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Cape Refuge #1
Cape Refuge
Thelma and Wayne Owens run a bed and breakfast in Cape Refuge, Georgia. They minister to the seamen on the nearby docks and prisoners just out of nearby jails, holding services in an old warehouse and taking many of the "down-and-outers" into their home. They have two daughters: the dutiful Morgan who is married to Jonathan, a fisherman, and helps them out at the B & B, and Blair, the still-single town librarian, who would be beautiful if it weren’t for the serious scar on the side of her face. After a heated, public argument with his in-laws, Jonathan discovers Thelma and Wayne murdered in the warehouse where they held their church services. Considered the prime suspect, Jonathan is arrested. Grief-stricken, Morgan and Blair launch their own investigation to help Matthew Cade, the town’s young police chief, find the real killer. Shady characters and a raft of suspects keep the plot twisting and the suspense building as we learn not only who murdered Thelma and Wayne, but also the secrets about their family’s past and the true reason for Blair’s disfigurement.
400 pages, Paperback
First published April 7, 2002
894 people are currently reading
5151 people want to read
About the author
Terri Blackstock
90 books5,586 followersTerri Blackstock is a New York Times best-seller, with over seven million books sold worldwide.. She has had over thirty years of success as a novelist.
Terri spent the first twelve years of her life traveling in a U.S. Air Force family. She lived in nine states and attended the first four years of school in The Netherlands. Because she was a perpetual “new kid,” her imagination became her closest friend. That, she believes, was the biggest factor in her becoming a novelist. She sold her first novel at the age of twenty-five, and has had a successful career ever since.
In 1994 Terri was writing romance novels under two pseudonyms for publishers such as HarperCollins, Harlequin, Dell and Silhouette, when a spiritual awakening prompted her to switch gears. At the time, she was reading more suspense than romance, and felt drawn to write thrillers about ordinary people in grave danger. Her newly awakened faith wove its way into the tapestry of her suspense novels, offering hope instead of despair. Her goal is to entertain with page-turning plots, while challenging her readers to think and grow. She hopes to remind them that they’re valued by God and that their trials have a purpose.
Terri spent the first twelve years of her life traveling in a U.S. Air Force family. She lived in nine states and attended the first four years of school in The Netherlands. Because she was a perpetual “new kid,” her imagination became her closest friend. That, she believes, was the biggest factor in her becoming a novelist. She sold her first novel at the age of twenty-five, and has had a successful career ever since.
In 1994 Terri was writing romance novels under two pseudonyms for publishers such as HarperCollins, Harlequin, Dell and Silhouette, when a spiritual awakening prompted her to switch gears. At the time, she was reading more suspense than romance, and felt drawn to write thrillers about ordinary people in grave danger. Her newly awakened faith wove its way into the tapestry of her suspense novels, offering hope instead of despair. Her goal is to entertain with page-turning plots, while challenging her readers to think and grow. She hopes to remind them that they’re valued by God and that their trials have a purpose.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 581 reviews
November 17, 2010
When I began this book, I was quite intrigued. After all, it is a Christian mystery. That is a genre I have never read. I grew up reading Erle Stanley Gardner and Agatha Christie where everyone jumped into bed with each other and used foul language right and left. How refreshing this book was in light of that!
First of all, the author is a fantastic writer who certainly knows how to develop believable characters and plots with intriguing twists and turns. I was drawn into the book from the very beginning--which is quite refreshing.
Furthermore, I absolutely loved that there were no bedroom scenes and no foul language! Yes! I could certainly handle reading more books like this. While the gospel was there, the reader did not feel as though he/she was being beat over the head with Christianity.
And finally, I pride myself in the fact that I partially solved the crime. I could follow the author's clues, and that really was exhilarating. Rarely could I ever solve an Agatha Christie or Perry Mason case, but I have a chance with Terri Blackstock. I certainly look forward to reading more of her books. It looks as though this is the first in the series, and it would be nice to read the sequel.
First of all, the author is a fantastic writer who certainly knows how to develop believable characters and plots with intriguing twists and turns. I was drawn into the book from the very beginning--which is quite refreshing.
Furthermore, I absolutely loved that there were no bedroom scenes and no foul language! Yes! I could certainly handle reading more books like this. While the gospel was there, the reader did not feel as though he/she was being beat over the head with Christianity.
And finally, I pride myself in the fact that I partially solved the crime. I could follow the author's clues, and that really was exhilarating. Rarely could I ever solve an Agatha Christie or Perry Mason case, but I have a chance with Terri Blackstock. I certainly look forward to reading more of her books. It looks as though this is the first in the series, and it would be nice to read the sequel.
May 20, 2019
3/1/19
This story was really good! I first tried it as an audiobook and the narrator was simply too dramatic. I finally picked it back up again after finding a fifty-cent copy at a library sale. It’s not the best beginning set-up but the second half of the book is excellent and really kept me guessing about the crimes, so I’m giving it four stars.
On to the #2 in the series!
This story was really good! I first tried it as an audiobook and the narrator was simply too dramatic. I finally picked it back up again after finding a fifty-cent copy at a library sale. It’s not the best beginning set-up but the second half of the book is excellent and really kept me guessing about the crimes, so I’m giving it four stars.
On to the #2 in the series!
April 16, 2019
On a remote sea island, there is a halfway house for ex-convicts to make their way back into society. It's very controversial, as you might imagine, and when a murder occurs at the house, there is a local uproar.
The daughter of the owner starts poking around, to find the real killer.
Not too bad.
The daughter of the owner starts poking around, to find the real killer.
Not too bad.
September 3, 2020
An exciting story with plenty of twists and turns. Though some moments were a bit hard to stomach, the intensity kept me glued to the screen--I read the eBook version--to find out what would happen next. I'm glad I have the remaining books in the series on hand. :)
March 17, 2024
I read Predator and was pleasantly surprised at the murder mystery mixed with Christian lessons, but if I had read Cape Refuge first, I would have never read another Terri Blackstock book. The characters are predictable, uninteresting and the sympathetic characters are just whiny. The same details of the mystery were brought up so many times that I longed for the book to be over or at least for something, anything, new to happen. If I were one to not finish a book, I would've abandoned this chapters ago.
I feel bad for poor Police Chief Matthew Cade,
Thelma and Wayne Owens ran Hanover House assisted by Morgan. Hanover House is sort of a shelter for troubled people. A few of the residents should be looked at as suspects.
Abandoned-series:
Abandoned after 1 book.
Likes:
* Hanover House refuge
* Blair's facial scars that give her more depth than just the pretty, "scared of love" librarian
Dislikes:
* Very slow in parts
* Just not a stellar story
* Jonathan's hot-headedness
* Blair's negativity in almost everything
* Morgan being the stereotypical kind and helpful daughter
With-reservations:
gruesome murder, stalking, runaway, prejudice, violent rage, stealing, vandalism, abuse,
I feel bad for poor Police Chief Matthew Cade,
Thelma and Wayne Owens ran Hanover House assisted by Morgan. Hanover House is sort of a shelter for troubled people. A few of the residents should be looked at as suspects.
Abandoned-series:
Abandoned after 1 book.
Likes:
* Hanover House refuge
* Blair's facial scars that give her more depth than just the pretty, "scared of love" librarian
Dislikes:
* Very slow in parts
* Just not a stellar story
* Jonathan's hot-headedness
* Blair's negativity in almost everything
* Morgan being the stereotypical kind and helpful daughter
With-reservations:
gruesome murder, stalking, runaway, prejudice, violent rage, stealing, vandalism, abuse,
August 1, 2022
I appreciated the Christian faith and felt that the author covered the plan of salvation wonderfully. The writing was ok - I struggled with the majority of the characters and felt they lacked depth and development.
The first chapter was engaging - but for me, it stopped there.
Jonathan's attitude in the very beginning struck me as childish. Morgan and Blair seemed to be more at odds with each other than as a family unit. There was a lot of violent anger and situations that were overly dramatic. Some things just didn't add up for me - the way the arrests were handled, the newspaper articles, the action and attitude of certain characters.
There were a couple of quotes that I liked:
Melba to Blair - "I'm going to be praying for you whether you like it or not."
Morgan: "We rescue others because God rescued us."
As of right now, I don't see continuing the series.
Rating: PG-13 -murder, abuse, prejudice
Language: clean read
Recommend: not at this time
The first chapter was engaging - but for me, it stopped there.
Jonathan's attitude in the very beginning struck me as childish. Morgan and Blair seemed to be more at odds with each other than as a family unit. There was a lot of violent anger and situations that were overly dramatic. Some things just didn't add up for me - the way the arrests were handled, the newspaper articles, the action and attitude of certain characters.
There were a couple of quotes that I liked:
Melba to Blair - "I'm going to be praying for you whether you like it or not."
Morgan: "We rescue others because God rescued us."
As of right now, I don't see continuing the series.
Rating: PG-13 -murder, abuse, prejudice
Language: clean read
Recommend: not at this time
December 31, 2015
Everything I read by Terri Blackstock I loved, this book was no exception.
The owners of Hanover House, a house for ex-cons and strays are brutally murdered. Morgan and Blair is looking for their parents' killer, especially after Morgan's husband was arrested for the murder. With lack of evidence and multiple suspects, there is a lot to keep a reader guessing.
The action started from the beginning, with loads of suspense and intrigue and kept on building. Terri did a great job of introducing the characters and to show the readers there is more to their story, without making it obvious. Loads of twists I didn't expect.
For me a great suspense is where I still at the end do not know who the killer is - you have your suspects but it is only revealed when you finish the book. This was one of those books. I was on the right track with my suspicion of one person involved, however, did not expect the true killer at all.
If you love Christian fiction, you will love this book. Morgan is a christian, but Blair is not. Both are trying to understand their parents' murder. Both have questions. Blair can't believe in a God who can allow such cruelty. Morgan trust God and know that He does not wish this on anyone, and will work it out for the best.
I loved all the character. I especially liked Jonathan (Morgan's husband) and to see how he grows in his faith and trusting that God can truly change a person, even a ex-con with a horrible past.
If you are a suspense/mystery lover, I recommend this book - it was a great suspense - especially the end.
The owners of Hanover House, a house for ex-cons and strays are brutally murdered. Morgan and Blair is looking for their parents' killer, especially after Morgan's husband was arrested for the murder. With lack of evidence and multiple suspects, there is a lot to keep a reader guessing.
The action started from the beginning, with loads of suspense and intrigue and kept on building. Terri did a great job of introducing the characters and to show the readers there is more to their story, without making it obvious. Loads of twists I didn't expect.
For me a great suspense is where I still at the end do not know who the killer is - you have your suspects but it is only revealed when you finish the book. This was one of those books. I was on the right track with my suspicion of one person involved, however, did not expect the true killer at all.
If you love Christian fiction, you will love this book. Morgan is a christian, but Blair is not. Both are trying to understand their parents' murder. Both have questions. Blair can't believe in a God who can allow such cruelty. Morgan trust God and know that He does not wish this on anyone, and will work it out for the best.
I loved all the character. I especially liked Jonathan (Morgan's husband) and to see how he grows in his faith and trusting that God can truly change a person, even a ex-con with a horrible past.
If you are a suspense/mystery lover, I recommend this book - it was a great suspense - especially the end.
November 16, 2011
I had a beautiful review and then lost it. Rats! I shall try again.
This book was great. It was a cool fiction novel with a christian theme. The book is about a murder mystery that occurs on an island off the coast of Georgia. It's pretty captivating and I didn't see the twist coming until right at the very end which is a good tribute to the writer. The main character, Blair, is an atheist who is dealing with the murder of her parents and struggling with the issue of whether God is helpless or cruel during our greatest difficulties. I love that when she confronts this issue with her sister, who is a Christian like their parents were, she tells about the story of Joseph. God wasn't absent in Joseph's struggle. He was screaming for his brothers to not throw him in the pit. Yet the suffering was necessary in order to save the nation of Israel. It reminds me of Jesus and His suffering to save everyone. Oh, I can't even fathom the tears that were in heaven then. I mean God had to turn His face. But oh, how He loves us. Oh how He loves.
I also like how the book ends. It doesn't really resolve Blair's unbelief and make everything look like a garden of Christian roses. She is still left with the struggle yet something changes. Something is pulling at her heart. That's what I think God's love is like. A constant tugging, a pull towards love. The constant beckoning.
This book was great. It was a cool fiction novel with a christian theme. The book is about a murder mystery that occurs on an island off the coast of Georgia. It's pretty captivating and I didn't see the twist coming until right at the very end which is a good tribute to the writer. The main character, Blair, is an atheist who is dealing with the murder of her parents and struggling with the issue of whether God is helpless or cruel during our greatest difficulties. I love that when she confronts this issue with her sister, who is a Christian like their parents were, she tells about the story of Joseph. God wasn't absent in Joseph's struggle. He was screaming for his brothers to not throw him in the pit. Yet the suffering was necessary in order to save the nation of Israel. It reminds me of Jesus and His suffering to save everyone. Oh, I can't even fathom the tears that were in heaven then. I mean God had to turn His face. But oh, how He loves us. Oh how He loves.
I also like how the book ends. It doesn't really resolve Blair's unbelief and make everything look like a garden of Christian roses. She is still left with the struggle yet something changes. Something is pulling at her heart. That's what I think God's love is like. A constant tugging, a pull towards love. The constant beckoning.
August 10, 2018
Interesting writing style.. short action-packed chapters.. makes for easy reading..
strong Christian basis.. nice setting and good characterizations.. those are the pluses. A definite climactic ending was nice too. Maps are always appreciated so nice to see the island one.
Minus: believability was low for me and I did skip a bit when I figured out who the bad guys were so that I just read for plot line changes or characters’ growth/interesting conversations.
There was a certain exaggeration in the characters reactions that started to grate on me too.. SO this ended up being a 3 star read for me, but I look forward to finishing the series & thank my friend, Lou, for generously loaning me all 4 books!
Zondervan, c2002.
Bookbub offering 4/6/18. .99
strong Christian basis.. nice setting and good characterizations.. those are the pluses. A definite climactic ending was nice too. Maps are always appreciated so nice to see the island one.
Minus: believability was low for me and I did skip a bit when I figured out who the bad guys were so that I just read for plot line changes or characters’ growth/interesting conversations.
There was a certain exaggeration in the characters reactions that started to grate on me too.. SO this ended up being a 3 star read for me, but I look forward to finishing the series & thank my friend, Lou, for generously loaning me all 4 books!
Zondervan, c2002.
Bookbub offering 4/6/18. .99
March 21, 2018
I hadn't read a Terri Blackstock for a few years and saw the Kindle version of this book on sale so picked it up. I had forgotten how addictive her writing is - I finished it way too quickly and dashed to Amazon to download the next in the series!
I love her character creation. Enough information to make them appealing, not so much that you feel like you're reading their Who's Who entry.
As this is a Christian book, there is a faith angle and it's really well done. Terri Blackstock is known for writing about real issues that people go through. It's never wishy-washy.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who loves family dramas and/or Christian fiction. There's a little romance too.
I love her character creation. Enough information to make them appealing, not so much that you feel like you're reading their Who's Who entry.
As this is a Christian book, there is a faith angle and it's really well done. Terri Blackstock is known for writing about real issues that people go through. It's never wishy-washy.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who loves family dramas and/or Christian fiction. There's a little romance too.
November 12, 2018
A very good book in its genre. While I knew "who done it" fairly early on I really enjoyed getting to that reveal. I found it to be a well-written page-turner with good Christian dialogue.
June 14, 2023
I read this many years ago. I loved it then, and I loved it now. However, for some weird reason, I didn't finish out the series. I'll have to remedy that asap.
I do want to publicly say that I truly appreciate the author's way of sharing the gospel in her stories. She truly is a missionary of sorts in the way she shares Christ in all of her books. May God continue to inspire Ms. Blackstock with more creative stories that point to the Creator.
I do want to publicly say that I truly appreciate the author's way of sharing the gospel in her stories. She truly is a missionary of sorts in the way she shares Christ in all of her books. May God continue to inspire Ms. Blackstock with more creative stories that point to the Creator.
September 18, 2019
Absolutely fantastic! The plot and mystery just pulled me in. I loved all the characters in this town. This is a Christian suspense, but I highly recommend to anyone who loves thrillers.
February 6, 2009
I loved her "Seasons" books with Beverly LaHaye, so I thought I would try some books she wrote on her own. Nicely written, beautiful imagery. The only problem I had with the book is that I knew whodunnit before the second chapter. I kept hoping I was wrong, but nope. It was all too obvious. And that sheriff, the "hunk" in the book, has to be about the densest moron to ever wear a badge! I hope the rest of her books are better.
September 2, 2017
This book was terrible...I'm actually angry at how bad it was. The characters are so stupid, as in have zero intelligence stupid. You can tell there wasn't a lot of research done on how murder investigations work before the book was written, along with many other discrepancies, making the whole thing unbelievable. I could go on for awhile about all the things wrong with this book but I don't care to waste anymore time on it.
June 19, 2012
This the first book I have read by Terri Blackstock. It is a christian based murder mystery. I found I could not put it down. I am on the last book in this series and its only been four days. Well worth reading if you like a little mystery!
October 19, 2018
Ms. Blackstock weaves a great tale and the start to an exciting series. With her husband considered the lead suspect in the murder of her parents, Morgan and her sister, Blair, must figure out who actually committed the crime at the same time while dealing with the grief. On top of that Blair must deal with the disappointment of some unanswered questions that now seem they will never have answers because her parents are dead. If you are a fan of mystery and suspense, I think this will be up your alley. I highly recommend Cape Refuge as well as the other books in the series.
July 21, 2020
This was a good suspense! Definitely enjoyed it! Finished yesterday!😉😄
April 11, 2012
TOTM
I had often seen Blackstock on others' shelves and was intrigued both by the books and the author's story, but I battled to obtain her books. I had also been told that the Cape Refuge series is one which must be read in synchronicity and order - fortunately, I can dispel this.
The plot line does form in such a way, that it is setting up character growth and stories for more books, although it is a satisfactory single title. The story isn't as Christian as I thought it would be, but if you're a complete secularist who finds the reference of the slightest references of God annoying, then Cape Refuge isn't for you.Her story was also more focused on the people dealing with the crime and how they go about solving it, as opposed to a major "whodunit" mystery. Blackstock's style was a pleasing hybrid of a slower-paced James Patterson and a maternal John Grisham.
Overall, what I found disappointing was the rushed finale .It seemed as though suddenly everything was falling into place.Other than that, I enjoyed that it had no swear words or other things of a gratuitous nature ;Blackstock still managed to create a warmth and tone of the characters with their own "vibes". It also reads easily, as I read it sporadically over about a 6 week period and could always quickly work out where I was.
I won't be rushing to read the next edition of the series and think I will rather read the single tiles of her that I can attain, as there is a story arc for the entire series. (I only have access to book 2). The books could be read as single titles in the series, I think.
I had often seen Blackstock on others' shelves and was intrigued both by the books and the author's story, but I battled to obtain her books. I had also been told that the Cape Refuge series is one which must be read in synchronicity and order - fortunately, I can dispel this.
The plot line does form in such a way, that it is setting up character growth and stories for more books, although it is a satisfactory single title. The story isn't as Christian as I thought it would be, but if you're a complete secularist who finds the reference of the slightest references of God annoying, then Cape Refuge isn't for you.Her story was also more focused on the people dealing with the crime and how they go about solving it, as opposed to a major "whodunit" mystery. Blackstock's style was a pleasing hybrid of a slower-paced James Patterson and a maternal John Grisham.
Overall, what I found disappointing was the rushed finale .It seemed as though suddenly everything was falling into place.Other than that, I enjoyed that it had no swear words or other things of a gratuitous nature ;Blackstock still managed to create a warmth and tone of the characters with their own "vibes". It also reads easily, as I read it sporadically over about a 6 week period and could always quickly work out where I was.
I won't be rushing to read the next edition of the series and think I will rather read the single tiles of her that I can attain, as there is a story arc for the entire series. (I only have access to book 2). The books could be read as single titles in the series, I think.
January 14, 2011
This is honestly my first dive into Christian based mystery/thriller, I'm typically... admittedly, a die-hard romance fan when it comes to novelization (although back in the day, growing up I read quite a bit of EVERYTHING!) That being said, I picked this up as a Kindle read, thanks to the wonders of publishers releasing freebies here & there. Their plan/ploy worked, and I'm okay with that. Although I've just now read the first book, I immediately logged in to assure I have all three of the remaining titles in the series available & at the ready to read ASAP!
I was easily enraptured by the variety of characters... had my suspicions of those I perceived to be shady, and rooted for some underdogs all along the way. I was happy to read through as folks struggled... with life, unforeseen circumstances, and simple forgiveness or faith... and I'll admit my heart raced with crazy anticipation as I hit the 75% mark and serious action/drama began to ensue at every click of the page/s!
I'll leave you with those thoughts, and the endorsement that I'm determined to read the rest... and off to read I shall go!
I was easily enraptured by the variety of characters... had my suspicions of those I perceived to be shady, and rooted for some underdogs all along the way. I was happy to read through as folks struggled... with life, unforeseen circumstances, and simple forgiveness or faith... and I'll admit my heart raced with crazy anticipation as I hit the 75% mark and serious action/drama began to ensue at every click of the page/s!
I'll leave you with those thoughts, and the endorsement that I'm determined to read the rest... and off to read I shall go!
July 5, 2018
I am a huge Terri Blackstock fan. Her “Last Light” series was one of the best fiction series that I have ever read. That being said, I was a little disappointed with this one. I felt like this book had a lot more drama than suspense, and the story line seemed to get bogged down in the middle. Still a pretty good book intertwined with a good message just not my personal favorite.
July 2, 2017
Can't wait to read the second book in this series!!!!!
February 4, 2020
Cape Refuge by Terri Blackstock
Genre: Conteporary Christian mystery
Location: Cape Refuge, Georgia
Characters:
Blair: Single bitter librarian
Morgan and Jonathan: Blair’s sister and brother-in-law
Matthew Cade: Cape Refuge Police Chief
Gus Hampton: Jamaican ex-con
Rick Morrison aka: Richard Dugan: Resident of Hanover house
Sadie: Teenage runaway seeking help at Cape Refuge
Randy and Nancy: Mayor and newspaperwoman wife
Hanover House, practically a character in itself, was a boardinghouse that Thelma and Wayne Owens ran, taking in ex-cons and people who just needed help. When Thelma and Wayne were murdered with a spear gun owned by their son-in-law Jonathan, he became the prime suspect in their murders. Morgan was bereft of not only her parents, but now separated from her husband.
Her sister, Blair, because of a severe burn scar on her face, seemed to be particularly bitter. Anti-God because of her face, she had even more to be angry with God about because, after all, how could a loving God allow the brutal deaths of such loving Christians who served Him unconditionally, and who cared for people with such selflessness?
Police Chief, Matthew Cade, had his work cut out for him with the death of two icons of the community, several people of interest in their deaths, and other incidents in the community that kept him hopping.
Meanwhile the mayor seemed intent on closing down Hanover House, and his wife was printing questionable, unsubstantiated articles in her newspaper.
Like
Christian emphasis and focus on why God allows bad things
Unlike
A few things left unexplained
The crime of stealing a dead person’s identity not adequately addressed
I read the second in the series first and enjoyed it. This one was very good and I actually enjoyed it more. Glad I read it because it explains Morgan and Jonathan's relationship with Sadie and her baby brother they came to love so much.
Genre: Conteporary Christian mystery
Location: Cape Refuge, Georgia
Characters:
Blair: Single bitter librarian
Morgan and Jonathan: Blair’s sister and brother-in-law
Matthew Cade: Cape Refuge Police Chief
Gus Hampton: Jamaican ex-con
Rick Morrison aka: Richard Dugan: Resident of Hanover house
Sadie: Teenage runaway seeking help at Cape Refuge
Randy and Nancy: Mayor and newspaperwoman wife
Hanover House, practically a character in itself, was a boardinghouse that Thelma and Wayne Owens ran, taking in ex-cons and people who just needed help. When Thelma and Wayne were murdered with a spear gun owned by their son-in-law Jonathan, he became the prime suspect in their murders. Morgan was bereft of not only her parents, but now separated from her husband.
Her sister, Blair, because of a severe burn scar on her face, seemed to be particularly bitter. Anti-God because of her face, she had even more to be angry with God about because, after all, how could a loving God allow the brutal deaths of such loving Christians who served Him unconditionally, and who cared for people with such selflessness?
Police Chief, Matthew Cade, had his work cut out for him with the death of two icons of the community, several people of interest in their deaths, and other incidents in the community that kept him hopping.
Meanwhile the mayor seemed intent on closing down Hanover House, and his wife was printing questionable, unsubstantiated articles in her newspaper.
Like
Christian emphasis and focus on why God allows bad things
Unlike
A few things left unexplained
The crime of stealing a dead person’s identity not adequately addressed
I read the second in the series first and enjoyed it. This one was very good and I actually enjoyed it more. Glad I read it because it explains Morgan and Jonathan's relationship with Sadie and her baby brother they came to love so much.
October 11, 2022
3.5 ⭐️
This story is set in Cape Refuge, GA, and follows two sisters as they try to solve the murder of their parents. Their parents also ran a local bed and breakfast which they used as a sort of halfway house for released convicts as they attempt to reenter society - one sister wants to continue this ministry and the other wants to sell the property and move on. Given the criminal backstories of their tenants, some of them become suspects in the murders. Soon, the town gets involved with the future of the property as well, causing more tension and conflict.
As the sisters mourn their parents and try to deal with all the surrounding conflict, they also try to process their grief. Morgan is a Christian and processes everything through the lens of faith. Blair has rejected the Christian faith she was brought up in and is angry at God for all that has happened to her parents. Morgan tries to help Blair see God's hand through it all, but will Blair let go of her anger and disbelief....?
I typically love Terri Blackstock's books, but this one fell short for me. I listened to the audiobook, and the fake southern accents REALLY were a struggle for me to get through (plus the Jamaican accent attempt, ugh!)... so that may have been a factor.
Overall though, while I appreciated the faith elements - I also felt the characters were pretty flat. I really didn't care much about the townspeople, or really even the sisters (the main characters). I did care about Sadie and Caleb (you'll have to read to find out their story), and that kept me reading and I did want to know the resolution to the murders that happen at the outset of the story. However, the final reveal was disappointing and imo unbelievable. 😕 I'm undecided if I'll continue with the series (although I own ALL of it), maybe after a little break I'll come back around and give it a shot.
This story is set in Cape Refuge, GA, and follows two sisters as they try to solve the murder of their parents. Their parents also ran a local bed and breakfast which they used as a sort of halfway house for released convicts as they attempt to reenter society - one sister wants to continue this ministry and the other wants to sell the property and move on. Given the criminal backstories of their tenants, some of them become suspects in the murders. Soon, the town gets involved with the future of the property as well, causing more tension and conflict.
As the sisters mourn their parents and try to deal with all the surrounding conflict, they also try to process their grief. Morgan is a Christian and processes everything through the lens of faith. Blair has rejected the Christian faith she was brought up in and is angry at God for all that has happened to her parents. Morgan tries to help Blair see God's hand through it all, but will Blair let go of her anger and disbelief....?
I typically love Terri Blackstock's books, but this one fell short for me. I listened to the audiobook, and the fake southern accents REALLY were a struggle for me to get through (plus the Jamaican accent attempt, ugh!)... so that may have been a factor.
Overall though, while I appreciated the faith elements - I also felt the characters were pretty flat. I really didn't care much about the townspeople, or really even the sisters (the main characters). I did care about Sadie and Caleb (you'll have to read to find out their story), and that kept me reading and I did want to know the resolution to the murders that happen at the outset of the story. However, the final reveal was disappointing and imo unbelievable. 😕 I'm undecided if I'll continue with the series (although I own ALL of it), maybe after a little break I'll come back around and give it a shot.
January 23, 2023
3.5 stars
I did enjoy this book. Mystery and suspense. Definitely faith based, and also clean.
I enjoyed that there were multiple main characters, and the story includes the whole community.
As far as the mystery element, I thought the motive and ending could have been written with more detail. The ending felt a bit rushed for me. Also, I would have liked to have seen a few things resolved in the ending, but it’s a series, so it’s fair the author left off how she did. I will read the rest of the series within the next several weeks.
I did enjoy this book. Mystery and suspense. Definitely faith based, and also clean.
I enjoyed that there were multiple main characters, and the story includes the whole community.
As far as the mystery element, I thought the motive and ending could have been written with more detail. The ending felt a bit rushed for me. Also, I would have liked to have seen a few things resolved in the ending, but it’s a series, so it’s fair the author left off how she did. I will read the rest of the series within the next several weeks.
October 17, 2018
Starting listening to the audiobook on a roadtrip - listened to the rest whenever I could!
April 18, 2018
In 'Cape Refuge', Thelma and Wayne Owens are saviours to released prisoners, thanks to their efforts in running Hanover House. Although the Owens are well-liked, not everyone is happy about having prisoners living amongst innocent people. Their son-in-law, Jonathan Cleary is adamant about getting his wife Morgan to move out. Shortly after he has an argument with them, they are found murdered hence making him the top suspect..
The first chapter was well-written and engaging. The heated discussions and arguments at the City Council Meeting highlighted the residents' understandable concerns about Hanover House. They simultaneously showed how Thelma and Wayne's daughters, Morgan and Blair were united in ensuring that no one shut down the home. The ending of that chapter instantly led to the shocking murders. Unfortunately, everything went downhill beginning from chapter two.
Despite the crime and mystery elements, this book was incredibly boring because the content was repetitive and uneventful. By the time I was close to the halfway point of the story, I could summarize the story as follows:
Thelma and Wayne were murdered. Everyone is in disbelief. Who could kill such sweet, kind people? They would help anyone. They were such angels. Why would anybody harm them? Did I mention they were kind? Yes, but let me mention it again (since that's what the author did).
Jonathan was immediately arrested because he owned the murder weapon. Never mind the fact that the stupid cop, Cade had little to no other supporting evidence.
Jonathan: I didn't do it, Cade! You have to believe me!
Cade: Sorry Jonathan but right now you look the most guilty.
Jonathan: But I'm not! You're my best friend, how could you do this to me?
Cade: I feel bad, okay. But it's my job to arrest you even though I don't want to.
Morgan: How could you arrest my husband, Cade? You know he's innocent!
Cade: Morgan, I wish I didn't have to but the weapon points to him.
Morgan: He didn't do it. He'd never do such a thing. You're wrong, Cade!
Cade: It's my job to arrest him, Morgan. Believe me, I don't want to.
The entire police procedural was not only inaccurate; it was also unrealistic and laughable. More importantly, Morgan was an idiot for not getting a lawyer to help free Jonathan. It could have been accomplished so easily since Cade was unable to place Jonathan at the crime scene and to prove without a doubt that he was the killer. Throughout the story, Cade pretty much did little to no investigating and instead tossed several people into jail without ever getting into trouble. Another thing that bothered me was how all the suspects (with criminal records) had no problems answering Cade's questions. Really? Not a single "I want my lawyer"?
Besides that, this sentence (among many) made it impossible not to roll my eyes: "With her library skills and command of the Internet, Blair was usually able to come up with information as fast as he (Cade) could". That sentence single-handedly dismissed police as utterly pointless because hey, all you need are "library skills" and internet access to solve crimes! To make things worse, there were numerous times where Blair relayed information (acquired through research via computer) to Cade. Who's the cop now??
The revelation of the identity of the murderer wasn't even satisfying enough to justify plodding through page after page of nonsense. The motive wasn't wholly convincing and the crime didn't quite fit the motive either. In addition, I was only curious to learn more about what had caused Blair's facial scars only to get a mediocre delivery that went like this: Cade found a newspaper article. Read it and told Blair to do the same and voila, the mystery behind her scars was solved! Talk about underwhelming..
Overall, 'Cape Refuge' should've been called 'Camp Disaster' considering the awful repetitive content, painfully flat characters and non-existent police procedural.
The first chapter was well-written and engaging. The heated discussions and arguments at the City Council Meeting highlighted the residents' understandable concerns about Hanover House. They simultaneously showed how Thelma and Wayne's daughters, Morgan and Blair were united in ensuring that no one shut down the home. The ending of that chapter instantly led to the shocking murders. Unfortunately, everything went downhill beginning from chapter two.
Despite the crime and mystery elements, this book was incredibly boring because the content was repetitive and uneventful. By the time I was close to the halfway point of the story, I could summarize the story as follows:
Thelma and Wayne were murdered. Everyone is in disbelief. Who could kill such sweet, kind people? They would help anyone. They were such angels. Why would anybody harm them? Did I mention they were kind? Yes, but let me mention it again (since that's what the author did).
Jonathan was immediately arrested because he owned the murder weapon. Never mind the fact that the stupid cop, Cade had little to no other supporting evidence.
Jonathan: I didn't do it, Cade! You have to believe me!
Cade: Sorry Jonathan but right now you look the most guilty.
Jonathan: But I'm not! You're my best friend, how could you do this to me?
Cade: I feel bad, okay. But it's my job to arrest you even though I don't want to.
Morgan: How could you arrest my husband, Cade? You know he's innocent!
Cade: Morgan, I wish I didn't have to but the weapon points to him.
Morgan: He didn't do it. He'd never do such a thing. You're wrong, Cade!
Cade: It's my job to arrest him, Morgan. Believe me, I don't want to.
The entire police procedural was not only inaccurate; it was also unrealistic and laughable. More importantly, Morgan was an idiot for not getting a lawyer to help free Jonathan. It could have been accomplished so easily since Cade was unable to place Jonathan at the crime scene and to prove without a doubt that he was the killer. Throughout the story, Cade pretty much did little to no investigating and instead tossed several people into jail without ever getting into trouble. Another thing that bothered me was how all the suspects (with criminal records) had no problems answering Cade's questions. Really? Not a single "I want my lawyer"?
Besides that, this sentence (among many) made it impossible not to roll my eyes: "With her library skills and command of the Internet, Blair was usually able to come up with information as fast as he (Cade) could". That sentence single-handedly dismissed police as utterly pointless because hey, all you need are "library skills" and internet access to solve crimes! To make things worse, there were numerous times where Blair relayed information (acquired through research via computer) to Cade. Who's the cop now??
The revelation of the identity of the murderer wasn't even satisfying enough to justify plodding through page after page of nonsense. The motive wasn't wholly convincing and the crime didn't quite fit the motive either. In addition, I was only curious to learn more about what had caused Blair's facial scars only to get a mediocre delivery that went like this: Cade found a newspaper article. Read it and told Blair to do the same and voila, the mystery behind her scars was solved! Talk about underwhelming..
Overall, 'Cape Refuge' should've been called 'Camp Disaster' considering the awful repetitive content, painfully flat characters and non-existent police procedural.
May 30, 2016
Cape Refuge is a small island just off the coast of Georgia. Its a tight knit community, where everybody knows everybody and there are no strangers. Which leads us to Thelma and Wayne Owens, the owners of Hanover House.
The Owens open their doors to ex cons wanting to change their lives. Hanover House has strict rules and ALL must follow them, if they want to stay that is. The Owens also minister a church that welcomes anyone willing to walk through the doors. So when Thelma and Wayne miss a city council meeting about Hanover House possible being closed down their daughters, Blair and Morgan, get really worried. But it's not until Cade, the towns Police Chief, burst into the room does it become serious.
Jonathon, Morgan's husband, found Thelma and Wayne in their church murdered. Now the real problem? He was also seen arguing with his in laws that very morning. And of course, the murder weapon was also his... In the meantime Morgan takes over Hanover House and tries to keep it together while her husband is in jail and her sister wants nothing to do with it. While going through their parents things Blair finds something that might explain how she ended up getting those scars on her face and what really caused it.
While all this was taking place a young girl was running from her abusive step father. Sadie was directed to Hanover House by a waitress knowing she was alone. When she arrived there, no one was home. That night she slept on the beach waking up to Chief Cade. He brought her to the doctors and paid to have a cast put on her broken arm. She was also warned not to sleep on the beach anymore. So that night she found a seemingly abandoned boat shed that looked as if it hadn't been used in a while. That's where Morgan found her a few days later. And of course, Morgan welcomed her into Hanover House and treated her just as family.
After everyone in the house had been under suspicion Cade is finally getting close to the real killer. That's when everything spirals out of control. Sadie's step father somehow ends up in town and attempts to kill her. Will he succeed and what does he have to do with everything that's been going on around town? Who brought him here and why? There are a lot of questions needing answers and you will get a few of them...
I loved this story, the town and all the characters. Terri Blackstock makes you feel as if you are a part of their lives and your there on the street or on the beautiful beach with them. Hope you enjoy this book as much as I did :)
The Owens open their doors to ex cons wanting to change their lives. Hanover House has strict rules and ALL must follow them, if they want to stay that is. The Owens also minister a church that welcomes anyone willing to walk through the doors. So when Thelma and Wayne miss a city council meeting about Hanover House possible being closed down their daughters, Blair and Morgan, get really worried. But it's not until Cade, the towns Police Chief, burst into the room does it become serious.
Jonathon, Morgan's husband, found Thelma and Wayne in their church murdered. Now the real problem? He was also seen arguing with his in laws that very morning. And of course, the murder weapon was also his... In the meantime Morgan takes over Hanover House and tries to keep it together while her husband is in jail and her sister wants nothing to do with it. While going through their parents things Blair finds something that might explain how she ended up getting those scars on her face and what really caused it.
While all this was taking place a young girl was running from her abusive step father. Sadie was directed to Hanover House by a waitress knowing she was alone. When she arrived there, no one was home. That night she slept on the beach waking up to Chief Cade. He brought her to the doctors and paid to have a cast put on her broken arm. She was also warned not to sleep on the beach anymore. So that night she found a seemingly abandoned boat shed that looked as if it hadn't been used in a while. That's where Morgan found her a few days later. And of course, Morgan welcomed her into Hanover House and treated her just as family.
After everyone in the house had been under suspicion Cade is finally getting close to the real killer. That's when everything spirals out of control. Sadie's step father somehow ends up in town and attempts to kill her. Will he succeed and what does he have to do with everything that's been going on around town? Who brought him here and why? There are a lot of questions needing answers and you will get a few of them...
I loved this story, the town and all the characters. Terri Blackstock makes you feel as if you are a part of their lives and your there on the street or on the beautiful beach with them. Hope you enjoy this book as much as I did :)
January 27, 2010
Murder and corruption. Folks on the Island want Hanover House shut down. They're being told, among other things that some of the tenants living there are not good for the safety of the Island. Not all the Island residents feel that way however. Then there's Sadie who turns up and who appears to be a young runaway. The name Cape Refuge sounded like a good place to be. A place of safety. Then she hears of a double murder on the Island and the police want her off the beach. She can't very well get a job looking like she does. She can't afford her next meal. She needs a shower and a place to sleep.
Cade doesn't want to put his long-time friend in jail for the murders but it was his weapon and he was seen by so many people just that morning in a heated discussion with them. Besides Jonathan has quite a temper.
Then there's Gus who, not long ago, got out of prison. He's been living at Hanover House. There's also Rick. Things just don't add up with him.
Where'd the scars come from on Blair's face. She was always told it was a small grease fire that caused them so many years ago. She's one to speak her mind. Sometimes to the dismay of her sister Morgan who wants to see Hanover House remain open.
Cade doesn't want to put his long-time friend in jail for the murders but it was his weapon and he was seen by so many people just that morning in a heated discussion with them. Besides Jonathan has quite a temper.
Then there's Gus who, not long ago, got out of prison. He's been living at Hanover House. There's also Rick. Things just don't add up with him.
Where'd the scars come from on Blair's face. She was always told it was a small grease fire that caused them so many years ago. She's one to speak her mind. Sometimes to the dismay of her sister Morgan who wants to see Hanover House remain open.
July 29, 2018
Set in what is referred to as the “deep south” by most, Cape Refuge is a captivating read. Depending on your reading speed, you may want to block out a few hours of your day, as, if you’re anything like me, you won’t be able to set the book down!
This mystery novel is told by a few different characters in the book, but the primary voice is that of Morgan Cleary. She is the daughter of Thelma and Wayne Owens, the murder victims, who ran a half-way house for those in need of refuge and new or found again faith.
Something I found really neat was that, as Blackstock navigates the characters from one destination to the next, you can refer to a map just before the title page to really help your imagination, and make you feel familiar with the small town setting, almost as if you were there!
While this is a faith-based book, I feel anyone who enjoys a good mystery, can easily enjoy this book, the first in a four-part series. None of the author’s belief’s are shoved down your throat, but it’s also clear she has a deep belief and trust in God. So whether you have faith or not, if you enjoy being compelled by a good mystery, I would recommend giving this one a try!
This mystery novel is told by a few different characters in the book, but the primary voice is that of Morgan Cleary. She is the daughter of Thelma and Wayne Owens, the murder victims, who ran a half-way house for those in need of refuge and new or found again faith.
Something I found really neat was that, as Blackstock navigates the characters from one destination to the next, you can refer to a map just before the title page to really help your imagination, and make you feel familiar with the small town setting, almost as if you were there!
While this is a faith-based book, I feel anyone who enjoys a good mystery, can easily enjoy this book, the first in a four-part series. None of the author’s belief’s are shoved down your throat, but it’s also clear she has a deep belief and trust in God. So whether you have faith or not, if you enjoy being compelled by a good mystery, I would recommend giving this one a try!
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