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Review: Ribbons of Guilt - Bite of Betrayal #3

Ribbons of Guilt book cover on blue background

Ever since Harriet first made an appearance in Captured in Frame, I've eagerly been awaiting her story. Ribbons of Guilt is the third book in the Bite of Betrayal series by Laura Thomas, and it finally answers some questions behind the mystery of her marriage. It's been well worth the wait to return to Bramble Downs to discover the threats that have loomed against the Duval family.

Many thanks to Mountain Brook Ink for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

Content to be aware of: scenes of violence and death, abduction, stalking

Book Synopsis

A marriage in crisis. A betrayer in the wings. A life at stake.

Harriet Duval has it all-a handsome French husband, a delightful young daughter, a successful career as a professional ballerina behind her, and a beautiful future in a charming village in the English countryside. Even her beloved sisters can't see the painful truth she hides beneath her perfect mask...

Successful businessman Leo Duval is at a breaking point physically, emotionally, and spiritually as he is forced to harbor secrets in Paris while his marriage in England dissolves before his very eyes.

The magnetic pull of Harriet's old dancing life and the shocking murder of a Swan Lake ballerina causes her to question everything: faith, future, family. When the killer begins targeting the Duval family, Leo and Harriet's vulnerable marriage is tested by an unimaginable traumatic event. Will the guilt they carry divide them when they need each other most?

Source: Amazon

Book Thoughts

The mystery of Harriet and Leo Duval is finally untangled in this book and it's much more sinister than imagined. I’m thankful that I could journey with this married couple as they fight for everything they hold dear without fully realizing what's at stake when they first set out. It's a cautionary tale that demonstrates how seemingly innocuous actions can quickly take a turn for the worse, which is a very apt warning for Christians. Laura Thomas is skilled at keeping readers in suspense as they brace themselves for this domestic thriller filled with secrets and stalking. 

Seeing the three sisters support one another and deliver needed truth makes this book a delight to read. Harriet finds herself spiraling toward a place she never intended to go, and it's a blessing that Sophie and Georgia are there to remind Harriet of her faith. Experiencing Leo’s perspective is a real treat as he grapples with what it means to lead his home spiritually. Readers who enjoy stories about married couples and the challenges they face will appreciate how Ribbons of Guilt offers a solid message about God's grace and forgiveness, wrapped up in a beautiful and hard-fought for bow.

Book Summary

  • Format of book: 📱
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
  • Recommendation: 👍

Book Quotes

“I know, I know. It was irrational and I had no right thinking such things. I was a Christian, too. Admittedly, my faith had taken a major back seat while I was hyper-focused on dance and success, but still—I should have known better. I’ve lived with that guilt for years. How dare I?” “Hey.” Leo cupped her cheek. “I’m not one to spout wisdom after everything I’ve done, but what I do know in my heart is that God gives grace.” She nodded. “Grace over guilt. It was my mantra for a long time after that night, but I guess I’ve let it slide recently.”
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