Overflow

by Linda K. Rodante

Can a peaceful waterfall hold the answer to a murderer's darkest secret?

In the small town of Benton, Tennessee, Laurie Brooks is seen as quiet and unassuming until she makes a deadly discovery at a waterfall. Determined to find justice for the victim, Laurie embarks on a journey of self-discovery that will challenge everything she thought she knew about herself.

Trevor Oppenheimer, a young, successful psychologist, loves his work helping others overcome emotional turmoil. But when Laurie begins to unravel a dangerous maze of secrets, Trevor's pain-filled past rises to threaten her investigation. Can he trust God and conquer his fear, or will he drive Laurie away?

While Laurie and Trevor navigate their struggles of faith, fear, and growing love, a killer lurks in the shadows. As the danger escalates, they’ll have to unravel the truth before they find themselves the victims of a vindictive killer.

Fans of faith-filled drama, suspenseful whodunits, and strong female protagonists, will love Book 2 of The Waterfall Mysteries. Although fun as a series, each book can also be enjoyed as a stand-alone mystery.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Contemporary, Mystery Thriller

174 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 18, 2025

About the author

Linda was born and raised in Florida. She is married with two grown sons, a daughter-in-law, and three grandchildren. At twenty-six, she discovered the miraculous love of Jesus Christ. God blessed her with a passion for the written word—especially mysteries and romantic suspense novels, from Nancy Drew to Agatha Christie, from Dee Henderson to Kristen Heitzman. She speaks about and works against human trafficking. Her author blog is www.lindarodante.com. Her human trafficking and commitment to God blog is at https://lindarodante.wordpress.com/

Reviews

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 2 of The Waterfall Mysteries and can be read as a standalone.

Although this wasn’t as intense a read as Waterfall, I was still caught up in a great mystery. This book focused more on an event in the past and trying to figure out the ‘who’ and the ‘why’. Like book one, I still had a sense that one of the characters had more to his story than was being shared. Not knowing who was trustworthy kept me on the edge of my seat.

Rodante showcases God’s hand in her characters’ journey and highlights the cost of telling the truth. I loved her references to the spirit of God and righteousness being like an overflowing stream. Her reminder about not letting the busyness of life get in the way of our time with God was one I needed to hear.

I was absorbed in the mystery of the ring and kept in awe of Rodante’s skill at balancing mystery, faith and romantic tension.

I was gifted this copy by the publisher and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Laura (kroosreadsandreviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a new to me author. I did not read the first book in the series so in the beginning it took a little bit to get acquainted with all of the characters and how they fit into the story. Once I had it all figured out, I really enjoyed the story.

The story is filled with characters who live out their faith each day. They spend time in prayer and Bible reading. I also enjoyed how they enjoyed Christian music.

The mystery and suspense kept my interest throughout the story as well. The reader is left wondering if there is more to the crimes and who is involved.

I especially enjoyed the friendship between Anna and Laurie. I would love to visit their bed and breakfast!

Thanks to justreads for the arc. The opinions are my own.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 4 out of 5]

In my review of Waterfall, I said, “I would absolutely read more stories with these characters!” And now with Overflow I got my wish!! While it’s not absolutely necessary to read Waterfall first, it would probably help you orient to the characters more easily if you do. While book one was about Annalisa and Richard, this new book focuses on Anna’s housemate and B&B business partner Laurie and her boyfriend Trevor. I enjoyed getting to know Laurie and Trevor better with their turn in the spotlight, but I also loved getting to see Anna & Richard again too and was happy they still factored prominently in the storyline.

Rodante skillfully incorporates several layers into this story, from the murder investigation to figuring out who’s targeting whom, who can be really be trusted (I pretty much went with ‘no one’ for a while lol), and the deeper interpersonal dynamics and faith notes in play as well. The mystery and suspense elements were so well-plotted that my mind whirred with possibilities all the way to the end, and I wouldn’t let myself fully relax until my Kindle told me I had reached the 100% mark and was truly finished. Just in case lol. I completely related to Trevor’s anxiety and the subsequent overreactions that can take over without your permission when triggered, and I appreciated his growth (and the resources he leans into) over the course of this novel. And on a much more shallow note, I also appreciated his super-swoony kisses with Laurie 😉 and his commitment to doing things God’s way. I liked Laurie a lot too – and the meals & baked goods she whips up made my mouth water – but I just connected with Trevor on a more personal level.

Bottom Line: What do you get when two B&B owners and their psychologist boyfriends stumble on some skeletal remains at the base of a waterfall? Well, for starters, you get Overflow by Linda K. Rodante – an absorbing murder mystery with some heart-in-your-throat suspenseful moments, lots of thoughtful character development, solid faith threads, and heartwarming romance. And some pretty delicious kisses. I enjoyed being back with Anna, Richard, Laurie, and Trevor and – you know I have to say it again – I would absolutely read more stories with these characters, and I hope I do. Loved the small Tennessee town vibes and scenic settings, which fit the mood of the suspensey stuff perfectly, and the beautiful tie-ins to Amos 5:24. Another entertaining and meaningful read from Linda K. Rodante!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Paula Shreckhise · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a continuation of Waterfall and is the best read after that book.
The four friends, Anna and Laurie, who own a B&B and Richard and Trevor, who are psychologists are hiking near a beautiful waterfall. Laurie is injured, and the other hikers go to summon help. While sitting by the falls, she sees something frightening in the water: a body of a woman with a flashy ring on her finger.
This was an absorbing, complex story that kept you trying to figure out who could have put the body there, who took the ring, and who was threatening which of the friends. What an exciting plot, and a surprise ending.
I enjoyed the portrayal of faith discussions between the four friends and the romance that progressed.
I am looking forward to more stories in this fictional Tennessee town.
* A complimentary copy of this. Book was provided by the author for review. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overflow is the first book I have read written by Linda K. Rodante. It was a shorter book, which made for a quick read. It is the second book in the series, but I read it as a standalone.

The character development was good. There were a lot of characters to keep track of. The main characters Laurie and Trevor were interesting. There were a lot of layers to them. Trevor took a different turn to him than I thought. I thought he was going to turn out to be abusive. Though getting down to the root of his anxieties and seeing how he approached it from a psychologist's mindset was interesting. It was fun watching Laurie pursue the truth of who the killer was while also trying to work through her relationship.

The storyline was great. I loved the mystery and suspense behind finding the killer. The ending was a great surprise to me; I did not expect that. The setting seemed like a great place to be—calm in nature.

The relationship aspect between Trevor and Laurie was kisses only, which was perfect.

Linda K. Rodante did a great job intertwining faith throughout the entire book.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

[Ashlyn Boutilier · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overflow is such an amazing book! It is a story that follows a murder mystery with wonderful twists and amazing action. Laurie Brooks discovers a deadly secret at a waterfall and now she is absorbed in a mystery trying to solve the case. Time isn't on her side, she must solve this case before she becomes the next victim! This book has a great balance of mystery and faith and I can't wait to read the rest of this series!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Claire O'Sullivan · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an enjoyable read! I received it as an ARC but purchased it because I will be reading it again. Multiple threads and red herrings, romance abound and the storyline was thoroughly enjoyable. Well done!

[Holly Bleggi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this was a good romantic suspense. I liked how their were a few different threats against the main characters and how we weren’t sure if they were connected until the end. I liked that we got to see characters from the first book and that this story was about their friends. I liked seeing Trevor learn to open up to Laurie about his past and learn to let go of some of the trauma so he can have a healthy relationship with her. I also liked seeing them learn to trust that God had them no matter what happened with the mystery and with their relationship. I liked that things got resolved and that peace could be giving to the people affected. Overall, I enjoyed the story and thought it was a good suspense.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

[Christy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Though this can be read as a standalone, I felt a little lost at the beginning of the book. I think if I'd known the characters, I would have understood the dynamics a bit more. The characters that this book focuses on are intriguing with interesting backstories. The mystery that is unveiled in Overflow was well-plotted. It kept me guessing, and I wasn't expecting the outcome! I liked the small town feel of the setting as well as the B & B. I'd love staying there...minus the mystery! I mean a fake murder mystery might be fun to participate in at a bed and breakfast, but I'd rather not be in the middle of a real one! Trevor's anxiety and over-protectiveness came across as genuine. I felt his peace when he realized that only God controls the outcomes, and we have to leave things in his hands. I definitely think mystery lovers will enjoy this, but I'd recommend reading it as a series.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Overflow, by Linda K. Rodante, is the second book in The Waterfall Mysteries series. This story follows after the first in the series with the same major characters, so it is best to read them in order. This is a well written story that is quick and easy to read that is filled with suspense and mystery.
While on a hike, Laurie gets injured. While waiting for help, she noticed a body in the water with a very unique ring. I enjoyed the mystery behind the ring, who could have taken it and why. I enjoyed the characters of Laurie and her sister as they work together for run their bed and how the men in their lives also have a connection. I especially enjoy how the four do things together, work together, and encourage each other. I appreciate how the characters work on their faith and trust in God.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

[Deena · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a quick read that packed a punch! Linda Rodante was able to craft a full on mystery within just under 200 hundred pages and she did it with skill and finesse.

Color me highly impressed!

When Laurie fell and injured her ankle, she inadvertently set off a chain of events that impacted her life and the lives of her friends—especially Trevor’s.

What followed was a deadly game of cat and mouse that resulted in a satisfying yet surprising conclusion.

I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited. If you’re looking for a quick read that really satisfies, this is the one for you!

[DevotedToHope · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Waterfall's Echo, Linda Rodante crafts a narrative that flows with precision, like a river carving through stone. The story opens with a calm that hides deeper currents, much like the journeys of Laurie and Trevor as they confront their fears, regrets, and the ever-present hand of God. Laurie’s search for justice is a quest for understanding God’s timing and purpose, even when the next step is unclear. “And God? Where are You in this?” is a question many of us ask from time to time, and yet, God’s presence is always there, even when we can’t see it. Like a steady waterfall, God’s work is ever-flowing, quiet yet powerful.

Trevor, a psychologist haunted by his past, learns that true healing comes when he surrenders the illusion of control. As he reflects, “The control I think I have is an illusion,” his journey becomes a reminder that faith isn’t about understanding everything, but about trusting that God is working behind the scenes. Trevor’s story echoes the truth in Hebrews 11:6—“Without faith, it’s impossible to please God”—showing us that faith is a choice, even when when life feels uncertain. It is only when he releases his grip on control that Trevor begins to experience healing, just as water carves its path through the earth, shaping and renewing.

Laurie and Trevor’s growing faith gives them strength to face the dangerous truths they uncover. “God doesn’t always act the way we want or expect Him to,” admitting this profound realization challenges us all. This idea is woven throughout their journey, reflecting the truth that God moves in ways beyond our understanding. The book’s suspenseful pace is balanced with deep spiritual insight, and the reminder from Amos 5:24—“But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream”—becomes a central theme. Like a waterfall, justice and righteousness flow steadily, sometimes hidden beneath the surface, but always present.

Waterfall's Echo is a powerful exploration of trust, surrender, and the peace that comes when we allow God to move in His own timing. “He’s a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him,” as the Scripture says, and as Laurie and Trevor’s journey unfolds, we see that God’s hand is always shaping, always guiding. This story reminds us that even in the darkest moments, God’s sovereignty and love, like an unshaken waterfall, is always at work—quietly, steadily, and with purpose.

I received a digital ARC of this book from the author and JustRead Publicity Tours, LLC. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

[Robin Fuson · Rating 4 out of 5]

First impression: fast-paced novella typical of all Rodante’s books. This one is set in Tennessee’s waterfall country with a mystery and romance combined for a thrill ride.

Action: No shortage of action in this hiking around waterfalls story. There is sizzling romance with dangerous trails and risk at every turn of the page. Police, SAR (search and rescue), skeleton, flying bullets, baking, and an overabundance of amazing food are packed into this novella.

Adventure: The book opens with an injury to the main character, Laurie Brooks, cook and baker extraordinaire, who is half-owner of an amazing bed and breakfast that, if real, I’d want to stay at. Laurie develops a love of hiking around waterfalls because of her business partner and BFF. Her new love interest, Trevor Oppenheimer, is also a hiker. Their close friend is a ghyll scrambler and they take a hike on a slippery waterfall spray covered path, causing her to get injured, which leads to the mystery and danger in the book.

Romance: Sparks fly, and passion is increased between Laurie and Trevor. Although another good-looking man enters her life and weaves himself into her life, creating jealousy on Trevor’s part and confusion in Laurie’s feelings. It is a typical love triangle that gets sorted out.

Religion: Bible verses, prayers, and numerous references to faith and God are woven into the pages. The book is not preachy, but it is a Christian influenced story.

Final Thoughts: Warning: This book shows passionate kissing and makes a reference to sex before marriage in a back story. There are targeted bullets causing wounds and gun waving. Sometimes Rodante goes into descriptive omniscient POV instead of showing in character’s perspective. A couple of things came out of order and occasionally a character knew things without being told. But those are easily overlooked as the story unfolds into mystery and suspense.

Rodante was great at sending out good red herrings for the reader to consider. I had it figured out, but I have a writer’s sleuthhound mind. I challenge you to read it and see if you can too. I’m sure you will find this a captivating read. 4 stars

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Overflow is book two in a fun mystery series that you’re not going to want to miss. It can be read as a stand-alone though who wants that?! I personally always read series in order, and always read three or four books instead of only one. I’m what you would call an avid reader. Or maybe an obsessive reader? Either way I love to read and you can almost always find me with a book in my hand whether physical or on my phone kindle.

This novel does in my opinion, follow the first one. In that you’ll understand it better if you read both novels.

Let’s get to it!

A hike. An injury. And a dead body.
What more could anyone ask for?

This novel reads quickly. It moves quickly as well. You’re going to want to keep reading and not stop. There are four main characters, and you get to watch them interact, plus try to figure out who is hiding what and who is behind which crime.

I feel that you really should read book one first, and that you’re going to want to read this series in order. There is so much going on. It doesn’t just get all wrapped up in a pretty pink bow at the end of each book.

Faith is very much a central theme in this novel and this series. The characters truly live out their faith. They read their Bibles, they pray, they even love listening to Christian music( same same same!) I felt I could connect with the characters. We always have Christian worship playing in our house and on our car radios. It is just a sweet and simple way to get a little encouragement in your life.

Laurie is the one who finds the body, and she seeks some therapy from that emotional trauma. Trevor is the psychologist she goes to. But can he help her discover the truth as well as keep her safe?

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Though unfamiliar with Linda K. Rodante as an author, I decided to give her new novel Overflow (Book Two of The Waterfall Mysteries) a try, as the book description sounded interesting and it could be read as a stand-alone novel.

While the story is not one I would read again, this quick read did contain an interesting mystery that kept me turning the pages until the end. Overflow, which has a surprisingly large cast of characters for so short a novel, primarily follows Laurie Brooks, part-owner of a successfully bed-and-breakfast, and Trevor Oppenheimer, a Christian psychologist who is dating Laurie.

The novel opens with Laurie unexpectedly stumbling upon a skeleton during a hike to a nearby waterfall with Trevor and two other good friends. From there, a cold case is opened, and danger quickly becomes a close companion as Laurie seeks to find justice for the victim she discovered.

Laurie and Trevor are interesting characters, who each have a lot of growing—separately and together—to do throughout the course of the novel. In different ways, both must learn to choose to trust and rely on God as their guide and source of strength.

Some quotes I liked include:

“I’d pray about it. Let the Lord lead you in what your next step should be.”

“God doesn’t always act the way we want or expect him to.”

“God has to do his part. He couldn’t as long as you held on.”

FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. All views expressed are solely my honest opinion.

[Christi · Rating 4 out of 5]

While the first novel was a little bit of a rough ride for me, I was curious to see how the story would continue, so I picked up Overflow. I will say, this novel does flow much better than the first. I was able to jump back into this world easily and was instantly engaged.

Even if you haven’t read the first novel in this series, I don’t believe you’d be lost as the author does a good job of filling you in, though there are quite a few names tossed at you at the beginning. The characters felt better fleshed out, and the overall flow was nice, with the perfect amount of tension.

I really connected with Trevor and him letting his fear and phobia wreak havoc on his relationship. I’ve been dealing with a lot of anxiety lately, and it really can consume you before you realize that you’re paralyzed and frozen in its claws. I appreciated the times where he had inner dialogue and wrestled with his struggles. It made me feel seen and mirrored my own thoughts in a lot of ways.

Now that I am invested in this series, I am very curious to see where the next book in the series is going to take us. The ending of this novel was actually a surprise to me, which doesn’t happen to me very often. The mystery did keep me guessing, which I loved, and I admit I lost sleep to see who was behind all the mysteries.

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christian Suspense Romance novels have become a favorite genre to read. Overflow by Linda K. Rodante is the latest in this genre that I have read. It is Book 2 of The Waterfall Mysteries series. I have not read Book 1 in this series yet, but I will go back and read it soon.

WOW, the intrigue and mystery in this storyline are absolutely amazing. The setting is Benton, Tennessee and the 2 main characters are Laurie Brooks and Trevor Oppenheimer. Laurie has always been a quiet and reserved person. Her life changes when she finds a body of a Woman at the bottom of the Waterfall. She is determined to get justice for the victim. Her plight for justice brings her to a journey of self discovery. Trevor is a psychologist and he strikes up a friendship with Laurie. Trevor begins to realize he still has issues from his past to deal with it. Laurie and Trevor support each other through their journey of clearing their minds and hearts. More importantly they both lean on God to help them through life happenings. I loved watching them both grow throughout the book, especially Trevor. The mystery about the woman in the Waterfall was life altering for both Laurie and Trevor. The book is one of Mystery, Romance and Faith. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Suspense Romance books. FANTASTIC BOOK!

[Mara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Overflow by Linda K. Rodante

Laurie Brooks is out on a hike with a group of friends, at the waterfalls. While hiking she slips and twists her ankle badly enough that a couple of her friends, who are EMT's went back to their rig to get the supplies needed to stabilize her ankle and be able to get her to the hospital. Meanwhile a few of the group stayed with her since it was getting dark. While she is sitting on the edge of the falls she sees something that she can't believe she is seeing. A skeletal hand sticking out of the water, with a ring on it. Later while in the hospital the police come to take her statement, she tells him about the hand and the ring she saw on it, although the others saw the hand, no one saw the ring.
This hike with friends turns into a cold case being reopened.


Thank you Linda Knadle for allowing me to be a part of your launch team. And as always I really enjoyed the story and loved the progress that Trevor made with the Lord.

[Valerie Banfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

Overflow is a powerful and action-packed whodunit that evokes plenty of gasps, chuckles, and heartwarming sighs. I love the characters and the way the author weaves our Good Father's heart and His plans for us into the tale. Her descriptive images draw the reader to breathtaking waterfalls and offer a glimpse of the picturesque Tennessee setting, a place where “the wind whispered into the night sky.”
I received an advance copy of the novel and offer this voluntary review.

[esc · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not a Keeper

This was a weird, convoluted mystery. I know there is a lot of praise for this mystery, but I just didn't care for it. It seemed to jump around and leave me in confusion at times. I did not care for the personalities of any of the characters. They seemed like a bunch of teenagers instead of young adults.

[Sandra Arbeni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow.

A wonderful work of a romantic work of Christian fiction.
I highly recommend it and you won't be disappointed.
Buy it today.