Trinity Investigative Team, Book 1
Written by Jodie Bailey
Publication Date: 11.26.24
Published by: Love Inspired Suspense | Harlequin
Genre: Christian Contemporary Fiction, Christian Mystery & Suspense
4 Stars!
This book gripped me from the first page, not just with suspense but with raw, messy emotion. Taken at Christmas is a perfect blend of thriller and heart, wrapped up in the kind of tense, thrilling, Christmas chaos that leaves you breathless. The thing is, Mia Galloway isn’t just dealing with someone wanting to harm her daughter, Ruthie—she’s fighting a silent battle inside her own head. The panic attacks she struggles with, lingering long after her husband's death, add a dimension to this story that’s rarely seen in thrillers. It’s not just about the danger outside—it’s about the fight to keep going, to keep functioning, even when your own mind feels like an enemy.
Mia’s not your typical damsel in distress. Sure, she’s tough—ex-soldier, former deputy—but it’s the way she tries to hold herself together despite the panic that truly shows her strength. And then there’s Hayden, her late husband’s best friend, who’s been a constant in Mia and Ruthie’s life. He’s steady, reliable—but there’s something else there, something more that neither of them is willing to admit, not yet. Their chemistry is just the right mix of tension and tenderness, especially as they navigate the emotional rubble of their shared past. It’s a tricky dance, balancing grief and new feelings, but Hayden is the rock Mia needs in the chaos of it all.
I loved how Bailey doesn’t shy away from the psychological weight Mia carries. The panic attacks weren’t just a plot device—they were part of who Mia was, influencing her decisions, her relationships, and ultimately her ability to protect Ruthie. Watching her push through those moments of fear was inspiring. And Hayden’s role in all of this? He protects them and he becomes Mia’s safe space, even when the world outside is trying to tear everything apart.
This story is about courage in the face of fear, faith in the middle of doubt, and healing in the midst of heartbreak. It’s about choosing to keep fighting for the things that matter, even when you don’t know how you’ll make it through. Jodie Bailey has a knack for crafting characters you can't help but invest in, and with Taken at Christmas, she introduces a heroine who instantly earns your support.
If you’re into stories that dig deep into the psychological and emotional side of suspense, Taken at Christmas will take you on a ride. It is a Christmas suspense story— a journey of strength, redemption, and the kind of love that holds on when everything else is falling apart. Grab your copy—you won’t be disappointed.
I received a digital ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
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