Mysteries, family secrets, and the love of a true Father are found at the heart of this gripping novel from the bestselling author of Bringing Maggie HomeNewlyweds Sean Eagle and Meghan DeFord are no strangers to pain and loss. As cold-case detectives, they know intimately the anguish family members endure after the murder or disappearance of a loved one. But when a new case hits too close to … a new case hits too close to home, it threatens to pull loose the fragile cords of their young marriage.
Sheila Menke was just a girl when her father left for work and never returned. An investigation revealed he had embezzled enough to start a new life elsewhere, but Sheila could never accept the court’s criminalization of her father. Meghan reluctantly takes the case, secretly fearing it will stir up buried feelings about her own biological father. And while Sean investigates the mysterious death of two young brothers, he longs to start a family. But Meghan worries that with a negligent mother and an absentee father as her parenting examples, she might never be fit for motherhood.
As they delve deeper into the past, both Meghan and Sheila must choose to either stumble along the road of bitterness and resentment or walk the difficult path toward forgiveness and healing. When the cases begin to break wide open, these young women are poised to discover that while earthly fathers may fail, there is one in heaven who is a father to the fatherless.
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Unveiling the Past by Kim Vogel Sawyer has Detective Meghan DeFord-Eagle with the Arkansas Cold Case Investigations Department working on a case that hits a little close to home. Sheila Menke’s father, Anson never arrived home from work back in 2002, and then was found guilty of embezzling funds from the bank where he worked. Sheila took care of her sick mother while raising her two brothers. Her mother did not want to find out the truth while she was alive, but, since she has passed away, Sheila wants answers. Meghan was raised by a single mother and never knew the identity of her father until recently. She wants to find her birth father in the hopes of learning more about herself. Meghan feels she cannot start a family with her husband, Sean until then. Can Meghan get the resolution she needs while helping Sheila? Unveiling the Past is a story of forgiveness, redemption and second chances. I like that we get to see three generations of Meghan’s family. I liked Meghan’s mother, Diane who teaches Honors English in Las Vegas and lives with her mother, Hazel. I just loved Hazel and enjoyed the humor she added to the story. Sean Eagle is Meghan’s husband and a detective with the Arkansas Cold Case Investigations Department as well. They have been married three years and Sean is ready to start a family. The thought of having a child fills Meghan with fear. The couple has a few issues they must deal with which will test their marriage. I thought Unveiling the Past contained good writing and it moved along at a nice pace. I did, though, have trouble with the switching point-of-view. It took me a while to get into the story with the POV going between Diane, Meghan, Sean, and Kevin. Christian elements were nicely incorporated into the story, but I did feel it was a little heavy handed (felt preachy at times). Forgiveness and having a relationship with God were two of the prevalent themes. I like how Unveiling the Past ended. I did wonder, though, if there was a previous book featuring these characters. There is mention of a previous case involving Meghan and Sean when they searched for Hazel’s sister. Unveiling the Past is an uplifting story about acquiring forgiveness, a missing father, family, new beginnings and forging new paths.
I have enjoyed every book by Kim Vogel Sawyer that I have read and this book is no different. The story was very well written and even though it was an unedited ARC it was quite well done. There were a few errors such as punctuation and words that were wrong but these errors were few and far between and did not impact the story.
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The book is written from the viewpoint of 4 different people. These people are all related and the main story is woven around the dynamics of these relationships. Each of the main characters also has his own story within the story so it’s kind of like getting a few stories in one. I really enjoyed this as each new part was introduced with a header so you weren’t just thrown into a new aspect.
The characters were very well developed and the story line flowed well. This is a true Christian fiction story. By this, I mean that God is mentioned as well as the need for salvation but not in any sort of preachy way. It shows how the characters that are Christian in the book learn to lean on God’s wisdom. This story is set in modern-day times.
I was pleased to hear from Netgalley and Penguin Random House that I would be allowed to read and review this book. This review is not required and a positive review is never required. These thoughts are my own and freely given. I give this 4 out of 5 stars and would recommend this book to my friends. https://mybooksiread.blogspot.com/2020/03/unveiling-past-by-kim-vogel-sawyer.html
This is a really good read. I enjoyed the dual mysteries Meghan and Sean are investing as well as the side story about Meghan’s father. The book moves well and goes quick and I really liked the ending. Overall a good read, and a good series. I actually would love another story with these characters and see how their lives turn out after this book.
I received this book from NetGalley and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
Great book
“Unveiling the Past” was a beautiful reading experience. The characters were realistic and the book extremely well=written. I have read a number of books by kim Vogel Sawyer, and this was a truly memorable book. I would heartily recommend it,
Those who have read Bringing Maggie Home will enjoy catching up with the DeFord women in Unveiling the Past. Meghan and Sean are partners at work as well as in life now. Diane is living with her mother in Nevada but keeps in touch with her daughter.
When Meghan and Sean are given the choice to work together on a case or split up in order to keep working both cases, the second choice reigns. This couple is now forced to work with other detectives. If that isn’t stressful enough, Meghan is also dealing with whether she wants to meet her birth father—a man who had no part in her life over the years.
As Diane attempts to bridge the gap between Sean and her daughter, Meghan discovers truths about herself she’s never believed possible. With their evident faith, Sawyer’s continued character growth is phenomenal and the intricate stories lines come together to form a satisfying conclusion.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Another good book by author Kim Vogel Sawyer, I encourage you to read Bringing Maggie Home first. Things will make more sense if you do. I enjoyed visiting with some of the characters from it. Besides, it’s a really good book too.
Characters Sean and Meghan are strong and determined, which is good for business but not so good personally. We see them work through things, although it’s not easy.
There are several twists and turns in this story, making it one I had trouble putting down because I need things to be resolved. There were a few late nights in my life, but it was so worth it. I highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
3.5 stars
“How do you know when God’s telling you to do something? I mean, in the Bible it was so obvious. A burning bush, a talking donkey, angels who showed up and delivered messages. God doesn’t do those kinds of things anymore.”
Cold case detective Meghan DeFord-Eagle has so many questions circling through her head; does she dare contact her absentee father, should she and Sean start a family, could they open up a private investigative agency . . . . . could, should, would, maybe, might . . . . or not. It’s a heavy burden for one half of a new marriage to bear.
As if these decisions were not enough, Meghan and Sean’s supervising officer asks them to temporarily split their partnership, so that each of them can work with another detective, (up until now, they have worked as a team) to solve a case that exhibits distinctive connections. In spite of the fact that neither is particularly keen on the idea, the department is handling two scenarios that demand the Eagle’s expertise. As it turns out, it was the best decision they could have made.
Meanwhile, Meghan’s mother and grandmother are becoming involved in a situation as unique as any cold case that Meghan and Sean could be assigned, and just as personal.
This novel has a rather complicated mixture of plot lines, so much so that the reader may feel a little left out of the details from time to time; none of the story threads reign supreme, but they do weave themselves together rather nicely in the end. It’s the wonderful spiritual depth that marks “Unveiling the Past” as a decidedly inspirational read.
“Our structures, our lives are doomed to collapse unless we build on the cornerstone, Jesus Christ.”
“Unveiling the Past” by Kim Vogel Sawyer was a great read! I was hooked from the first page and continued to be throughout the whole book. I don’t read a lot of books by this author, but this one had me hooked when I read the description. It didn’t disappoint, either!
I loved how this book had some mystery also in it. There were actually a couple different mysteries being solved at the same time. I loved the main character, Meghan, in this story. Kim Vogel Sawyer did such a great job in making the characters come to life. It felt like I was actually living in the story!
I definitely recommend this book to anyone that enjoys good, clean fiction with a little mystery in it. I don’t think you will be disappointed.
I received this book from the publisher through NetGalley for my honest opinion.
Ms. Sawyer has done it again! She has written another book that the reader just can’t put down! This is such a great story with great character development and a storyline to die for!
I highly recommend this book for lovers of Christian fiction, mystery and intrigue, and a great story!!
Unveiling the Past continues Kim Vogel Sawyer’s Bringing Maggie Home series. Since this is part of a series, I highly recommend readers to start it with book one, Bringing Maggie Home.
I adore this author’s writing and Unveiling the Past is no different. I enjoyed the mystery and suspense in this story and enjoyed the beauty of faith and grace within the pages.
I am giving Unveiling the Past five plus stars. I highly recommend it for all readers.
I received this book from the author, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
Unveiling the Past by Kim Vogel Sawyer is book two in her Bringing Maggie Home series.
As cold case detectives, husband and wife, Sean Eagle and Meghan DeFord are familiar with the turmoil and pain often associated with mysteries of the past. Now they are presented with cases from the past and a new present-day mystery at the same time. The couple emphasize faith in a higher power in all things but as work situations and secrets from the past begin to invade their home life, will they be able to hold onto their faith in God and their trust in each other?
Kim Vogel Sawyer knows the Bible. She doesn’t just spout vague spiritual references; she gives full scriptures with book, chapter and verse. There are great literary elements in this novel. The plot is smart. The characters and dialogue are inspirational. This is a real tear-jerker with joyous highs and heartbreaking lows. In Unveiling the Past the author has struck the right balance between Christian fiction and contemporary mystery. I rate it 5 out 5 stars and recommend it to all readers of Christian fiction.
My thanks to WaterBrook & Multnomah and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
I could hardly set this book down! The two investigations that Meghan and Sean were working on were fascinating to me, especially Meghan’s investigation. I guess I am a fan of cold case stories because I felt the same way about the first book in this series and loved watching as the detectives pieced together the clues. If you haven’t read the first book, Bringing Maggie Home, I believe you could still enjoy this story. However, you will appreciate the characters in this book more if you read Bringing Maggie Home first.
I loved the many different situations that were going on in this book in addition to the investigations. There were personal and important decisions for Meghan and Sean to make, as well as answers that Meghan and her mother wanted from the past. The author did a good job of creating characters who tried to live their faith, struggled sometimes, but ultimately tried to trust in God’s direction for their lives.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Meghan was raised by her mom, Diane, with no father in the picture. As a married adult, she wants to find her father and see if they can build a relationship. Her mother has given her his name, Kevin. Meghan and her husband Sean work for a Cold Case Investigative Unit and are asked to take on a new case. Meghan, Sean and a couple other detectives (Dane and Farber) are assigned a couple cases that add to the mystery of the story. We also meet Sheila, and a few others who have minor roles. Page turning story between the cold cases and the relationships between Diane, Meghan, Sean, Kevin and Hazel. This story takes place in Arkansas and Nevada.
A complimentary copy was provided by Waterbrook via NetGalley. A review was not required and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
I devoured this book as my favorite go to author penned another I can not put this down winner. Bringing Maggie Home was an all time favorite of mine and this was a wonderful continuation of it. I pray there is another sequel coming as I don’t want to leave these characters here. God has our written story in His hands and He works all things out to His glory and this story is a perfect example of that. We all need to either ask for forgiveness or grant forgiveness and this shines brightly with the giving and receiving. I found I needed tissues as it is so heartfelt and touching in many places especially in the redemptive power of Christ. I found it to be encouraging and eye opening into flawed characters and how changes are possible. I find it hard to describe without spoilers so I will just say I wish I could give more than five stars as it deserves it. I highly recommend as Ms. Sawyer hit a home run.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
So I have never read anything by this author before so I didn’t know what to expect. However I was not disappointed. The author does have four main characters, however it was not hard to follow the author labeled when the change happened. I liked how there was suspense to the book and it really draws you in and leaves you wanting more with every turn of the page. I really liked Hazel so much, she spoke her mind but had a way of doing it in such a loving way, also had me laughing. Meghan and Shelia had a way of making you feel like you could relate with them and the author made it feel like I was catching up with a friend. This book did not disappoint at all, I really like that this was a good clean read suitable for all readers. I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley. I was under no obligation to post a review and have given my honest opinion.
This book was so good! It’s well written and hooks you on the first page. Just be warned, once you start reading, you don’t want to put it down. It’s one of those books that you don’t want it to end but you just have to know what happens next. I loved it!! Thank you WaterBrook & Multnomah via NetGalley for the ARC copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Unveiling the Past by Kim Vogel Sawyer is a unique read. I liked several things about this story, but I struggled a bit too. I liked the characters. They are well written. I appreciate their development and felt that for most the character arcs are realistic and relatable. I very much enjoyed the two cold cases and found these specific plotlines to be highly engaging. And, I really loved the discussion on parenting and raising children. I could very much relate to several of the struggles and conflicts the parents deal with. While I did find these aspects enjoyable, I did struggle to read this book. I found the pacing to be seriously slow, which made several moments in the story drag. These slow moments made me want to put the book down. Overall, I consider Unveiling the Past to be a 3-STAR story.
I’ve always been a little nervous about being a mom. My number one worry is the end product. No one wakes up and says, “I want my child to turn into the worst adult ever.” I genuinely believe that most every parent on this earth wants to do a good job and raise quality humans. I want to do a great job and raise my daughter well. But that’s the thing, you can do everything right — raise your child knowing that Jesus is Lord and Savior, hug, praise, and spend quality time with your child, and discipline lovingly — and still your child could turn out “wrong.” Add to that an awareness about potential negative genetic traits or negative family habits that could pass down, and having a kid seems fraught with nothing but negative. When so much could go wrong, why would anyone bother to have a kid?
Meghan, the protagonist of Unveiling the Past, is very uncomfortable with the idea of becoming a mother. Her husband is more than ready to grow their family from two to more, but Meghan just isn’t there yet. Yes, she loves her mother and grandmother very much, but they weren’t the best role models, and Meghan is afraid that her relationship with her future child could be negative. In Meghan’s family, the legacy passed down from mother to daughter is one of contention and stubbornness, and this is not something she wants to continue. Add to this that Meghan has never even met her father and has no idea the kinds of skeletons he may have in his closet, and Meghan is positive she is nowhere near to being good mother material. There just seems to be too much bad she could potentially pass down to her child.
Being a good mom or dad has nothing to do with genetics or family legacies. Being a good mom or dad has to do with our walk with God. Every success I’ve ever had as a mother has directly correlated to when my walk with God was good. Likewise, every mistake I’ve ever made coincided with times when my walk with God was a bit off. It’s all about our foundations. When our foundations are built upon our SELVES, and our walks with God are shaky at best, we can be assured that mistakes and wrong turns will abound. Make enough of these mistakes and wrong turns as a parent and they are bound to negatively impact our children. But when our foundations are solid and Jesus is our strong cornerstone, when our walk with God is first and foremost, our parenting skills will be solid too. Does a solid foundation with God mean our kids will be perfect? Of course not. Our kids are humans too. They will make mistakes. But mistakes are less likely to destroy the goodness of our kids, of our abilities to be good moms and dads, when we are solid with Jesus. I appreciate this discussion because it is a great reminder for me to make sure I am daily reflecting on my relationship with God. If I want my relationship with my daughter to be solid, I first need to verify I’m solid with Jesus!
There really is a TON to love about this book even though at times the pacing became really slow. Unveiling the Past allows the reader the opportunity to wrestle with some big-time issues and struggles, and because of this, I do recommend this story.
***Unveiling the Past is the second book in the Bringing Maggie Home series. While I do think reading book 1 would have been beneficial in my understanding of the characters’ backstories, I did not have any problem grasping any of the storylines in Unveiling the Past.***
I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the publisher, Waterbrook Press, via NetGalley in order to review. I also received a paperback copy of this book from the publisher as well. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Bringing Maggie Home by Kim Vogel Sawyer was so good and I was wishing it had a sequel. Talk about wishes coming true! The main couple in Unveiling the Past, Sean and Meghan, are from her first book, Bringing Maggie Home.
Actually we get to revisit several characters from Bringing Maggie Home. Hazel, Diane, Meghan and Sean were all a big part of the first book. Sean and Meghan are cold case detectives who are working to solve cases. There are a few other new characters we follow in this book too. Amazingly, it was easy to follow them all. I also enjoyed them by the end of the book. Sawyer has a way of helping us see the flawed characters good points. I just love that! This book also involves some mysteries that are uncovered and I didn’t figure out the ending, which was a plus for me.
Those who want to read fiction with solid Christian themes will appreciate Unveiling the Past. There is definitely solid Christian teaching woven throughout the storyline. My one complaint is minor but I don’t remember Sawyer having characters who called each other babe in her books before–while it wasn’t a big deal that was the one thing I found annoying. As a whole, this book offered mystery, romance, and solid Christian themes. At the same time, we realize characters aren’t perfect and we find them lovable in spite of their flaws. Unveiling the Past could stand alone but it would be much more enjoyable having read Bringing Maggie Home first.
I received an early edition of this book for review purposes. All opinions within this review are my own
Kim Vogel Sawyer’s newest book, Unveiling the Past, is a multi-layered, multifaceted book. However, even though there is more than one story woven throughout the pages, it is not overly complex or complicated.
I’ve never read a mystery/suspense storyline by Sawyer and did not realize this was a sequel. I still enjoyed it very much.
The protagonists are determined to get to the bottom of the mysteries surrounding their own lives and the lives of those who need their help. Their persistence is admirable.
Sawyer also introduces a spiritual element that is hard to resist. She doesn’t browbeat you or use hellfire and brimstone to get her message across. She just gently introduces it as a vital element in the lives of the main characters, then lets their lives speak for their faith. The degree to which she weaves it seamlessly and effortlessly into the story is creditable.
Unveiling the Past has a few unsettling scenes for anyone who has difficulty reading such occurrences or events. (I have PTSD and a few scenes were slightly disturbing to me, but I was able to read the entire book.)
I am now looking forward to purchasing and reading the first book in the series, Bringing Maggie Home.
I received the book from Waterbrook. However, I was under no obligation to post a review.
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