excellent next edition to the True Crime Series and it keeps you guessing all the way to the end. As usual in mysteries the ones you may suspect at first have nothing to do with any supposed crimes. The book is well-written and reads like a novel and not just another true crime mystery. The characters that are added for the story fit in very well with the real-life characters and to some extent you don’t know who’s who until the end. I give this book 5 of 5 stars and highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good true to life mystery.
I received an advance copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

Ingrid’s sister, Belle, surprises her with an amazing gift, just not one she’s altogether happy about, except for the ability to have a darkroom. Belle owns a hog farm and is frequently advertising for a husband to help her with her farm. Sven is introduced early in the story, coming in to Ingrid’s store and she gives him directions to her sisters. Weeks later, Nils comes to town, looking for his brother, Sven. Many suspicions abound throughout the story that is well told. Ingrid and Nils are great characters and easy to relate to. We also meet Ray, Jennie, Lucy, Myrtle, Phillip, the Sheriff, hotel clerk, Sven and Nils mother, and Gillespie. Fast paced story set in LaPorte Indiana in 1907-08, that is hard to put down.
A complimentary copy was provided by Barbour Publishing via NetGalley. A review was not required and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

The Gold Digger
by Liz Tolsma
Barbour Publishing, Inc.
You Like Them
Barbour Books
Christian | Historical Fiction | Mystery & Thrillers
Pub Date 01 Dec 2020 | Archive Date 01 Feb 2021

Love the true-crime premise of this book. The events in this book are true! That's what made it even more interesting for me to read. Thanks to Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC of this book.
Fascinating!

5 star

It has to be quite a challenge to write a fictional account of a true crime story. Liz Tolma has done a good job capturing the horror of this heinous crime from the early 1900's. She is able to build up tension as the mystery progresses concerning the disappearance of several men after they were in contact with a widow with children who had a farm she needed help with.
Fictional characters blend with true life people from the historic records. The story is captivating and well written.
I don't want to give anything away. If you find true crime and stories based on history fascinating, as I do, I think you will find this account quite intriguing and sad. I believe the story is written in as tasteful a way as possible considering the acts perpetrated on innocent victims and their families. It is also written as Christian fiction and gives hope during a terrible time in the lives of several people. I like how the author handled such an awful series of events.

I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for my copy of the book. I remember hearing about this historic crime and appreciate how the story is told.

This thriller is a well written fictional account of the true story of more murders than you can imagine, perpetrated by the most unassuming person. Ingrid Storset comes to join her sister Belle, who is a widow and her family in LaPorte, Indiana. Opening a confectionary shop she also spends time working on her first love, photography. When possible suitors come and shortly after disappear, she feels great sympathy for Belle. Why would they leave so abruptly - after all, her sister is a hardworking farm woman who has much love to share and is well-known in the community. Could it be jealousy that exacerbates these disappearances?

Be aware that this story will have you looking at many things with very different eyes as you try to figure out who really is behind these crimes. The True Crime series is incredibly thought provoking. I must admit, it is almost difficult to believe that things like this could happen without anyone asking questions or getting suspicious.

An ARC was received through Barbour Publishing and NetGalley. The impressions and comments are my own and were in no way solicited.

Well written edge of your seat Murder mystery. A great addition to the True Colors series. I highly recommend this book. I received an advance ebook from the publisher and Netgalley. This is my unbiased review.

I finished reading "The Gold Digger" by Liz Tolsma, and it was good! 4⭐. This story was very interesting! If you love history and true crime, then you need to read this story.
*Thank you to Barbour Publishing and Netgalley for the advanced read.

Mind blowing! I had never heard Belle Gunness' story before this book and it was definitely eye opening. I loved the fictional love story between Belle's sister Ingrid and Nils Lindherud. Feeling the anxiety and worry of the families involved with Belle's misdeeds really made the situation seem so real. I even went so far as to tell my husband all about the story and he was intrigued that it was something that had taken place a century ago. If you are interested in historical crime stories, this is definitely one you don't want to miss! I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley. All opinions in this review are my own.

I have truly enjoyed Barbour Books' True Colors series, and recommend it often. Gold Digger is the latest addition to the series and is very well researched and written. I can only imagine the nightmares the author must have had while researching the true crimes that inspired this story. It is difficult to reveal anything about this story's content without revealing too much. If you like true crime stories, mysteries that are a bit gruesome, or psychological thrillers, this book is for you. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of Gold Digger from Barbour Books via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

This is another page-turner in the True Colors crime series! I love this series, as each of these authors finds a way to build great fiction around true historical crimes. This novel is no exception. From the first page, I became engaged.

Like the others in the series, this story is based on a true crime. In addition, the story constructed around this crime makes it even more interesting than a great fictional story. As I tried to figure out who did the crimes, how they would get caught, and where the bodies were, my eagerness to finish the story grew. No spoilers will be given here, but the author did a great job with this story. If you love true-crime drama or are looking for a new genre to read, pick up a copy of this book. In fact, pick up the whole series. The stories deal with different crimes and each may be read as a standalone.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book provided by the publisher and Net Galley but the thoughts expressed are my own.

Another thrilling installment of the True Colors, strange, but true, crime stories with an inspirational infusion. You do not have to read these in order to appreciate the gripping tales. In the Gold Digger, the story of Belle Gunness, a truly evil woman in 1907 Indiana , is brought to light in a way that will keep you turning the page until the very end. While the main plot is predictable, the journey there and the slight twists and turns keep you just unsure enough to keep reading. The sweet romance between Ingrid and Nils is a redemptive component that makes the story a little less dark. I really love the infusion of Christian faith and despite evil, pain and suffering, there is still a redemptive plan that can be used for good. Be sure to read the author’s notes.
I was given a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own, freely given.

The Gold Digger by Liz Tolsma is a mesmerising and horrific Christian historical novel. It is part of the True Colors series.
The novel is set in 1907-1908 and based on actual events. This makes it all the more horrific. An air of mystery still surrounds the case today.
There is the issue of trust. We do not always know whom we can trust or who is telling the truth. We need to press into God, lean on Him and pray for discernment and clarity within our situations.
The Bible tells us to take care of widows and orphans. We witness this within the novel.
An atmosphere of fear surrounds the book as the reader along with the characters has suspicion about a character. We fear what will happen to those who get too close.
As in Genesis 50, God can use situations that others meant for harm and turn them about for good.
The love of money is the root of all evil. “He allowed the acquiring of wealth to consume him.” Our heart will always be in the wrong place if our focus is on money.
I always love Liz Tolsma’s stories. They are all consuming and exciting. She certainly knows how to weave a tale, creating an atmosphere that raises the hairs on your head. This is not a tale to be read alone at night!
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

Wow! I hesitated to read this based on the summary. It just didn't sound like something I would enjoy. I finally made myself read it and was enthralled. I felt it was a little unbelievable until I saw the historical notes at the end. This was based on a real story and most of it was quote accurate with some literary license. If you enjoy historical suspense, I think you will enjoy it.

I did receive an ARC copy via Netgalley but I freely give my honest reviews.

Everytime I read a True Colors Book I think this series just keeps getting better and better! The Gold Digger was great. It was one of those books that I just couldn't put down, in fact I stayed up WAY too late one night reading it. I highly recommend this book!

The Gold Digger is an amazing book of fiction based on a true historical crime! There is a romance introduced in the story that adds joy and life to the chilling tale. Nils and Ingrid make a delightful couple even though they are at odds on what they think is happening. I highly recommend The Gold Digger to mystery and suspense readers, romantic suspense readers, and to readers of historical fiction and of true historical crime books. I've read several in this series and thoroughly enjoyed them all. I would recommend them to family and friends. Also, I have liked everything of Liz Tolsma's that I've read and hope to have the opportunity to read more. I received a copy from NetGalley.

This book is about two sisters though one seems to be doing something quite fishy. That fishiness seems to come out when a brother comes to town looking for his missing brother. We have Belle Gunness who seems to cry a lot or seem to be mean.

Why does the town seem to pick on a guy named Ray? Ingrid seems a bit naive about what her sister is doing but she loving her sister and children. Is her sister Belle a murder or looking for easy money? The town seems to think nothing of it when men go missing or think they just leave suddenly.

We do see that Ingrid and Nils seem to connect after meeting each other. They seem to take their time getting to know each other and courting. The plot of this story is deep and detailed. The story is done well. It just seems like found out who the killer is quite quickly. It just seems that Nils had to convince Ingrid and the town sheriff or the real killer and not the one they keep pulling in to question.

There are some surprises when it is all revealed and solved. Though there is still a twist at the end as well. There seem to be a mystery and lots of crimes. This is good in the sense that it tells some history of American crime and historical fiction and crime. It is a true crime. I rate this 4.5 Moons (stars).

Several elements I like about The Gold Digger. First, family loyalty plays a huge part in this well-researched story. Ingrid is particularly concerned about the unkind rumors circulating in town about her sister. Unfortunately, Ingrid’s naivety leads her to turn a blind eye to Belle’s true personality. Likewise, Nils is worried about his brother and his mother. Also, he is afraid of committing the same mistakes his dad did. Second, the author helps us remember hope is available even when are experiencing our darkest hour. Many dark hours occur in The Gold Digger, but the characters’ faith helps them cope.
I enjoyed this story, especially knowing it is based on true crime. This is another book in the True Colors series, a series worth reading.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

I knew that this was based on a true story, but it was so horrible and gruesome it was really hard to believe it could be true. The story centers around Belle, a widow with 4 children who corresponds with men ostensibly looking for someone to help her on her hog farm and to marry her. The problem is that the men seem to come for a few days and then disappear. When Sven tells his brother Nils he is gong to LaPorte to marry Belle, Nils is dismayed and tries to persuade him to stay. When Sven disappears without a word, Nils heads to LaPorte to find out why. As the story unfolds the tension builds as we learn more about the different characters in play. I admit that I had heard about this story before, but the author did a super job of telling the story without too much gore. Because it was Christian fiction, the story ended on a hopeful note.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

I have had a strange fascination with Belle Gunners since I heard about her through my own research, so I was delighted to get to read an early copy of The Gold Digger, a fictionalized version of her story. And while i haven’t read all the books in the True Colors series, I feel this is the darkest of the ones I’ve read, due to the proximity both leads have to the crime, whereas the other books were more about outsiders investigating these dark events.

I really liked the complex sibling relationship between Ingrid and Belle, and how Ingrid really wants to see the best in her in spite of the suspicions of others, until it’s too much to ignore. It’s juxtaposed really well by Nils and his desire to get answers about his brother Sven’s disappearance, with Sven having last been seen when he was leaving to answer an ad for a husband placed by Belle. I enjoyed seeing them work together and give each other some perspective, especially as Ingrid learns who her sister truly is. It’s a sweet romance that comes about amid dark events.

Tolsma excels at creating a truly creepy atmosphere as events unfold. Belle’s guilt is pretty much a foregone conclusion, but I couldn’t help but be chilled as the layers of her facade were pulled back. And Lamphere, also recorded as a historically shady character, is equally creepy.

This is a fabulous book that shows this series at its best. If you love true crime or romantic suspense, I think you’ll really enjoy this one.

Liz Toslma has done it again! She's simply a fabulous writer most especially with this weird part of American history.
This series is one of the best I've read in quite sometime. Each author brings to life a character that I've never heard of and have thoroughly enjoyed learning about. This story didn't disappoint either.
Like most readers I pretty much figured out where this was heading but I kept reading to see what Belle would do next. She soon didn't disappoint. I think my mouth dropped open in some parts of this book because I was truly astounded! Soon I was all in and sitting on the edge of my bed eagerly turning the pages and before I knew it I was at the end! Oh no! I wasn't happy that it was over so quickly! That's how much I enjoyed it.
I hope this author writes another book in this series. I can't wait to see what comes next!
I highly recommend this series and especially this book. I think it might be the darkest one in history yet!
5 stars hands down!
My thanks to Netgalley/Barbour publishing for a copy of this book.
I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

I didn’t realize when I started reading this book that it was part of a series. But when I discovered that fact I checked out the other books. Oh my goodness. First, the book covers drew my interest, and then I read a few of the descriptions. I can’t wait to delve into more of this series.

Okay, that being said, I guess you can sense my excitement about this writer and reading more cases based on facts that are stranger than fiction. I didn’t mean to get sidetracked, but now you know that I must have been pleased with this book.

The characters reminded me of those you might find in a cozy mystery. Though, honestly, I’m not sure if I’ve ever read one. But many of them just seemed relatable and sweet. And parts of the story were sweet. Wouldn’t it have been nice if the facts ended that way? But we know, at least one character is rotten to the core. These special characters had me quickly turning pages.

This story, which is based on historical facts, focuses on Belle Gunness, who puts ads in the newspaper searching for a husband to help her run her farm. But when one man, who has brought her the cash to help pay the mortgage, disappears it leads to trouble for her.

Nils Linderhud, the brother of the man who disappeared, brings to light lots of problems for Belle. Things she’d rather keep private. Forever.

Tolsma does an excellent job of creating interesting characters that keep the story moving. She also manages to gently add a message of faith throughout. Plus, as with any good mystery, she creates some reasons to keep us doing a little bit of guessing.

As mentioned in the Details, this is based on a true crime, though fictional characters also come into play. Crime obviously isn’t a pretty picture, however, the author manages to share enough details to make the story complete, without bringing into play too much hear-breaking description.

What Concerned Me
Nothing

What I Liked Best
Tolsma was able to research a fact, and then put her personal touches to make it come to life. I loved that she shared her research and pointed out exactly what was based on truth and how other facts and fiction were woven to make the story complete. The excellent writing brought it all to life for me.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

This book was so good and interesting in a creepy way. I love stories that are based on actual historical events and this one did not disappoint. As I read, I was thinking that what I think is happening cannot be true, but indeed it was. One really becomes engaged in the story as you learn more about Ingrid Storset, Nils Lindherud, and Ingrid's mysterious sister, Belle. What is really going on at Belle's house? You have to read to the end to find out the whole truth and even then there are still some questions left unanswered. A truly riveting story with plenty of plot twists based on actual historical events. I highly recommend this book!

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

Lots of men came to LaPorte, Indiana, to meet and marry Belle Gunnsen. Instead of marrying her, they all disappeared, including Nils Lindherud’s brother Sven. Nils leaves his home and business in Detroit to search for Sven. He meets Ingrid Storsen, Belle’s sister. As he begins to suspect Belle’s honesty, Ingrid refuses to believe her sister could do anything so sinister.
Based on true events from the early 1900s, The Gold Digger moves along at a brisk pace with enough red herrings to keep you guessing. I read this in one evening.
I received a free copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

I've read every book in the True Colors series so far, and was thrilled to see this one pop up on NetGalley -- and that it was written by Liz Tolsma. She's a talented author, and I knew the read would not disappoint!

That being said, having read the other books in the series (each of which is a standalone read), I've discovered just how much I struggle with historical cases that didn't fully resolve when they originally happened--meaning that the fictional story about them doesn't either! I appreciate more resolution than we see here! :D

And yet, it's also fascinating to read the denouement and historical note (always included in this series). It's a testament to the publisher and the authors that they pick really meaty historical events for novelization.

Tolsma does a fantastic job at presenting facts, seamlessly blending them with fiction to create a story I was intrigued by from the start. While it did take a couple chapters to get into (more plot buildup than anything else), by a third of the way in, I was hooked. Both the era and locations truly came to life around me--as did the characters, for that matter. And the climax may have evoked some out-loud reactions while I read ... so it was a good thing I read it at home in the privacy of my living room!

I received an eARC of the book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

The latest in the True Colors series is based on the well-to-do widow, Belle. Readers will quickly become aware of something amiss when Belle's suitors keep disappearing. Belle's sister, Ingrid blissfully glosses over her sister's changing moods, which I found unrealistic. Loved the author's notes. True crime readers will find this gruesome story appealing. Recommended!

Very good book about a female serial killer who finds husband's with money so she can attain their assets . I loved the idea of this book it was well written a very unique way to tell a true crime story .

The Gold Digger by Liz Tolsma was a great mystery. I literally could not stop reading it. Of course, all of Ms. Tolsma’s books are wonderful and I try to read all of them. This riveting story takes place in LaPorte, Indiana in the early 1900’s. Since I am familiar with that area it was of special interest to me.

Ingrid Storset comes to America at the request of her sister, Belle Gunness who has just lost her husband. She owns a large farm near LaPorte and never seems to run out of money to support herself and her many children. Belle sets Ingrid up with a bakery business, although that is not exactly what Ingrid wants to do.

Ingrid starts to get suspicious about Belle putting ads for a new husband in the paper and all the men who apply, but leave quickly, never to be seen again. Nils comes to LaPorte in search of his brother who was determined to wed Belle, but was never heard from again by his family. Nils makes Ingrid even more suspicious about what her sister is doing. I was really into this novel. I wanted to see what was going on and I was nervous while reading this because I feared for Ingrid. This is the way that Ms. Tolsma grabs you into her stories and won’t let you go until you finish the book. I highly recommend this book.

There was only one thing that I would like to comment negatively about: since the Miranda Rights Act went into effect on June 13, 1966, it is highly unlikely that a police officer would use those words from this Act before arresting someone in the early 1900’s. I noticed this in one part of the book and thought I would mention it to the editors.

Wow! I have never read anything by this author and this book was not what I expected. It is a true crime story set in LaPorte, Indiana. Although it is not a genre that I usually read, the author spun the story in such a way that I couldn't stop turning the pages. I definitely did not expect the outcome at the end of the story.

Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the copy of the book. The opinions are my own.

This novel based upon true crime kept my interest from beginning to end.

Belle, originally from Norway, has lost two husbands and is running a pig farm in Indiana. To obtain help on the farm, she regularly solicits men to be her next husband. Oddly, they never marry and are never heard from again.

Belle's sister Ingrid is a budding photographer with a heart of gold. She loves her sister and her nieces and nephew. Belle's prior farm hand, Ray, seems to be obsessed with Belle.

The author does a great job of creating tension keeping readers wondering what's happened to the would be husbands.

Loved the Afterward which shared what was factual and what was fictional in the pages.

As an avid reader of Christian fiction as well as general market fiction, I’ve been very interested to read a novel in the True Colors series, written by various authors, that “explores true, riveting stories of American criminal activity layered in historical romantic suspense.” These are definitely a departure from the common (mis)perception of Christian fiction. The Gold Digger by Liz Tolsma was my introduction to this concept.

This saga begins in 1907 Indiana and features Belle Gunness, a real person in history who was a serial killer. Tolsma excels at weaving fictional characters around gruesome facts to allow readers to unravel the story as those involved at the time likely did. While the writing was less sophisticated than the novels I usually enjoy, I was completely engrossed in Belle’s actions and was impressed by the factual accuracy of the novel’s plot. I doubt I’d read a true crime book about this case, but I couldn’t turn the pages of The Gold Digger fast enough. I look forward to reading more books in this series soon.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Goodness, I couldn’t stop reading, partly because it was so suspenseful. Author Liz Tolsma writes a book full of twists and turns. I was so involved that when it ended in a way I didn’t like I might have tossed the book down and walked away in disgust. But that’s not the author’s fault. History is what it is.

Good character development makes this story even more interesting. I wanted to shake both Ingrid and Nils at times as they struggled with choices and truth. Tolsma also did a good job with scene descriptions. Maybe a bit too good a few times but you certainly could picture what was happening.

If you enjoy suspenseful stories with unexpected twists, then The Gold Digger is for you.

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

Sven Lindherud has left his mother and brother in Detroit, and has moved to LaPorte, Indiana, to marry. His future bride, Belle Gunness, lives on a hog farm with her four children. When he doesn't check in, his brother, Nils, travels to LaPorte to find him. He doesn't find Sven, but he does find deception, danger, and Belle's sister Ingrid. Can Nils find Sven before it is too late? Can he protect Ingrid from whatever darkness has settled in LaPorte? And what is happening to all of those men who leave home to move to the Gunness farm, only to disappear?

The Gold Digger is another fantastic addition to the True Colors series. There is trouble at every corner and no one is safe. I cannot recommend this book enough.

Wow! Nothing like advertising for a husband and when they show up... No one stays! This lady had a home and a family and just couldn't find that special man to marry. It kept me guessing for a long time as to who was the culprit of the men moving on. Mystery, family and wait until you see why these men all move on! I had a hard time putting it down as it moved right along. Loving this true colors crime series!
I requested a copy through NetGalley and Barbour Publishing. No review was required, my review is voluntary.

Running a hog farm and raising children made making ends meet a problem for widowed Belle Gunness. Credulous, all-trusting Ingrid, sympathizes her sister’s plight and does what she can to help Belle with the children.

Setting her sights on acquiring a new husband, Belle has taken to advertising seeking one. Many men answer her advert traveling from far distances, only to be sent packing, deemed unsuitable by the critical Belle.

When young Sven leaves home - life savings in tow, it is with the hope of starting a future with Belle as his new wife. Sven’s brother Nils begins to worry when he doesn’t hear any news from his younger brother and takes a trip to find out why. When he discovers that Sven left with no word, and how brusquely Belle brushes him off, Nils is convinced something is amiss.

As Nils’ suspicions grown, he turns to Ingrid for help in unravelling the mystery of Sven’s disappearance. What the two eventually discover, is too heinous to imagine.

True to life depiction of events and an excellent narrative of Gunness’ stony greed and her appetite for materialism.

Based on the true unresolved crimes of Belle Gunness, The Gold Digger is another fine feather in Tolsma’s story cap, and a must-read for Barbour’s intriguing True Colors Series.

Thanks to NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for the read of Liz Tolsma’s, The Gold Digger.

This story proves that sometimes truth is stranger than fiction. This is a haunting and eerie story based on true historical events that happened in LaPorte, Indiana in 1907. It is a heartbreaking story filled with twists and turns that kept your thoughts spinning. I was fascinated to learn what the author uncovered in her research at the end of the book.

The author does a great job of keeping the reader in the know with the main characters and their situations as they seek the truth no matter how horrible that truth might be. This is an unimaginable, horrific story I could not put down. I was thankful the author did not get gruesome with the details because it was difficult to read what happened at the hands of Belle Gunness as it was.

It is heartbreaking, intense, and a disturbing read because this actually happened. The only thing that kept me reading was the hope that Igrid Storset, and Nils Lindherud would find hope and encouragement in their faith and a new beginning with each other. This is the first book I’ve read by this author it won’t be the last.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! www.bookfun.org

You have heard the saying that truth is stranger than fiction. Well when you read this book you will certainly agree. Tolsma has based this novel on a true crime committed in LaPorte, Indiana in 1907. You may have read stories of mail order brides, well this one concerns mail order husbands….. Belle Gunness lives on a farm and has ordered 3 husbands to help her on her farm. The strange thing is they are not there very long and then they just up and leave during the night without so much as a goodbye. Belle and Ingrid are sisters that have immigrated from Norway. Ingrid looks up to her sister and cannot believe she is anything but good and giving. She even set Ingrid up in her own business without wanting anything in return. But why does Belle’s husbands keep leaving her? The truth is strange, mysterious and terrifying. Tolsma does a great job of bringing out the details concerning this historical crime. I love the author’s notes at the end of the book showing the research behind the real Belle Gunness. I think I have read all the True Color series and this is one of the best of them………..I was given an ebook from the publisher and NetGalley and I am glad to leave this review.

Thank you so much to NetGalley for a chance at reading and reviewing this book! This is a wonderful series for fans of fiction based on real crimes. This thriller is a well written fictional account of the true story of more murders than you can imagine, perpetrated by the most unassuming person. If you're a fan of historical fiction and true crime, you'll likely enjoy this book.

I love the True Colors series and this book was a great addition. I did not know the story of Belle Gunness but I learned much from reading this story. I appreciate the research that went into the writing. I like that the author included an afterward stating what parts of the story are factual.
Many thanks to Barbour Publishing and to NetGalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

I have really,really enjoyed reading the True Colors series. A True crime series by Barbour Publishing. They have put out a new book in this series every month for the past year.
The Gold Digger absolutely captivated my attention as I read it or should I say speed read it. The further into the book I got the more it captivated me like when something bad happens but you can't tear yourself away from it and must continue to find out more details about it.
I knew how it would turn out but The Gold Digger brilliantly took my breath away!
The author does an amazing job of captivating readers to continue til the last word is consumed.
I highly recommend this and every book by this author.

Pub Date 01 Dec 2020
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.

This book grabbed my attention from the beginning. I felt a darkness throughout the book with a little light trying to break through with Ingrid and Nils blossoming romance. Ingrid thinks the world of her sister, Belle, and knows that she would do anything for her and her family. Nils comes to town searching for his brother, but the information that he is given regarding his brother is not lining up. The author did a great job of keeping me guessing as to what was happening to the men that were visiting Belle. I became very interested in the real story about Belle. Knowing the history made this book that more interesting. I liked seeing the different points of view between Ingrid and Nils. I recommend this book to those that enjoy mystery and books based on true stories.

I couldn’t put this one down! What another great addition to the True Colors True Crimes series, these books never fail to keep me mesmerized! In this one, Belle Gunness provides her sister Ingrid with a confectionary business to entice her to move from her Norwegian home to the USA. Belle lost another husband and needs a replacement to help her in her hog farming and child-rearing, so she searches in the lovelorn columns in the Norwegian papers. Men answer the ad and then disappear mysteriously. Only when a brother of one of the missing men travels to Indiana is the gruesome mystery solved. Being a Hoosier, I was especially captivated as this crime happened in LaPorte, Indiana.

I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing through NetGalley and was under no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

I was unfamiliar with the story of Belle Gunness, and Tolsma did an excellent job of bringing this serial killer's story to life. Belle was a large built, Norwegian lady who had emigrated to the United States. Her first two husbands died under suspicious circumstances, and she got life insurance money upon both their deaths. Now she has begun advertising for a mail order groom and includes that if they bring money they can buy into her hog farm. When one man's brother responds to the ad and he doesn't hear anything more from him, Nils heads to Indiana to find answers.

This was a real page turner as more and more suspicious happenings occurred. I loved how Nils and Ingrid, Belle's sister, worked together to try and make sense of what Belle was doing, but Ingrid found it hard to believe her sister could be behind all this. Both Ingrid and Nils had to depend upon their faith to get them through all the strange occurrences. I enjoyed watching Ingrid grow in confidence and speech as Nils supported her. Although this was certainly a creepy story, it was an interesting look at a serial time killer from a earlier period in history.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.

I have really appreciated the True Color series, novels about unusual crimes of the past. Tolsma tackles the story of a woman who murdered several men who were potential suitors, stealing their money.

Tolsma has done a good job creating a readable novel revolving around the facts of the crime she details at the end of the book. Her writing style is enjoyable. The only aspect of the novel I did not appreciate was a dream scene. Tolsma began a new chapter with a suspenseful scene that was not identified as a dream until well into the narrative. I do not like that deceptive technique.

I do recommend this novel as an interesting fictional exploration of a crime from over a century ago. Tolsma has added a bit of romance to flesh out the interesting story. You can find out some more about the novel at the True Colors Crime website.

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

Liz Tolsma has brought this story to a whole new light! A mystery that I will never forget! It left me wondering, who is the real monster of this story? And, how will it end? When I first began reading this book and looked at the book cover and title, GOLD DIGGER, I thought this story was about getting gold. I wasn't too far off. It was the way they went about getting it that was so horrible. Was one person making all the decisions? Then I thought it had to be someone else causing these morally bad incidents. Were some in on it together? I have to commend the author's skillful writing that brought out the remarkable details of this amazingly unique plot; Especially the one event that happened in chapter Twenty-Eight. It was filled with such grizzly details, I cried when I read it, because it was so shockingly surprising! That took excellent work on the author's part, because some of the events were very sorrowful.. There was so much violence, and cruelty. A well developed plot that stayed with the main theme of the story.
It all began in La Porte, Indiana on Tuesday, October 1, 1907, when these two sisters moved from another country to the United States and opened up a confectionery. A story about Belle Gunness, her children, her sister, Ingrid Storset, Ray Lamphere, and Niles Lindherud. From there things start to get a little sticky. If you like horror stories, then this one is right up your alley. I liked it! Impressive plot! Remarkable story! In fact, would make a great movie because of the excellent plot!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

The Gold Digger by Liz Tolsma is the ninth book in the True Colors series and definitely worth reading if you love romantic suspense stories based on true history. I'm absolutely loving this series and this one was hard to put down.
Ingrid moves to Indiana from Norway in order to help her sister out after she loses two husbands and several children, but things don't seem to be right and Ingrid is thinking that her sister is up to no good.
When Nils shows up in town looking for his brother who was one of the men that answered her sister's personal ad, but disappears, Ingrid knows that she needs to find out what is actually happening in town and if her sister has anything to do with it.
I'm definitely looking forward to reading more of the stories in this series!

I was given an ARC from the author/publisher. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.

The Gold Digger
by Liz Tolsma
Barbour Publishing, Inc.
Barbour Books
Christian | Historical Fiction | Mystery & Thrillers
Pub Date 01 Dec 2020


I am reviewing a copy of The Gold Digger through Barbour Books and Netgalley:


Ingrid Storset travels from Norway to support her grieving sister who owns a farm in LaPorte, Indiana. Well-to-do widow Belle Gunness has lost two husbands and several children.



Belle Provides Ingrid with enough money to start a small business Ingrid is confused by the string of men Belle claims to be interviewing for her next husband. When Nils Lindherud comes to town looking for his missing brother, who said he was going to marry Belle, Ingrid fears her sister has been up to no good.


I give The Gold Digger five out of five stars!


Happy Reading!

In these true crime books, you know bad things will happen and you suspect who is guilty (or often know), but the author skillfully fleshes out the tale with its gruesome climax. The characters come to life on the page, along with a touching fictional story added of a growing relationship between Ingrid Storset and Nils Lindherud, who came to LaPorte, Indiana, in search of his brother. Ingrid’s sister, Belle, has drawn many men in the hopes of marrying again, but they keep disappearing. Did they run off, or has something nefarious happened to them? The author keeps you guessing as to who did away with them because the former hired hand may also be involved some way. The drama makes you wonder what would cause someone to murder others in cold blood. The novel is written in a clear, powerful way without gross details of the crimes. This well-written historical account offers a satisfying read since it doesn’t leave horrible pictures in your mind and includes the hope Christ offers. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

Looking for love in the wrong place

Have you ever heard the song “Man Eater” by Hall & Oats? Of course, you have if you’re alive and old enough to know what you were listing to in the ’80s. Well, it is precisely that song that came to mind as I read through The Gold Digger (I know it is talking about a different kind of woman, but some of the lyrics fit all too well.) Every mama that sent her boy off to meet and marry the woman was only kissing her baby goodbye.

The mystery and suspense was definitely present, like it is in all Liz Talsma’s contributions. I had my suspicions on the “Who-done-it” around the halfway point, but still enjoyed every minute of the build-up. Until the end, that is–it fell flat for me. Oh, and the romance bit–total lack of chemistry. I know the romance bit isn’t part of the genre, but if you have a couple, I want to at least read the blooming romance in the middle of tragedy, at least a little more than what I witnessed. Just make me believe it was possible.

Anyway! I did enjoy this story. The history and the drama left me eager to see what Nils and Ingrid would find, praying the whole time that the inevitable would never come to pass. My own heart paused when I read the end result of at least a dozen people. It is all beautifully translated in the story. If you are looking for something different, this book, like the rest of the series, will be just the right distraction.

(I know some of these books get a little graphic but rest easy, this is not one of them.)

***I was given a copy of this book from the publisher through CelebrateLit Publicities. All views expressed are my own and a favorable review is not required.

They came to the gold digger one by one...

I'm going to be honest, in my estimation The Gold Digger has topped all of the other True Colors books as the most chilling... Seriously, I was reading it all by myself late at night and I got so creeped out that every shadow and every creak of the settling house had me jumping and I had to lay it aside until morning. Well done author Liz Tolsma! She seriously got to me!

I had actually heard of Belle Gunness and her heinous crimes before, though I'd forgotten her name and the location, so I knew things would get quite gruesome before the end. What I didn't expect was how quickly I got caught up in the stories of the fictional characters. There were several times when I was so emotionally involved in their losses and pain that I had to remind myself Ingrid and Nils weren't even real. That all of the obvious signs, the missed opportunities, the clues, were all fiction.

Needless to say, I was totally impressed by Liz Tolsma's engrossing writing skills and her ability to drop me so effectively into The Gold Digger and La Porte, Indiana of 1907-1908. This may be the 10th True Colors book but with titles like this one I can tell you that the series is only getting stronger...

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

This series has been very intriguing and I have enjoyed reading about historical events that took place during the 1900s. Each book can be read alone but I would encourage you to read each one in the series. The theme of the book is about a crime that was committed and the people who feel victim to unthinkable acts of violence.

Belle just plain out gave me the chills. On the outside she appeared to be a kind woman who loved children. Beneath the surface laid a sinister woman who hid her dark side very well. I can’t believe that men would travel to her farm and want to start a life with her. Why would they trust a complete stranger? That question troubles me . Was she capable of manipulating people in order to hide her secret? I loved how the author introduces us to the men who came to be with her and how their disappearances start to cause doubt in the eyes of some.

Ingrid wants to believe her sister would never do anything to harm anyone. My thoughts were always on the children as I soon discovered that one of her children were sent away. I suspected that this innocent child met foul play but without the technology we have today, it was almost impossible to find evidence. I so wanted Ingrid to start to really look at her sister and her mysterious actions. I know Ingrid didn’t want to believe her sister was crazy. The author does an excellent job of using historical facts to deliver a story that not only had me on the edge of my seat but drew me into the world of a woman who seemed to show no remorse for anything. I wonder if she was even capable of having feelings at all.

I did like the historical notes at the end and appreciate that the author wrote true to the original account of the crimes. My heart hurts for the children who became victims by a woman who will always be a mystery to us. Did she survive? No one really knows but I want to think that somehow justice was served and those who died at her hands are at peace.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

Book 9 in the True Colors series—Fiction Based on Strange-But True History

Fiction Based on Strange, But True, History

In 1907, shy but loyal Ingrid Storset travels from Norway to support her grieving sister, Belle Gunness, who owns a farm in LaPorte, Indiana. Well-to-do widow Belle, who has lost two husbands and several children, provides Ingrid with enough money to start a small business. But Ingrid is confused by the string of men Belle claims to be interviewing for her next husband. When Nils Lindherud comes to town looking for his missing brother, who said he was going to marry Belle, Ingrid has a sinking feeling her sister is up to no good.

My Thoughts: Another thrilling novel in the "True Colors Series". It's amazing what people can and will do for money. This is a suspense novel that will certainly entertain, if not shock the reader. This is a novel that will keep the reader captivated until the end. I don't want to give to many details to give away the plot, but this is a very interesting case. If you like true mysteries, this is a book to read. The author has written a novel based on a true story, keeping to the true history as much as possible. The author does give the gospel message in the book which I appreciated. I truly enjoy this series and look forward to reading more.

Gold Digger is book 9 in the True Colors series—Fiction Based on Strange-But True History. While it is part of a series - they are all standalone. Each book keeps getting better and better. I have been fortunate enough to read each one. Liz Tolsma is one of my favorite authors that I have discovered in the last few years. She always writes such amazing historical novels.
In this book - we travel to 1907 in LaPorte, Indiana. We see Ingrid Storset travels from Norway to support her grieving sister, Belle Gunness. Belle has had a cloud of bad luck over her. Belle is known as being quiet and kind. She has lost several husbands and children. Ingrid starts to wonder - is her sister causing issues.
This book is action packed. There are so many twists and turns that it will leave you guessing. It will draw you in within the first few chapters. The author has done some amazing research. I went and looked up the story of Belle Gunness. The author did a great job bringing her to life. I am always fascinated by women who hae lead a life of crime.

I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program - all thoughts are my own.

The Gold Digger, #9 True Crimes by Liz Tolsma is yet another compelling, chilling read of romanticized history. Each book in this series is extremely well-written and researched, and The Gold Digger is no exception. I love the historical notes at the end from Tolsma.
The 1907 town of LaPorte, Indiana, is the scene of widower Belle Gunness‘s successful hog farm. A Norwegian immigrant, Belle provides everything she and her children need except a man’s loving care. Many men have answered Belle’s lovelorn ads for a match, but her sister, Ingrid Storset, is surprised no one stays to take the matrimonial plunge. When Nils Lindherud appears, searching for his missing brother, events crescendo to a finale that will make the strongest head spin.
To start The Gold Digger is to set other duties aside to give this incredible historical romantic suspense your undivided attention. The taut storyline, the knowledge you’re going to learn of some horrific crime (and in this series, often a spree), and the budding suspense mesmerize with a dark fascination.
Yet there is light in this tale. In the building romance between Ingrid and Nils. In the familial love we see between Ingrid and those in her sister’s family, and in Nils’s and Sven’s family. There is also light in the hope in God and His comfort, companionship, and love, as well as His help. The faith aspect was well-woven into the tale. It made me have hope that I can have greater faith to trust God completely, even if I don't like the outcome of a situation. My fave quote is as follows:

“God will be on one side of you, and I’ll be on the other.”
Looking for ways to use it in real life!

I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher through Celebrate Lit via NetGalley. I am voluntarily leaving this review, and all opinions are my own.

I love reading this series of books of fiction but based on true murders. Each of these stories puts a couple in the story that are there to help solve the murder and for some romance. Ingrid and Nils are the couple that provide the romance in this story. It is awful what Belle does in the book. It is hard to understand what some people are capable of. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

This was a great story. The history behind the book is creepy yet the story itself is done with grace. I enjoyed reading about Belle, knowing that some characters were real while others were fictional.

I loved Nils’ dedication to his brother. He refuses to give up, no matter what he’s told or what others would have him believe, Nils holds fast and pushes forward. Ingrid is a little more difficult. Her staunch defense is honorable, even if misplaced, but she doesn’t know that.

Seeing the story from all sides made this a book I couldn’t put down.

Liz Tolsma always writes a story I can get lost in. This strange-but-true historical is one of my favorites.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I was sent this book by Net Galley because of another book that I reviewed, right now the other book escapes me. So I had no idea what this was about. I mean an offer for a free read one cannot turn down. I started to read it and I thought, ok, not bad, not great. I love the year of the story, 1907. Indiana, ok, good. THEN I really got into it. It massively picked up. Things were happening with twist after twist. The character development was brilliant. The reader really connects with the two main characters. It was only after I finished reading when I was in awe at the ending - one can guess at some things but how we get there is what is so awe inspiring - that I found it all this was based on a true story! The two main characters were fiction but the gold digger herself, the town, time and even details of the crimes were real. Tolsma really brought this real life crime to life! Normally with real crime it can be dry. One reads accounts and it reads like a police blotter at times. But this, this made one feel like one was watching real events. It was not just simple guessing or fiction. In many ways this account could have been how it went down. My advice is to read the book first, do not even look up the real account. When one knows the real story then one spends the whole time looking out for what they already know. Reading should be an adventure. This book first and then check out the true crime. You can thank me later.

Liz Tolsma’s depiction of Belle Gunness and the atrocities that occurred on her big farm in the early 1900s cast suspicion on two people. And left me with just enough suspicion of each of them throughout the book to keep the story engaging and moving at a fast clip.

While the missing men and murders did occur in LaPorte, Indiana, The Gold Digger is told through the eyes of two fictional characters. Despite many hints pointing toward Belle’s culpability, Belle’s sister, Ingrid, refuses to believe the worst of her sister. Nils’s search for his missing brother is what leads him to LaPorte and the strange clues to the mystery on the Gunness farm.

There are some dark parts to this story with somewhat gruesome descriptions (but if you search this woman’s story online, you’ll find even more gruesome details than what is in the book). However, Tolsma also shines a light of truth into the darkness with the blossoming romance between the main characters, Ingrid’s personal growth and confidence, and the faith both she and Nils lean on throughout the ordeal.



Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this audiobook and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

“They were taking a risk. They both wanted answers, but different ones. No matter what happened, one of them would be disappointed. More than that. Likely devastated.”

An interest in forensics has led me to a variety of TV programs and books over the years, because while the crimes themselves were heinous and reprehensible, solving them intrigued me. Considering the lack of both sophisticated equipment and knowledge about DNA until recent years, it seems quite impressive that earlier investigators were able to solve as many cases as they did. The drawback of reading material of this nature is its darkness, which can be nightmare-inducing at times, and this is why I love Barbour’s True Colors (Historical Stories of American Crime) series so much. Able to be read in any order and written by a variety of authors, each story focuses on a major criminal event that occurred in America sometime between the late eighteenth through the early twentieth century. Best of all, these books are not only clean, leaving out the graphic details, but also inspirational, with a faith message in each.

Each True Colors book proves to be fascinating, and “The Gold Digger” by Liz Tolsma is no exception. Even though I was already familiar with the story of Belle Gunness, I was a bit hazy on some aspects of the case, so I still very much enjoyed reading this story. With a story such as this, it is easy to recognize the draw of sinful activities that may and perhaps even do start as one-time events that escalate. The enemy knows that it is more difficult to grow and to mature in our faith walk when we’re isolated, and most of the attacks that happen in this story are perpetrated at night when the victim is alone. Nevertheless, this is when prayers need to become all the louder and more confident, knowing that the God who promises never to leave or forsake us is the same God who created us and who has numbered every hair on our heads.

Echoing the sentiment of Jesus’ parable of the rich fool as found in Luke 12, “The Gold Digger” exposes the raw and evil root of greed and how it negatively affects relationships. To people living in the early twentieth century, without the means of immediate communication with others regarding business and especially personal matters, family was essential. So, it seems, was keeping secrets. Ingrid Storset, Belle Gunness’ fictional sister, ruminates on the thought that “When you didn’t have family, you didn’t have anything.” As an immigrant to America, her only relative and friend is her sister, Belle; Ingrid has great difficulty in speaking with others and lives under Belle’s shadow. When the threats begin, however, Ingrid starts to wonder whom she should trust, especially as “a stranger in a strange land.” This is the current status of all of us who belong to the Lord as we await His return.

Tolsma employs chilling, clever foreshadowing throughout the narrative. It often has a double meaning, and for those who do not know the story beforehand, it is definitely worth a re-read so as to pick up on all of the delightful literary clues scattered throughout the work, pointing toward what will happen.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

This is one of those books that you can’t stop reading.
Fascinating in a terrible way, history so awful you wish it would be fiction.
Ingrid is such a sweet lady. Her sister Belle has set her up with her own confectioner's shop, so she could do what she'd always wanted to do, and be close to her Belle and her kids.
Belle is in search of a husband, and Ingrid doesn't understand why she's not finding one. In Ingrid's eyes, Belle would make someone a great wife. Hardworking, loving, and she's got a nice farm, in addition to her sweet children.
Then Nils shows up in town trying to figure out what happened to his brother Sven. Ingrid tries to convince him that he left town in search of better things, because he didn't want to do the hard work that would be required with living on a farm.
As Nils searches for truth, Ingrid is determined to be loyal to her sister.
Liz Tolsma does such a good job at bringing this event to life.
The crime is felt, and shown, without too many descriptive details, without being too gory. And yet, it was enough. I think if I wouldn't have had any inkling what was coming, it might have been too much. That is the awfulness of this happening. This was one of those events in history that I had never even heard of.
Sobering, eye opening, and well worth reading.
Be forewarned - just plan to read this book all in one sitting, so don't start until you can read it all!!
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Liz Tolsma does such a wonderful job of turning historical facts into compelling fiction! Her research is excellent, and the fictional elements sort of fill in the "what-ifs" in the real story. She sets the scene in such a way that I could visualize all the places, and adds details that anchor the reader in the time period.
Belle Gunness was such a harrowing villain. I could just feel shivers every time you knew she was lying and that terrible things were happening. This story paints her as quite the silver-tongued liar. Everything just came so easy to her - including the horrible acts she committed.
Ms. Tolsma also writes dynamic characters of faith - they are realistic in their doubts and struggles, but experience the transformative power that faith in God can bring to the most hopeless situations. The inclusion of clean romance makes for very well-rounded stories with a little of everything.
For anyone concerned about content, there are no graphic scenes, and no descriptions of any of the murders, just some descriptions of things that were found in the investigation. Nothing too over the top.

The Gold Digger, by Liz Tolsma, is volume nine in the True Color series published by Barbour Publishing. This series is written by different authors and each book focuses on an unusual crime in history. This story takes place in 1907 in Indiana. Belle lives on a farm she and her second husband had. Now years after his death she is advertising for a husband. She convinces the men to bring money with them to help save her farm. But none of the men stay around very long.

This is an interesting story to read. It is full of suspense with why the men do not stay and where do they go when they leave. Even though Belle is the main character of the story, I found I enjoyed her sister Ingrid much better. She is such a positive and loving person. She thinks the best of others even when things look suspicious. I also enjoyed the character of Nils, who will do what ever he can to find his missing brother. I appreciate the information the author gives at the end of the story that gives the real accounting of this crime.

I received a complimentary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit through NetGalley, this is my honest review.

Wow! Just wow! These True Crime stories just boggle my mind! Great job Liz Tolsma coming up with filler surrounding the facts! This was an interesting read! You will not want to put this book down for long.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley on behalf of the Publisher and was under no obligation to post a favorable review.

I read The Gold Digger in a matter of days because this true crime fiction was very intriguing. Tolsma does a good job of writing a suspenseful story while making several scenarios plausible along the way. The fictional characters the author added are endearing people who begin to chase clues together. Amidst uncertain circumstances, an unlikely romance develops. They face tragedy and still find hope to face the future. Tolsma’s research into this historical crime is evident making this another great addition to the True Color Crime series. I’m glad to see that she will be writing another upcoming book for the series. I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

I very much enjoyed this well-written novel of murders committed in early 1900’s America. The murderer and most victims are real people; the author also discloses which characters are of her design. At times it seems clear who the killer was but there is just enough doubt regarding another person. The characters are well-defined through realistic dialog and actions, and the author’s research into the true crime and history of the time show the accuracy of the novel. Faith in the Lord is evident through the prayers and actions of several characters.

Belle has a pig farm that she inherited from her second husband. Twice widowed, she has taken in homeless children and raises them as her own. Her sister Ingrid is somewhat of a newcomer to America, having come from their native Norway five years earlier. Belle purchased a building in LaPorte, Indiana, and gifted the use of the storefront and upstairs apartment to Ingrid to open a candy store. Ingrid is painfully shy and doesn’t speak English well, but she can’t turn away the gift from her sister. Ingrid’s dream is to be a photographer, and this building has a basement she can use as a darkroom.

Belle has advertised for men with a goal of marriage in various Norwegian newspapers in the Midwest. Several men have come to meet her and see the farm, but each one left shortly after arrival. A former farmhand, Ray, still hangs out by the farm as he wants to be her next husband as she had once promised. Even though she fired him, he is still obsessed with her.

There are very few motorcars in LaPorte; the second unfamiliar one recently seen in town arrived and a young Norwegian man came to get directions from her. Nils, who owns a motorcar dealership in Detroit, is looking for his brother Sven, who had gone to Belle’s and not been heard from since. Their ailing mother is very worried, as it isn’t like Sven to be out of touch so long. Ingrid remembers Sven and his automobile, as Sven was a very nice man who left as the others had. She told Nils how to find the farm.

Over the next few weeks, Nils, with Ingrid’s help, exhausts leads searching for Sven, and will have to return to Detroit without him. Jennie, the teen who Belle took in several years ago, is gone. Belle claims to have sent her to a finishing school in California but refuses to share her address. Someone set fire to the candy shop with Ingrid sleeping upstairs.

The author’s talent for writing Christian suspense and historical novels is evident. The mystery is written with excellence as one tries to discover what really happened to the missing men and other unusual occurrences. The characters, faith, and suspense make this a truly worthy addition to Barbour’s multi-author True Colors series. The end is satisfying with loose ends tied up as much as was in the real events. I highly recommend this to anyone who is a fan of the author or series, Christian suspense with roots in true crime, and potential for romance.

From a thankful heart: I received a copy of this novel from NetGalley and Celebrate Lit, and this is my honest review.

The World is Full of Depraved People

A truly horrific tale of greed and deception, Liz Tolsma has given us a look at a horrendous crime from the turn of the twentieth century that many of us have never heard of. The Gold Digger offers a look into not only cultural issues that we might not be aware of (did you know that there were Norwegian papers people subscribed to at that time?) but also shows how blinded we can make ourselves to things we don't want to be true.

Certain elements, such as the sister's inability to see the obvious, may feel far-fetched until you really look at what is happening and try to imagine someone you only know as loving and caring actually doing something so horrific.  Add to that a world where there weren't TV shows bombarding you with this kind of sensationalism, a life of poverty that prevented you from reading dime novels (there are some advantages to poverty, I suppose), and it starts to make some sense. Many characters ignored the obvious because the obvious was just so implausible.

So what about this story?  Good?  Bad?  Indifferent?

While it has a few things that bother me (tiny things that either are or feel anachronistic) Liz Tolsma manages to tell a truly gruesome story without the kind of gory details that replay themselves in your mind indefinitely.  Most of the ugliness is off-page in that we don't watch the murders take place, and Tolsma works hard to show the horror without spraying you with the residue of it.

Recommended for readers who love true crime, suspense, and mystery as well as those who like a nice dollop of romance at the end.  Very sweet and well-infused romance.  Very sweet. ;) Thrilled I had a chance to read it, and grateful for the free review copy.

The Gold Digger is another addition to the True Colors series, about true crimes, and I have read some very disturbing ones and this one is near the top. Here we have a woman, Belle Gunness who keeps collecting men for husbands and children like some people collect baseball cards. Except the men are nowhere to be found and the children sometimes go missing too.

In this story, her sister Ingrid believes the best about her sister and is rather shocked when a man comes to town looking for his missing brother. Ingrid at first is rather naïve when it comes to her sister and lets Belle explain things away or Ingrid will explain it away in her own mind. But Ingrid grows in her character, and she and Nils Lindherud are the bright spots in this disturbing historical account.

What makes this one so creepy is the secrets that still abound about this old crime and the questions that still have never been answered. I will not say anything more, but be sure to read the author's notes at the end on this disturbing crime.

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

This is a very good one. Although, if you sensitive to some things you might want to proceed with caution. For me this book was right up my ally, since I love shows like Forensic Files. I actually looked up more information about this book before I even finished it because I found it so interesting.

Liz did a wonderful job bringing this story to life. The characters are well developed and honestly if you didn’t know how this story turned out it would keep you guessing.

It is truly a tragedy. The senseless death of so many men and the others that were taken all because of selfishness.

If you enjoy this type of story I highly recommend this book.

A copy of this book was given to me through the Celebrate Lit Team. All opinions are my own.

I have read now three out of the twelve books from the True Colors series and I must say that this may be my favorite when it comes to suspense and mystery!! Wowza! It was like reading something out of the movie Misery. Anyone remember that movie? That's what this felt like except this was a true story. That is what I enjoy about this series. It is based on true crimes that have happened in history. This was also my first book by Liz Tolsma and I must say I really enjoyed her writing. Very descriptive and engaging. This is definitely one of those books that is hard to put down as you want to know what is happening next and who the culprit is.

This story is about Belle Gunness a widower twice-over in La Porte, IN. She runs a hog farm and has a sister Ingrid. Ingrid is shy and getting adjusted at being in a new country. She loves her sister and doesn't see the peculiarities that surround her. Her sister is always in search of a new husband and puts ads in the paper. Men come to the farm but mysteriously enough they never stay and no one sees them go. Not even the former farm hand Ray who is obsessed with Belle and will do pretty much anything to get her attention.

When Nils brother goes missing after answering one of the ads, Nils comes to find out where he is. He meets Ingrid and they strike up a friendship. We do get some romance between Nils and Ingrid but that definitely is not the focus of the book. However it is sweet and needed to balance out the other parts of the story.

Now if you are looking for a cozy mystery this is not your book. This book definitely is definitely strange, terrifying and twisted. It is unresolved so this is definitely not going to leave you with a happy ending. I am so glad that the author put an Afterword in this story. It was needed to understand the history of the story a bit more.

The Gold Digger by author Liz Tolsma is a captivating retelling of a true unsolved crime. This book is part of the True Colors series about bizarre yet true crimes. It is an historical, mystery, with intrigue, suspense and romance. I was riveted.

Set in early 1900s in LaPorte, Indiana, this is Book 9 in the series that says “Fiction Based on Strange-But True History.” It is a twisted “mail order husband” story about wealthy Belle Gunness. She has lost two husbands and many children to accidents or strange illness and disappearances. Her sister, Ingrid, comes from Norway to help her grieving sister.

Things are not as they seem. Ingrid becomes suspicious and is in danger. Too many unexplained things are happening. Her sister has changed. What is really going on at this cold, dark, farm?

I enjoyed the author’s style of writing. The story had a nice, even pace that made it easy to follow and understand. The characters were definitely quirky and well described. The historical events were unbelievable and yet they did happen. I found this to a very emotional tale.

This book will stay with readers long after it is finished. I was immediately engaged in this unusual true tale. Could it really be true? History says it is. It grabbed my attend, and I could not put down this macabre book.

I definitely recommend this for older readers. History and mystery buffs will thoroughly enjoy this. Romance lovers will, too. It will be a great book for Book Clubs. I gave it a 5 out of 5 star rating. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my true words.

This is a first for me in the True Color series of bizzare stories based on real events.
I've not read anything like this and it's been a while since I read a good thriller.
Talk about intense, this story had me putting it aside sometimes and teaching for something else considering how disturbing it was but then it began to pull me in and I wanted to know more and now I'm curious. I love how the author carried the story and though inconclusive, I like that she tried to put it out there.
I know if definitely be looking to read more books from this series. It's definitely not your cozy mystery but an intense read all the same.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Celebrate Lit for a blog tour. All opinions expressed are solely mine.

THE GOLD DIGGER by Liz Tolsma

This is book 9 of the #TrueColorsSeries. I am not a fan of the #thriller genre. This book is full of suspense, anticipation and surprise. But this #historicalfiction based on a true crime keeps me interested. My heart was beating fast a couple of times. I thought I knew who did it but changed my mind several times until I am sure who it was. But like Ingrid, I was in denial. Very much in denial. There are so many things I didn't expect and still can't accept they happened. The love story was a sub genre. I'm glad of Ingrid and Nil's faith. It helped them all through out the whole gruesome ordeal. It helped me too!

This why #mentalhealthawareness is important. Don't forget to read the Afterward. It tells you details about the true story. I need a light read after this. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you @barbourbooks and #netgalley for the complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book. These are my honest thoughts.

Right away, the creepy undertones of this story grabbed me by the throat. In some ways, this story reminded me of a darker version of Arsenic and Old Lace—except Mr. Cary Grant’s trademark humor and dashing good looks were absent. When I read the author’s note at the end, I found it was very eerie how many of the details within the novel were based on cold, hard facts. Rather than being the plot for an episode of Criminal Minds, this story was one that real-life people unfortunately had to live out. My heart aches for the victims and their loved ones.

This novel had a lovely cast of characters (despite the evilness of a couple of them). Ingrid was delightful in her innocence and hope for the brightest future possible. Her devotion to her family was remarkable and, at times, overly naïve. While the leading man thought she “had blinders on” when it came to certain events and people, I found the farther along I got in the story, the more outlandish and unrealistic it was that she would so adamantly stick to her belief that a certain person had “the most caring heart of any [person] on the planet.” By that point, it was clear as glass what had happened and who had done it—the person she very stubbornly refused to believe could ever hurt a flea. Denial is one thing; that would have been believable. Utter refusal to accept facts and evidence is completely something else, especially when the person in question had been nothing but surly, grumpy, and rude to a variety of people—including Ingrid herself—throughout the entire story. However, I still liked Ingrid. I loved that she loved baking but shied of the public, found passion for photography and wanted to make that her living, and saw the best in people.

Nils was amazing. I liked that his regret was palpable and his determination to uncover the truth tangible. I really connected with him and the journey he was on. Plus, he had a cool car.

Ray was a surly sort, but he played his part well. At times, he was nothing more than a cliché, but there were certain things that made him unique to other bad-guy sorts of characters.

The kids were lovely. Energetic, rambunctious, adventurous. Just lovely.

The tension throughout kept me reading long into the night. I fell asleep before I could finish, but I remedied that first thing the next morning. This story captured my interest on every page.

I especially enjoyed the fantastic Gothic atmosphere of this story. It had mystery and creepy undertones, stress and tension, a hopeful leading lady, and a dashing and heroic yet still vulnerable and imperfect leading man. All the ingredients of the Gothic genre were well used to tell this unusual and horrifying tale.

I have enjoyed Liz Tolsma's books before. I have also enjoyed this series of true crimes so this was a good choice.
The story flowed very well and kept my interest throughout. The characters were very well developed and the story was told in the least gruesome way possible. I was thankful for that.
The story is also a Christian book and it was well done and not preachy. It showed the way things go when you do and do not follow God.
The story was very well edited and proof-read. I did not notice errors in the book and that is important to me.
I would recommend this book to my friends. I give it a 4 out of 5 stars. Very well done, but not over the top.
I was given a copy of this book to read through NetGalley and Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest review.