I receive free electronic advanced reader copies of these books through an arrangement between the publishers and NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion on NetGalley’s website. I only review books on my blog that I really love.
One of my favorite authors introduces a new team of sleuths in this inspirational suspense title.

Looking for a New Team of Sleuths in Inspirational Suspense?
If you’re a fan of inspirational suspense titles, you probably wonder the same thing I do. How can characters withstand so much trauma? I know, fictional characters aren’t real. But still. The inspirational part of the suspense explains how the characters’ relationships with God help them in all aspects of their lives. Even Christians experience PTSD and trauma. And even Christians need professional help to deal with things like depression, PTSD, and other mental illnesses.
The female protagonist in this new team of sleuths battles with PTSD to the point that she must quit her job as a behavioral analyst for the FBI. She decides to put her observational skills to use in a lower-stress environment and opens a private investigation office with her best friend. They hope the change of pace will give her time to heal from her trauma.
Cold Pursuit (Ryland and St. Clair, Book 1)
By Nancy Mehl, Bethany House Publishers, July 11, 2023, 336 pages.
Former FBI Behavioral Analysts River Ryland and Tony St. Clair move to St. Louis, Missouri, to open their own private investigative firm. After narrowly escaping the notorious serial killer, the Strangler, River and Tony need time to recover from their physical and psychological wounds.
River moves in with her mother, who has recently received an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Between the stress of dealing with her mother and PTSD from her near-death experience, River wonders if she’ll ever find peace. Without her best friend and partner, Tony, River knows she’d sink and never recover.
Their first client has a four-year-old case with few clues. A grieving mother’s teenage son went missing from a local concert. Even though they’ll probably never bill the client, River and Tony want to help the her find closure.
They must use all their skills to tease out clues from witnesses of this cold case. All along, the suspect is closer than they ever imagined. When they start feeling safe from the Strangler, they discover he has an understudy. One who might lurk nearby and seek revenge at any moment.
What I Liked About This Book
Mehl provides a primer for schizophrenia and synesthesia and shows the importance of an early support network for those with neurodiverse conditions. Failing to provide support, education, and understanding can turn out deadly. All too often, authors paint neurodiverse characters as two-dimensional. I enjoyed Mehl’s sensitive handling of minor characters with schizophrenia and Alzheimer’s.
The first in a new series, Cold Pursuit, introduces two memorable protagonists whose teasing banter provides comic relief for the tension of this fast-paced inspirational suspense novel.
Fans of Colleen Coble, Elizabeth Goddard, Natalie Walters, and Kelly Irvin will enjoy this book. Do YOU have a favorite Inspirational Suspense author?

Inspire Me Monday Link-Up
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I was exhausted in just reading the review Anita, it sounds like far too much suspense for me. 😉
I like novels with less stress & tension.
Blessings, Jennifer
Tea With Jennifer recently posted…Pilgrims on a Pilgrimage
Anita, I’m always looking for book recommendations. Thank you bunches for hosting this amazing group.
(Coming to you today from my new website)