What We Hide

sometimes there are books you read that you need made into movies stat: and this is one of them.

right from the start, savannah and her almost-ex-husband’s relationship drew me in, and the constant will-they-won’t-they was an EASY highlight of the book. between the well written characters and multiple faceted case that kept me guessing at every turn (and then left me with an INSANE cliffhanger!) this is easily one of the best books i’ve read so far this year— and the next instalment is something i’ll be waiting on the edge of my seat for.

it’s also interesting to note that although a book written by two authors, their styles and tones blended together seamlessly.

i received a complimentary advanced reader copy of this book. opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

WHAT WE HIDE by COLLEEN COBLE and RICK ACKER is a spine chilling legal suspense thriller that will keep you rivetted! In it we see the depravity of those who will stoop to anything to gain their wicked objectives as opposed to those whose lives are based on truth and justice.
There are some great characters and there are second chances, as well as those who are hiding their motives pretty well. I cannot wait for the next novel in the series.
I cannot recommend What We Hide strongly enough to anyene who enjoys this genre.
I was given a free copy of the book by NerGalley from Thomas Nelson. The opinions in this revew are completely my own.

I just finished "What We Hide" by Colleen Coble. Thank you NetGalley for the Arc.
I was a little concerned since she wrote it with another author, Rick Acker, that I wouldn't like it as well as her other books.
It turns out that it's one of my favorites now. There are a lot of twists and turns and plot developments. Memories of Ella can be
heartbreaking. But the biggest surprise came at the end. If you are someone who likes to read the end first, DON'T!
Thank you Colleen and Rick for a great book that kept me up too late!
The patrons at our library are going to love it.

This was a very good book. I loved Savannah and Hez. I really felt for them because their situation was a tough one to handle. But as Savannah feels like she may be charged with murder and Hez is a lawyer they need to work together. I suspected the bad guy but boy was I shocked at the ending. Now I can’t wait for the next book these two write. I highly recommend this book.

This is a great read! Lots of suspense, twists and turns, and secrets.
I didn't want to put the book down. The main characters have been through a lot of loss and hard hits in life. I was cheering for them the entire book.
I did manage to guess one of the bad guys, but there were a lot of unknowns until the very end.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. My opinions are my own.

Savannah Webster has been separated from her husband Hezekiah Webster for several years and only recently filed for a divorce. After the unexpected death of their young daughter, Hez was out of control; drank heavily, popped pills, immerged himself in his work as an attorney and pretty much checked out of life. Now, after rehab he feels he has his life back together and he hopes to also save his marriage.
As Savannah is heading to her classroom at Tupelo Grove University, where she is a professor, she finds Hez is waiting for her. He is hoping to reconcile, telling her he’s been clean for nearly a year. He wants to start a law clinic at the school where she teaches, however, after he realizes, she doesn’t seem to have any interest in him, he takes a job at a law practice, a few hours away.
When some mysteries activities begin to take place on the campus, including a murder that implicate Savannah, she begs Hez to come back to represent her as her attorney. She cancels the divorce petition because she knows he is the best defense attorney. He gets a temporary job in the school of law and together he and Savannah get wrapped up in some unusual, sketchy activities on campus, including another murder.
This book takes the reader on an emotional roller coaster. Many unexplained irregular financial records are discovered and shockingly, a completely innocent person is set up and charged with them all and ends up in jail. A ten-year secret comes to light, the innocent remains in jail, while the perpetrators continue their wrongful, illicit activities.
I can always count on Colleen Coble’s books to keep me on the edge of my seat, turning the pages as quickly as possible. This fast-paced book was no exception. Coleen’s books are always clean romantic suspense at its best.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.

What We Hide is an intriguing and complex mystery. It’s also very intense and emotional. Savannah and Hez, an estranged couple, are both living with the intense pain of losing a child, while Hez also deals with overcoming alcoholism and guilt. They are brought back together when first Savannah, then her sister, are accused of murder and are drawn into a mystery surrounding missing artifacts. There were a lot of twists, several surprises, and many misunderstandings, hard feelings, and misgivings to overcome as they try to uncover the truth. I was fascinated and hooked from the beginning. As a fan of Colleen Coble’s books, I also enjoyed this return to Pelican Harbor and “reuniting” with police chief Jane Hardy.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Colleen Coble has done it again in her new book, What We Hide. Lots of mystery, intrigue, suspense, and many twists and turns to explore. Savannah and her estranged husband, Hez, are thrown together when she is suspected of killing a colleague. The more they dig, the more danger they are in. I was engrossed with this book, the first in her new series, Tupelo Grove. I can’t wait for the next book of the series to come out!

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Coble and Acker combine their talents to weave a romantic suspense filled with intrigue and questions.
Estranged married couple, Hezekiah and Savannah, find themselves face to face with one another and the pain of their past. Now embroiled in a murder investigation that centers around historic Tupelo Grove University, the deep roots of ill-gotten treasure, and a past that continues to haunt their every day lives; will their marriage be able to heal or are the breaks too deep?
I found the first half to be a little slower than a usual suspense, but the second half was filled with excitement and twists that made it hard to out the book down.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinions. All opinions are my own.
Book published on July 2, 2024

I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review-
Another great book by this author! Savannah and Hez have been separated since their little girl drowned and Hez fell into alcohol. He would love a second chance and tells her he has changed but can she trust him? But when Savannah is suspected of murder she calls him for help
Someone is selling the artifacts. Who? As the hunt for answers continues things become dangerous. Who can you trust?

Colleen Coble and Rick Acker do a great job in writing this book, it had everything that I wanted and enjoyed the overall feel of this book. I enjoyed the idea of family secrets element and how it worked with the historical fiction elements. I enjoyed the overall concept in this book and thought it had the suspenseful feel to it. The characters were everything that I was hoping for and left me wanting more.

Book 1 in the Tupelo Grove Series begins with Savannah Webster, a history professor, trying to sort out her life. She is estranged from her husband, Hezekiah, due to heartbreaking loss. He suddenly shows up on her doorstep and a wild ride ensues. Discovering bogus paperwork, she begins to ask questions but then she discovers the college president's body and becomes a prime suspect. Now she needs a defense lawyer, and she trusts no one but her husband. What is happening at the university? Can Savannah and her husband put aside their differences to figure out the answers before it is too late? Dangerous twists and turns in this novel keep you turning pages way past bedtime and a surprise ending makes this a delicious read! This was an amazing collaboration between Colleen Coble and Rick Acker and I look forward to seeing where they take readers next!

I was gifted a copy of this novel by the publisher through NetGalley. Many thanks to them for providing me with a tremendous read. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I always read Colleen Cables books but I was a bit leery because she has never collaborated with another author before, even know many authors do. I was definitely pleasantly surprised. This book was in my opinion one of her best. I like books with a happy ending but I love being pulled in emotionally and having a vested interest in the characters and this book definitely did that. I can only imagine the emotional toll losing a child takes on a marriage. In my opinion they did a awesome job with that. The story was suspenseful and it kept you guessing,and turning the pages as quickly as possible. They brought the story to a close and yet a cliffhanger!! I can't wait til the next book from Tupelo Grove.

Colleen Coble and Rick Acker have joined forces to write a thrilling series! This first book pulls you in with mystery, danger, drama, and romance. Full of twists and turns that keep you guessing until the very end and surprises that I never saw coming.

Savannah Webster finds herself needing help from her estranged husband, Hez, when she becomes a suspect in a murder. As they search to uncover the truth, they quickly discover things are not as they appear at TGU. They must race to get to the bottom of the mystery while coming to terms with their painful pasts and discovering what the future holds.

This book has me so excited for this series! It promises to be highly entertaining with deep layers to keep me thinking long after I close the book.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

What we Hide was a phenomenal book. Colleen Coble had a way of grabbing your attention from the very first page and keeping you reading into the wee hours of the morning. This book was no exception. It is full of twists and turns and suspense and I highly recommend it.

this is a page turner to the end. the main characters are very complex. and not always what it appears to be. the couple go through much sorrow and twist and turns.. if you like suspense and dysfunctional family dynamics you will not want to miss this story. i was given a copy of the book by net galley but this is an honest review

Excellent legal suspense thriller! I couldn’t tell which author penned what; the story was seamless! There were secrets, past hurts, murders, embezzlement, arrests, hearings, danger, some light romance and faith, and so much more! It kept me on the edge of my seat, and just when you think you know, there are more surprises! Very good book and looking forward to the next one!
I received a free copy through NetGalley but my review is my own true opinion.

Such a good novel! I stayed up all night reading it because it was an awesome story!
When I first started this novel it was written in a style I didn't like so I almost didn't finish it. But I'm so glad that I stuck with it! It eventually turned into my kind of style lol.
But really I loved the dynamics of this book. It kept me turning the pages from the beginning with awesome characters such as Savannah, Jess and Hez!
Hey really amazed me. He's a great character.
Some scenes that I never saw coming which is what made this into a cool story. I loved the mystery part of the artifacts that were mentioned in this book.
I didn't figure it out until later on because usually I figure it out early on
What a fantastic story! Coble just keeps getting better and better.
5 stars for an awesome adventure. I highly recommend.
My thanks to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

For many years, Colleen Coble has been one of my favorite Christian suspense/mystery/fiction book authors. I love how she weaves each story together in a way that keeps me glued to the pages with her intricate plots.

I also love the characterization: Coble delves deep into how emotions influence the words and actions of the people she writes about. While reading her books I feel what they feel. The descriptions are that real.

5 Stars.

This was a great collaboration mystery book between these authors! I definitely think I found a new author in Rick Acker! There was definitely a twist at the end...and makes me wonder if there will be a book two continuing this story. I enjoyed the litigation drama. Think Law and Order or John Grisham. It was definitely a good read!

#WhatWeHide #NetGalley

A rollercoaster ride of twists and turns in this first book in the series.
An old university that is falling apart at the seams, an embezzlement
of school funds and stealing of artifacts from a treasure in the history
department. A relationship between Savannah and her husband
Hezekiah, who is trying to forgive himself for his lack of being the
husband and father that he should have been. This book was fast-paced
and an easy read.

Oh, my goodness. Savannah and Hez’s story is one of the best books I have ever read. The collaboration between Coble and Acker is off the charts and a definite winner.

I received an advanced reader copy from Thomas Nelson and Netgalley. Opinions are my own.

History Professor Savanah Webster knows two things—her younger sister Jessica Legare still needs her, and she can’t resist her ex-husband’s charm. Returning to Tupelo Grove University keeps her near her sister and out of Hezekiah’s way. Two problems solved with one move. Maybe.

Savannah struggles to gain tenure after teaching history for two years at TGU. Her sister doesn’t want her around, and their relationship feels strained. The university president implies she’ll need to work extra hard in her relationships with male colleagues to charm her way into the running.

When a pile of forged provenance papers shows up on her desk, Savannah suspects someone is stealing the university’s Willard Treasure. She brings her concerns to the provost, Beckett Harrison, and they confront the number one suspect—the university’s president. Instead of a messy confrontation (something Savannah has no stomach for), they encounter a messy murder scene.

The police immediately suspect Savannah, whose first thought is to call Hez—the best defense lawyer she’s ever known.

Can Savannah and Hez overcome their past to save her future? An unprovoked attack and more murders make it seem impossible.

What I Loved About This Book

Acker, a practicing district attorney, and Coble, a master of suspense stories, form the perfect team for What We Hide. Told from multiple points of view (including the evil mastermind’s first-person account), readers won’t know what hit them in the final pages of this can’t-put-it-down novel.

Readers who love who-dun-its and legal thrillers will love this dynamic duo’s first collaboration. Fans of Cara Putman, John Grisham, and Carrie Stuart Parks will love this book.

I truly loved the complicated suspenseful thriller that Colleen Coble and Rick Acker have collaborated to write. It is never obvious who wrote what as their styles and words flowed together seamlessly. Hez and Savannah are an estranged couple who have suffered a great loss. But their love survived if they can just reach out and admit it to each other. This is a complex story not only involving Hez and Savannah but Jessica Legare, Savannah's sister.
The title is the clue to it all. There are secrets abounding. And Jessica is full of secrets.
I love that there will be more to this series. And the ending makes it obvious that there are still more secrets out there. I for one cannot wait!
Thank you to Net Galley for allowing me to read this book. The opinions are entirely my own.
(And I just loved the name Hez (Hezekiah). I've never read a story with a main character with that name. I could just picture him!)

What a great book! Completely captivated from the first page to the last. There is mystery upon mystery, with lots of twists and turns, right up to the epilogue. I had figured out some , but could not put all the pieces together. A must read for those who love a bit of mystery, thrill, family, and a whole lot of secrets.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

A read that will keep you on the edge of your seat! People that aren't really what they seem, and whom can you trust.

We are given a couple whose marriage has gone south, especially dealing with the grief that has engulfed both of them.

Now these two are together with him trying to defend her when she is accused of murder, with a divorce hanging over their heads. Can he help her?

So many surprises, and a lot going on, including finding family members! There are thefts, murders, kidnapping, and arrests, but whom and what is going on?

There are a lot of bomb shells dropped, including the epilogue at the end, and now I can't wait for book two!

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson, and was not required to give a positive review.

What We Hide is an old fashioned whodunnit set in modern times. The slow burn mystery kept me guessing with every page turned. I rooted for Hez and Savannah to see their way through their grief and back together where they belonged. The last chapter was a shocker and makes me want to count down the days until book 2 releases.

If you like mystery and suspense, you'll love this book. It grabs you from the beginning. There are a lot of characters, twists and turns. It's a page turner that will leave you saying "Just one more chapter". This book centers around Savannah, Hez (her estranged husband), Jess (Savannah's sister) and Simon (Jess's son). Savannah and Jess both work at the University that their ancestors help found. There is a lot of illegal things going on that they find out about. Once Savannah starts to look into things, all of their lives become endangered. This book has a twist ending that I did not see coming. I recommend this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

Have you ever read a book and knew you’d love it from the very first page? That’s how I felt when I read What We Hide.
It drew me in from the beginning and I couldn’t put it down. It kept me guessing all the time, and WOW were those some plot twists!
I’m a Colleen Coble super fan and I snap up her books as soon as I can. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I saw she was writing with a co-author in this new series. I’m impressed!
I loved Savannah and Hez, but their story kept me guessing. It also took me a while to figure out the bad guy. But just when I thought it was all wrapped up with a nice bow…I read the epilogue and realized there’s a whole lot more to this story and I can’t wait for more!
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

WOW!!! This book kept me turning pages and guessing! The authors did a wonderful job of writing believable characters, storyline with twists and turns and leaving me on the edge of my seat for the next book. The family dynamics were well written to be raw and a bit explosive at times. Colleen Coble is a favorite author of mine and I enjoyed her style meshing with Rick Acker. They blend very well together. I hope they write the next one Fast!

These two authors combined their expertise into an extraordinary book. Here we have the beginning of a series that promises. This is not just a suspenseful romance. This book is a web of intrigue and a confrontation with the pain of the past. I loved the dynamic of this couple separated by the pain of past events. I highly recommend it and will keep it for more.

“God doesn’t always call us to understand, though, does he? But he always calls us to trust him."

When I saw the collaboration of Colleen Coble and Rick Acker writing a book, I knew I had to get my hands on it. This book was everything I was hoping for and more. The setting was in the gulf in Alabama and some of Coble's characters from Pelican Harbor made appearances. Yay! Also, a character from Acker's book made an appearance as well! Double yay! This book as you would imagine has legal suspense, mystery, and a second-chance romance!
Twists and turns like crazy! The end blew my mind! I absolutely loved it and look forward to more books from this dynamic duo!!
*I was given. A copy of this book by Thomas Nelson Publishers and, this is my honest opinion.

Classic Colleen Coble! I am always a fan of a cozy mystery, and when you add in faith, redemption, and a love story? I’m sold! I love the vivid setting of Tupelo Grove. I feel like I know the area and can see it through the descriptions. This book deals with themes of loss and separation through a lens of faith. I would recommend!

What We Hide
Colleen Coble
Rick Acker
July 02, 2024

Savannah Webster was headed back to her classroom for the paperwork she intended on grading that night. Along the way she saw a man she hadn’t seen in such a long time, no other than Hez Webster, her ex-husband. They had been separated since their young daughter, Ella had lost her life under his care. Not knowing his cause to be at TGU, she breathed deeply and asked his business. It was difficult to look him in the eyes. His deep blue gaze would always set the motions in work. His law business is now in Alabama, supposedly he stopped drinking, quit the drugs and was doing well in a partnership with his old pal, Jimmy. She was still working on a book about the Willard Treasure, an art collection at the university that dated back decades.
What We Hide will be published on July 02, 2024 by Thomas Nelson. I was delighted to be able to read the ARC of this novel via NetGalley.I have always enjoyed Colleen Coble’s work. This particular publication is a collaboration between Coble and Rick Acker. It is a remarkable mystery that brings the historical side of Tupelo Grove University and the present day. Suspense continues driving staff into dark actions that hide unwarranted behavior. It is a magnificent tale of characters' hidden efforts to embezzle money and artifacts. Coble and Aker have given the reader an intriguing novel. Be certain to select this thrilling publication from Thomas Nelson. Do Enjoy!

What a suspenseful story - you will be guessing until the end! When Hezekiah makes a surprise visit to his estranged wife Savannah at her teaching job at Tupelo Grove University, he wanted to stay married and not get a divorce.

A short time later, some important documents that prove the provenance of some Pre - Colombian artifacts that the University has in a storage building which describe the artifacts and their value are discovered in Savannah's home. She wonders if the rare artifacts are being sold, so she asks a colleague to help her find out and then she and the colleague find the college president murdered and Savannah fears she will be a suspect so she asks Hezekiah to help her and he does.

Who murdered the president and who is selling the artifacts?

I am not a fan of first-person books and almost did not get past the first sentence. Fortunately, I realized it was the villain's POV so continued and am glad I did.
Savannah Webster is a professor at a small local university attached to her family. She stumbles across the body of the president and is subsequently considered a suspect. She calls on her soon-to-be ex husband Hez to represent her. She and Hez have been separated since their two-year-old daughter drowned and he began numbing his grief and guilt with alcohol. Many twists involving possible thefts of pre-Columbian artifacts occur until she finds another body, and then her sister is charged with two murders. Then another unexpected twist which makes things even more dangerous when that twist decides to solve the problem.
With the odds stacked against her, there's no one Savannah trusts to defend her but Hez. The president's murder and the missing artifacts are only scratches on the surface. The only hope they've got is each other, and they're going to have to put their past behind them if they're going to stay alive long enough to uncover all that's hidden.
I actually thought the story was all wrapped up and done by the end of chapter 41, and then turned the page to an epilogue. What? Now I am confused. Another first-person POV that changes everything. I hope the second book is not long in coming.
"I received a complimentary copy from Thomas Nelson Fiction of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."

Hold on for a wild ride! High stakes, raw emotions, accurate legal descriptions and process, and an all-out captivating mystery with extraordinary writing. Colleen Coble and Rick Ackers are a dynamic duo. Start with the characters. Savannah is trying to move on with her life after multiple losses. She has maintained her friendly countenance and enjoys working with students and completing her research. She has friends and she is moving on with her life. Hez is complex and much more open with his struggles. He has made poor choices in the past and he is successfully taking steps to rebuild his life. He is determined to rebuild with Savannah, but her quick rejection leaves him unsure about his next steps. When Savannah needs Hez to represent her and a complex case ensues, the story becomes impossible to put down. The legal intricacies, the historical details of the artifacts and the school, the relational dynamics of all the characters, and the twists are just enthralling. While I was fairly suspicious of who the guilty party was, the development, buildup, and delivery were so well executed.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

I’m so thankful these two authors collaborated. This was an amazing first book in this series. It was packed with mystery and intrigue from page one. As always it kept me guessing. All of the characters were well developed and memorable. This ends on a cliff hanger that was unforeseen and unpredictable. Looking forward to the next in the series. Great, but not overpowering faith content. If you enjoy exciting romantic suspense, this is a must read. I was blessed with a free ARC, and I’m voluntarily leaving my opinions.

I really didn’t want this book to end! What We Hide is a great story written by Colleen Coble and Rick Acker. It is about a couple who experience a tragedy and the recovery process. The same couple is also thrust into a murder and theft investigation though, which draws them even closer. Very well written and very good. I really liked it. Hope to read more by them!

Rick Acker is a new-to-me author, but I've enjoyed what I've read of Colleen Coble, particularly her Pelican Harbor series. So, I was delighted to get the surprise that this book/series is set near Pelican Harbor and that the characters from that series showed up as minor characters in this book. It was like seeing old friends again! This book visits Savannah and Hezekiah Webster, who are on the brink of divorce when Savannah finds herself a suspect for murder and she needs Hez to be her attorney. As they dig to find out who really did it, they find themselves in ever-increasing danger, and they both find that they want a second chance at love.

This book had the great markings of a romantic suspense novel. The romance was palatable because they were previously married, so there's a great deal of shared history. The suspense was top notch and full of twists and turns that kept me turning pages. There were periodic chapters written from the villain mastermind's POV, which always keeps things interesting. I was certain I knew who it was halfway through, but the authors pulled me off that trail only to bring me back around to it later, so I was second guessing everything. There was a subtle faith thread as God was referenced a few times, but it was more in the background of the story than a prominent place (though the story itself was very clean). The characters were well developed and likable as well. Though I got frustrated with their lack of communication (my frustration with most romance tropes, I admit), it was a realistic expectation based on what all was happening in their lives at the time. All in all, this was a great romantic suspense and great beginning of a series. I look forward to the rest of the series! Special thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance e-copy of this novel. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.

Mystery and suspense readers will love this new series. Set at a small university in Alabama, get set for a twisted tale of greed and murder. Will Hez and Savannah be able to save their marriage as they are thrown into solving the missing of artifacts? Or are they really missing? Lots of twists and turns with a great cliffhanger! Looking forward to the next book. Recommended!

Colleen Coble is a favorite romantic suspense author and the collaboration with Rick Acker added a great legal aspect to the story. Set on the Alabama coast in the fictious town of Pelican Harbor, this is a great setting with characters from Coble's Pelican Harbor series making an appearance. The emotional story is about a second chance at a marriage damaged by a tragic loss, a workaholic who turned to alcohol and pills to escape the pain, and a general lack of communication. Savannah, a history professor, asks her estranged attorney husband Hezakiah for help when she is suspected of murdering the university president where she teaches. But more is going on and that's obvious right away. This story has tons of secrets and surprises, twists, sabotage, suspense, and mystery that kept me engaged to the end, where we are left with a cliffhanger that makes me anxious to read the next story.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These are my thoughts.

What We Hide is a compelling beginning to the Tupelo Grove series! The fast-paced, suspenseful plot with expertly orchestrated twists kept me guessing all the way to the puzzling “to be continued” ending! The characters are skillfully crafted and realistic. I am a long time Colleen Coble fan, but Rick Acker is a new author to me. Their writing styles blend seamlessly. I look forward to reading the next book in the series. I recommend this book as a must read for contemporary romantic suspense fans
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Holy flipping!!! This is one of the best mystery/thrillers I’ve read in a long time. I thought I had it all figured out…and omw, the ending. I. Can’t. Even.

I finished it while getting a pedicure and had to tell the technician all about it, haha—for my own catharsis!

Can’t believe I have to wait until who knows when for the next one, haha! But, it’ll absolutely be worth it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Colleen Coble and Rick Acker’s new book, What We Hide, introduces a fresh setting that differs from Coble’s usual stories (and Acker is a new author to me). I imagined a thrilling story set at Tupelo University, filled with suspenseful scenes and hidden secrets. The introduction of the first person POV character was a clever move—I was completely caught off guard, despite my suspicions about their hidden secrets. I mistakenly believed the perspective belonged to another character (no spoilers, I promise).

The second chance romance in the story intrigued me the most, despite my usual preference for suspense. I really wanted Savannah and Hez to hash it out earlier.

Despite the lack of a “Hatfield and McCoy” angle with Savanah’s family and the previous owners of the college, which I anticipate will be addressed in book two, I enjoyed this story. To sum up, I’m filled with anticipation for the next installment in the series.

I received this book through Net Galley and was not required to give a positive review.

When I started this book I was prepared to not like it because the first few chapters were very hard to follow as far as who is who and what they do for the story. But it soon absolutely redeemed itself! I hated when I had to put this book down to return to real life.

Many of the whodunnit books can be so slow moving that you can start to lose interest but this was pretty fast paced and extremely enjoyable.

I received a free copy of this digital book from NetGally.

What a great start to a new suspense series! Savannah Webster is moving on with her life, a tragedy has caused her to separate from her husband, Hez. Suddenly things begin to happen, Hez, a former DA, asks for her help on a project, she finds evidence that artifacts are being stolen from the university where she works and she finds the president of the university dead. Savannah becomes a suspect in his death and she turns to Hez for help.

The authors have created well drawn out characters, a suspenseful plot and a cliff hanger ending. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader engaged. I can't wait for the next book!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Thomas Nelson, for an ARC. The review is my own.

** “God doesn’t always call us to understand, though, does he? But he always calls us to trust him.” **

Colleen Coble joins forces with Rick Acker to deliver an incredible thriller with “What We Hide,” a story of finding the truth and overcoming grief.

Savannah Webster teaches about antiquities at Tupelo Grove University, a school where her family has deep ties. Her sister Jess is even the CFO there. But when her soon-to-be-ex-husband Hez Webster shows up looking to start a Justice Center at the university, she’s not too happy.

But when deadly occurrences begin to happen at the school, she must join forces with Hez to figure out what’s happening, who is behind it, and what it has to do with the school’s Willard Treasure antiquities collection.

Coble and Acker do an incredible job of creating a fast-paced, intense plot filled with twists and turns, leaving the reader guessing until the end, including a shocking ending. They also create delectable characters, including some old friends from Coble’s Pelican Harbor series.

“What We Hide” also includes several great themes. In addition to themes of overcoming grief, finding forgiveness and seeking the truth, it also reminds us that nothing is impossible with God; power of second chances; trusting God; bringing evil to light; and masking one’s true nature (“handsome on the outside and rotten under the facade”).

Five stars out of five.

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

This team of authors have put together an exciting book of secrets. The characters are relatable and the action ebbs and flows. There will be times when you can't read fast enough, but you don't want to skip ahead for fear you'll miss something. Most everything is resolved by the end of the book, but it does leave enough loose ends to make you want the next book in the series. I thought I had it all figured out, but I was wrong and delighted that I was. Until the Epilogue. I was right after all. When is the next book coming out?

Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC for an honest revue.

This mystery was as taut and intricate as a spiderweb. It is intense and absorbing as secrets come to light that I never saw coming.

Savannah Webster and her husband, Hez, have suffered a tragic loss in their lives which has torn their marriage apart. The loss was enough to cause stress to their marriage. Then Hez drowned his sorrows in a bottle, which caused even further stress. Savannah decided to start fresh as a professor at Tupelo Grove University. She is living day to day. Hez arrives to ask for her forgiveness and let her know that he is clean and is a new man. She doubts his sincerity. Now he has thrown her off kilter again. However, when she is under suspicion for the murder of the university president, she knows she will need a good attorney. She knows Hez is the best. She finds herself in need of his legal services. They will have to put aside their personal needs in order to work through this process.

This was a superb mystery that just continued to build the further I got into the book. I felt such empathy for both Savannah and Hez. You could feel the love they had for one another, but the tragedy in their past seemed insurmountable. Forgiveness was a key component in this plot.

This book was jam packed with suspense and intrigue at every turn. Secrets abound in this book right up to the cliff hanger which will leave you speechless and wanting more! This was a wonderful start to a new series, and the pairing of these two authors was perfect.

Thank you to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

What We Hide by Colleen Coble; Rick Acker did not disappoint!
I enjoyed this well written, suspenseful story!
There is lots of action and you are drawn into the story from the beginning.
The pace is quick and the characters are believable.
I cannot wait for the next book.

Thank You NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for your generosity and gifting me a copy of this amazing eARC!

The first book in a new series is always exciting and this book lived up to the hype about it. With a complex plot and compelling, believable characters, this novel engaged me from the beginning and held me captivated until the end. Savannah Webster is a professor seeking tenure at Tupelo Grove University, but she is also a young woman with a past that injured her deeply and she is still having difficulty facing divorce from Hezekiah. The two of them had a meltdown after a tragedy in their family, and Hez turned to alcohol while Savannah turned away from him and the memories he evoked. Now that she is going to be charged with murder, she seeks out the help of Hez, one of the best lawyers she knows. The two of them get into some really tough and twisted situations as they try to find out who is selling artifacts and who actually committed the murder. Their investigation leads to danger as well as the possibility of restoring a relationship between the two of them. This is a well-written novel with a tight plot that crackles with tension and that moves along at a good pace. I enjoyed getting to know the characters who were portrayed realistically with believable flaws and fascinating, rich personalities. Reading this novel was a pleasure and I am looking forward to the next book in the series and getting to know more about the intriguing town of Tupelo Grove.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

What We Hide is the first book in A Tupelo Grove Novel series by Colleen Coble and Rick Acker. This is a fast paced story that is filled with mystery and suspense. This story is well written and easy to imagine. I was pulled in with the mystery of what was happening at the University as well as the struggles Savannah and Hez have endured following the loss of their daughter. After turning Hez away and filing for divorce, Savannah finds herself suspected of murder and she turns to him to help her.

This is such an enjoyable story to read. It is filled with so much action and twists and turns that it keep me reading it just to find out what would happen next. I also found it interesting to see how Savannah and her sister both work at the University formed by their family in different ways. I was caught totally off guard as to what was happening, why and by whom.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

Thank you NetGalley and publisher for this ARC publication for an honest review.

I loved this book! Savannah and Hez both were broken by a shared tragedy. Their marriage crumbled under the depth of grief as Hez turned to the bottle. Now Hez wants a second chance as he has finally got his life together...just as Savannah is finally ready to let the marriage and her pain go. Hez must win back her trust and show her he is a changed man even as Savannah fights against the softening of her heart. Oh, the heartbreak of these two characters who despite it all still love each other. This was more than a second chance romance. There is murder and mystery galore as Savannah turns to Hez to get her out of legal trouble as she is accused of murder. Twists and turns throughout! My only complaint is now I have to wait for book two...sigh.

5 stars

Regret can be a mean taskmaster and the worst is, it can keep you stuck in the past. Will Hez and Savannah be able to overcome a terrible heartbreaking regret to get to hope, healing and a future? I love how the characters grow even while struggling with their faith. This is a gripping emotional story filled with intrigue and suspense? And believe me, the bad guy will keep you guessing! Colleen Coble and Rick Acker did an excellent job in making me forget my to-do-list as I wanted to see what's going to happen next!

What We Hide is the first book in the Tupelo Grove series by Colleen Coble and Rick Archer. Tupelo Grove University has a long and checkered history dating back to carpetbagger days and the Willard family. Then, the Legare family came upon the scene and added to the shady past. But Legare’s are still involved in the school with CFO Jessica Legare and her sister History professor Savannah Webster. As a mystery unfolds around the university which includes theft of artifacts, embezzlement, and murder, Savannah’s almost ex-husband, seasoned investigative defense attorney Hezekiah Webster comes to her aid to solve the many issues that spring up as quickly as they are solved.

This is only the first of a new series and it has so many unexpected twists, red herrings, and buried nuggets it leaves the reader anxious for more. While there is a satisfying conclusion, the epilogue sets up a diabolical foreshadowing of what is to come and I cannot wait to see what comes next! I very much enjoyed this book and wholeheartedly recommend it!

I have been giddily eager for What We Hide ever since I first heard about it. Two of my fave suspense authors – Colleen Coble AND Rick Acker?!? Sign me up! I’ve been very impatiently waiting for a new Rick Acker book anyway… and then to find out he’s coauthoring it with Colleen Coble?!? Ahhhhhhhh!! I knew I was in for a great read but oh my goodness, y’all… the TWISTS! There were a couple I suspected but wasn’t sure about … and then a couple I did not see coming at all. Wow. I’m still reeling from one of them that had my jaw dropping in stunned amazement and elation (over what promises to be an exceptional second book) – like that Chris Pratt gif from Parks and Rec.

Savannah and Hez Webster are an estranged couple still dealing with the fallout of a heartbreaking tragedy that drove a wedge in their marriage and sent Hez spiraling into addiction. The last thing Savannah expects is for Hez to show up, clean and sober and asking for a second chance… at least that’s the last thing she expects until she finds a dead body and becomes a suspect for the murder. Fortunately Hez happens to be a fabulous attorney and Savannah is a determined amateur sleuth, and I enjoyed watching them work together to figure out who is behind the murder and why, especially because it provides space for some sweetly romantic sparks to rekindle and allows Hez to show Savannah that he’s really changed. It’s also soon clear that there is much more than murder going on at Savannah’s beloved Tupelo Grove University, and I loved digging deeper into these layers that surprised me more than once. (Cue the Chris Pratt gif again)

Bottom Line: What We Hide by Colleen Coble & Rick Acker is stellar in every way. The seamless writing, the characters, the faith notes (subtle but meaningful), the timing of plot reveals, the twists, the three different narrative perspectives (Savannah, Hez, and a shadowy mastermind), even the cameos by characters from some of the authors’ solo novels/series. All of it comes together to create this ideal blend of mystery, suspense, romance, courtroom drama, and a little psychological thriller too, while also giving us relatable and multidimensional characters we can stay invested in. I cannot wait for book two, especially after the way this book ends. Wow! I’m still processing! This is a dynamic author pairing, and I hope there are many more collaborations to come.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

What We Hide was so so good! I usually enjoy Colleen Coble books but she really hit this one out of the ballpark when writing with Rick Acker! The mystery behind it was just great. I listened to it in one day and now I can't wait for the next in this series!

I read and listened along to the audio book. Karen Peakes is a wonderful narrator who did amazing voices for everyone.

Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own.

Publication date: 2 July 2024

Have you started any new series (book, TV, or movie) that you are enjoying lately? What We Hide is a new series (Tupelo Grove) by two new to me authors, Colleen Coble and Rick Acker. I really enjoyed this book, and I can’t wait for the rest of the series.

Savannah Webster is a history professor at Tupelo Grove University. Her roots stretch far back at the university as her family helped to start it a century ago. She has moved forward with her life after a tragedy destroyed her family a couple of years before. Her estranged husband, Hex arrives, hoping for a second chance. After Savannah unwittingly becomes a prime suspect in a murder case, she turns to Hex to assist her as her lawyer. Why are people being murdered at Tupelo Grove University and what does it have to do with the “Willard Treasure,” pre-Columbian artifacts that are owned by the University?

My thoughts on this book:
• I enjoyed the characters, especially Savannah and Hez. The book explored their past relationship, the tragedy of losing their daughter, and mistakes that were made along the way. There is still love there, will they find their way back to each other?

• Hez’s rescue dog Cody was a hoot and a great character himself.

• The novel explored the grief of losing a child. I felt like my heart was ripped out when the novel described what happened to Savannah and Hez’s daughter, Ella.

• It also explored addiction. After Ella’s death, Hez turned to alcohol, pills, and work to mask his pain. He has since been in recovery and is working on staying clean.

• I love romantic suspense and this novel was a great example of it. I really enjoyed the mystery. It felt like Savannah and Hez were in peril and that the chemistry between them was palpable.

• I was intrigued that the murder victims have a slip of paper with a Ray Bradbury book title on it found near them. As Savannah has Ray Bradbury novels in her office, suspicion turns on her.

• The novel had a theme of forgiveness. “But it was all white noise to him, empty phrases he’d heard a thousand times growing up. How exactly was he supposed to ‘accept God’s forgiveness,’ ‘experience healing grace,’ and so on? None of those platitudes would let him go back and undo that terrible day.”

• This book was a page turner that kept me reading far too late into the night.

• The story was told through three different viewpoints: Savannah, Hex, and an unnamed third person involved in the crime which kept the plot moving quickly.

• The ending was a great cliffhanger, and I can’t wait for the next book in the series!

Overall, What We Hide by Colleen Coble and Rick Aker is a great new romantic suspense novel that kept me on the edge of my seat. Book two cannot come fast enough!

I LOVED THIS BOOK! I am not sure what else I can say, Coble and Acker make a spectacular team as they weave together this story of ancietn artifacts and murder…add a romance that needs a second chance and the book is as well rounded as it can get. You will be hooked from the beginning as you get to know Savannah Webster and her husband Hez. What We Hide has it all, from courtrooms to the shadows of a decaying university, it does not take long before you see the secrets emerging and the unexpected twists that keep you guessing until the very end!

"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
I was engaged for the get go. There are many layers to this story. I was particularly invested with pre-trial scenes. I loved that the main characters were married and was rooting for them to become reunited.

There were many plot endings to be wrapped up with this book. And all were done nicely, except for one. Which leaves me to expect a sequel. The ending came as a shock.

This was a book that I looked forward to reading and was sad to see it end. It was like a break-up for me. I had a hard time letting go and was not ready to invest in another story or another set of characters.

This was my first Colleen Coble book and I loved it. Definitely a page turner that kept me guessing - and the cliffhanger at the end has me waiting anxiously for the next book. I would recommend this book for anyone looking for a mystery with twists and turns throughout the book.

I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

What We Hide is the first book in the Tupelo Grove series by Colleen Coble and Rick Acker. University professor Savannah Webster has to reach out to her estranged husband and lawyer, Hez, when she is accused of murder and needs a defense attorney. The secret sale of the university's pre-Columbian artifacts might be connected to the murder, and it will be up to the two of them to prove Savannah's innocence and find out who is behind these crimes. Fans will also get to revisit characters from Coble's Pelican Harbor series. and is a masterful start to a new legal thriller series. When is book #2 coming out?

A great start to the series:
This was a fabulous book and although it started off a little slowly, things soon heated up and the second half of the book was especially full of action and suspense. I particularly enjoyed the mystery aspects of this book and was curious to see how it would all play out. There were also enough twists and turns to keep things interesting and me guessing throughout. Whilst it doesn't end with a cliffhanger, the epilogue does reveal further mystery and I look forward to reading the rest of the series to find out what is going to happen. I am also anxious to find out whether Savannah and Hez are able to get their second chance at love and marriage.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

I'm a huge fan of Colleen Coble's books, so when I learned about What We Hide, which she co-authored with Rick Acker, I knew I was going to have to read it. Rick Acker is a new-to-me author, and now I can't wait to read more of his books. I love that there was romantic suspense with legal/courtroom suspense added in.

Savannah and Hez have been separated and are headed for divorce, though Hez would love to be able to get back together with Savannah and show her that he is a changed man. Savannah would prefer to have nothing to do with him, that is until she suddenly finds herself the main suspect in a murder that occurred on the college campus where she works. The college her ancestors helped found.

The reader knows early on that there is smuggling of ancient artifacts taking place, but the mystery revolves around who is actually doing the smuggling, what exactly is being smuggled, and how is the murder related. As the story progresses, there are more mysteries and lots of suspense and twists, more deaths, and another suspect added into the mix.

Savannah and Hez do end up finding themselves working together to try to solve this mystery and find the killer and clear those who have come under suspicion. But more secrets and twists keep popping up and we can't be sure who can be trusted.

I had actually suspected the person who ends up being the murderer early on. But with all the twists, I figured maybe I was wrong. However, the authors throw in a final twist at the end along with a cliff hanger that makes me desperate to read the sequel. Which I hope isn't too long in the coming.

One thing that frustrated me was that Savannah and Hez weren't communicating with each other when it came to their relationship. They kept assuming. It's like, just sit down and talk it out please! I understand with the tragedy they shared from their past that there were things that they had to work through. I was thinking they would benefit from some biblical marriage counseling.

All in all, I loved this book and highly recommend it.

I received an e-copy of this book through NetGalley and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.

The story jumps right in with a bang, or a murder. A legal thriller that doesn't disappoint with twists, misinformation, and danger waiting to be unleashed. As the story unfolds the only thing you know is that you can't trust anything you know. Artifacts are going missing, bodies are piling up as quickly as the unanswered questions, and an innocent woman is caught in the crosshairs. Now she has to depend on her soon to be ex husband, the smartest legal mind she knows. The past is a place best left alone, full of heartache and memories that burn. But as Savannah and Hez work closely together to prove her innocence and find out what is really going on, those memories start to take on a happy glow and the future starts to look different. But only if they can find out the truth, before a killer turns the danger on them as well.
This new writing dual is a slamdunk! With the research, expertise, and storytelling acumen Colleen Coble and Rick Ackerman bring to the table each twist changes the way the reader looks at the story and what is happening. You are kept on the edge of your seat trying to keep up with the new information flooding in to solve. And just when you think you have it all figured out, the final twist is another unexpected addition that makes me excited for the next book in this series! The characters feel so real, their emotions and struggles invite the reader in to share the load and learn with them. To see lives restructured and made whole, through lots of hard work just like in real life. I loved every minute of this read and can't recommend it enough. I am greatly looking forward to more collaborations by these two authors. I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.