Christmas Witness Conspiracy

Protected Identities #4

by Maggie K. Black

Reunited in peril…

The family he never knew is under siege.

Detective Liam Bearsmith’s life is turned upside down at Christmastime when the hacker he’s tracking turns out to be the witness he fell for twenty years ago. But Kelly Marshall insists she’s being framed, and he wants to believe her…especially after criminals attack them. Can he clear her name, even as he shields Kelly—and the family he never knew existed?

Genres: Christmas, Romance, Suspense, Mystery, Romantic Suspense, Harlequin, Christian Fiction

224 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published September 16, 2020

About the author

Maggie K. Black is an award-winning journalist with a thirst for adventure. She's lived in the American South, Europe and Middle East, and left a piece of her heart in each. She now makes her home in Canada, where she writes stories that make her heart race, chases her dog around the park and shares her adventures with her one true love and and their two daughters.

Reviews

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a Christian Christmas Romance Suspense, and this is the 4th book in the Protected Identities series. This book is more about the Suspense/Action then the romance part. The romance parts are clean. This is the first book in this series that I have read, but I will have to look into the other ones, but I would say you can read this book as a standalone book. The suspense part is Witness Conspiracy/Canada Police. I found the suspense part well done, and this book was fast pace which made you want to keep reading. This is a short quick read. I guess few parts of the twists and turns in this book. I really loved the ending. This book was everything I wanted from this book. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Love Inspired Suspense) or author (Maggie K. Black) via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review about how I feel about this book, and I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.

[Nadine Bookaholic · Rating 3 out of 5]

It has been a very long time since I’ve read a “wholesome/clean romance”, I’ve read some stories where the sexy times were implied but kept off the pages more recently. This story didn’t have any of that going on but it did have two people that cared deeply for one another and they both held a deep faith in the Lord because when either was in trouble or feeling scared they sent to a silent prayer with the hopes of it being answered.

You can read my full review here: https://bit.ly/NBReviewCWC



**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**
You can find me here:  https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Christmas Witness Conspiracy" is a Christian romantic suspense novel. It's the fourth in a series, but you can understand this book without reading the previous ones.

A mob of discontented hackers threaten to bring down the power grid throughout Canada if they aren't given a hacking device that they think a man created. The man is presumed dead, but his wife might still have the device. Liam has tracked down a hacker that they know protected this woman before, and he's surprised to discover that it's a woman that he put in Witness Protection after he proposed marriage to her many years ago. She tells him that he has a daughter and granddaughter, and their daughter is the one targeted by the hackers. He pushes her to bring them in for law enforcement to protect. She explains that they refused to when she urged it and that their daughter and granddaughter are headed to another country to start a new life. Kelly's determined to go with them. Only their plans go wrong, and Liam and Kelly must do their best to protect their children.

The main characters were interesting and resourceful, though initially their different goals got in the way of their working well together. The suspense came from the bad guys attacking them and kidnapping their daughter and the mystery of why law enforcement suddenly is determined to arrest Liam. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this exciting novel.

I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an action packed, Christian, second chance romance and suspense story with plenty of surprises along the way!

Twenty- two years ago Liam Bearsmith was a law enforcement officer responsible for protecting Kelly Marshall. As he helped keep her safe, the two fell in love and planned to marry. However, he was then sent on an extended investigation and what he then discovered prevented him seeking her out again, though he always kept an eye on what was happening in her life. Imagine his shock when the hacker he’s following turns out to be her – four years after her witness protection file said she and her family had died. She is adamant that she is being framed and as more lies are uncovered, there are other secrets to be revealed but there’s no chance of building on their growing mutual love until the criminals who are after them both are thwarted. Can they keep their faith and stay safe? Just who can they trust?

This is a real page turner, with danger, double-dealing, deceit, secrets and so much more. As Liam discovers what really happened to her all those years ago and she discovers why he never acknowledged her letters, will the two have a fresh chance at having a HEA together? Meanwhile they and others close to them are in danger from a huge group of cyberterrorists. Only be protecting each other and working together can they help save each other and many others but it is a race against time and unknown enemies as records are falsified, accusations are made and terrorists will do everything they can to access a special hacking device, including kidnapping and more.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this and have absolutely no hesitation in highly recommending it to anyone who enjoys ‘clean’ inspirational romantic suspense. Thank you to Harlequin and NetGalley for my copy of this book which I have voluntarily read and honestly reviewed.

[Nadine Bookaholic · Rating 3 out of 5]

It has been a very long time since I’ve read a “wholesome/clean romance”, I’ve read some stories where the sexy times were implied but kept off the pages more recently. This story didn’t have any of that going on but it did have two people that cared deeply for one another and they both held a deep faith in the Lord because when either was in trouble or feeling scared they sent to a silent prayer with the hopes of it being answered.

In this fourth book of the Protected Identities Series by Maggie Black we have Detective Liam Bearsmith who comes face to face with his past and twenty+ years of secrets are uncovered. Not only that but Liam must protect the woman he loved, and the family he never knew about from "The Impostors" that are looking to kidnap them.

I enjoyed all of the action in this story, there was a lot going on and it definitely held my interest. This is the first book in this Christian romantic suspense Series that I have read but I plan on checking out the previous books. If you enjoy Romantic Suspense, Christian Romances, or Second-Chance Romances I would recommend this book to you.

Happy Reading!!!

[Faith · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fast paced family affair, I loved how this book brought in multiple generations as well as featured a couple who were a little older than your average spring chickens featured in most romances these days.

This was a highly engaging and enjoyable read, with great characters who had strong faith and great interaction. I loved how Liam bonds quickly with little Pip, and how this case gives him a second chance at love.

This book has a lot going on with surprised and twists all along the way. I loved how this book takes a unique approach, and does an excellent job of delivering great twists. Highly entertaining!


I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Detective Liam Bearsmith is hot on the trail to a tracker. He is beside himself when he discovers that she is none other than the only woman who ever claimed his heart. Now he has to arrest her, but first he has to keep her alive, as there are bad guys at every turn trying to kill her. Her name is Kelly Marshall and they haven't seen each other in over two decades.

Not only are Liam and Kelly connected due to a crime that has taken place, they have a family connection that Liam was previously unaware of. She claims innocence, so just maybe Liam can save Kelly's life, and clear her name at the same time.

What an excellent story! As a Christian fiction romance, faith is part of the story, and that always a plus for me. However, there is a lot of suspense, especially when it comes to trying to stop a group of hackers before major damage is done in Canada. Then, the second chance romance between Liam and Kelly. As far as the suspense is concerned, the book is chock full. The intensity never lets up for one moment in this book, all while Liam and Kelly work together to repair the chasm that is between them.

Christmas Witness Conspiracy is the thrilling fourth book in the Protected Identities series. I hadn't read the previous books, and this book did quite well as a standalone. I did see several characters mentioned who were no doubt part of previous stories, so for those who enjoy the continuity they will enjoy those appearances.

Many thanks to Love Inspired Suspense and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

[Melanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Christmas Witness Conspiracy was an easy read. I didn't find the storyline 100% believable, but I liked the characters and the second-chance romance story.

The story had a lot of danger and intense scenes. The characters had several moments where things could have gone terribly wrong.

All in all, a good read.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Liam is tracking a hacker when low and behold its a women from his past. Now theres a issue of criminals shaking things up, kidnapping, and mistaken identities. As they run for their lives with a grandchild in tow these two need to find their daughter and figure out who is after them.

From the moment this book starts there is non-stop with so much going and I loved going on for the ride. There is so much to process with wondering what was going on with misinformation, confusion, and the people taking over the boat made what was going on a super stressful situation. Then there was the kidnapping and Liam finding out that not only is he a father after all these years but a grandfather and now he gotta keep the women he's been in love with for a long time and the granddaughter her didnt know about safe as they run for their life. I loved that there was so much going on that it kept me as a reader on my toes wondering what's going to happen next because these two just cant get a break. Overall I really enjoyed this book.

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a bit different in that the ages of the main characters were a little older than normal. and they had a granddaughter. It was a great read as all of this author's books are.

[Margie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kelly Marshall fell in love twenty-two years ago. She fell in love with the man who was charged with protecting her prior into going into the witness protection program. They only had two weeks together but their relationship resulted in Kelly becoming pregnant. She gave that precious baby girl Hannah up for adoption believing she'd have a better life with her adoptive parents. Kelly tried to tell Hannah's father Liam Bearsmith about the baby but she never received any answers to her letters. Fast forward twenty-two years. Hannah's adoptive parents have died and Hannah researched and found her birth mother, Kelly. Hannah is married to Renner Phillips and they have a baby girl they call Pip. Renner is presumed dead but isn't and Kelly, Hannah and Pip are on their way to meet him and disappear with him when Liam Bearsmith resurfaces and tries to arrest Kelly. That's when everything goes crazy and Kelly and Liam go on the run. Many adventures, dangers and close calls await them.

Liam Bearsmith insists he is married to his job as a detective with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. He lost the love of his life years ago when he looked into Kelly Marshall's witness protection file and found that she was married and had four sons according to the records. Imagine his surprise when he hunts down the hacker called The Sparrow and discovers it is Kelly. Kelly, along with Hannah and Pip are on a cruise ship for the Ugly Sweater Cruise around Lake Ontario. They have plans to leave the ship to meet up with Renner and loose themselves in the USA. Liam can't let that happen. The ship is taken over by a group of Hackers, the Imposters, looking to kidnap Hannah to get to Renner. Liam manages to save Kelly and baby Pip and the adventure to save kidnapped Hannah and stop the Imposters' nefarious plans begins.

Christmas Witness Conspiracy by Maggie K. Black is the fourth book in her Protected Identities series. Talk about twists and turns... This story is super twisty and turny. Friends turn into enemies or do they? There are kidnappings, gun battles and tons of danger to throw roadblocks in Kelly and Liam's road to a HEA. Liam is one capable, strong, determined and stubborn guy. No one is going to take Kelly away from him now he has found her again and he is going to stop the Imposters' plan. Kelly never fell out of love with Liam and sticks with him now no matter what. Liam's team is there for him and it was great to see all the characters from the earlier books again. This is a great series and I highly recommend it.

[Toth Jo-Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maggie knows how to tie a story together with the help of a gentle giant by the name of Liam Bearsmith. This story is full of questions that need to be answered, mystery and intrigue. It takes you on a journey into the past were you see things that have happened that have ties to the present. It's fast paced and full of action. It's about a love that has lasted 20 years and it's waiting for a fulfillment. I like that it has managed to last thru the lies that have been made about each of them. It's a great story and worth reading. J

[Katherine Hayward Pérez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christmas Witness Cospiracy is a suspense novel with deep Christian roots. A band of hackers has to be stopped if Canada's entire power grid is not to suffer. There are some aspects of clean romance but the main plot is stopping the hackers.

Maggie K. Black is a new author to me and I liked her writing style and the suspense in this quick novel.

Thanks to Maggie K. Black and Harlequin Love Inspired Suspense for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.

4 stars

[Glenda Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

My review today is on the Love Inspired Suspense, Christmas Witness Conspiracy. This is book three in the Protected Identites Series. I really enjoyed this book; one of the things I liked was the fact that it wasn't about young kids but in fact our hero finds out he is a grandfather and didn't know it. I thought that was pretty cool. The story is well written, action packed and full of drama. I know you will love it.

Detective Liam Bearsmith is investigating a hacker, "Sparrow". A newly reborn cyberterrorist group has put a price on her head. Imagine his surprise when the hacker turns out to be a witness that he once fell for when he was in witness protection some twenty years ago. He finds out that he not only had a child with this witness but is now a grandfather. His grand child's father is suppose to be dead but is very much alive. These terrorist are trying to get their hands on his new decipher key that can break any code. He must keep his first love save, their granddaughter safe, and find his daughter.

Kelly Marshall had been nineteen when she had been taken into witness protection. She had fallen in love with her handler; he just disappeared and she was left carrying his child. Now he is back and is trying to keep her from rescuing her family. Her daughter's husband was believed to have died but he has contacted them and is planning to smuggle them into the States to get them a way from the terrorists that are threatening them. She must keep her child and grandchild safe even if it means hurting the only man she ever loved.

A horrifying journey through the great lakes and across the Northern States to flee from unknown terrorist. A bounty on her head. Who can they trust? Is there a mole? God has a plan for these two, a plan for a hope and a future. God has a plan for you too, a good plan and not for evil. Even in this pandemic with evil and violence all around you God can make a way for you. Give Him your heart and watch Him work in your life

[Vickie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although this is the fourth book in the series, I read it as a standalone and understood the plot and was able to catch up quickly on who the characters were and the roles that they played. Taking place both in the U.S. and Canada, the basic tale is one of a RCMP detective, Liam Bearsmith, who had fallen in love with a witness in protection two decades previously and now sees her, follows her and the action really begins. It seems that Kelly and Liam have a daughter named Hannah who is married to a computer hacker names Renner. The plot got very unbelievable at times, with a gang called the Imposters determined to capture Renner and get a master key that he had discovered. The cutest character, by far, was the infant named Pip who is Hannah and Renner’s daughter, and thus Liam’s granddaughter whom he has just met. There are numerous other characters, members of Liam’s team, who jump into action to assist him. Again, many of the scenes during rescues and hostage-taking were far-fetched, but they were still entertaining. It was a fast-paced Christian romantic suspense with plenty of action to go along with the tons of characters. I I didn’t even try to keep the characters straight; I just kept reading to find out the ending. I knew that it would all be okay, but I didn’t know how that was going to be possible since one character would get out of trouble and another would fall into a trap. I liked the settings, rural and very Canadian wilderness like. Fans of clean romantic suspense who enjoy constant action will enjoy this book.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Harlequin via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

[Barbara Kelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unforgettable Characters and Supreme Action

by Barbara Kelley

This book is the 4th and final book in the Protected Identities series by Maggie K. Black. This series has unforgettable characters and supreme phenomenal action. Some of these characters made cameo appearances in previous Maggie K. Black series. This episode was about Liam Bearsmith (definitely a Native American Indian name), the eldest (in his mid 40s) team member of the team of RCMP and military stealth people who help protect individuals in witness protection. Liam is following who he believes is an evil hacker of a witness protection file; however, the person he is chasing happens to be Kelly, the only woman he ever loved 22 years ago. Why did she steal Hannah's file? Through falsified witness protection files, Liam thought Kelley was married, had 4 sons, and died in a car crash. However, all of that was a lie. I figured out who had falsified her record before the end of the book. Liam also finds a family he never knew he had. Do not believe everything you see on the World Wide Web or Internet! Remember that like every movie or television show, the audience is fed with subjective material; in other words, the producers, directors, and camera persons want the audience to believe something that is totally false! Therefore, when Liam's murder is posted online, you'll know it's a lie, because you have a front row seat look at the picture. All false or fake news, just like Kelly's doctored file. Keep in mind, too, that not everything in face-to-face action is as it appears. Remember what Seth, the hacker, did for the team in books 1-3, and ask yourself, "Would he really do this subterfuge action now?" I loved all the books in this series and suggest that if you have not already read books 1-3 of the series, that you read them in chronological order before reading this one. I gave this entire series 5 stars!

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas Witness Conspiracy by Maggie Black is book 4 in the Protected Identity series. Each book has been about people in the witness protection program. This is Liam‘s story. Twenty-two years ago he had fallen for a witness but what he didn’t know is that she was pregnant and gave their baby up for adoption.

As he and Kelly try to protect their daughter and granddaughter, they realize they still have feelings for each other. And they start trying to unravel what happened 22 years ago.

The story was action packed as they try to capture the Imposters. The author did an amazing job with the action and adding in details that are interesting.

I highly recommend if you like action packed stories with mature adults leading the story and action.

Sexual content - previous sexual encounter, kissing,
Violence - action packed but no disturbing violence, kidnapping, tied up, threatened,

I received this book from Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review.
You can see my full review at More Than a Review dot com where I rate the level of sex, violence, language and drug/alcohol use in books.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas Witness Conspiracy is a Love Inspired suspense novella by author Maggie K Black.

The time is three days before Christmas. Liam Bearsmith is looking for Sparrow (a woman). The same woman he fell in love with 20 years ago. However, cyber terrorists are looking for her also. Liam learns he has a grandchild, he didn’t even know he had a child.

This is the last book of the series and even though I haven’t read the others I fell in step with this one. I especially liked the faith element that was present throughout the novella.

I loved this suspenseful read and look forward to reading more by Maggie. I highly recommend this novella to fans of suspense.

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

[Patti Whitson Stephenson She Lives to Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this suspenseful story because the twists and turns all the way through to the last chapter were consistently unpredictable. At different times in the book, the reader is led to wonder if a couple of the characters were truly who they claimed to be, and it was sometimes difficult to know who was truly a “good guy” or “bad guy”. Since the plot involves cyber crimes, it was easy to imagine that some of these cyber threats to a city could happen today.

The two main characters, Liam and Kelly, were resourceful and courageous. I also liked the contrast between Liam’s “old school” investigative work and his team’s knowledge of technology. I realized that I had missed a couple of the books in this series, but after reading this one, I’m looking forward to catching up with this series. Maggie Black is fast becoming one of my favorite Love Inspired authors.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Anna Marie · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF, here. And why?

This book is *NOT* a stand-alone. Even as part of a series, you are made to feel like you're LACKING as a reader for not knowing the three dozen couples who have come before and are paraded thru this book, from the get-go.

How. About. NO?!
Maybe I don't have access to the previous books, hm?

Also, because of this situation, the first six pages are narrated backstory, trying to catch you up on the hacker ring that was, but is not, but is again. ((Yes, that's a Revelation reference. It fits.)) But the narration feels like you're watching an extended preview narrated by that guy with the deep voice, and he just keeps going on... and on... and ON...

And then FINALLY it over. You can move on with the story, right?

NOOOOOO!

It's more narration about what's happening *NOW*, instead of letting us into the story.

I... don't need this. It sucks.
There are too many books in the world, kthxbye.

[Nicola “Shortbookthyme” · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 4th book in the Protected Identities series. I have not read the previous books but had no problem reading this.
Main characters are Kelly and Liam. They had known each other years ago and had a falling out. Circumstances arise where they they met once again. This meeting is full of surprises and danger.
There is lots going on from gun fights to healing relationships to kidnapping to romance.
This is a Christian fiction romance that will warm your heart. Get ready for suspense and mystery with romance thrown in.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read and review this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Dana Busenbark · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who are Kelly and Liam? Where are they? What are their professions? Who is Bill Leckie? Oh goodness, when the bad meets the good, things hit the fan and leave folks up the proverbial creek without a paddle or canoe!!! The suspense in this romance was intense! Kidnappings, attempted kidnappings, baby, daughter, attempted murder, hackers, and more keep this book flowing! Enjoy the read!

RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT from Netgalley FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M. Brennan.

[Nicola “Shortbookthyme” · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 4th book in the Protected Identities series. I have not read the previous books but had no problem reading this.
Main characters are Kelly and Liam. They had known each other years ago and had a falling out. Circumstances arise where they they met once again. This meeting is full of surprises and danger.
There is lots going on from gun fights to healing relationships to kidnapping to romance.
This is a Christian fiction romance that will warm your heart. Get ready for suspense and mystery with romance thrown in.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always knew Liam's story was going to be good. He's been such an intriguing character from the first time this author introduced him in one of her books with a minor role. Every brief appearance in every book since then he has been captivating my attention more. It was worth the wait for the final reveal.
In my opinion, though I happen to like this genre of books, they are mostly carbon copied and predictable. However, this author is one of the few who do not disappoint. She keeps getting better and better delivering great storytelling with well developed characters. This book is a page-turner that you won't want to put down.

[Beatrice Moffitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book, absolutely loved it❤️❤️❤️❤️
First off it was set in Canada, most of it set where I live or around here.
Second the main characters were in their 40’s and it wasn’t just boy meets girl, time goes on and they reunite, live happily ever kind of book.
These things do happen but there is so much more happens with other generations and things going wrong every time you turn around. People you think are good, you aren’t sure about,and people getting kidnapped left right and centre.
A really good read all over😁

[Deb Whitney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maggie K. Black will never disappoint you! This book is filled with suspense, love, and a good dose of humor! This book kept me thinking and guessing throughout the pages of a complex but intriguing story. This is one I will likely read again!

[Lance R · Rating 5 out of 5]

The great Liam bearsmith

I started reading this in accident and stopped and read the first book up to this one ! Great job and so much fun I couldn't put it down !! Thank you and God bless

[Melmo2610 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book! This one pulled me in from the first page and the story immediately hooked me. I loved all the surprises, twists and turns the story took and the ending was perfect. A fabulous read and a fabulous finale to a series that is one of my Love Inspired Suspense favorites.

[Harlequin Books]

Categories
Inspirational Suspense, Wholesome Romance, Suspense, Romantic Suspense
Miniseries
Protected Identities (Book #4)

[Harlequin Books]

Categories
Inspirational Suspense, Wholesome Romance, Suspense, Romantic Suspense
Miniseries
Protected Identities (Book #4)