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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.