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Mirror Estate #5
Hidden Secrets
Abducted. Trapped. Hunted. Grace Benson must find a way out… or die trying.
After her harrowing escape from a kill order, Grace thought she’d return to a normal life, only to be abducted from her home.
Meanwhile, FBI investigations into the murders of a congressman and his staff uncover a shocking link to Grace's abduction, threatening international stability.
Desperate to survive, Grace allies with an unlikely partner—a child who knows the bunker's secrets—but as they navigate the treacherous tunnel system, a misplaced step echoes through the corridors, alerting a deranged captor who now closes in, gun in hand.
If you like Alex Cross, Gabriel Allon, you will like this unpredictable, fast-paced suspense thriller.
After her harrowing escape from a kill order, Grace thought she’d return to a normal life, only to be abducted from her home.
Meanwhile, FBI investigations into the murders of a congressman and his staff uncover a shocking link to Grace's abduction, threatening international stability.
Desperate to survive, Grace allies with an unlikely partner—a child who knows the bunker's secrets—but as they navigate the treacherous tunnel system, a misplaced step echoes through the corridors, alerting a deranged captor who now closes in, gun in hand.
If you like Alex Cross, Gabriel Allon, you will like this unpredictable, fast-paced suspense thriller.
383 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 24, 2024
38 people are currently reading
1207 people want to read
About the author
S.F. Baumgartner
16 books333 followersS.F. Baumgartner crafts fast-paced Christian suspense thrillers, weaving tales of complex characters, secretive operatives, and relentless agents. Her gripping storytelling has earned acclaim, with Living Secrets—Book 1 of her Mirror Estate series—named a Top Pick in the thriller category at Killer Nashville, 2024. When she’s not plotting her next twist, she’s binge-watching crime TV shows, like NCIS or playing with her cats. Fans of James Patterson's style, especially those who appreciate short, punchy chapters, will find much to love in her work.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
September 23, 2024
The plot thickens as we get into the fourth installment of the series. Once more, characters we've known from the past make their appearance, and some new ones will come into life making of the Mirror Estate series quite an enjoyable read!
It's been not long since Kyle and Grace were saved after some information regarding their location at a safe house leaked out. Luckily, they got out of there and everything would have gone back to normal...until Grace Benson gets abducted putting everything upside down.
Grace's abduction seems to be related to the recent killing of congressman Javier Jimenez who seems to have lived a double life. Who was Javier and what's his connection to Grace? What are the possible consequences/implications of such killing?
It seems it is time for the FBI to once again conduct a series of investigations that lead to Grace's rescue and the unveiling of some more secrets that somehow lead all to the Ghost aka Marge Beaumont, and The Marinos.
Will all remaining secrets be revealed this time? Everything is uncertain, and the only way to find out is by closely following the clues.
Being this the 4th book in the series I can tell I have enjoyed every bit of the plot and look forward to what may come next!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It's been not long since Kyle and Grace were saved after some information regarding their location at a safe house leaked out. Luckily, they got out of there and everything would have gone back to normal...until Grace Benson gets abducted putting everything upside down.
Grace's abduction seems to be related to the recent killing of congressman Javier Jimenez who seems to have lived a double life. Who was Javier and what's his connection to Grace? What are the possible consequences/implications of such killing?
It seems it is time for the FBI to once again conduct a series of investigations that lead to Grace's rescue and the unveiling of some more secrets that somehow lead all to the Ghost aka Marge Beaumont, and The Marinos.
Will all remaining secrets be revealed this time? Everything is uncertain, and the only way to find out is by closely following the clues.
Being this the 4th book in the series I can tell I have enjoyed every bit of the plot and look forward to what may come next!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 16, 2024
I love how fast paced this book is! Once I started it I couldn't putnit down. I HAD to knowbwhat was going to happen! Between the kidnapping and murders everything was great about this book. There were twists everywhere! This is the 4th book in the Mirror Estate series and you do need to read them in order to understand what is going on. I can't wait for the next one!!
October 14, 2024
This is book four of the Mirror Estate Psychological Thrillers series and the storyline continues its complex wander through the past of the Mirror Estate and its ruling family, with the twisted addition of the Ghost, who wants to be housed in the former asylum on the site, for her own nefarious reasons. She seems to know everything that happens all around the place and further afield. The restaurant on the estate is pretty key to the story, with it being run by Lorraine and her husband Connor, who spots someone outside wondering if they are open, and it reminds him of a man he saw back when he was a teen and he saw his father killed in front of him. He was hidden away on the estate and Fr Phil knows all about this, as the US Marshalls had deposited Connor with him some twenty years ago! He has never forgotten Liam Doyle, who runs with the Irishman Gang and is deadly. Olivia and Dylan are having yet another meeting with The Ghost, Marge Beaumont, who apparently has another name for the FBI Task Force. This one is the Moneyman, who deals with counterfeit currency and also has some sort of connection with the Perez family. Now she has given Olivia the next name, she gets five minutes private time with her nephew Dylan. She wants to find the treasures that were left on the estate. Dylan was given a key by his mother and he and his best friend Tommy found half of a secret map in a box they found buried on the estate. Dylan isn’t quite so keen to have the Ghost on the estate, nor to make a bargain with her, not knowing what her end game is.
The Ghost hinted there were other people after the treasures and that there are all kinds of hidden paths on the estate. Dylan thinks all the minor tunnels have been sealed, except the main ones, but there are far more than he knows of and young Sean, Connor and Lorraine’s son, loves to spend his days exploring them all. Lily, Simon and Olivia’s newly discovered daughter, is now part of a couple with Dylan, and he decides to tell her what he and Tommy have found so far. On the Task Force, Ana asks to check into the Perez family, as she has had dealings with them in the past. Senator Javier Jiminez is meeting with lots of others at a dinner party, amongst them Simon Roth a former senator, and has his campaign manager Nina and his Sam, his chief of staff nearby. Simon had noticed a strange reaction from Javier at the Merino Hotel the other day, but that seems to have passed, apart from him saying he might have to do what Simon has and retire, as he no longer wishes to be back in the family business. The next morning, he is found dead in his room! Kyle has gotten over his jealousy over Lily and has been spending time with Grace Benson, who only recently got rescued from a kill order on her life and Kyle’s life was threatened by the same people. When her brother Alex calls him in a panic, he tells Kyle that someone has taken Grace from her home, just as he was about to visit her. First, he has to call Ana, Grace’s birth mother, something which she has only found out about recently. Ana, Ron and Kyle turn up at Grace’s apartment and check the security feed Alex had put in for her and find the evidence of what happened to her. Alex and Ana check the apartment, and it is Ana who finds a clue, that has clearly been left for her and her alone! It all leads back to her past and her Papi (Jorge Perez), and Prince, whilst she was known as Princess!
Ana now has to reveal to her boss, Ron, exactly what her past was and how she managed to get checked out and join the FBI somehow. The man who kidnapped Grace, won’t tell her why or where he is taking her, saying it doesn’t concern her, which is weird since he took her! But something happens along the way, and it another pair of men who take her to her final location. They have left her locked in a secret room underground, but she has no idea where. Olivia soon finds a mysterious man present in disguise, within the hotel, as Javier was killed and then another couple of people linked to the senator, but she quickly recognises someone with talents similar to hers and discovers MI6 are apparently working undercover on her case. Grace’s captors have somehow figured out the link between Ana and Papi, Jorge Perez, wanting him to give control of his business to the new Prince, Hugo. Ana’s Prince disappeared sometime after she left and was called Julio back then. Papi lost sight of him but has moved closer to Ana without her knowledge as he hopes to leave the family business. It seems there might be a power struggle going on for control of the Perez empire and it is somehow linked with the Moneyman case the FBI Task Force are working on. Eva, the estate owner’s new assistant, took Kyle to meet Connor, to check if he knew a person in a phot Kyle brought her. The man in the photo is who Kyle believes took Grace. When mention is made of the van she was taken in, the new security head of the estate, Ortiz, asks to see it and says it looks like the van that came onto the estate the previous afternoon and which was never seen to leave! A reason for Grace being taken is discovered, as she turns out to be Jorge Perez’s granddaughter! Another two dead bodies get found at the hotel and Olivia believes the secretive MI6 agent is involved. Things start to heat up, as they figure out Grace must be at the estate somewhere. They look for young Sean, who apparently knows the secret tunnels the best, as he spends all his time exploring them.
By then, Grace has decided to do her own exploring, leaving herself a trail of breadcrumbs, to ensure she doesn’t get lost and hears sounds of another, but not her captors. She has come across Sean, but he is on the other side of a wall and she can’t reach him or get out. It seems her unlikely partnership with this young boy, may be her only way out of the nightmare she has found herself in, but it won’t end too easily as his father gets involved and her captor becomes ever more deranged! Grace and Sean find a secret room by accident, leading to part of a treasure map and other surprises, all of which Dylan will need to see later on. There are lots of puzzles to be solved in this episode of the tale, with lots of diverging queries coming together, linking to one family and those who want to take over, using any innocent parties they can to take over. Sean plays a key role at the end, but Grace has yet to share the map she found, with so much else going on as she meets her birth mother’s father for the first time and learns more about her birth family, and Ana must wait to see what will happen to her next, after her own secrets were revealed! So much going on, but still the huge secrets of what The Ghost is looking for and what she expects to find at the Estate, to be uncovered. She can’t be trusted, no matter what she says! I can’t wait to see what comes next.
I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout, and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
The Ghost hinted there were other people after the treasures and that there are all kinds of hidden paths on the estate. Dylan thinks all the minor tunnels have been sealed, except the main ones, but there are far more than he knows of and young Sean, Connor and Lorraine’s son, loves to spend his days exploring them all. Lily, Simon and Olivia’s newly discovered daughter, is now part of a couple with Dylan, and he decides to tell her what he and Tommy have found so far. On the Task Force, Ana asks to check into the Perez family, as she has had dealings with them in the past. Senator Javier Jiminez is meeting with lots of others at a dinner party, amongst them Simon Roth a former senator, and has his campaign manager Nina and his Sam, his chief of staff nearby. Simon had noticed a strange reaction from Javier at the Merino Hotel the other day, but that seems to have passed, apart from him saying he might have to do what Simon has and retire, as he no longer wishes to be back in the family business. The next morning, he is found dead in his room! Kyle has gotten over his jealousy over Lily and has been spending time with Grace Benson, who only recently got rescued from a kill order on her life and Kyle’s life was threatened by the same people. When her brother Alex calls him in a panic, he tells Kyle that someone has taken Grace from her home, just as he was about to visit her. First, he has to call Ana, Grace’s birth mother, something which she has only found out about recently. Ana, Ron and Kyle turn up at Grace’s apartment and check the security feed Alex had put in for her and find the evidence of what happened to her. Alex and Ana check the apartment, and it is Ana who finds a clue, that has clearly been left for her and her alone! It all leads back to her past and her Papi (Jorge Perez), and Prince, whilst she was known as Princess!
Ana now has to reveal to her boss, Ron, exactly what her past was and how she managed to get checked out and join the FBI somehow. The man who kidnapped Grace, won’t tell her why or where he is taking her, saying it doesn’t concern her, which is weird since he took her! But something happens along the way, and it another pair of men who take her to her final location. They have left her locked in a secret room underground, but she has no idea where. Olivia soon finds a mysterious man present in disguise, within the hotel, as Javier was killed and then another couple of people linked to the senator, but she quickly recognises someone with talents similar to hers and discovers MI6 are apparently working undercover on her case. Grace’s captors have somehow figured out the link between Ana and Papi, Jorge Perez, wanting him to give control of his business to the new Prince, Hugo. Ana’s Prince disappeared sometime after she left and was called Julio back then. Papi lost sight of him but has moved closer to Ana without her knowledge as he hopes to leave the family business. It seems there might be a power struggle going on for control of the Perez empire and it is somehow linked with the Moneyman case the FBI Task Force are working on. Eva, the estate owner’s new assistant, took Kyle to meet Connor, to check if he knew a person in a phot Kyle brought her. The man in the photo is who Kyle believes took Grace. When mention is made of the van she was taken in, the new security head of the estate, Ortiz, asks to see it and says it looks like the van that came onto the estate the previous afternoon and which was never seen to leave! A reason for Grace being taken is discovered, as she turns out to be Jorge Perez’s granddaughter! Another two dead bodies get found at the hotel and Olivia believes the secretive MI6 agent is involved. Things start to heat up, as they figure out Grace must be at the estate somewhere. They look for young Sean, who apparently knows the secret tunnels the best, as he spends all his time exploring them.
By then, Grace has decided to do her own exploring, leaving herself a trail of breadcrumbs, to ensure she doesn’t get lost and hears sounds of another, but not her captors. She has come across Sean, but he is on the other side of a wall and she can’t reach him or get out. It seems her unlikely partnership with this young boy, may be her only way out of the nightmare she has found herself in, but it won’t end too easily as his father gets involved and her captor becomes ever more deranged! Grace and Sean find a secret room by accident, leading to part of a treasure map and other surprises, all of which Dylan will need to see later on. There are lots of puzzles to be solved in this episode of the tale, with lots of diverging queries coming together, linking to one family and those who want to take over, using any innocent parties they can to take over. Sean plays a key role at the end, but Grace has yet to share the map she found, with so much else going on as she meets her birth mother’s father for the first time and learns more about her birth family, and Ana must wait to see what will happen to her next, after her own secrets were revealed! So much going on, but still the huge secrets of what The Ghost is looking for and what she expects to find at the Estate, to be uncovered. She can’t be trusted, no matter what she says! I can’t wait to see what comes next.
I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout, and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
September 6, 2024
The Mirror Estate series just hit a high note with the release of Hidden Secrets. Of note is the complexity and intertwining of characters in this series. It is best read in order. I am very thankful for the Family tree the author provides – a very useful tool
This book is primarily about the abduction of Grace. Seemingly having no enemies, investigators and friends are at a loss as to why, and when there is no ransom demanded, the questions come fast and furious with few answers. There is more to this story as told in different perspectives. Her mother, holding tight to secrets from the past, an unusual request for a lifer criminal to stay at the estate instead of in prison, more exploration of the tunnels revealing more of their secrets, and much more.
The author takes all of these personalities and situations and combines them in understandable and real-life manner. He is skilled at coming up with a resolution, only to put more questions in your mind about future books.
I love the characters and how they are being developed through the series. Each has their own place and time in the story line. Beautiful descriptions of the area and building that are key to the story. I can’t wait for the next installment. Slam Dunk!! If you like mystery thrillers without all the gore and sex, this author is for you. Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC of this book.
This book is primarily about the abduction of Grace. Seemingly having no enemies, investigators and friends are at a loss as to why, and when there is no ransom demanded, the questions come fast and furious with few answers. There is more to this story as told in different perspectives. Her mother, holding tight to secrets from the past, an unusual request for a lifer criminal to stay at the estate instead of in prison, more exploration of the tunnels revealing more of their secrets, and much more.
The author takes all of these personalities and situations and combines them in understandable and real-life manner. He is skilled at coming up with a resolution, only to put more questions in your mind about future books.
I love the characters and how they are being developed through the series. Each has their own place and time in the story line. Beautiful descriptions of the area and building that are key to the story. I can’t wait for the next installment. Slam Dunk!! If you like mystery thrillers without all the gore and sex, this author is for you. Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC of this book.
August 29, 2024
This was a fabulous story. The author takes the reader on another wonderful ride full of suspense and danger. This not a stand alone novel the reader will get more satisfaction if they have read the prelude book
and the previous 3 books in the Mirror Estate series. They are all available on Amazon.ca. I borrowed all of them through my Unlimited Kindle account. I am really glad I discovered Buried Secrets. This is a series that just grabs you in.
In Hidden Secrets, the characters are just perfect for the plot. I really liked how the author gave an outline of all the characters so I could keep them straight. The map of the Mirror Estate hidden tunnels was great. The settings are numerous but beautifully described so one can easily imagine being there in the thick of the action. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
and the previous 3 books in the Mirror Estate series. They are all available on Amazon.ca. I borrowed all of them through my Unlimited Kindle account. I am really glad I discovered Buried Secrets. This is a series that just grabs you in.
In Hidden Secrets, the characters are just perfect for the plot. I really liked how the author gave an outline of all the characters so I could keep them straight. The map of the Mirror Estate hidden tunnels was great. The settings are numerous but beautifully described so one can easily imagine being there in the thick of the action. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 26, 2024
This is a good psychological thriller. I understand this is book 4 of the Mirror Estate series. I have not read the previous ones so I missed the background of the characters but the author gives a recap at the beginning. There are so many characters, so it’s good the author gives a family tree. In this book, Grace is abducted. She has just escaped from another situation and now she is marked again. She has to find her way through a maze of underground tunnels to try to escape. At the same time, the FBI is also conducting an investigation on a murdered politician. I think if I started with the first book, it would have been easier because then I would know all the things. I enjoyed the book though with all of its suspense and secrets. I received an ARC copy from the author and this is my honest review.
September 2, 2024
Fast-paced, action packed, page turner! Hidden Secrets is the 4th book (plus a prequel) in this series by S. F. Baumgartner. So many plot lines and characters that will give you whiplash unless you have read the books in order. Thankfully the author gives a recap of each book at the beginning of Hidden Secrets (just in case you need a reminder). Definitely kept me alert to follow all the clues.
Releases Sep 24th. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Releases Sep 24th. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 23, 2024
If there’s one thing Baumgartner knows it’s suspense. If you haven’t already read the first three books of this series, I’d do that. There’s a wrap-up/summary of the books at the beginning, which I appreciated, but you’ll get a better look at the whole picture and story if you read all of the books in order.
Another thing I appreciate about this one, is the map showing the hidden tunnels. It helped bring the story to life in my head.
You’ll read this through multiple POV and witness the story behind the abduction of Grace. There’s secrets, suspense, mystery, and thrill.
Another great story and I can’t wait to see what comes next!
Another thing I appreciate about this one, is the map showing the hidden tunnels. It helped bring the story to life in my head.
You’ll read this through multiple POV and witness the story behind the abduction of Grace. There’s secrets, suspense, mystery, and thrill.
Another great story and I can’t wait to see what comes next!
September 26, 2024
Author lead us into a crime that became intertwined with family secrets and greed. I enjoyed the recap of the previous books and relationship chart at the beginning of this book. I received this book as a stand alone to read and was brought into a family’s world that include a history in a notorious crime family and those who escaped that life. But when the granddaughter is abducted family secrets must be revealed to find her. I enjoyed this mystery thriller, and feel this would have been even a better experience if I had read the series so would have had the opportunity to get to know these characters more. Looking forward to reading more, especially since the ending let is have a peek into the next mystery to solve.
August 23, 2024
Hidden Secrets is book 4 in the Mirror Estate Thriller Series hy S F Baumgartner. I think this series is an excellent thriller where the author builds an epic story. The author gives an overview of the prequel and each of the other 3 books. I thought that this was a great way to bring new readers up to date because each book builds the story. I think that this thriller is wonderful and not to be missed. It received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
August 31, 2024
The past is finally catching up with me…Javi
The mystery continues with Ghost dangling new clues, hoping that she will soon be back at Mirror Estates. However, now that the investigative groups are busy with several murders and Grace’s kidnapping, this new target may have to be put on the back burner. A new crime family enters the playing field - are they part of the new clue, or is this bringing yet another secret up to be analyzed?
There are no new discoveries regarding a ‘treasure’, but finding the extensive tunnel system will require a great deal of investigation. How much does Marge Beaumont, Ghost, really know about what is hidden on Mirror Estates? Where does the Irishman Gang fit into all of this?
An ARC of Mirror Estates Series Book #4 was received through FB Publishing and BookSirens. These thoughts are my own and were in no way solicited.
The mystery continues with Ghost dangling new clues, hoping that she will soon be back at Mirror Estates. However, now that the investigative groups are busy with several murders and Grace’s kidnapping, this new target may have to be put on the back burner. A new crime family enters the playing field - are they part of the new clue, or is this bringing yet another secret up to be analyzed?
There are no new discoveries regarding a ‘treasure’, but finding the extensive tunnel system will require a great deal of investigation. How much does Marge Beaumont, Ghost, really know about what is hidden on Mirror Estates? Where does the Irishman Gang fit into all of this?
An ARC of Mirror Estates Series Book #4 was received through FB Publishing and BookSirens. These thoughts are my own and were in no way solicited.
September 24, 2024
This was such an action packed ride, there's so much adrenaline going on you will start reading and won't stop until you reach the end of the book.
Being the fourth installment of the series I suggest reading the previous books to understand fully what is going on in the story, the recap at the beginning of this book helps though if you haven't read the other ones, so don't skip this valuable information.
There are a lot of twists and turns in the story and keeps you guessing all the time.
Can't wait to read the following book on the series.
Being the fourth installment of the series I suggest reading the previous books to understand fully what is going on in the story, the recap at the beginning of this book helps though if you haven't read the other ones, so don't skip this valuable information.
There are a lot of twists and turns in the story and keeps you guessing all the time.
Can't wait to read the following book on the series.
September 28, 2024
What a thrilling ride into this fourth book of the series. The twist and turns keep coming and the secrets keep being revealed. I can’t wait to see what is going to happen next as I know there has to be more secrets!! if you enjoy fast paced, being on the edge of your seat reading you will enjoy this series.
I received an ARC from BookSirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an ARC from BookSirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 13, 2024
Excellent suspense series!
I started with the prequel and binge read the series…seems like there should be more coming. But this had a satisfying ending. There are so many layers of the “onion”, it’s amazing the author keeps it all straight! WOW! Lots of Task force, agents, FBI, CIA, friends, family, secrets, bad guys, good guys. What a fun to read series! Loved all these books! Will read more by this author!
I started with the prequel and binge read the series…seems like there should be more coming. But this had a satisfying ending. There are so many layers of the “onion”, it’s amazing the author keeps it all straight! WOW! Lots of Task force, agents, FBI, CIA, friends, family, secrets, bad guys, good guys. What a fun to read series! Loved all these books! Will read more by this author!
March 6, 2025
“Hidden Secrets: A Thriller (Mirror Estate Series Book Four)” by S.F. Baumgartner continues the stories of the Mirror Estate, Grace Benson, Ana, Olivia, Ron, and the other characters introduced in previous stories. While you might be able to read this book independently, I recommend reading the books in order. You will gain a greater appreciation of the characters and the storylines by doing so. This Christian Mystery Suspense thriller packs a lot into its pages.
Having just survived one harrowing event, Grace finds herself kidnapped and in danger for a second time. With twists and turns, this story will keep you reading and guessing about the outcome until the end.
Told from various characters’ viewpoints, the author does an excellent job ensuring you know who each section focuses on while keeping the storylines cohesive and moving along at a good pace. With multiple bad people potentially, secrets, determined characters, and more, I have loved reading every book in this series, including this one.
I could not put this book down until I finished it. My only regret is that it ended. I wanted more, and I look forward to the next book in this series.
So, if you want a Christian Mystery Suspense Thriller, check out “Hidden Secrets: A Thriller (Mirror Estate Series Book Four)” by S.F. Baumgartner and the rest of the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Having just survived one harrowing event, Grace finds herself kidnapped and in danger for a second time. With twists and turns, this story will keep you reading and guessing about the outcome until the end.
Told from various characters’ viewpoints, the author does an excellent job ensuring you know who each section focuses on while keeping the storylines cohesive and moving along at a good pace. With multiple bad people potentially, secrets, determined characters, and more, I have loved reading every book in this series, including this one.
I could not put this book down until I finished it. My only regret is that it ended. I wanted more, and I look forward to the next book in this series.
So, if you want a Christian Mystery Suspense Thriller, check out “Hidden Secrets: A Thriller (Mirror Estate Series Book Four)” by S.F. Baumgartner and the rest of the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
October 1, 2024
You can expect unthinkable happenings, secrets, secret identity, murder and suspense. The book has multiple perspectives and it is really gripping. This is a fourth instalment in the Mirror Estate Series. This is about Grace’s abduction and all those murders that Dylan and Lily finds out about. While some characters hidden/ secret identity is being revealed. There is so much going on and the layers of mystery and suspense just thickens and the series is getting better with each book. The book is twisty, gripping and unputdownable. Secrets and truth were unpredictable and shocking. The book will keep you guessing till the end. Plot twists were so twisty.
Thanks to Booksirens. I have received the Advanced Readers Copy and leaving my review voluntarily.
Thanks to Booksirens. I have received the Advanced Readers Copy and leaving my review voluntarily.
September 17, 2024
I received an ARC through "Booksirens" and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
The story begins with Olivia and Dalton going to the prison to see the "Ghost", Dalton's aunt. During the meeting, Olivia is asked to leave so she can talk to Dalton in private. She keeps up asking Dalton if he has had any luck finding the treasure. Dalton tells her no, and then he leaves. Fast forward where the Senator is meeting the Congressman, but the Congressman sees someone that causes him to leave. The next time the tow meet is at a fundraiser at Dalton's hotel where Lucy works. At the end of the event the Senator sees the Congressman and his son arguing so the Senator goes to talk to the Congressman. That night, the Senator receives a call for the Congressman's staff advising him of a murder.
Thw Congressman has been killed and shortly after, the bodies of the Congressman's wife and chief of staff. While this has been going on, Grace has gone home and after answering her door for a deliveryman, she is abducted. She is taken to an unknown location where she is held in a bunker. She is freed and told if she tries to run away, she will get lost because of the many tunnels running all over. Grace starts her trek through the tunnels, but she doesn't seem to be getting anywhere
With all of the people searching, Ana finds through luck the hiding place for the van as well as also the entrance to the bunker. Grace eventually runs into Sean who has some familiarity with the tunnels and they try to find a way out. With Sean missing, his father joins the search. Eventually the two of them are discovered by one of the kidnappers who had evaded being caught earlier. The group finally receive a location where Sean and Grace are being held. Things suddenly come to an end.
Ron and his team became involved with a joint effort with the Secret Service. As the search for Grace concludes, they wind up taking a counterfeit operation down. As they regroup, they learn of a possible teaming arrangement between the Kidnapping of Grace and the counterfeiting ring.
To discover what role Connor was involved with, who Sean was, who Grace and Ana met that surprised Grace, who was involve with the abduction and how everything worked out in the end, then you must read this book.
You won't be disappointed.
The story begins with Olivia and Dalton going to the prison to see the "Ghost", Dalton's aunt. During the meeting, Olivia is asked to leave so she can talk to Dalton in private. She keeps up asking Dalton if he has had any luck finding the treasure. Dalton tells her no, and then he leaves. Fast forward where the Senator is meeting the Congressman, but the Congressman sees someone that causes him to leave. The next time the tow meet is at a fundraiser at Dalton's hotel where Lucy works. At the end of the event the Senator sees the Congressman and his son arguing so the Senator goes to talk to the Congressman. That night, the Senator receives a call for the Congressman's staff advising him of a murder.
Thw Congressman has been killed and shortly after, the bodies of the Congressman's wife and chief of staff. While this has been going on, Grace has gone home and after answering her door for a deliveryman, she is abducted. She is taken to an unknown location where she is held in a bunker. She is freed and told if she tries to run away, she will get lost because of the many tunnels running all over. Grace starts her trek through the tunnels, but she doesn't seem to be getting anywhere
With all of the people searching, Ana finds through luck the hiding place for the van as well as also the entrance to the bunker. Grace eventually runs into Sean who has some familiarity with the tunnels and they try to find a way out. With Sean missing, his father joins the search. Eventually the two of them are discovered by one of the kidnappers who had evaded being caught earlier. The group finally receive a location where Sean and Grace are being held. Things suddenly come to an end.
Ron and his team became involved with a joint effort with the Secret Service. As the search for Grace concludes, they wind up taking a counterfeit operation down. As they regroup, they learn of a possible teaming arrangement between the Kidnapping of Grace and the counterfeiting ring.
To discover what role Connor was involved with, who Sean was, who Grace and Ana met that surprised Grace, who was involve with the abduction and how everything worked out in the end, then you must read this book.
You won't be disappointed.
February 8, 2025
Hidden Secrets by S.F. Baumgartner is a must-read fast-paced thriller, marking the fourth entry in the Mirror Estate series. This book captivates right from the start with a concise recap of the previous three installments, ensuring that even newcomers are well-oriented and eager to dive in.
As with its predecessors, this installment is firmly rooted in faith, featuring strong discussions about God that I wholeheartedly appreciate. The protagonist, Grace, is the central character, flanked by familiar faces from earlier books and introduced to some intriguing new characters.
Following the previous book's events, Grace and Kyle, the main male character in this story, had taken refuge in a safe house due to a kill order against her. When the mole that compromised their location was discovered, it seemed they could finally reclaim their lives. But that hope is shattered when Grace is abducted, thrusting her back into a world of uncertainty and fear. Just when she thought the worst was behind her, this new crisis arises.
Complicating matters is the mysterious murder of a congressman who might have been living a double life. Is there a connection between him and Grace, or is it simply a coincidence? The FBI must embark on yet another intensive investigation to locate Grace and rescue her from her captor. As the investigation unfolds, more secrets will come to light. What connections will these revelations reveal, and how do they tie back to the story?
I encourage you to read this book—it's a thrilling ride that grips you from start to finish. Even if you don't usually gravitate toward thrillers or mystery genres, you will find it impossible to put down. Get ready for an exhilarating experience, as this gripping thriller will keep you turning pages late into the night.
I received a complimentary copy from the author through Celebrate Lit, for my honest opinion
As with its predecessors, this installment is firmly rooted in faith, featuring strong discussions about God that I wholeheartedly appreciate. The protagonist, Grace, is the central character, flanked by familiar faces from earlier books and introduced to some intriguing new characters.
Following the previous book's events, Grace and Kyle, the main male character in this story, had taken refuge in a safe house due to a kill order against her. When the mole that compromised their location was discovered, it seemed they could finally reclaim their lives. But that hope is shattered when Grace is abducted, thrusting her back into a world of uncertainty and fear. Just when she thought the worst was behind her, this new crisis arises.
Complicating matters is the mysterious murder of a congressman who might have been living a double life. Is there a connection between him and Grace, or is it simply a coincidence? The FBI must embark on yet another intensive investigation to locate Grace and rescue her from her captor. As the investigation unfolds, more secrets will come to light. What connections will these revelations reveal, and how do they tie back to the story?
I encourage you to read this book—it's a thrilling ride that grips you from start to finish. Even if you don't usually gravitate toward thrillers or mystery genres, you will find it impossible to put down. Get ready for an exhilarating experience, as this gripping thriller will keep you turning pages late into the night.
I received a complimentary copy from the author through Celebrate Lit, for my honest opinion
February 27, 2025
With non stop action and mystery this book delivers just the right touch to keep readers glued to their seats. Danger surrounds Grace as she is mysterious taken by an unknown person. The author lays out a story where secrets can destroy the security of many people. Revenge seems to be active in this story as well.
Grace is a good character who finds herself locked in a place where darkness overtakes her calmness she once had. When she sees a child locked in with her, she begins to feel anxious. The author brings a lot of unexpected surprises that made me wonder who could be trusted.
There were so many pieces of the puzzle that made it hard to keep up with at times. Like a movie you may watch, many people are involved in an attempt to cause harm. When a congressman is found dead, the authorities must act quickly to keep things under control.
I liked the book and found it be very intriguing. The author does a good job of keeping readers interested as subtle hints are dropped throughout the book. I would highly recommend reading the others books in this series first so you will become familiar with the characters and how they fit into the story.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Grace is a good character who finds herself locked in a place where darkness overtakes her calmness she once had. When she sees a child locked in with her, she begins to feel anxious. The author brings a lot of unexpected surprises that made me wonder who could be trusted.
There were so many pieces of the puzzle that made it hard to keep up with at times. Like a movie you may watch, many people are involved in an attempt to cause harm. When a congressman is found dead, the authorities must act quickly to keep things under control.
I liked the book and found it be very intriguing. The author does a good job of keeping readers interested as subtle hints are dropped throughout the book. I would highly recommend reading the others books in this series first so you will become familiar with the characters and how they fit into the story.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
March 11, 2025
Hidden Secrets is part of a wonderful suspense series that you aren’t going to want to miss a single moment of. I love a good suspense series and this is an amazing one.
Abductions. Murders. So much is going on in this novel. You aren’t going to want to miss a single bit of it.
Bunkers. Children helping. Deranged captors. I’m so in love with this series. Yes, you need to read the series in order. Yes, you must not skip a single part.
This book is so fast-paced. Basically, I never wanted to put it down. Reading just one chapter at a time is not something you’ll want to do. Trust me. I tried. I did not want to go away from the book. It was so hard to keep doing daily life and homeschooling my children instead of just sitting and reading the book cover to cover.
This series is all psychological thriller. As a mental health nurse, this is wonderful! I love them so much.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. 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.
Abductions. Murders. So much is going on in this novel. You aren’t going to want to miss a single bit of it.
Bunkers. Children helping. Deranged captors. I’m so in love with this series. Yes, you need to read the series in order. Yes, you must not skip a single part.
This book is so fast-paced. Basically, I never wanted to put it down. Reading just one chapter at a time is not something you’ll want to do. Trust me. I tried. I did not want to go away from the book. It was so hard to keep doing daily life and homeschooling my children instead of just sitting and reading the book cover to cover.
This series is all psychological thriller. As a mental health nurse, this is wonderful! I love them so much.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. 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.
September 21, 2024
Baumgartner's novels are complex with many characters and I was glad to see a chart at the beginning of this book detailing the characters and their relationships. This book is also part of a series and I was happy to see she also provided synopses of the previous novels. I don't think this novel would read well on its own as events in the previous books are essential to understanding all the action in this one.
There is much action going on in this novel. There is the kidnapping of a character. There is an investigation into a counterfeit ring. There is an investigation into the murder of a congressman and the death of his wife and lover. At one point a detective says, “This is getting complicated.” (1486/4230) I felt the same. All of the mysteries and investigations come together and make sense in the end but getting there requires a bit of concentration. I would rather Baumgartner concentrate on one plot line than have so many.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through BookSirens. My comments are an independent and honest review.
There is much action going on in this novel. There is the kidnapping of a character. There is an investigation into a counterfeit ring. There is an investigation into the murder of a congressman and the death of his wife and lover. At one point a detective says, “This is getting complicated.” (1486/4230) I felt the same. All of the mysteries and investigations come together and make sense in the end but getting there requires a bit of concentration. I would rather Baumgartner concentrate on one plot line than have so many.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through BookSirens. My comments are an independent and honest review.
February 26, 2025
Christian Suspense is a genre that I used to refuse to read. I have come to enjoy the genre fully. Hidden Secrets by S.F. Baumgartner is the most recent book in this genre that I have read. It is Book 4 in the Mirror Estate series. I have read a couple other books in this series and was anxiously awaiting the release of Book 4.
I have to say this book started strong and the Mystery and Suspense truly kept me intrigued throughout the book . The main character is Grace Benson. Grace is abducted and is in a room with a small child. She had just been rescued from being attacked by a killer, and now she finds herself in another condumdrum. The child who is with her knows the way through the tunnels of the Bunker and she uses his knowledge to plan her escape from the Abductor. While being held captive, a congressman and staff are murdered and the FBI is wondering if all this is connected. Mystery, Intrigue, Twists and Turns are all a part of this book! A definite Page Turner book! I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Suspense Novels. AMAZING BOOK!
I have to say this book started strong and the Mystery and Suspense truly kept me intrigued throughout the book . The main character is Grace Benson. Grace is abducted and is in a room with a small child. She had just been rescued from being attacked by a killer, and now she finds herself in another condumdrum. The child who is with her knows the way through the tunnels of the Bunker and she uses his knowledge to plan her escape from the Abductor. While being held captive, a congressman and staff are murdered and the FBI is wondering if all this is connected. Mystery, Intrigue, Twists and Turns are all a part of this book! A definite Page Turner book! I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Suspense Novels. AMAZING BOOK!
February 27, 2025
Hidden Secrets: A Thriller is the fourth installment from the Mirror Estate series by S F Baumgartner. I have had the pleasure of reading the previous books of the series and was looking forward to continue it. I was not disappointed and thought it was a good suspense filled novel. I enjoyed the twists and turns that made me wondering would happen next. It was great seeing some other characters from the others books to make an appearance, as well.
I will be giving Hidden Secrets: A Thriller four and a half stars. I recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean Christian Mysteries and Thrillers. I would be interested in reading the other books from the Mirror Estates series to see what happened previously.
I received a digital copy of S F Baumgartner's Hidden Secrets from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I will be giving Hidden Secrets: A Thriller four and a half stars. I recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean Christian Mysteries and Thrillers. I would be interested in reading the other books from the Mirror Estates series to see what happened previously.
I received a digital copy of S F Baumgartner's Hidden Secrets from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
March 3, 2025
The suspense novels in this intriguing series grab your curiosity and you want to put the puzzle pieces together to solve the mystery. The story is fast-paced and filled with a complicated plots with twisting threads that somehow weave together. The compelling drama engages the reader and makes them feel like they’re eyewitnesses to the action. Hidden Secrets is an apt title for there are many revealed in the tale. And there are hidden tunnels and rooms beneath the Mirror Estate. The book could be read on its own, but I highly recommend starting at the beginning because each one in the series builds upon the previous ones. One thing that bothered me at times was keeping track of all the various characters and what was going on. The short chapters shift scenes often and it felt like I was jumping around and getting a bit confused at times. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.
September 21, 2024
I jumped into this series at this book because I got an advanced copy. I think this was a mistake. I was very confused, despite the summaries. In fairness, the prior books were "recommended but not required" reading. I really feel they should be required reading. Even with that caveat, I think the plot was overly complicated. Lots of characters and all the alphabet agencies involved. Similarly named characters didn't help my confusion...and then characters were going by aliases....It was a lot.
I liked the author's writing, they were descriptive and engaging in word choices,. I appreciated that it was a clean thriller, but I have learned my lesson and will start at the beginning with their next series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I liked the author's writing, they were descriptive and engaging in word choices,. I appreciated that it was a clean thriller, but I have learned my lesson and will start at the beginning with their next series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 18, 2025
This is the fourth book in the Mirror Estate Series and you should read the other books before reading this one. I really appreciated the recapping of the previous stories in order to have an idea of what has transpired prior to this book. However, this was the first one that I have read and felt that it took me quite a while to figure out what was happening since there are many subplots occurring. I liked the intricacies of the story and felt it was a well-paced story. If you enjoy crime lord family stories, check out this series. There are some surprising twists and lots of action throughout.
drug addition mentioned, adultery, murder
I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own with no obligation to write a positive review.
drug addition mentioned, adultery, murder
I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own with no obligation to write a positive review.
February 21, 2025
So I liked this book. It has a lot of features that I love (underground labyrinth of mystry, family secrets, trauma survivors). It is the fourth book in a series that I haven't read any of the other books, and in this case, I would say this lacking on my part did hurt my experience of this book. I appreciate the recap of each of the previous books provided at the beginning of this one. There are many characters and backstories that I had a little trouble keeping straight (I confused a few of the characters the whole way through the story, and I know if I had read the earlier books that would not have been a problem. The plot of this book was good, fast paced and intriguing. I would recommend it, but I would strongly suggest starting from the start!
February 25, 2025
This book continues where the last ends. So, it is better to read this series in order. This book did keep me turning the pages, but I didn't find it as good as the others in the series. This book did have a few twists and surprises that this reader didn't see coming. Reading this series makes me think of the television show "Criminal Minds". The big difference is that the tv show usually deals with one main case at a time but this book has many investigations going on at once and I found myself wishing the author would have just focus on one crime at a time, and there were so many characters that at times it was hard to focus, but I am still giving this book 4 stars.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
March 1, 2025
WHEW! This is mega suspense! The author has taken this fourth book in this series to a new level. I didn't want to move, eat, or do anything but read this story. The pace doesn't let up, and neither does the plot. I would highly recommend reading this series in order though, because this doesn't feel like a standalone to me. There's FBI and so much happening in this story, and a precious child too. I want to share so much about this book, but I don't want to give anything away. It's so good, I don't want you to miss it.
Thanks to Celebrate Lit for my digital copy of this book. This review is mine and a positive review is never required.
Thanks to Celebrate Lit for my digital copy of this book. This review is mine and a positive review is never required.
September 25, 2024
This is the fourth book in the Mirror Estate Series. Grace, having just escaped from one perilous situation now finds herself abducted by a madman. In addition, a Senator and his staff are murdered. The FBI pursues both mysteries eventually realizing that they must be connected in some way. Grace finds help in the maze from a child but will they make it out before their captor eliminates them? This is a fast-paced, action adventure with plenty of suspense to keep the reader on the edge of his seat.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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