Book Review: One Nine by Sara Davison
There’s something about the blend of faith and suspense that always piques my interest, and Sara Davison’s One Nine turned out to be an exhilarating ride that exceeded my expectations. With the promise of clean romance intertwined with a gripping mystery, I dove into this novel not knowing I would emerge so captivated by its intricacies and heartfelt themes.
At its core, One Nine is the story of Brooke Turner, who finds herself neck-deep in trouble after being framed for the murder of her best friend, Lenora. The tension is palpable from the opening scene, where Brooke wakes up in her backyard, standing over Lenora’s body, a knife in her hand. It’s the kind of scenario that sends chills down your spine and immediately draws you in, leaving you hungry to unravel the truth behind the chaos. The author expertly weaves suspense with faith, embodying the essence of the novel’s title, inspired by Joshua 1:9—a powerful reminder to be strong and courageous.
Detective Chase Washington, convinced of Brooke’s guilt, tracks her down, only to find that the situation is far from black and white. What I appreciated most was the gradual evolution of Chase’s character; he wrestles with his preconceived notions about justice and the pursuit of truth and discovers a new perspective as the story unfolds. The dynamic between him and Brooke becomes central to the plot, with their reluctant alliance transforming into a compelling narrative filled with tension and unexpected trust.
Davison’s writing style is sharp and engaging, with pacing that kept me on the edge of my seat. The wilderness setting adds layers of intensity, creating a backdrop where survival becomes paramount, and I found myself rooting for Brooke and Chase as they navigated both external dangers and their own inner conflicts. Each character is intricately crafted, revealing not just their strengths but their vulnerabilities, making them relatable.
One particular moment that resonated with me was when Brooke reflects on her tattoo of “1:9,” a constant reminder of the courage she must summon in the face of adversity. This theme of reliance on faith shines brightly throughout the novel, grounding the characters and offering a source of hope. The testimonies of other readers highlight similar sentiments: “A fantastic romantic suspense novella!” and “An unputdownable, faith-filled read!” echo the universal appeal of this book.
One Nine is not just a book for fans of romantic suspense; it’s a story that invites readers to examine their own beliefs about justice, redemption, and the power of faith. If you enjoy a fast-paced narrative with heart-pounding suspense and a sprinkle of romance, this novella is a must-read.
Personally, this book left me feeling uplifted and contemplative, reminding me of the strength we all have within to confront our fears. It’s uplifting yet poignant, and I wholeheartedly recommend it not just to suspense aficionados but to anyone seeking a story that emphasizes courage and trust in God amidst turmoil.
In a world packed with uncertainties, One Nine serves as a gentle reminder to embrace faith and forge connections that can lead us to unexpected places. Thank you, Sara Davison, for this memorable journey!
You can find One Nine (a short Christian romantic suspense novel) here >>