Fear Not, a Christian fiction mystery written by Barbara Ann Derksen, centers around two main characters Brian Strait and Andrea Wilton. Brian and Andrea work together professionally and are also in a relationship. On a trip to visit an orphanage in Haiti the duo is sidetracked when Father Bertrand receives distressing news. Working together as detectives, the two are asked to investigate a close friend who is falsely accused on murder. Uninterested in finding the real murderer, the police offer no assistance leading Brian and Andrea to take matters into their own hands. Their investigation takes them on a luxurious cruise where they have to navigate learning the truth while evading untrustworthy and dangerous people. As the couple dig deeper into the underbelly of the cruise ships activities they uncover something much more evil than they ever expected.
The author does a good job of weaving Brian and Andrea’s relationship and the investigation with their faith. It’s clear the couple put God first in everything they do and rely on His guidance to see them through both tough and everyday situations. Their faith is on display when interacting with other people. They also sought opportunities to lead people who did not know Christ to salvation. I did find the dialogue to be a bit corny and old fashioned and I would have liked more detailed descriptions of the people they came across. I found it difficult to get a mental image of what people looked like beyond being “Asian” or “Oriental”.
This is the third book in a series, it can be read by itself, but I do wish a little more back story were summarized for new readers. Brian and Andrea referred to working on cases before, but it’s not explained how they got started.
The mystery that unfolds is intriguing and you’ll want to keep reading to see how it all ends. If you enjoy a little romance with your mystery and reading about people exercising their faith than this is an interesting read.
Disclosure
I received a free copy of this book/Ebook/Product to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.
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