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Cold Case Target: A Thrilling Romantic Suspense Book
Caught in a serial killer’s deadly game
with nowhere to turn…
Interrupting an attempted murder—and leaving with incriminating evidence—makes Sissy Spencer a serial killer’s next target. With a flash drive in her possession containing disturbing proof of multiple murders, Sissy has no choice but to trust her ex-boyfriend, private investigator Beau Brighton, to keep her safe. But can they unravel the clues and track down a killer…before he catches them first?
From Love Inspired Courage. Danger. Faith.
Texas Crime Scene Cleaners
Book 1: Crime Scene Conspiracy
Book 2: Cold Case Target
with nowhere to turn…
Interrupting an attempted murder—and leaving with incriminating evidence—makes Sissy Spencer a serial killer’s next target. With a flash drive in her possession containing disturbing proof of multiple murders, Sissy has no choice but to trust her ex-boyfriend, private investigator Beau Brighton, to keep her safe. But can they unravel the clues and track down a killer…before he catches them first?
From Love Inspired Courage. Danger. Faith.
Texas Crime Scene Cleaners
Book 1: Crime Scene Conspiracy
Book 2: Cold Case Target
208 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published March 26, 2024
25 people are currently reading
121 people want to read
About the author
Jessica R. Patch
108 books1,068 followersJessica R. Patch is a New York Times and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of more than thirty novels. Known for her pulse-pounding plots, emotionally charged characters, and signature twists, Jessica's stories explore themes of justice, resilience, and the unshakable power of hope.
Whether weaving inspirational stories of danger edged with romance or crafting chilling thrillers that probe the shadows of the human heart, Jessica delivers fiction that thrills while shining light in the darkest places.
She makes her home in Northwest Mississippi, where she enjoys life with her family, a good cup of tea, and dreaming up her next edge-of-your-seat story usually over tacos and queso.
Sign up for her newsletter "Patched In" at www.jessicarpatch.com. Jessica is represented by Rachel Kent of Books & Such Literary Management.
Whether weaving inspirational stories of danger edged with romance or crafting chilling thrillers that probe the shadows of the human heart, Jessica delivers fiction that thrills while shining light in the darkest places.
She makes her home in Northwest Mississippi, where she enjoys life with her family, a good cup of tea, and dreaming up her next edge-of-your-seat story usually over tacos and queso.
Sign up for her newsletter "Patched In" at www.jessicarpatch.com. Jessica is represented by Rachel Kent of Books & Such Literary Management.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
March 27, 2024
Sissy Spencer is the ‘grief counseling’ portion of Spencer Aftermath Recovery and Grief Counseling Services, coming alongside the crime scene cleanup work her brothers do to offer support to those affected. I loved Sissy’s engaging and compassionate personality, as well as how her own profound loss allows her to be empathetic in ways that others can’t. Her relationship with her brothers is written with the perfect blend of humor, sass, and adoration, and I would love to hang out with all of them in person, if such a thing was possible with fictional characters.
We first met rich playboy Beau Brighton in Crime Scene Conspiracy, and he was more of a suspect than a hero for the majority of that book. But now Cold Case Target lets us get to know Beau Brighton in a different light – as a new creation in Christ. I personally love ‘redeemed rogue’ heroes, and Beau is a new fave. He still has the charm that got him all the ladies in his past, but it’s tempered now with respect and maturity… and patiently focused on one woman in particular. Patient, because Sissy is still grieving and because they have a tumultuous history full of regrets. I completely enjoyed the opportunities that his forced proximity to Sissy – and the danger she is in – provided him to gently test the waters for a second chance with her. And oh boy, all his inherent swooniness is made even swoonier when he lets his heart show.
The suspense is full of high-stakes danger and heart-in-your-throat action that only allows the characters – and readers – a little time to relax, and I loved every minute! The deeper the author took us into this intricate labyrinth of murder and obsession, the less I could tear my attention away. I’m pretty sure anyone watching me read Cold Case Target would have even seen my mouth drop open a couple of times as the plot took some masterful turns that I wasn’t expecting and absolutely relished. Just when I thought I knew who was responsible or why, the author flipped the script once again and kept me hanging on every word to see how it would all play out.
Bottom Line: Cold Case Target by Jessica R. Patch delivers pulse-racing suspense, sweet romance, and meaningful faith themes in a story that simultaneously entertains and inspires. Readers will be deeply invested in Beau and Sissy, not only in their race to stay alive and stop the culprit from killing again but also in their second chance romance and their healing hearts. Patch deftly explores grief and forgiveness with a tender touch, and without detracting from the romantic suspense threads or weighing down the story. The Spencer family dynamic is once again delightful, and I look forward to more time spent with these charming and layered characters as the series continues.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
We first met rich playboy Beau Brighton in Crime Scene Conspiracy, and he was more of a suspect than a hero for the majority of that book. But now Cold Case Target lets us get to know Beau Brighton in a different light – as a new creation in Christ. I personally love ‘redeemed rogue’ heroes, and Beau is a new fave. He still has the charm that got him all the ladies in his past, but it’s tempered now with respect and maturity… and patiently focused on one woman in particular. Patient, because Sissy is still grieving and because they have a tumultuous history full of regrets. I completely enjoyed the opportunities that his forced proximity to Sissy – and the danger she is in – provided him to gently test the waters for a second chance with her. And oh boy, all his inherent swooniness is made even swoonier when he lets his heart show.
The suspense is full of high-stakes danger and heart-in-your-throat action that only allows the characters – and readers – a little time to relax, and I loved every minute! The deeper the author took us into this intricate labyrinth of murder and obsession, the less I could tear my attention away. I’m pretty sure anyone watching me read Cold Case Target would have even seen my mouth drop open a couple of times as the plot took some masterful turns that I wasn’t expecting and absolutely relished. Just when I thought I knew who was responsible or why, the author flipped the script once again and kept me hanging on every word to see how it would all play out.
Bottom Line: Cold Case Target by Jessica R. Patch delivers pulse-racing suspense, sweet romance, and meaningful faith themes in a story that simultaneously entertains and inspires. Readers will be deeply invested in Beau and Sissy, not only in their race to stay alive and stop the culprit from killing again but also in their second chance romance and their healing hearts. Patch deftly explores grief and forgiveness with a tender touch, and without detracting from the romantic suspense threads or weighing down the story. The Spencer family dynamic is once again delightful, and I look forward to more time spent with these charming and layered characters as the series continues.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
November 8, 2024
Love the cast of characters in this series. The number of murder attempts on the two main characters stretched plausibility. Look forward to the next in the series.
March 26, 2024
Sissy Spencer is a believable heroine with a real problem; she has a serial killer determined to add her to the list of successes. Enter Beau Brighton, a man rich from inheritance but poor on relationships. He has joined the private investigative services of Sissy’s brothers and is tasked with keeping Sissy safe. The danger comes from all directions and at unexpected times, so the book kept up a fast pace throughout. There are tons of red herrings and fake trails and I really, really liked the big reveal of who the killer was and the motives behind all of the deaths. The characters were dynamic and realistic with flaws that made them earn sympathy from me as I read all of the tragedy that they had endured. This book is part of a series but can easily be read and enjoyed as a standalone. With elements of faith interspersed within the story, this is a clean read that had my mind spinning and my pulse pounding.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and all of the 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.”
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and all of the 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.”
April 18, 2024
Really good read. Enjoyed story and characters.
September 2, 2024
Not a bad romantic suspense. It was a bit predictable, but still enjoyed it.
March 22, 2024
Come enjoy this thrill ride full of twists and turns and edge of your seat suspense. Jessica Patch has done it once again with this must read.
Sissy Spencer has a target on her back, and she is going to need the help of Beau Brighton to help her. Can she trust him after his ugly betrayal? Who do you trust? As Sissy looks at all her acquaintances and ask many questions, she is left wondering who is the guilty culprit. Will she be able to live to find the killer?
This book is in a series, but could definitely be read as a stand alone. Lovers of romantic suspense need to run to pick up your book. You will never go wrong picking up a Jessica Patch book. WARNING: You will become addicted!
I was given an ARC of this book and these are all my opinions.
Sissy Spencer has a target on her back, and she is going to need the help of Beau Brighton to help her. Can she trust him after his ugly betrayal? Who do you trust? As Sissy looks at all her acquaintances and ask many questions, she is left wondering who is the guilty culprit. Will she be able to live to find the killer?
This book is in a series, but could definitely be read as a stand alone. Lovers of romantic suspense need to run to pick up your book. You will never go wrong picking up a Jessica Patch book. WARNING: You will become addicted!
I was given an ARC of this book and these are all my opinions.
November 10, 2024
Quick easy enjoyable read
March 27, 2024
Cold Case Target by Jessica R. Patch
(Texas Crime Scene Cleaners Book 2)
Book 2 of 2: Texas Crime Scene Cleaners
Caught in a serial killer’s deadly game
with nowhere to turn…
Interrupting an attempted murder—and leaving with incriminating evidence—makes Sissy Spencer a serial killer’s next target. With a flash drive in her possession containing disturbing proof of multiple murders, Sissy has no choice but to trust her ex-boyfriend, private investigator Beau Brighton, to keep her safe. But can they unravel the clues and track down a killer…before he catches them first?
This is Sissy Spencer and Beau Brighton's story.
He wasn’t surprised she’d come to see her friend in critical condition but that she’d come knowing Beau was here. Sissy hadn’t been within five feet of him since the summer before she left for college.
Sissy Wells, who was still called Sissy Spencer in these parts, stood in shock at the severity of the doctor’s news. Coma. Not enough oxygen to the brain. Possible brain damage. Sissy had been friends with Coco since they were toddlers. Coco had mentioned to her that she’d felt watched at times, but severe loss, like a fiancé’s death, could often trigger all sorts of psychiatric disorders.
But who would want to kill her? Had it been random or was it personal? These were the things her brothers and Beau had been discussing before the doctor made his appearance.
Beau Brighton had finally solved his first case. And not one to sneeze at either. Fender Industries’ CFO had been embezzling millions, and Beau had found the money trail earlier today. An arrest had been made, and bringing a jerk like Claude Morrison to justice had felt amazing. Maybe he was cut out for private investigating, even if the Texas media and his father thought it was yet another one of his grand adventures to pacify time.
Let them talk.
He’d helped a company. Been on the good guys’ side for once.
I recommend this book.
Cold Case Target by Jessica Osborn Patch is a 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Jessica Osborn Patch.
From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.
Texas Crime Scene Cleaners
Book 1: Crime Scene Conspiracy
Book 2: Cold Case Target
(Texas Crime Scene Cleaners Book 2)
Book 2 of 2: Texas Crime Scene Cleaners
Caught in a serial killer’s deadly game
with nowhere to turn…
Interrupting an attempted murder—and leaving with incriminating evidence—makes Sissy Spencer a serial killer’s next target. With a flash drive in her possession containing disturbing proof of multiple murders, Sissy has no choice but to trust her ex-boyfriend, private investigator Beau Brighton, to keep her safe. But can they unravel the clues and track down a killer…before he catches them first?
This is Sissy Spencer and Beau Brighton's story.
He wasn’t surprised she’d come to see her friend in critical condition but that she’d come knowing Beau was here. Sissy hadn’t been within five feet of him since the summer before she left for college.
Sissy Wells, who was still called Sissy Spencer in these parts, stood in shock at the severity of the doctor’s news. Coma. Not enough oxygen to the brain. Possible brain damage. Sissy had been friends with Coco since they were toddlers. Coco had mentioned to her that she’d felt watched at times, but severe loss, like a fiancé’s death, could often trigger all sorts of psychiatric disorders.
But who would want to kill her? Had it been random or was it personal? These were the things her brothers and Beau had been discussing before the doctor made his appearance.
Beau Brighton had finally solved his first case. And not one to sneeze at either. Fender Industries’ CFO had been embezzling millions, and Beau had found the money trail earlier today. An arrest had been made, and bringing a jerk like Claude Morrison to justice had felt amazing. Maybe he was cut out for private investigating, even if the Texas media and his father thought it was yet another one of his grand adventures to pacify time.
Let them talk.
He’d helped a company. Been on the good guys’ side for once.
I recommend this book.
Cold Case Target by Jessica Osborn Patch is a 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Jessica Osborn Patch.
From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.
Texas Crime Scene Cleaners
Book 1: Crime Scene Conspiracy
Book 2: Cold Case Target
April 9, 2024
Whoa…emotional overload and hair-raising angst…this must be a Jessica R. Patch romantic suspense novel! Be prepared for a reading (or in my case, listening) marathon, ’cause you’ll become so absorbed in the story you won’t want to break away until everything is resolved. And — phew — what a journey to that happily every after!
A second chance romance filled with trepidation. Sissy does not want anything to do with Beau Brighton. Period. But her brother has hired the man on as a private investigator for the family business and with a serial killer stalking her, no one is listening to Sissy’s protestations.
What she doesn’t understand is that Beau is a changed man. Transformed by faith and eager to make amends. These two clash and battle (well, that’s mostly Sissy) even as sparks fly and yearnings for ‘what might have been’ start to take hold. Only, these two have backstories that will break a sensitive reader’s heart so be prepared for some emotional turmoil. Love the honesty of their romance. It’s raw and real and punctuated with highs and lows. Hurt feelings. Unforgiveness. So many barriers stand between theses two and their second chance. Makes for the kind of read you feel your way through. Outstanding and, eventually, triumphant.
The suspense is the edge-of-your-seat, whiplash-inducing kind that’s impossible to put down. And, are we surprised (?), features a serial killer. Tense and spine tingling and that ending…..Wow, just…WOW!
This second book in the Texas Crimes Scene Cleaners series reads well as a standalone but I love the camaraderie among the Spencer siblings and the glimpse we are given into the lives of future series heroes and heroines. Can’t wait for book three to come out!
I enjoyed listening to the audible edition of this book and can’t gush enough over how excited I am that more and more Love Inspired Suspense novels are being made available in this format! Woot! Makes me one happy listener.
https://kavsbestreads.ca/2024/04/09/c...
A second chance romance filled with trepidation. Sissy does not want anything to do with Beau Brighton. Period. But her brother has hired the man on as a private investigator for the family business and with a serial killer stalking her, no one is listening to Sissy’s protestations.
What she doesn’t understand is that Beau is a changed man. Transformed by faith and eager to make amends. These two clash and battle (well, that’s mostly Sissy) even as sparks fly and yearnings for ‘what might have been’ start to take hold. Only, these two have backstories that will break a sensitive reader’s heart so be prepared for some emotional turmoil. Love the honesty of their romance. It’s raw and real and punctuated with highs and lows. Hurt feelings. Unforgiveness. So many barriers stand between theses two and their second chance. Makes for the kind of read you feel your way through. Outstanding and, eventually, triumphant.
The suspense is the edge-of-your-seat, whiplash-inducing kind that’s impossible to put down. And, are we surprised (?), features a serial killer. Tense and spine tingling and that ending…..Wow, just…WOW!
This second book in the Texas Crimes Scene Cleaners series reads well as a standalone but I love the camaraderie among the Spencer siblings and the glimpse we are given into the lives of future series heroes and heroines. Can’t wait for book three to come out!
I enjoyed listening to the audible edition of this book and can’t gush enough over how excited I am that more and more Love Inspired Suspense novels are being made available in this format! Woot! Makes me one happy listener.
https://kavsbestreads.ca/2024/04/09/c...
February 15, 2024
I have no problem giving this action-packed, suspense-filled book five stars. Thriller does not even begin to describe this mystery. Sissy Spencer is cleaning up a crime scene and picks up a flash drive, which she then puts in her pocket. She has no idea that she has just put a target on her back.
Sissy Spencer is a crime scene cleaner who has suffered a tragic loss in her life. The darkness of her grief has overwhelmed her at times. Her head knows she needs to move forward, but her heart will not allow her.
Beau Brighton is the town's rich son who broke Sissy's heart many years ago, and in doing so, he destroyed a lifelong friendship. Beau has struggled with being deemed a failure by an overbearing father and has sought approval in everything while excelling at nothing. However, Beau is a new man now after finding faith. He is determined to prove to Sissy that he is a changed man, and he will protect her at all costs. As they work together to try and track down a wicked and evil killer who preys on those who are happy as well as those who are grieving, they realize they have their work cut out for them. There were some extremely tense and dangerous moments in this book. The rabbit holes you are led down by the author will make you think you have your man, only to realize that this was another red herring, will give you a good case of whiplash. I love a good twisty mystery, and this one definitely fits the bill.
This is more than a mystery/thriller. It is a story of forgiveness, restoration of relationships and learning to get past grief all while leaning on a steadfast faith. Hang on tight for a wild ride, but just know the satisfying ending will tie everything up with a nice, neat, albeit shocking, bow.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Sissy Spencer is a crime scene cleaner who has suffered a tragic loss in her life. The darkness of her grief has overwhelmed her at times. Her head knows she needs to move forward, but her heart will not allow her.
Beau Brighton is the town's rich son who broke Sissy's heart many years ago, and in doing so, he destroyed a lifelong friendship. Beau has struggled with being deemed a failure by an overbearing father and has sought approval in everything while excelling at nothing. However, Beau is a new man now after finding faith. He is determined to prove to Sissy that he is a changed man, and he will protect her at all costs. As they work together to try and track down a wicked and evil killer who preys on those who are happy as well as those who are grieving, they realize they have their work cut out for them. There were some extremely tense and dangerous moments in this book. The rabbit holes you are led down by the author will make you think you have your man, only to realize that this was another red herring, will give you a good case of whiplash. I love a good twisty mystery, and this one definitely fits the bill.
This is more than a mystery/thriller. It is a story of forgiveness, restoration of relationships and learning to get past grief all while leaning on a steadfast faith. Hang on tight for a wild ride, but just know the satisfying ending will tie everything up with a nice, neat, albeit shocking, bow.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 3, 2024
Cold Case Target is book two in the Texas Crime Scene Cleaners series that is written by Jessica R. Patch. They can be read as stand alone stories. Sissy Spencer is the ‘grief counseling’ portion of Spencer Aftermath Recovery. A business that she runs with her very over protective brothers. She is a widow and tries to use her experiences to empathize with her clients. Beau Brighton comes from fortune. He was introduced in a previous story, Crime Scene Conspiracy. It was good to get his story. He may come from money, but one of the things he has never gotten was the approval of his father.
He does not want to go into the family business, and he is grateful for a second chance with his friend's Private Investigator Business, Second Chances. He returns back to his home to find his sister, Coco attacked and on the brink of death. Coco has gone through a lot, her fiancé drowned and she was just starting to heal. Beau is beside himself trying to figure out who would hurt her. Sissy is one of Coco's friends, and goes to her home to clean the mess up when she is suddenly attacked. Thankfully Beau comes in time.
Sissy and Beau have a history. Beau broke her heart many years ago - so when he is attached to her side 24/7, he is the last person she would like to have around. They suddenly need to come to terms with their past and move forward and try and figure out who is trying to kill Sissy. What they don't count on is being met with danger at every turn, and getting caught up in cold cases.
This author is the master of suspense. Just when you think you have it figured out, boom, another avenue presents itself. I love the Spencer family and really enjoyed this book.
May 20, 2024
My review today is on the Love Inspired Suspense, Cold Case Target. This is book two in the series A Texas Crime Scene Cleaners Novel. I'm a big fan of Jessica's work so I was very happy to receive this book in the mail. The story is well-written, action-packed, and full of faith. You are going to love it.
After her best friend was attacked and laying in a coma at the hospital Sissy Spencer decides she is going to clean the crime scene. She doesn't clean with her brothers in their business much as the sight of blood turns her inside out. After finding evidence she is attacked. Beau arrives home in time to save her. She has now become a target for the killer. Can she trust Beau to help her when he had hurt her so badly in the past?
Private Investigator Beau Brighton arrives home to find the guard missing, his home in shambles, and his sister unconscious. Cocoa is now in a coma. When he returns home he finds Sissy under attack. He chases down the killer but loses him. Sissy is the love of his life. A woman he hurt very badly years ago. Can he keep her safe? Will she ever forgive him?
A terrifying journey as a serial killer is after Sissy. God has a plan for these two, a plan for hope and a future. God has a plan for you too. A good plan for peace and not for harm. Give Him your heart and watch Him move in your life.
After her best friend was attacked and laying in a coma at the hospital Sissy Spencer decides she is going to clean the crime scene. She doesn't clean with her brothers in their business much as the sight of blood turns her inside out. After finding evidence she is attacked. Beau arrives home in time to save her. She has now become a target for the killer. Can she trust Beau to help her when he had hurt her so badly in the past?
Private Investigator Beau Brighton arrives home to find the guard missing, his home in shambles, and his sister unconscious. Cocoa is now in a coma. When he returns home he finds Sissy under attack. He chases down the killer but loses him. Sissy is the love of his life. A woman he hurt very badly years ago. Can he keep her safe? Will she ever forgive him?
A terrifying journey as a serial killer is after Sissy. God has a plan for these two, a plan for hope and a future. God has a plan for you too. A good plan for peace and not for harm. Give Him your heart and watch Him move in your life.
February 2, 2024
Cold Case Target is a thrilling addition to the Texas Crime Scene Cleaners series. I was engaged from the beginning and caught up in the story all the way to the end. Plenty of suspense and cleverly crafted plot twists along with relevant faith lessons and sweet second chance romance kept me turning the pages and finishing the read in one sitting! I am usually a good outcome guesser, but the revelation of the perpetrator in this story was a complete surprise to me! The characters are compelling and true-to-life—ones you can become invested in emotionally! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it and the series especially for fans of Inspirational Romantic Suspense. Note: Many of the characters are carryovers from the first book in the series Cold Case Conspiracy, and although Cold Case Target works as a standalone, I recommend reading the books in order to get background information and a better connection with the characters.
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 6, 2024
One of Patch's best stories to date--5 stars plus! The attempted murder of billionaire-dilettante-turned-private investigator Beau Brighton's sister Coco compels him to use his skills to find her attacker. While Coco is left comatose, her childhood friend, widowed grief counselor Sissy Spencer, tries to help the Brighton family in a practical way by cleaning up the scene where Coco was attacked. Sissy doesn't expect to find a mysterious flash drive or to be attacked herself. Beau may show up in time to protect Sissy, but he's the last person she wants by her side 24/7. Beau and Sissy have a history.
Unlike many entries in the "second-chance" romance trope, the reason for Beau and Sissy's original relationship collapse is shared early in the narrative as not being a trite misunderstanding but a true source of pain for both.
This book is intense, an extended meditation on the nature of grief and how healing occurs (or doesn't). Multi-layered main characters as well as Sissy's brothers who grumble and banter their way in and out of scenes. I highly recommend reading this book, but make sure to keep the tissues handy.
Unlike many entries in the "second-chance" romance trope, the reason for Beau and Sissy's original relationship collapse is shared early in the narrative as not being a trite misunderstanding but a true source of pain for both.
This book is intense, an extended meditation on the nature of grief and how healing occurs (or doesn't). Multi-layered main characters as well as Sissy's brothers who grumble and banter their way in and out of scenes. I highly recommend reading this book, but make sure to keep the tissues handy.
February 6, 2024
One of Patch's best stories to date--5 stars plus! The attempted murder of billionaire-dilettante-turned-private investigator Beau Brighton's sister Coco compels him to use his skills to find her attacker. While Coco is left comatose, her childhood friend, widowed grief counselor Sissy Spencer, tries to help the Brighton family in a practical way by cleaning up the scene where Coco was attacked. Sissy doesn't expect to find a mysterious flash drive or to be attacked herself. Beau may show up in time to protect Sissy, but he's the last person she wants by her side 24/7. Beau and Sissy have a history.
Unlike many entries in the "second-chance" romance trope, the reason for Beau and Sissy's original relationship collapse is shared early in the narrative as not being a trite misunderstanding but a true source of pain for both.
This book is intense, an extended meditation on the nature of grief and how healing occurs (or doesn't). Multi-layered main characters as well as Sissy's brothers who grumble and banter their way in and out of scenes. I highly recommend reading this book, but make sure to keep the tissues handy.
Unlike many entries in the "second-chance" romance trope, the reason for Beau and Sissy's original relationship collapse is shared early in the narrative as not being a trite misunderstanding but a true source of pain for both.
This book is intense, an extended meditation on the nature of grief and how healing occurs (or doesn't). Multi-layered main characters as well as Sissy's brothers who grumble and banter their way in and out of scenes. I highly recommend reading this book, but make sure to keep the tissues handy.
February 7, 2024
Loved this book!! It took a twist I did NOT see coming!! Beau's been in love with Sissy for a long time, though she's his best friend's sister, and though Beau made a huge mistake with how he treated her. When Beau's sister is almost killed and Beau interrupts, Sissy then steps in to help both of them by cleaning up Coco's house. Sissy then becomes a target for the person, and Beau and her brothers step up to keep her safe. Beau rescues her a number of times, as they get closer to finding out who the person is. When things take a tragic turn, will Beau be able to save Sissy once again, or will he lose her for good? Love the way Beau has changed from his past behavior by turning to God, and how he relies on God to help him change and grow. Sissy learns that she's only been walking through life, not living it, since her husband and baby died. Now, she's finally ready to start living again, but has she realized it too late??
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
March 29, 2024
Blazing action, tons of emotion with twists and turns
Beau stopped to see his sister Coco only to chase off her attacker. Coco is in a coma, so Beau as a new PI investigates the situation. Sissy is good friends with Coco. She goes to clean up Coco's house and gets attacked also. Now she is in the attacker's sights. Beau works to keep her safe, but it is hard when she is his first love who he hurt badly. But the attacks keep coming and every step forward leads to more attacks. Can Beau keep Sissy safe and find out what is happening? Read this to see...but read book 1 first as many comments will drive you crazy until you do. I had to reread it just to get the whole picture again! I can't wait for book 3!
The pace is breakneck and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful with an action and character oriented storyline. There are only a couple kisses. The characters are vivid and engaging. The Christian ideals make the story even more powerful. I loved seeing this all come together. You do not figure out the bad guy until the very end! Enjoy!
Beau stopped to see his sister Coco only to chase off her attacker. Coco is in a coma, so Beau as a new PI investigates the situation. Sissy is good friends with Coco. She goes to clean up Coco's house and gets attacked also. Now she is in the attacker's sights. Beau works to keep her safe, but it is hard when she is his first love who he hurt badly. But the attacks keep coming and every step forward leads to more attacks. Can Beau keep Sissy safe and find out what is happening? Read this to see...but read book 1 first as many comments will drive you crazy until you do. I had to reread it just to get the whole picture again! I can't wait for book 3!
The pace is breakneck and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful with an action and character oriented storyline. There are only a couple kisses. The characters are vivid and engaging. The Christian ideals make the story even more powerful. I loved seeing this all come together. You do not figure out the bad guy until the very end! Enjoy!
February 3, 2024
Oh My Goodness!! This is an amazingly gripping, emotional story. The suspense of who and why someone is targeting Sissy Spencer after ruthlessly attacking her friend Coco, will keep you glued to the edge of your seat. I was kept guessing until the end, when the attacker's identity was revealed. Each twist and turn pulls you more deeply into the intrigue. Will Beau Brighton, Sissy's ex-boyfriend and Coco's brother, be able to keep Sissy safe?
Possible trigger warning: Grief and loss play a major role in this story. If you are an empathetic reader, you may occasionally find yourself reaching for a tissue, but the grief is balanced by faith in God and the suspensefulness of the plot. There are also spots of humor scattered in.
I cannot say much more without giving away key information. This author continues to surprise me with each new book. I wholeheartedly recommend Cold Case Target if you enjoy inspirational suspense.
Possible trigger warning: Grief and loss play a major role in this story. If you are an empathetic reader, you may occasionally find yourself reaching for a tissue, but the grief is balanced by faith in God and the suspensefulness of the plot. There are also spots of humor scattered in.
I cannot say much more without giving away key information. This author continues to surprise me with each new book. I wholeheartedly recommend Cold Case Target if you enjoy inspirational suspense.
March 3, 2024
Hold on to your Stetsons, folks, because book two of author Jessica Patch’s Texas Crime Scene Cleaners series is going to blow you away!
Cold Case Target brings us the story of Sissy Spencer (the sister of Stone, from the first book), and Beau Brighton (also introduced in book one).
Beau’s sister has been attacked, and Sissy becomes the new target after finding what the would-be killer left behind. Beau is the last person Sissy wants protecting her due to their history, but he’s the newest member of Second Chance Investigations, so like it or not, he’s sticking to her.
Now, as they work together to try and figure out who attacked Coco and is now after Sissy, Beau just might be able to prove he isn’t the same person he once was. Can the Lord work in Sissy’s heart to believe Beau’s changes are real?
Find out in Cold Case Target. I read it in one day and you won’t be able to put it down, either!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but my opinion is entirely my own.
Cold Case Target brings us the story of Sissy Spencer (the sister of Stone, from the first book), and Beau Brighton (also introduced in book one).
Beau’s sister has been attacked, and Sissy becomes the new target after finding what the would-be killer left behind. Beau is the last person Sissy wants protecting her due to their history, but he’s the newest member of Second Chance Investigations, so like it or not, he’s sticking to her.
Now, as they work together to try and figure out who attacked Coco and is now after Sissy, Beau just might be able to prove he isn’t the same person he once was. Can the Lord work in Sissy’s heart to believe Beau’s changes are real?
Find out in Cold Case Target. I read it in one day and you won’t be able to put it down, either!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but my opinion is entirely my own.
March 8, 2024
When is it time to quit grieving and move on with life? I’m not sure but apparently our murderer had no respect for those who had lost a loved one. With her best friend trying to come to grips with losing her fiancé to drowning, Sissy Spencer is doing all she can to help. But after an assault that leaves Coco in a coma, it seems the murderer is now out to get her. Will she survive long enough for law enforcement to figure out who the perpetrator is?
Second Chance Investigations has the lead in this seemingly random attack, a company composed of Beau, Coco’s brother and Rhode, Sissy’s twin brother. When continued aggression occurs against Sissy, others also get caught in the crossfire. Another death is sure to happen if they cannot solve what has turned out to be a cold case.
An early copy of this Love Inspired Suspense was received through Harlequin and BookFunnel. These impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.
Second Chance Investigations has the lead in this seemingly random attack, a company composed of Beau, Coco’s brother and Rhode, Sissy’s twin brother. When continued aggression occurs against Sissy, others also get caught in the crossfire. Another death is sure to happen if they cannot solve what has turned out to be a cold case.
An early copy of this Love Inspired Suspense was received through Harlequin and BookFunnel. These impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.
August 22, 2025
I appreciated the clean story line. The story itself was at times hard to believe, for example:
Let's say you are a woman,
your job/career is cleaning up crime scenes.
Your friend, another woman, was brutally attacked and severely injured in her home.
She's in a coma with brain injury.
You don't know when or even if she'll recover.
It's very late at night, the same day she was attacked.
You decide you want to go clean up her house so she won't see all the disarray, the blood, and broken glass.
You want to go alone, even though the perpetrator has not been identified or caught.
And although a male friend tries to convince you to let him go with you, and to at least wait until morning, you turn him down and go, late at night, ALONE.
Really? That's what you'd do?
There's more in this story that's a stretch but it's not horrible. It is a moral, clean story, and that's worth at least an additional star from me.
Let's say you are a woman,
your job/career is cleaning up crime scenes.
Your friend, another woman, was brutally attacked and severely injured in her home.
She's in a coma with brain injury.
You don't know when or even if she'll recover.
It's very late at night, the same day she was attacked.
You decide you want to go clean up her house so she won't see all the disarray, the blood, and broken glass.
You want to go alone, even though the perpetrator has not been identified or caught.
And although a male friend tries to convince you to let him go with you, and to at least wait until morning, you turn him down and go, late at night, ALONE.
Really? That's what you'd do?
There's more in this story that's a stretch but it's not horrible. It is a moral, clean story, and that's worth at least an additional star from me.
Read
January 22, 2024Jessica R. Patch is by far one of my favorite Love Inspired authors. No matter what book it is she does not disappoint. From start to finish I had a hard time putting this book down. It was packed with action and suspense and had me wondering every second who would go after Sissy. I felt so much for Sissy as she dealt with what seemed like blow after blow and yet she kept her head up the best she could. I loved Sissy and Beau's story. and felt for Beau as he not only fought to protect Sissy but also worked hard to find the person who was after her and who also had harmed his sister. He was also going through so much and yet was still there for Sissy through everything even while doubting himself at times. I'm thoroughly enjoying the Texas Crime Scene Cleaners series and can't wait until the third book to come out.
March 7, 2024
This book will take you on a roller coaster of a ride that will have you saying WOW when you finish it. It has so many twists and turns in it, you won't be able to guess who is behind all the sinister happenings and it will leave you reeling once you put it down. This is a story of heartaches, redemption and how one twisted persons mind can make so many people suffer. You will love the siblings spats but that doesn't stop them from having each other backs. You will get to know a pair of sweet therapy dogs and hear about rescue dogs. If you want to know just how many people meets their untimely demise, then grab this book up as soon as it hits the shelves. I'm so grateful that I was able to read an arc copy of this book and was not required to leave a review. All opinions are mine and what I thought about this book.
March 5, 2024
Beau (a major character in book 1 of this series) and Sissy have a bit of a brothers best friend vibe along with a second chance. This story puts dogs, grief, and investigation all together as it winds up a tale that had me constantly guessing. I enjoyed how much screen time we get with a lot of different characters. It’s great to get both a community and a family feel. I’m looking forward to reading more from this series (and this family)! The faith aspect interwoven with grief and forgiveness was well done.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
April 3, 2024
This is book two in the Texas Crime Scene Cleaners but I read it fine as a stand alone. It definitely kept me on my toes and I loved that I was surprised by the killer at the end as usually I can figure it out. Lots of high energy and undercurrents of unresolved emotions. I loved the second chance romance and how Beau redeems himself in this story. The Faith element makes it a satisfying read that you feel good about when finished. I found myself on edge trying to help them escape some harrowing situations. All in all a very satisfying read.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
June 24, 2024
This story started off with a bang and didn’t let up until the very end. Heart pounding suspense on nearly every page. A serial killer is on the prowl and Sissy Spencer is in his crosshairs. She finds a flash drive left behind in the killer’s mad dash to leave a crime scene. Very incriminating evidence of his previous murders. Ex boyfriend and PI Beau Brighton is there to help put clues together and find the killer before he finds them. This story held my interest all the way to the last page and an ending I could have never imagined!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through the author but was not required to write a review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through the author but was not required to write a review.
March 26, 2024
When Beau, the private investigator, walks into his sister Coco’s bloody attack unexpectedly, he is thrusted into a fierce investigation of some sickening and heartless murders in the past!
Little does Beau know that he is actually dealing with some psycho serial killer, and is putting himself and others in mortal peril!
Jessica R. Patch’s COLD CASE TARGET grips me from the beginning and takes me on a fast-paced, adrenaline-driven ride alongside with the hope and trust in Christ.
I truly enjoyed the suspense and mystery of COLD CASE TARGET, and was inspired by the love, hope and faith in God.
Little does Beau know that he is actually dealing with some psycho serial killer, and is putting himself and others in mortal peril!
Jessica R. Patch’s COLD CASE TARGET grips me from the beginning and takes me on a fast-paced, adrenaline-driven ride alongside with the hope and trust in Christ.
I truly enjoyed the suspense and mystery of COLD CASE TARGET, and was inspired by the love, hope and faith in God.
February 19, 2024
I really liked Cold Case Target by Jessica R. Patch. It's book two in a series. Despite not having read book 1, I was able to enjoy the story fully. (However, book 1 is on the TBR list now!)
There were some unexpected twists, a killer I failed to identify, and chapter nine - WOW! No spoilers here, but yikes!!!!
If you like action-filled suspense, second-chance romance, and twists at the end, pick up Cold Case Target.
There were some unexpected twists, a killer I failed to identify, and chapter nine - WOW! No spoilers here, but yikes!!!!
If you like action-filled suspense, second-chance romance, and twists at the end, pick up Cold Case Target.
February 25, 2024
Patch’s Cold Case Target was a quick, engaging read. I loved seeing the story of another Spencer sibling, Sissy this time. One of my favorite themes was that of processing through grief. Everyone does it in a different way and that’s okay.
This sweet love story with tons of harrowing action and many instances of narrowly escaping death kept me engaged from start to finish. I read it in a few sittings.
This sweet love story with tons of harrowing action and many instances of narrowly escaping death kept me engaged from start to finish. I read it in a few sittings.
February 25, 2024
I really enjoyed Cold Case Target. Jessica Patch never fails to keep me entertained and interested throughout the whole book! This may be a shorter novella but it is full of non-stop action and suspense. I loved the main characters, Beau and Sissy. Their chemistry was great. And, of course, there is a twist the end!
Many thanks to the author for a complimentary copy! This review is completely honest and is not influenced by the author in any way.
Many thanks to the author for a complimentary copy! This review is completely honest and is not influenced by the author in any way.
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