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The Garden Girls
On a remote Outer Banks island, a serial killer collects his prized specimens. And to stop him, an FBI agent must confront his own twisted past. FBI agent Tiberius Granger has seen his share of darkness. But a new case sets him on edge. It’s not just the macabre way both victims—found posed in front of lighthouses—are tattooed with flowers that match their names. There’s also the unsettling connection to the woman Ty once loved and to the shadowy cult they both risked everything to escape. Bexley Hemmingway’s sister has gone missing, and she’ll do anything to find her—including teaming up with Ty. That may prove a mistake, and not just because Ty doesn’t know he’s the father of her teenaged son. It seems the killer is taunting Ty, drawing everyone close to him into deeper danger.As the slashing winds and rain of a deadly hurricane approach the coast of North Carolina, the search leads Ty and Bex to an island that hides a grisly secret. But in his quest for the truth, Ty has ignored the fact that this time, he’s not just the hunter. Every move has been orchestrated by a killer into a perfect storm of terror, and they will need all their skills to survive…
367 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2024
About the author
Jessica R. Patch
94 books805 followersPublishers Weekly Bestselling author Jessica R. Patch is known for her dry wit and signature twists whether she’s penned a romantic suspense, a cold case thriller, or a small-town romance. When she’s not getting into fictional mischief with her characters, you can find her cozy on the couch in her mid-south home reading books by some of her favorite authors, watching movies with her family, and collecting recipes to amazing dishes she’ll probably never cook. Sign up for her newsletter “Patched In” at www.jessicarpatch.com. Jessica is represented by Rachel Kent of Books & Such Literary Management.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
April 28, 2024
THE GARDEN GIRLS by Author Jessica R. Patch is an intense, intricately woven suspense thriller with subtle Christian overtones. FBI agent Tiberius Granger and his team from the Special Crimes Unit return in a frenzied race against time and the fury of Mother Nature to apprehend a serial killer dubbed ‘The Artist’ for the elaborate flower tattoos he inks on victim's bodies that match the kind of flowers in their name. When the investigation brings Ty face-to-face with Bexley Hemmingway, a ghost from his past life in a religious cult, his world tilts off-axis as he struggles to bridle long suppressed anger, confusion, and hurt. For now, he sets aside personal issues to search for Bexley's missing sister who's believed to be the latest kidnap victim of ‘The Artist.' Can they find her in time?
Author Jessica R. Patch renders a dark, complex psychological thriller with a strong emphasis on the healing power of love and faith in THE GARDEN GIRLS. Her gift for crafting damaged characters with dark, deeply rooted pasts capable of earning readers' empathy is evident. A frenzied pace is driven by the fury of an approaching hurricane, the urgency to catch a killer before he strikes again, and Ty's personal inner conflict over his faith and trust in God as well as his battle to block the deluge of emotions overwhelming him over the return of Bexley. The intricately woven narrative is unique, dark, and emotionally raw and draining for both characters and readers. Patch skillfully interweaves complex themes in THE GARDEN GIRLS via main characters navigating life after escaping a religious cult that altered their future. The perfect blend of psychological thriller with a Christian perspective, this book is for readers who enjoy deeply emotional, intense thrillers that highlight the redemptive power of love, forgiveness, and faith.
Special thanks to the publisher Love Inspired Trade and the author Jessica R. Patch for an arc of this title. All opinions expressed are my own. This review first published in The Big Thrill Magazine and is now available on my blog Cross My Heart Reviews.
Author Jessica R. Patch renders a dark, complex psychological thriller with a strong emphasis on the healing power of love and faith in THE GARDEN GIRLS. Her gift for crafting damaged characters with dark, deeply rooted pasts capable of earning readers' empathy is evident. A frenzied pace is driven by the fury of an approaching hurricane, the urgency to catch a killer before he strikes again, and Ty's personal inner conflict over his faith and trust in God as well as his battle to block the deluge of emotions overwhelming him over the return of Bexley. The intricately woven narrative is unique, dark, and emotionally raw and draining for both characters and readers. Patch skillfully interweaves complex themes in THE GARDEN GIRLS via main characters navigating life after escaping a religious cult that altered their future. The perfect blend of psychological thriller with a Christian perspective, this book is for readers who enjoy deeply emotional, intense thrillers that highlight the redemptive power of love, forgiveness, and faith.
Special thanks to the publisher Love Inspired Trade and the author Jessica R. Patch for an arc of this title. All opinions expressed are my own. This review first published in The Big Thrill Magazine and is now available on my blog Cross My Heart Reviews.
December 17, 2023
Think criminal minds when you're starting this series...and keep it in mind, as the content reflects it. This is the third book focusing on Special Agent Tiberius Granger and his past growing up in a cult. A serial killer is targeting him, and using his first love as bait. As the SCU team unpacks the mind of a murder they try to make connections to discover who it could be. I was guessing until the end.
What I appreciate about the author's writing is the character's journey toward the gospel. His colleagues are honest about their faith, but when crisis blows up he sees how God has been at work all along.
This was a nail biter. It wasn't my favourite in this series, I had a harder time connecting with Ty and Bexley's characters and relationship, but it was still worth the read. You'll enjoy this if you like psychological thrillers which lead to the gospel.
*Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC and for the opportunity to post an honest review.
What I appreciate about the author's writing is the character's journey toward the gospel. His colleagues are honest about their faith, but when crisis blows up he sees how God has been at work all along.
This was a nail biter. It wasn't my favourite in this series, I had a harder time connecting with Ty and Bexley's characters and relationship, but it was still worth the read. You'll enjoy this if you like psychological thrillers which lead to the gospel.
*Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC and for the opportunity to post an honest review.
January 8, 2024
This nail-biting thriller is gripping and filled with suspenseful twists. Who knew tattooing could take on a murderous horror of its own? This page-turner will have you on the edge of your seat.
Little did FBI agent Tiberius Granger know that his next case would thrust him into a spiraling, deadly, tumultuous journey. His life and the lives of his team are at stake. The killer stays a step ahead, and they don’t know how.
Bexley Hemmingway, Tiberius’ love from the past, hadn’t died as he’d thought. Happening upon her during his investigation to find the missing girls stirs his emotions in ways he can’t explain.
Confusion, anger, and disappointment overwhelm him, and then he learns she’s had a baby, and the teenage boy is his son.
Who was after them, and why? Who abducted the missing girls? A deranged lunatic or a member of the cult he’d escaped from years ago?
If you like thrillers, you’ll find yourself engrossed in this novel. Don’t miss it.
Little did FBI agent Tiberius Granger know that his next case would thrust him into a spiraling, deadly, tumultuous journey. His life and the lives of his team are at stake. The killer stays a step ahead, and they don’t know how.
Bexley Hemmingway, Tiberius’ love from the past, hadn’t died as he’d thought. Happening upon her during his investigation to find the missing girls stirs his emotions in ways he can’t explain.
Confusion, anger, and disappointment overwhelm him, and then he learns she’s had a baby, and the teenage boy is his son.
Who was after them, and why? Who abducted the missing girls? A deranged lunatic or a member of the cult he’d escaped from years ago?
If you like thrillers, you’ll find yourself engrossed in this novel. Don’t miss it.
April 7, 2024
This thriller was unlike any I have read before. I will be looking to read more of her books in the future. A serial killer has been collecting women and a special team of the FBI have been called in to find the culprit. As the agents get to work on the case, each doing their own part in picking apart what they know and searching for things that could be connected to this case, Agent Tiberius realizes that he may be closer to this case than he'd like. A connection to someone from his past is involved and he must put all emotions and history aside to keep focus on the end goal. Finding out who this sick individual is and before he takes anyone else. To throw things even more off course than they are already are, a hurricane is headed right their way. Now they are not only working against the killer but also the weather that could potentially damage clues waiting to be found and the risk of delaying investigating and the possibility of another woman to be taken. This thriller is dark but also has a christian aspect and although there are many characters, they all have their own personalities and really bring depth to the storyline. Thank you to the author for the complementary novel and to JustRead Tours for the invite. This review is of my own opinion and accord.
January 17, 2024
Recommended for fans of the Steven James Patrick Bowers Series!
While The Garden Girls is connected to Her Darkest Secret and A Cry in the Dark, it can be read as a standalone. To best understand the cast of characters read the first two novels prior to The Garden Girls.
Wow. What a twisted villain. I was following a couple of red herrings for the identity of the serial killer and I was wrong. The reveal held elements of surprise and I loved that I didn't figure it all out.
Some of the details are difficult to read about. The author does a great job of inserting humor and the bonds of friendship among the team of FBI Agents that work together to solve crimes. This helps make the story not quite as dark.
The cover is perfect for the story inside.
My gratitude to publisher Harlequin for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
While The Garden Girls is connected to Her Darkest Secret and A Cry in the Dark, it can be read as a standalone. To best understand the cast of characters read the first two novels prior to The Garden Girls.
Wow. What a twisted villain. I was following a couple of red herrings for the identity of the serial killer and I was wrong. The reveal held elements of surprise and I loved that I didn't figure it all out.
Some of the details are difficult to read about. The author does a great job of inserting humor and the bonds of friendship among the team of FBI Agents that work together to solve crimes. This helps make the story not quite as dark.
The cover is perfect for the story inside.
My gratitude to publisher Harlequin for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
March 30, 2024
The Garden Girls by Jessica R. Patch is not for the faint of heart. The story is intense and gritty, sometimes terrifying, yet filled with hope and redemption. The Garden Girls follows Tiberius Granger, agent with the FBI Strange Crimes Unit, as he faces the demons of his past. A serial killer is kidnapping and tattooing his victims, and has ties to Ty’s past life in a cult. He reunites with his past love, that he thought had died, and discovers quite a few secrets as he tries to stop a killer from striking again.
I’ll admit that I’m not a fan of stories involving cults, but these characters and the storyline sucked me in. Ty’s heart is decimated over and over again, and he picks himself up and fights to save the ones he loves. I’ve loved Ty from some of the other books (Her Darkest Secret and A Cry in the Dark), and his humor and sarcasm bring some light to the dark storyline. Despite the evil and darkness, Jessica Patch paints a portrait of love, redemption, and sacrifice. I’m still thinking about the ending long after putting the book down. I was practically in tears, and I don’t cry easily. But that’s how emotionally invested I was in the story and characters.
If you love dark, gritty, and emotional stories, put this on your must read list. I’m a huge Jessica Patch fan, and you won’t want to miss The Garden Girls.
I received an ebook review copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own
I’ll admit that I’m not a fan of stories involving cults, but these characters and the storyline sucked me in. Ty’s heart is decimated over and over again, and he picks himself up and fights to save the ones he loves. I’ve loved Ty from some of the other books (Her Darkest Secret and A Cry in the Dark), and his humor and sarcasm bring some light to the dark storyline. Despite the evil and darkness, Jessica Patch paints a portrait of love, redemption, and sacrifice. I’m still thinking about the ending long after putting the book down. I was practically in tears, and I don’t cry easily. But that’s how emotionally invested I was in the story and characters.
If you love dark, gritty, and emotional stories, put this on your must read list. I’m a huge Jessica Patch fan, and you won’t want to miss The Garden Girls.
I received an ebook review copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own
April 10, 2024
Tyberius Granger, the affable prankster in the series. He races against the clock of an incoming hurricane in the outer banks of South Carolina to find a sociopathic serial killer. This is a fast-paced page turner that kept me on the edge of my seat. There are lots of twists and turns and some romance too. Not only is the creep factor high, but also hope. I know that may sound strange, but the author shows that even though there is evil in the world, she also shows love and hope. Love and hope win because of Jesus and what He has done for us. And I love that!
*I was given a copy of the book by the publisher. This is my honest opinion.
*I was given a copy of the book by the publisher. This is my honest opinion.
December 6, 2023
In "The Garden Girls," Jessica R. Patch weaves an intricate narrative that deftly balances intense drama with profound thematic elements. The book's pacing is commendable, moving the story forward with precision and maintaining engagement without unnecessary detours.
Central to the plot are Ty and Bexley, characters deeply impacted by their past involvement in a cult. This backstory adds layers to their development, especially in Ty's struggles with faith and trust in God. Patch successfully portrays these internal conflicts with authenticity, making the characters' emotions resonate with the reader.
The central crime of the story is chillingly unique, lending the narrative a dark and intense edge. This element, combined with the strong gospel message towards the conclusion, sets the book apart, straddling the line between Christian fiction and the broader psychological thriller genre.
Violet Rainwater, returning from "A Cry in the Dark," remains a standout character, not so much for her growth in this story but for her distinctive personality. Her snarky demeanor adds a much-appreciated lightness to the dynamics within the Strange Crimes Unit, making her a memorable and favored character in the ensemble.
The setting plays a crucial role, with the impending hurricane on the Outer Banks amplifying the sense of urgency. This natural element interplays seamlessly with the plot, escalating the tension to a climactic resolution that is both satisfying and thought-provoking.
Overall, "The Garden Girls" is a compelling read, blending psychological intrigue, well-crafted characters, and a thoughtfully integrated faith element. Patch's narrative skillfully navigates complex themes, making this book a notable addition to the genre of psychological thrillers with a Christian perspective.
I received this book from the publisher through the NetGalley review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have 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 Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Central to the plot are Ty and Bexley, characters deeply impacted by their past involvement in a cult. This backstory adds layers to their development, especially in Ty's struggles with faith and trust in God. Patch successfully portrays these internal conflicts with authenticity, making the characters' emotions resonate with the reader.
The central crime of the story is chillingly unique, lending the narrative a dark and intense edge. This element, combined with the strong gospel message towards the conclusion, sets the book apart, straddling the line between Christian fiction and the broader psychological thriller genre.
Violet Rainwater, returning from "A Cry in the Dark," remains a standout character, not so much for her growth in this story but for her distinctive personality. Her snarky demeanor adds a much-appreciated lightness to the dynamics within the Strange Crimes Unit, making her a memorable and favored character in the ensemble.
The setting plays a crucial role, with the impending hurricane on the Outer Banks amplifying the sense of urgency. This natural element interplays seamlessly with the plot, escalating the tension to a climactic resolution that is both satisfying and thought-provoking.
Overall, "The Garden Girls" is a compelling read, blending psychological intrigue, well-crafted characters, and a thoughtfully integrated faith element. Patch's narrative skillfully navigates complex themes, making this book a notable addition to the genre of psychological thrillers with a Christian perspective.
I received this book from the publisher through the NetGalley review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have 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 Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
May 1, 2024
The FBI: Strange Crimes Unit series is one that can really rip your heart out and pull your emotions all over the place! At least that has been my experience. I’m not saying that in a bad way at all. In fact, this series is one of my top thriller or suspense series ever. The author takes very difficult and even gruesome situations, some characters who are believers and some who are not, throws in law enforcement procedural drama, some light romance threaded throughout, and sets up chilling mysteries to solve, all while showing the difference of things of the world vs the things that point us toward God. The Garden Girls got hold of me and wouldn’t let go.
I ended up figuring out who the big villain was in this story, although the author did not at all make that an easy discovery. I was thrilled that I actually guessed it! However, that being said, the author dropped in so many twists and turns and surprises, that I actually ended up shocked over and over again at some other events and reveals in the book. So, she really did actually surprise me multiple times as things wound toward their conclusion at the end. And, truly, I’m kind of gutted by this book. Emotionally wrecked! But in an intrigued way. These characters meant a lot to me. I listened to this story over a couple of days and kept thinking of these characters as real people, even though I knew they were fictitious. I was deeply concerned about the Ty’s salvation and worried about how the relationship would develop between him and the son he never knew existed.
I ended up listening to the audio book version of this story, as I have with the other books in the series. I was, once again, very impressed with the narration. I enjoyed listening to it immensely.
I received a complimentary copy of this ebook, and then decided to listen to it in audio format. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I ended up figuring out who the big villain was in this story, although the author did not at all make that an easy discovery. I was thrilled that I actually guessed it! However, that being said, the author dropped in so many twists and turns and surprises, that I actually ended up shocked over and over again at some other events and reveals in the book. So, she really did actually surprise me multiple times as things wound toward their conclusion at the end. And, truly, I’m kind of gutted by this book. Emotionally wrecked! But in an intrigued way. These characters meant a lot to me. I listened to this story over a couple of days and kept thinking of these characters as real people, even though I knew they were fictitious. I was deeply concerned about the Ty’s salvation and worried about how the relationship would develop between him and the son he never knew existed.
I ended up listening to the audio book version of this story, as I have with the other books in the series. I was, once again, very impressed with the narration. I enjoyed listening to it immensely.
I received a complimentary copy of this ebook, and then decided to listen to it in audio format. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
April 15, 2024
Another great read from Jessica R Patch! This is the third book in the SCU series. It can be read on its own, but you have a better feel for the team and its members if you read this series in order. This book follows Ty (Tiberius) Granger and we finally learn of his mysterious past that has kept him cynical and opposed to all forms of religion. I thoroughly enjoyed this story in its entirety. Between the creep-tacular plot-line and how the villain's narcissism has him targeting women just to get to Ty, and the spectacular character development as Ty is forced to face his past and forge towards a new future, this book has a little bit of everything. I was kept in the dark about who the villain was until the reveal. There were also several segments in a first person perspective and I was completely thrown on whose perspective that was until it was revealed. All that to say, this was suspense done right! The faith thread throughout was subtle, but present. This one definitely had me turning pages and may be the quickest read of the year for me so far. If you enjoy gritty suspense novels with a touch of faith and romance, this is one I will heartily recommend! Special thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance e-copy of this novel. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
May 13, 2024
This was a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Like every Jessica R. Patch thriller I’ve read so far—I was guessing from the very beginning and didn’t figure out who the villain was until it was revealed in the book.
I’ve been waiting for Ty’s story since “Her Darkest Secret” and seeing into his past explained why he viewed ‘religion’ the way he did. The whole storyline from the get go was a whirlwind of surprises both good and bad. Overall, you can’t go wrong with this entire series and this book was a perfect addition to them. I highly recommend reading the first two books of the series for the background of Ty, the team’s previous experiences, and also because they’re amazing books! But if you’re someone who enjoys a solid thriller with strong Christian themes and don’t mind the grit with the grace, I highly recommend The Garden Girls!
Some things to keep in mind: there are a few chapters told from the villain’s POV and a victim’s in the midst of their captivity.
I’ve been waiting for Ty’s story since “Her Darkest Secret” and seeing into his past explained why he viewed ‘religion’ the way he did. The whole storyline from the get go was a whirlwind of surprises both good and bad. Overall, you can’t go wrong with this entire series and this book was a perfect addition to them. I highly recommend reading the first two books of the series for the background of Ty, the team’s previous experiences, and also because they’re amazing books! But if you’re someone who enjoys a solid thriller with strong Christian themes and don’t mind the grit with the grace, I highly recommend The Garden Girls!
Some things to keep in mind: there are a few chapters told from the villain’s POV and a victim’s in the midst of their captivity.
December 12, 2023
I don’t recall the last time that a psychological thriller made me cry, but this one did. The characters are so real and relatable that they became like friends and I hated the thought that evil was all around them, waiting to destroy them. The SCU team travels to the Outer Banks, a setting I am familiar with, so I enjoyed the setting. They are there to find a serial kidnapper who is taking women and tattooing them with flowers, then discarding them at a local lighthouse. I loved having the team all together working on solving the crime. My favorite SCU members are always Owen, because of his sense of humor and joking attitude, and Violet because she is so intuitive that it’s just weird. These are the characters that I would like to invite to dinner and have them entertain me with their wit and intelligence. The pace of the book is at a breakneck speed, racing from one twist and red herring to another and ultimately arriving at the surprising conclusion. Fans of psych thrillers who enjoy the films and books of the late Alfred Hitchcock will be enthralled with the SCU, their crime solving abilities and the way the author portrays each of the members as real people with a life outside of solving crimes. Crying at some parts and gasping at others, I made it to the end and then I just wanted another SCU book to read already. Faith plays a foundational part in the story, but it does not overwhelm or take over the story. It is an important part of some of the character’s lives and that added to the depth of the story. The addiction is real…the quest for justice is real. And these books are amazing! This book is part of a series but it can be read and thoroughly enjoyed as a standalone.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
December 30, 2023
The queen of psychological thrillers has done it once more! Jessica Patch has this way to pull you right in to her writing and you just can’t let go until you are done. You will want to carve out time to finish in one sitting.
FBI agent Tiberius Granger is in the race against time to beat the storm at the Outer Banks and find the killer before he strikes again. He joins forces with the Special
Crimes Unit to find out why these “flower girls” are showing up dead and what significance do these flowers have.
I believe that readers will relate to Ty because he struggles with things from his past that creep up in his life, but he sees there has to be some necessary resolution. Patch always does an exceptional job of looking at the heart of the matter and showing redemption as the answer.
Get ready to use your crime solving skills in this fast paced thriller. You will be guessing to the very end! Warning: Once you read a Jessica Patch book, the addiction begins!
I was given an ARC from Net Galley and these are all my opinions.
FBI agent Tiberius Granger is in the race against time to beat the storm at the Outer Banks and find the killer before he strikes again. He joins forces with the Special
Crimes Unit to find out why these “flower girls” are showing up dead and what significance do these flowers have.
I believe that readers will relate to Ty because he struggles with things from his past that creep up in his life, but he sees there has to be some necessary resolution. Patch always does an exceptional job of looking at the heart of the matter and showing redemption as the answer.
Get ready to use your crime solving skills in this fast paced thriller. You will be guessing to the very end! Warning: Once you read a Jessica Patch book, the addiction begins!
I was given an ARC from Net Galley and these are all my opinions.
December 10, 2023
HeartPounding, Creepy and Eerily Mesmerizing!
This psychological thriller will have you up all night! First off it could be made into a movie or your favorite BAU show. I am an avid Criminal Minds junkie and this was so much more! It will keep you up all night reading and jumping at the slightest noise. Your heart will race!
This is a standalone book but we have seen many of the team in Her Darkest Secret and A Cry in the Dark.
The main focus in The Garden Girls is on Ty… Tiberius Granger. Ty is one complicated, quirky guy. He will make you laugh and he has many hang ups… don’t we all! You will go through so many feelings as this story unfolds. Nothing has prepared you for this wild ride!
I cannot wait for another book like The Garden Girls, A Cry in the Dark or Her Darkest Secret. Jessica R Patch is definitely in my top 5 authors! You can also check out her Love Inspired Suspense books that give you a taste of her writing not quite as intense as these other three books but definitely worth the read!
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the Author and was under no obligation to post a favorable review.
This psychological thriller will have you up all night! First off it could be made into a movie or your favorite BAU show. I am an avid Criminal Minds junkie and this was so much more! It will keep you up all night reading and jumping at the slightest noise. Your heart will race!
This is a standalone book but we have seen many of the team in Her Darkest Secret and A Cry in the Dark.
The main focus in The Garden Girls is on Ty… Tiberius Granger. Ty is one complicated, quirky guy. He will make you laugh and he has many hang ups… don’t we all! You will go through so many feelings as this story unfolds. Nothing has prepared you for this wild ride!
I cannot wait for another book like The Garden Girls, A Cry in the Dark or Her Darkest Secret. Jessica R Patch is definitely in my top 5 authors! You can also check out her Love Inspired Suspense books that give you a taste of her writing not quite as intense as these other three books but definitely worth the read!
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the Author and was under no obligation to post a favorable review.
April 24, 2024
The Garden Girls by Jessica R. Patch dives deep into the past of Tiberius Granger. Readers are introduced to “Family” and the ideas that they carried. The serial killer was unique and different. The way that he captured the girls, tortured them, and eventually killed some of them was different, yet fascinating. Patch crafted a character that was definitely hurting, but he believed these garden girls would make him complete. I loved how she showed the serial killer through the eyes of one of the victims. Made him appear sane physically and mentally, but he had little ticks that showed he was not mentally stable. As for the plot, nicely woven together with plenty of trails to lead the reader along. Patch gave Tiberius a complicated past that wove together with Bexley. As the story progressed, emotions that were hidden down deep came bubbling back to the surface. Overall, The Garden Girls does a wonderful job at keeping the focus on the suspense of the story, which is the way that I enjoy my stories. A touch of romance, but really nothing that subtracted from the race to save the girls from the killer. Definitely recommend for readers who like grittier novels.
I received a complimentary copy of The Garden Girls by Jessica R. Patch from Love Inspired Trade Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
I received a complimentary copy of The Garden Girls by Jessica R. Patch from Love Inspired Trade Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
April 20, 2024
This was an unbelievably creepy story. The mad man behind the garden girls was one of the creepiest villains I have read in a while. Maybe ever. This is a race against time drama, as a mad man is playing with women's lives and FBI agent Tiberius Granger, Ty for short, and his team have made this personal. If you have watched the show Mentalist, which this story put me in the mind of, then you know what you are getting yourself into. If not, then be prepared for some scary stuff and don't read at night.
There is a lot going on and to recap, without spoilers, Ty and his team is dealing with a lot. Not only are they dealing with a cunning and calculating madman, but a hurricane is on its way to the Outer Banks too. Ty's first love is in the center of what is going on since her sister has gone missing. This situation brings them together the for the first time in seventeen years. Bexley has been keeping secrets from Ty, and a big one for those seventeen years. He has a son he doesn't know about. They share a lot of history, especially the crazy cult they both were involved in when they were kids. Like I said, there is a lot going on.
With shocking twists and turns, we join with Ty's team as they try to hunt the madman and bring him to justice. But he seems to have a special dislike for Ty. Can Ty keep his team and his newfound family safe?
The setting was ripe with tension, and a scary storm barreling down on them was not helping. We also get the viewpoints of one of the captured women, her terror brought on chills, but she was a fighter, so I was rooting for her.
Not only do we get her point of view but the madman's as well. What a lunatic and he was giving me some major horror vibes. On that note, for sensitive readers please be advised that some parts are very disturbing.
There is a hope thread throughout the novel. I liked how the author showed the difference between a cult that pretended to follow the one true God verses those that were true believers. She did this all without preaching and it kept the story from being overly dark. Read during the daytime preferably.
I was provided a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
There is a lot going on and to recap, without spoilers, Ty and his team is dealing with a lot. Not only are they dealing with a cunning and calculating madman, but a hurricane is on its way to the Outer Banks too. Ty's first love is in the center of what is going on since her sister has gone missing. This situation brings them together the for the first time in seventeen years. Bexley has been keeping secrets from Ty, and a big one for those seventeen years. He has a son he doesn't know about. They share a lot of history, especially the crazy cult they both were involved in when they were kids. Like I said, there is a lot going on.
With shocking twists and turns, we join with Ty's team as they try to hunt the madman and bring him to justice. But he seems to have a special dislike for Ty. Can Ty keep his team and his newfound family safe?
The setting was ripe with tension, and a scary storm barreling down on them was not helping. We also get the viewpoints of one of the captured women, her terror brought on chills, but she was a fighter, so I was rooting for her.
Not only do we get her point of view but the madman's as well. What a lunatic and he was giving me some major horror vibes. On that note, for sensitive readers please be advised that some parts are very disturbing.
There is a hope thread throughout the novel. I liked how the author showed the difference between a cult that pretended to follow the one true God verses those that were true believers. She did this all without preaching and it kept the story from being overly dark. Read during the daytime preferably.
I was provided a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
April 28, 2024
The Garden Girls is a gritty,intense, thriller that’s shines Christ through real and raw friendships like I’ve yet to experience in a book! You see adults dealing with the aftermath of being raised in a religious cult. You see how everyone involved has dealt with that differently. This leads to a thrilling journey of who is behind the kidnapping and murders of local women.
As always ,in Jessica’s books,I not see who the murderer coming ! I even try to think of the most unlikely one and am still wrong. She also always has plot twists and The Garden Girls was no exception.
As always ,in Jessica’s books,I not see who the murderer coming ! I even try to think of the most unlikely one and am still wrong. She also always has plot twists and The Garden Girls was no exception.
Read
March 19, 2024Another AMAZING book by Jessica R. Patch. Filled with the suspense, twists, and turns that readers of Patch novels have come to love, this book keeps you on the edge of your seat. It will make your heart race, keep you guessing, and even have you shed a few tears along the way. But what I love most about Patch novels is no matter where they take you, they always end with hope. If you love suspense and thrills, you definitely want to pick this one up.
April 7, 2024
“I know the kinds of things that await me. I know what evil men can do.”
This is my first Jessica Patch book and I loved it!
It was suspenseful from start to finish. The opening prologue begins with a woman’s attempted escape from her captor. The action and intensity continues to the very end as a last rescue attempt is made in the middle of a hurricane on the Outer Banks.
Patch writes Christian fiction so one of the best parts of the book is that there is no swearing or graphic sexual content. It’s felt increasingly harder to find mainstream books without all of that so I’m glad to find a Christian author that can still write good (but clean) thrillers.
I would say Patch is in league with Steven James’s books. The Garden Girls felt a lot like James’s Patrick Bowers series about a serial killer. And if you like one of these authors, you’re sure to like the other.
They both get into the nitty gritty and aren’t afraid of portraying evil or killing off characters. Patch’s writing may have slightly more overt Christian undertones. James writes about moral and ethical questions and mentions God, but Patch writes more specifically about a character’s faith journey.
I will say, though, that I thought she did this in an organic and natural way. I have been a bit (probably overly) critical of a lot of Christian fiction for being cheesy or unnatural. But I didn’t feel that while reading this book.
The Plot and Characters
The Garden Girls is an intense thriller about a serial killer who abducts women with flower names and tattoos them with flowers from neck to thigh: blooms when they obey, buds when they don’t.
He has a secret garden in his house with human-sized bird cages where he puts them on display to dance for him.
So yeah. Pretty disturbing. I hadn’t thought about the concept of an abductor tattooing his victims which is such a permanent and flamboyant way to traumatize someone.
“You’re part of my private garden now. I’m going to teach you how to bloom.”
It’s got NCIS/Criminal Minds vibes with their SCU team (Strange Crimes Unit) which specializes in hunting down “sickos who kill people based on their religious beliefs.”
Here’s the team:
Ty (our main character) is the impulsive, smart aleck of the group and their resident religious behavioral analyst. He had left a cult as a teenager and had coped with his abusive childhood by studying religions and the psychology behind them.
They’ve got Selah, their computer hacker/analyst.
“Violet [the psychologist] had a superpower. She could slide into the brain of a serial killer and was rarely wrong.”
“Owen was a great geopattern theorist, and his work helped them triangulate where killers might live or work and where they hunted based on geographical patterns.” (just like Patrick Bowers…)
Asa is the father-figure, Special Agent in Charge.
Fiona is the profiler.
[It may be best to read the other books first or you might read a few little spoilers: Violet’s story is in Patch’s book A Cry in the Dark. Asa and Fiona’s story is in her book Her Darkest Secret. Both, I believe, also have serial killers]
Ty’s team takes on this case in the Outer Banks because the killer has a beef with Ty and is acting out his revenge.
“Tiberius would pay for his sins— pride at the top of the list. When he finally fell to his face, he would be humbled, humiliated and held accountable.”
The case gets even more personal when he finds out that a girl from his cult that he had fallen in love with as a teen—Bexley— and had planned to marry and escape the cult with all those years ago is still alive. And her younger sister, who he had also cared for, is now one of the missing girls.
To add to the turmoil he’s already feeling, he discovers Bexley had a son who is now 15. And Ty is the father.
Ty’s world is crashing down, the killer always five steps ahead, and just as they are getting answers to their questions, a cat 5 hurricane is bearing down on the East coast, threatening not only the missing women’s lives but their ability to finish the investigation and catch the killer.
“Ty wasn’t sure which scared him more— the unstoppable hurricane or the possibility that someone might be killing people as part of a revenge scheme against him.”
There is action and surprises up to the very end.
The Faith Part
I appreciate the way she showed the main character (Ty) with his transparent feelings toward religion and Christianity which were influenced by his cult upbringing, but how his relationship with his friends (who had their own faith journeys in other books) did life with him and their words and experiences helped penetrate the walls Ty had built up against God.
I thought it made a lot of sense to show how he came to the end of himself.
“He’d believed in no one but himself, and he was spent, stretched as far as one man could be stretched, feeling it in every beat of his heart and in every breath.”
That’s how it is for all of us. We think we can be in charge of our lives and that we have everything under control. If we just work hard enough and try long enough we can do anything, we can make it through anything.
But faith requires dependency on something (some One) outside of yourself. It doesn’t take too long to realize that we don’t have it in us. We are not enough on our own. There is not some magic in the fibers of our bodies that allow us to handle hard things.
There is grace. And mercy. And peace. And they come from a sovereign and powerful God who loves us.
That story was evident in The Garden Girls in a real life kind of way. There was real life suffering and grief. Real darkness. And then real light and hope even in the midst of loss.
I think that was an honest way to portray it because the Christian life is not a promise of an easy, care-free life of luxury. We are not called to endure nothing. But we persevere the hardship with the strength of the One who sustains the world and sustains our every breath and we know we can trust him.
Randos
I wanted to commend Jessica Patch on this well-placed cultural reference to a wonderful show:
“I’ll put this slow cooker on Warm unless you’re still freaked out about it since watching This Is Us.”
The book is mostly told in third-person, but the writing voice does change styles depending what character is the focus. This got to be a little confusing at times to know what perception we were getting.
Ty’s is the main voice and we probably should have had more of that. But there were times we were in the killer’s mind or in Bexley’s mind.
There was one first person POV from one of the women who was abducted.
Ty’s writing voice sections had more humor and sarcasm, Bexley’s had more anxiety and the others were meant to be more mysterious.
I thought Patch did a good job of creating unique characters with their own personalities and quirks. At times I wondered if the slang used for the son was too over-the-top, but it probably is how teenagers talk. I’m not around enough of them to know. But I do know ‘bussin’ is a thing so there’s that.
For the most part, I liked the way she wrote. She seems to have a good handle on humor and sarcasm and not all writers can do that realistically.
When they were going to get a sketch of the tattoo artist but the guy wasn’t going to get to it until Saturday I knew what was going to happen. In real life, if you’re about to get a sketch of a potential killer and you’re short on time you tell the guy to sketch that thing at home and text a picture of it! You don’t say- well, I guess we have to wait several days, he’s not scheduled to work. Hope he doesn’t call in sick!
I get that the sketch needed to come into play later for the suspense unfolding as Patch intended but I wish there was at least a better reason for the delay in getting that sketch so it made more sense than just waiting til the guy’s next shift of work.
Major Spoiler Comments
Recommendation
Even though this is classified as a Christian fiction book, I would recommend this one to all readers. Especially if you enjoy intense thrillers, or serial killer thrillers.
The ‘Christian stuff’ doesn’t take you out of the story, but rather enhances the character development and it’s not preachy or cheesy. (Well, I’m sure there’s someone out there who will disagree with me, but out of all the Christian fiction books out there, this is on the very ‘less preachy’ side of the spectrum).
If you don’t do well with serial killer books, you won’t want to read this one. The killer is a formidable opponent with a lot of evil.
I’m excited to have found Jessica Patch and look forward to reading some of her other books.
Disclaimer: I will say that she writes books like these and she also writes for ‘Love Inspired Suspense’ and the book covers for books with that organization are less than appealing to me. If any of you have read her books in those series, let me know how or if they’re a different kind of book than this. The covers make the books seem more like a Nancy Drew type of book. But if the writing is the same, I can look past the cover for the story. I may have to try one and see for myself.
[Content Advisory: no swear words- it’s written that a character curses but doesn’t say the word; no graphic sexual content but the abducted women are naked and there is some sexual perversion with a few of the characters]
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This is my first Jessica Patch book and I loved it!
It was suspenseful from start to finish. The opening prologue begins with a woman’s attempted escape from her captor. The action and intensity continues to the very end as a last rescue attempt is made in the middle of a hurricane on the Outer Banks.
Patch writes Christian fiction so one of the best parts of the book is that there is no swearing or graphic sexual content. It’s felt increasingly harder to find mainstream books without all of that so I’m glad to find a Christian author that can still write good (but clean) thrillers.
I would say Patch is in league with Steven James’s books. The Garden Girls felt a lot like James’s Patrick Bowers series about a serial killer. And if you like one of these authors, you’re sure to like the other.
They both get into the nitty gritty and aren’t afraid of portraying evil or killing off characters. Patch’s writing may have slightly more overt Christian undertones. James writes about moral and ethical questions and mentions God, but Patch writes more specifically about a character’s faith journey.
I will say, though, that I thought she did this in an organic and natural way. I have been a bit (probably overly) critical of a lot of Christian fiction for being cheesy or unnatural. But I didn’t feel that while reading this book.
The Plot and Characters
The Garden Girls is an intense thriller about a serial killer who abducts women with flower names and tattoos them with flowers from neck to thigh: blooms when they obey, buds when they don’t.
He has a secret garden in his house with human-sized bird cages where he puts them on display to dance for him.
So yeah. Pretty disturbing. I hadn’t thought about the concept of an abductor tattooing his victims which is such a permanent and flamboyant way to traumatize someone.
“You’re part of my private garden now. I’m going to teach you how to bloom.”
It’s got NCIS/Criminal Minds vibes with their SCU team (Strange Crimes Unit) which specializes in hunting down “sickos who kill people based on their religious beliefs.”
Here’s the team:
Ty (our main character) is the impulsive, smart aleck of the group and their resident religious behavioral analyst. He had left a cult as a teenager and had coped with his abusive childhood by studying religions and the psychology behind them.
They’ve got Selah, their computer hacker/analyst.
“Violet [the psychologist] had a superpower. She could slide into the brain of a serial killer and was rarely wrong.”
“Owen was a great geopattern theorist, and his work helped them triangulate where killers might live or work and where they hunted based on geographical patterns.” (just like Patrick Bowers…)
Asa is the father-figure, Special Agent in Charge.
Fiona is the profiler.
[It may be best to read the other books first or you might read a few little spoilers: Violet’s story is in Patch’s book A Cry in the Dark. Asa and Fiona’s story is in her book Her Darkest Secret. Both, I believe, also have serial killers]
Ty’s team takes on this case in the Outer Banks because the killer has a beef with Ty and is acting out his revenge.
“Tiberius would pay for his sins— pride at the top of the list. When he finally fell to his face, he would be humbled, humiliated and held accountable.”
The case gets even more personal when he finds out that a girl from his cult that he had fallen in love with as a teen—Bexley— and had planned to marry and escape the cult with all those years ago is still alive. And her younger sister, who he had also cared for, is now one of the missing girls.
To add to the turmoil he’s already feeling, he discovers Bexley had a son who is now 15. And Ty is the father.
Ty’s world is crashing down, the killer always five steps ahead, and just as they are getting answers to their questions, a cat 5 hurricane is bearing down on the East coast, threatening not only the missing women’s lives but their ability to finish the investigation and catch the killer.
“Ty wasn’t sure which scared him more— the unstoppable hurricane or the possibility that someone might be killing people as part of a revenge scheme against him.”
There is action and surprises up to the very end.
The Faith Part
I appreciate the way she showed the main character (Ty) with his transparent feelings toward religion and Christianity which were influenced by his cult upbringing, but how his relationship with his friends (who had their own faith journeys in other books) did life with him and their words and experiences helped penetrate the walls Ty had built up against God.
I thought it made a lot of sense to show how he came to the end of himself.
“He’d believed in no one but himself, and he was spent, stretched as far as one man could be stretched, feeling it in every beat of his heart and in every breath.”
That’s how it is for all of us. We think we can be in charge of our lives and that we have everything under control. If we just work hard enough and try long enough we can do anything, we can make it through anything.
But faith requires dependency on something (some One) outside of yourself. It doesn’t take too long to realize that we don’t have it in us. We are not enough on our own. There is not some magic in the fibers of our bodies that allow us to handle hard things.
There is grace. And mercy. And peace. And they come from a sovereign and powerful God who loves us.
That story was evident in The Garden Girls in a real life kind of way. There was real life suffering and grief. Real darkness. And then real light and hope even in the midst of loss.
I think that was an honest way to portray it because the Christian life is not a promise of an easy, care-free life of luxury. We are not called to endure nothing. But we persevere the hardship with the strength of the One who sustains the world and sustains our every breath and we know we can trust him.
Randos
I wanted to commend Jessica Patch on this well-placed cultural reference to a wonderful show:
“I’ll put this slow cooker on Warm unless you’re still freaked out about it since watching This Is Us.”
The book is mostly told in third-person, but the writing voice does change styles depending what character is the focus. This got to be a little confusing at times to know what perception we were getting.
Ty’s is the main voice and we probably should have had more of that. But there were times we were in the killer’s mind or in Bexley’s mind.
There was one first person POV from one of the women who was abducted.
Ty’s writing voice sections had more humor and sarcasm, Bexley’s had more anxiety and the others were meant to be more mysterious.
I thought Patch did a good job of creating unique characters with their own personalities and quirks. At times I wondered if the slang used for the son was too over-the-top, but it probably is how teenagers talk. I’m not around enough of them to know. But I do know ‘bussin’ is a thing so there’s that.
For the most part, I liked the way she wrote. She seems to have a good handle on humor and sarcasm and not all writers can do that realistically.
When they were going to get a sketch of the tattoo artist but the guy wasn’t going to get to it until Saturday I knew what was going to happen. In real life, if you’re about to get a sketch of a potential killer and you’re short on time you tell the guy to sketch that thing at home and text a picture of it! You don’t say- well, I guess we have to wait several days, he’s not scheduled to work. Hope he doesn’t call in sick!
I get that the sketch needed to come into play later for the suspense unfolding as Patch intended but I wish there was at least a better reason for the delay in getting that sketch so it made more sense than just waiting til the guy’s next shift of work.
Major Spoiler Comments
Recommendation
Even though this is classified as a Christian fiction book, I would recommend this one to all readers. Especially if you enjoy intense thrillers, or serial killer thrillers.
The ‘Christian stuff’ doesn’t take you out of the story, but rather enhances the character development and it’s not preachy or cheesy. (Well, I’m sure there’s someone out there who will disagree with me, but out of all the Christian fiction books out there, this is on the very ‘less preachy’ side of the spectrum).
If you don’t do well with serial killer books, you won’t want to read this one. The killer is a formidable opponent with a lot of evil.
I’m excited to have found Jessica Patch and look forward to reading some of her other books.
Disclaimer: I will say that she writes books like these and she also writes for ‘Love Inspired Suspense’ and the book covers for books with that organization are less than appealing to me. If any of you have read her books in those series, let me know how or if they’re a different kind of book than this. The covers make the books seem more like a Nancy Drew type of book. But if the writing is the same, I can look past the cover for the story. I may have to try one and see for myself.
[Content Advisory: no swear words- it’s written that a character curses but doesn’t say the word; no graphic sexual content but the abducted women are naked and there is some sexual perversion with a few of the characters]
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April 15, 2024
4.50 Stars
In her suspense books, Jessica R. Patch excels at writing dark and creepy villains. But even more important, she shows how light shines int and exposes those dark places. The Garden Girls might have one of the most disturbing villains I’ve read yet.
When women are found with flowers that match their names tattooed over their bodies, the Strange Crimes Unit is called to North Carolina—the same state where Tiberius (Ty) escape a cult. This case has a connection to Ty’s past, and it seems the killer may have a personal vendetta against him.
This book was intense and took me through a roller coaster of emotions—horror at what the killer was doing to the girls, frustration with both Bexley and Ty at times, heartbreak at the losses (both for the characters and for me as a reader), moments of joy, and the right touch of levity when the tension was getting too intense. And if you love plot twists, The Garden Girls gives you plenty.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive or negative review. All opinions are my own.
In her suspense books, Jessica R. Patch excels at writing dark and creepy villains. But even more important, she shows how light shines int and exposes those dark places. The Garden Girls might have one of the most disturbing villains I’ve read yet.
When women are found with flowers that match their names tattooed over their bodies, the Strange Crimes Unit is called to North Carolina—the same state where Tiberius (Ty) escape a cult. This case has a connection to Ty’s past, and it seems the killer may have a personal vendetta against him.
This book was intense and took me through a roller coaster of emotions—horror at what the killer was doing to the girls, frustration with both Bexley and Ty at times, heartbreak at the losses (both for the characters and for me as a reader), moments of joy, and the right touch of levity when the tension was getting too intense. And if you love plot twists, The Garden Girls gives you plenty.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive or negative review. All opinions are my own.
April 16, 2024
This was a very well written thriller. If you like shows like “Criminal Minds” then you probably will like this book. I liked how the author kept us guessing until the end about you the bad guy was. She gave us good clues but you were never sure who was behind it. I felt like we were with the characters as they tried to solve the case. I liked how even with the horrific things the killer was doing to the victims, the team was still able to keep fighting for answers and were willing to trust in God for guidance. I liked how the Christian aspects of this story were not to pushy but were done in such a way that you could have hope for a positive outcome. I don’t read a lot of thrillers because they creep me out but I have found that Jessica Patch does a great job of giving you just enough creepy without totally freaking you out so you have nightmares. I really enjoyed this story and thought it was well done.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
April 22, 2024
This is my first book by Jessica R Patch and it will not be the last.
A serial killer infiltrates the relative safety of the Outer Banks but picking “flowers” to add to his “garden”. By flowers, I mean woman with flower names. By garden, I mean cages in his solarium. If they “bloom”/dance then they are praised with a blooming flower tattoo, if they don’t…well you will just have to read the book…
This book is full of suspense and intrigue as we follow FBI agent Tiberius Granger work through the clues only to find that the killer is targeting him because of his past.
Y’all we should ALL be talking about this author! She has an amazing way with words. The story is full of dry humor, suspense, intrigue and it all leads to a heart stopping ending. You will literally go through all the suspects and STILL not know the actual killer until the very end. It’s also a beautiful story of forgiveness, friendship and finding God in the most unexpected way.
Five star read ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A serial killer infiltrates the relative safety of the Outer Banks but picking “flowers” to add to his “garden”. By flowers, I mean woman with flower names. By garden, I mean cages in his solarium. If they “bloom”/dance then they are praised with a blooming flower tattoo, if they don’t…well you will just have to read the book…
This book is full of suspense and intrigue as we follow FBI agent Tiberius Granger work through the clues only to find that the killer is targeting him because of his past.
Y’all we should ALL be talking about this author! She has an amazing way with words. The story is full of dry humor, suspense, intrigue and it all leads to a heart stopping ending. You will literally go through all the suspects and STILL not know the actual killer until the very end. It’s also a beautiful story of forgiveness, friendship and finding God in the most unexpected way.
Five star read ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 12, 2023
Excuse me while I sit in the corner and ugly cry for a while.
Out of all the books by Jessica Patch I’ve been blessed to read, The Garden Girls literally took my breath away. I didn’t even know I was holding it in until I felt a little lightheaded!
By far, this is the most intense of the three in this series. I have never met a darker or more insidious and twisted unsub along any of my travels through suspenseful fiction.
And I’ve never felt so overwhelmed and undone by events within the story. This book needs a warning label: ⚠️Patch will pluck your heart from your chest and stomp on it, then attempt to hand it back to you crushed and bleeding. And then reach in and do the exact same thing before finally, finally letting go.
I was a complete hot mess by the final pages. It still lingers in the back of my mind, and I get a shiver just thinking about the story.
And I loved every minute I spent within the pages. Jessica Patch is a brilliant author with an imagination that’s a little scary sometimes, but I like how she thinks (I wonder what that says about me!).
My thanks to the publisher for my advance copy. My review is unsolicited and honest. I wonder how long I should wait before I dive back in for another read….
Out of all the books by Jessica Patch I’ve been blessed to read, The Garden Girls literally took my breath away. I didn’t even know I was holding it in until I felt a little lightheaded!
By far, this is the most intense of the three in this series. I have never met a darker or more insidious and twisted unsub along any of my travels through suspenseful fiction.
And I’ve never felt so overwhelmed and undone by events within the story. This book needs a warning label: ⚠️Patch will pluck your heart from your chest and stomp on it, then attempt to hand it back to you crushed and bleeding. And then reach in and do the exact same thing before finally, finally letting go.
I was a complete hot mess by the final pages. It still lingers in the back of my mind, and I get a shiver just thinking about the story.
And I loved every minute I spent within the pages. Jessica Patch is a brilliant author with an imagination that’s a little scary sometimes, but I like how she thinks (I wonder what that says about me!).
My thanks to the publisher for my advance copy. My review is unsolicited and honest. I wonder how long I should wait before I dive back in for another read….
January 26, 2024
“Garden Girls…bloom for me.”
“Oh, so lovely garden girls unfolding flowers bloom for me in these dark hours then you shall dance, and twirl and twirl Look how lovely my garden girls.”
“We carry scars, little chips and cracks. They reveal our story, but there’s hope, Tiberius. There’s always hope that what was marred can be mended.”
Whew, another roller coaster ride provided by the amazing Jessica R. Patch. She has quickly become one of my favorite authors and her Strange Crimes Unit keeps getting better and better. This one is like Criminal Minds meets Steven James and is great from start to finish. But the last 20% of the book was honestly some of the best writing I have read in years with its mix of tension, suspense, and wow moments.
I have loved the Tiberius Granger character since Book 1 and I loved how his story unfolded (and bloomed). The Garden Girls is a perfect blend of mystery, suspense, creepiness, humor, faith, grittiness, and even romance. I didn’t come close to guessing the ending and Jessica R. Patch threw in some great surprises. I cannot recommend this series enough. Best Christian series I have read since Steven James’ Patrick Bowers series and Charles Martin’s Water Keeper series.
* I received this book free from Netgalley and publisher Harlequin - Romance in exchange for an honest review
“Oh, so lovely garden girls unfolding flowers bloom for me in these dark hours then you shall dance, and twirl and twirl Look how lovely my garden girls.”
“We carry scars, little chips and cracks. They reveal our story, but there’s hope, Tiberius. There’s always hope that what was marred can be mended.”
Whew, another roller coaster ride provided by the amazing Jessica R. Patch. She has quickly become one of my favorite authors and her Strange Crimes Unit keeps getting better and better. This one is like Criminal Minds meets Steven James and is great from start to finish. But the last 20% of the book was honestly some of the best writing I have read in years with its mix of tension, suspense, and wow moments.
I have loved the Tiberius Granger character since Book 1 and I loved how his story unfolded (and bloomed). The Garden Girls is a perfect blend of mystery, suspense, creepiness, humor, faith, grittiness, and even romance. I didn’t come close to guessing the ending and Jessica R. Patch threw in some great surprises. I cannot recommend this series enough. Best Christian series I have read since Steven James’ Patrick Bowers series and Charles Martin’s Water Keeper series.
* I received this book free from Netgalley and publisher Harlequin - Romance in exchange for an honest review
February 22, 2024
A beautiful yet harrowing tale that yanks on the heartstrings. Ty and Bex are amazing characters. They're gritty and wounded and they've both made mistakes, mistakes that haunt them years later. Ty has taken all his fury and twisted it up inside. I love that he uses humor to deflect his feelings and that his feelings for Bex have been there all along. The book itself has a darker atmosphere that was chilling to read as you're given glimpses into the bad guy's head and his actions throughout the book. I had no idea who the killer was until the very end, and that made the tension so much worse. There were times when I wanted to stop reading because I didn't want one more bad thing to happen, but I couldn't quit when I knew the resolution was so close. This is a great redemption story. I love how the author weaved all the pieces together in the end and showed Ty that love is a truly wonderful gift. You might need the tissues for this one.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
December 5, 2023
Oh wow! What an awesome read!!! I couldn’t put it down and I can’t say enough about it!!!…Tiberius and Bexley, along with the FBI Strange Crimes Unit, race to catch a heartless killer who is seeking revenge against Ty by killing women with a flower in their names. Time is not on their side as they navigate a major hurricane, not to mention Ty and Bex’s past together. This story is intriguing and intense to say the least, with a few surprises! So well written that I felt as if I were right there with them! My favorite thing is that inspite of, and in the midst of the bad things happening that faith, trust, hope, friendship and love are still found - and that’s what makes this the PERFECT READ!!! Jessica Patch has outdone herself again!!! ….You want to read this book!!!
April 26, 2024
On a remote Outer Banks island, a serial killer collects his prized specimens. And to stop him, an FBI agent must confront his own twisted pasts.🌺
A serial killer is on the loose in the Outer Banks, his victims all women with flower names and found covered in flower tattoos. FBI agent Tiberius Granger travels to investigate the recent murders, as well as the multiple missing women in the area who are suspected of being targeted by the killer, but he quickly discovers that it all might be connected to his past as a former cult member. Things get even more complicated when one of those missing women is the sister of Bexley Hemmingway, the woman he once loved and hasn’t seen since he left the cult, and he finds out he’s the father of her teenage son. With a major hurricane on the way, Tiberius and the entire Strange Crimes Unit have to use every resource at their disposal to find this killer and free the women he’s holding captive.🌺
The Garden Girls by Jessica R. Patch🌺
Love Inspired
This was my first Jessica Patch book, and wow, was it a wild ride! I love a story with a really psychotic villain, and she definitely delivers on that. I found the plot to be unique and interesting, especially with the characters’ past as cult members. This book is definitely not for the faint of heart; if you’re looking for something more light and fluffy, this would not be for you. But if you’re looking for a suspenseful story that focuses on the hope and healing you can find in Jesus, you should check this one out!💜
I will say that I almost felt like the writing in this book was too casual. A lot of slang was used that I fear will really age this book in the years to come. Also, there were times when the main male character seemed really immature for being in his 30s. Those were my main issues and why I took away half a star, but I still really enjoyed this story.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
A serial killer is on the loose in the Outer Banks, his victims all women with flower names and found covered in flower tattoos. FBI agent Tiberius Granger travels to investigate the recent murders, as well as the multiple missing women in the area who are suspected of being targeted by the killer, but he quickly discovers that it all might be connected to his past as a former cult member. Things get even more complicated when one of those missing women is the sister of Bexley Hemmingway, the woman he once loved and hasn’t seen since he left the cult, and he finds out he’s the father of her teenage son. With a major hurricane on the way, Tiberius and the entire Strange Crimes Unit have to use every resource at their disposal to find this killer and free the women he’s holding captive.🌺
The Garden Girls by Jessica R. Patch🌺
Love Inspired
This was my first Jessica Patch book, and wow, was it a wild ride! I love a story with a really psychotic villain, and she definitely delivers on that. I found the plot to be unique and interesting, especially with the characters’ past as cult members. This book is definitely not for the faint of heart; if you’re looking for something more light and fluffy, this would not be for you. But if you’re looking for a suspenseful story that focuses on the hope and healing you can find in Jesus, you should check this one out!💜
I will say that I almost felt like the writing in this book was too casual. A lot of slang was used that I fear will really age this book in the years to come. Also, there were times when the main male character seemed really immature for being in his 30s. Those were my main issues and why I took away half a star, but I still really enjoyed this story.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
April 28, 2024
Not sure I'll ever see flowers the same again...
If there is one thing that Jessica R. Patch has mastered beyond good storytelling, it's the creep factor. And this third book in her Strange Crimes Unit: South Division series has it in spades! The Garden Girls is everything you could want in a serial killer story with a few surprises and shocking twists along the way.
This was one of those books that I spent the entire time guessing who the killer was and then questioning myself on those guesses. There were so many secrets, shocking revelations, and red herrings that all I could do was keep turning those pages as fast as I could to find out if anything I knew was correct. Toss in a killer hurricane and you have a story that is equally entertaining and chilling.
If I hadn't already been hooked on Jessica R. Patch's romantic suspense from way back and hooked on the Strange Crimes Unit: South Division series from the first book, The Garden Girls would have totally sold me. There was absolutely not a single thing to dislike and over 350 pages to enjoy.
After finishing Jessica R. Patch's riveting and intricately plotted The Garden Girls, I am now intensely anticipating the next Strange Crimes Unit: South Division book. In the meantime I just have to remind myself that gardens are pretty. They can be fun. They are safe. Or are they....
(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
If there is one thing that Jessica R. Patch has mastered beyond good storytelling, it's the creep factor. And this third book in her Strange Crimes Unit: South Division series has it in spades! The Garden Girls is everything you could want in a serial killer story with a few surprises and shocking twists along the way.
This was one of those books that I spent the entire time guessing who the killer was and then questioning myself on those guesses. There were so many secrets, shocking revelations, and red herrings that all I could do was keep turning those pages as fast as I could to find out if anything I knew was correct. Toss in a killer hurricane and you have a story that is equally entertaining and chilling.
If I hadn't already been hooked on Jessica R. Patch's romantic suspense from way back and hooked on the Strange Crimes Unit: South Division series from the first book, The Garden Girls would have totally sold me. There was absolutely not a single thing to dislike and over 350 pages to enjoy.
After finishing Jessica R. Patch's riveting and intricately plotted The Garden Girls, I am now intensely anticipating the next Strange Crimes Unit: South Division book. In the meantime I just have to remind myself that gardens are pretty. They can be fun. They are safe. Or are they....
(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
March 16, 2024
If you are looking for an intense, creepy read, look no further as The Garden Girls fits this description.
The SCU's latest case to find a serial killer in North Carolina draws FBI agent Tiberius Granger deeper and closer to into the case as it's connected to his past and is personal. From an evil serial killer and mastermind to twists and turns, to sinister, brutal crimes to a jaw-dropping ending, The Garden Girls is a mind-blowing, suspenseful, and creepy read with some touching, emotional parts and an awesome faith message.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The SCU's latest case to find a serial killer in North Carolina draws FBI agent Tiberius Granger deeper and closer to into the case as it's connected to his past and is personal. From an evil serial killer and mastermind to twists and turns, to sinister, brutal crimes to a jaw-dropping ending, The Garden Girls is a mind-blowing, suspenseful, and creepy read with some touching, emotional parts and an awesome faith message.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 28, 2024
Stars: 4.25
Read: April 2024
Format: Net Galley digital ARC
Challenge Prompt: ARoCF’s, “A CF book with gardens as a theme or on the cover of a book”
Book #36 of 2024: This was a great psychological thriller with a largely familiar cast of characters from the previous two books, Her Darkest Secret and A Cry in the Dark. They don’t appear to be marked as a series but they should be. They would each stand alone also but I still recommend that they be read in order.
I have really enjoyed this group of FBI agents and how they work together. They have realistic relationships and have each other’s backs no matter what.
The cult background story was interesting and served a lesson or guide about the grooming, control, and lies that abound in those systems.
There were lots of twists and turns but I did feel that aspect ended up being overdone. It felt like a series of Babushka dolls with many UNSUB possibilities leading to yet another and another. In the end, I felt the eventual identity was not as believable.
As much as I love a great suspense or a psychological thriller, the depravity/creep factor details were too much at times. It was a little unsettling, especially the earlier part of the novel. It may be too much for those who have been through trauma.
The faith factor is present in this book, though it comes in more evident near the end. Seeing Tiberius’ background and subsequent struggle to believe in God is quite the journey. How he ultimately sees faith and love in action is so moving. Unfortunately we live in a world that has a lot of evil; however, to see it end the way it did contained such redemption and hope.
I recommend the book but a reader would benefit from reading the previous two, in order, beforehand.
>>> I was kindly provided an advanced digital copy of this book by Net Galley but I was not required to provide a positive review. All thoughts, opinion, and text are my own.
Read: April 2024
Format: Net Galley digital ARC
Challenge Prompt: ARoCF’s, “A CF book with gardens as a theme or on the cover of a book”
Book #36 of 2024: This was a great psychological thriller with a largely familiar cast of characters from the previous two books, Her Darkest Secret and A Cry in the Dark. They don’t appear to be marked as a series but they should be. They would each stand alone also but I still recommend that they be read in order.
I have really enjoyed this group of FBI agents and how they work together. They have realistic relationships and have each other’s backs no matter what.
The cult background story was interesting and served a lesson or guide about the grooming, control, and lies that abound in those systems.
There were lots of twists and turns but I did feel that aspect ended up being overdone. It felt like a series of Babushka dolls with many UNSUB possibilities leading to yet another and another. In the end, I felt the eventual identity was not as believable.
As much as I love a great suspense or a psychological thriller, the depravity/creep factor details were too much at times. It was a little unsettling, especially the earlier part of the novel. It may be too much for those who have been through trauma.
The faith factor is present in this book, though it comes in more evident near the end. Seeing Tiberius’ background and subsequent struggle to believe in God is quite the journey. How he ultimately sees faith and love in action is so moving. Unfortunately we live in a world that has a lot of evil; however, to see it end the way it did contained such redemption and hope.
I recommend the book but a reader would benefit from reading the previous two, in order, beforehand.
>>> I was kindly provided an advanced digital copy of this book by Net Galley but I was not required to provide a positive review. All thoughts, opinion, and text are my own.
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