Synopsis

He knew there was a cost. He just didn’t know how great it’d be.

Gabriel Kelly returned to Russia for one reason—to bury his parents. After ten years in the United States, he hadn’t expected to return to his childhood home in the face of tragedy. However, after short days in Moscow, he begins to consider if the same call that cost his parents’ lives is now upon him.

Sofia Rykova’s dreams finally came true when she became a principal soloist with the Bolshoi Ballet. One night, though, an old crush walks back into her life, making her wonder if there is more to life than ballet. Gabe Kelly is just as she remembered, just as she longed for—yet religion stands between them.

Unknown to Gabe and Sofia, danger lurks closer than either would have guessed. The deaths of Gabe’s parents grow more suspicious by the day, and Gabe and Sofia are drawn into the midst of a plot neither can escape. Will obedience to God’s call—in spite of their fears and desires—result in a price too steep to bear?

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Review

I didn’t read the synopsis when I started reading this book (I had before but that was months ago!). What I found when I delved into this book was intrigue, ballet, hardened criminals, light romance, and a belief in God and the mission to share it with others.

I will be honest, I never thought about a Baptist church in Russia. I don’t know why and of course I had to look, and yes you can find a Baptist church in Russia. I love when I learn something new. Anyway, this story follows Gabe who had left his missionary parents in Russia to pursue a life back in the USA. However, when his parents were killed, he came back to wrap things up and discovered that maybe that is where he belonged, continuing what his parent’s started. Gabe is strong in faith but weak at the same time. This is a reflection that we all struggle with our beliefs and hold true to them no matter the situation.

Sofia knew Gabe from their teen years and his parents welcomed her with open arms. She is doing the one thing that she loves the most, ballet, and has become a soloist with the ballet company. As it is with most athletes, they tend to perform even when not 100%, and I could feel Sofia’s pain while dancing on injured ankles and more. It didn’t help that another dancer was out to get her and do whatever she could to take over her role in the ballet company. Then there is her brother…oh my! He is not one I would want to tangle with in a dark alley. He hides his true self from Sofia quite well and I’m surprised no one has told her what he is really like when not around her.

The story is suspenseful as Gabe tries to figure out who killed his parents and why. The pace is consistent but really ramps up near the end as the story is drawing to a conclusion. Gabe has a forgiving heart and a strong faith which he shares with Sofia and encourages her to have a stronger faith in God and Jesus. He shares it by his convictions and scriptures that are a roadmap for what we should do in this life as Christians.

The book has a great cast of supporting characters and each plays an important part in moving the storyline forward and supporting Gabe and Sofia.

We give this book 4 paws up and if you enjoy Christian Romantic Suspense novels then this might be the book you are looking for as your next read.

About the Author

Vanessa Hall is an author, musician, and homeschool graduate. Most days, she is reading, writing, or practicing the violin—or trying to find time for all three pursuits. Currently, she is working toward gaining a degree in instrumental music education. Unknown is her debut novel. Above all, she is a sinner saved and held fast by the abounding grace of Jesus Christ.

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