Faces of Courage

Relinquished by Susan K. Beatty is the third book in the Faces of Courage series. I have read the first two, and true to the author’s style, this book does a fantastic job of taking readers on an emotional rollercoaster.

The main character, Teagan Parsons, embarks on a heart-wrenching journey to rescue her long-lost daughter. The author’s skillful storytelling shines through in this gripping tale, as Teagan’s determination and courage are put to the test. The dynamics between Teagan and her cousin in the FBI add a layer of intrigue, while her blossoming romance with Mitch McCartney adds a touch of warmth amidst the chaos. With its blend of suspense, romance, and faith, Relinquished is definitely a page-turner. I was captivated from start to finish. One note I would add is that the topic may be sensitive for readers, especially for a birth mother who gave her child up for adoption. While grappling with the consequences of her actions, Teagan is confronted with the realization that the past cannot be undone. Throughout the story, it is apparent that Teagan must learn to navigate the challenges ahead if she is to have a brighter future.

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Suspense, Romance & Spiritual Growth

Relinquished is a compelling blend of suspense, romance, and spiritual growth. The author’s ability to create well-rounded characters with relatable struggles adds depth to the story, while her engaging writing style kept me engrossed from beginning to end. With its themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the enduring power of love, I found Relinquished to be a thought-provoking read. I give it 5 out of 5 stars.

Note: I was fortunate to receive a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit in exchange for an honest review. Rest assured, my thoughts were not influenced by this arrangement! I was under no obligation to write a positive review or receive any compensation. I am simply being transparent and complying with FTC regulations.

Relinquished is on Tour with Celebrate Lit.

Book: Relinquished

Author: Susan K. Beatty

Genre: Christian Woman’s Fiction

Release date: May 16, 2023

No one takes her kid and gets away with it.

When Teagan Parsons discovers that the Amber Alert on a celebrity couple’s child is actually her daughter, she’s determined to rescue the daughter she relinquished years ago. If she’d only realized the emotions her mission would rekindle…

Having a cousin in the FBI gets her closer to the case than she could have dreamed, but instead of listening to the lead FBI agent’s warnings to “leave the job to the professionals,” Teagan begins following everyone she suspects. That old saying, “Don’t quit your day job,” has never been truer, but she’ll do whatever it takes to bring her daughter home safe.

Mitch McCartney has enough trouble on his hands without dealing with a guilt-ridden, biological mother bent on making up for past sins. Teagan seems to have developed a talent for getting things wrong and putting herself in danger. Oh… and she’s adding theft to her rap sheet—theft of his heart, anyway.

Then Teagan goes missing.

Learning you can’t undo the past is a tough enough lesson without adding on more mistakes, but with Mitch’s help, Teagan may, with the Lord’s Guidance, forge a brighter future this time.

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About the Author

Susan K. Beatty is in her third career—from journalist to homeschool tech writer to her life-long dream of becoming a novelist. She is proof you can start a new writing career late in life. Susan released her first published fiction in September 2019, and now an awarding winner author, this is her third novel, with several novelettes and short stories to her credit. She is passionate about finding courage through faith and grit. Susan lives with her husband of forty-nine years in Southern California. Add children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren to the mix and she has little time for her favorite hobbies of reading, watching classic movies, British crime dramas, and traveling.

More from Susan

The seeds of a story sometimes lay dormant in an author for years. Then they grow and grab the author, demanding to be told. Until eventually the author gives in.

In my case, I didn’t have to give in. I knew I would write some version of the story eventually.

It began in 1968, when I was young, unmarried, and pregnant. It continued through 1969 when I gave my child up for adoption. Of course, any birth mother will tell you the actual story doesn’t end there.

After I became a Christian in 1973, I grew into a better understanding of my journey. New emotions had to be dealt with when my daughter and I were reunited in 1988 when she was nineteen. We enjoyed getting to know each other despite our differences in faith, but those lost years could not be regained—another set of emotions to come to terms with.

I couldn’t write our story, but I wanted to write something that revealed the emotional dilemma birth mothers wrestle with: forgiveness, regret, accepting that one won’t take part in the baby’s childhood, and, if there is a reunion, accepting a new reality. This usually means discovering, despite a newfound relationship, the birth mother will never be that child’s mom.

But I also wanted to show God’s grace, healing, and a hope for a future (including the addition of light romance).

Not wanting the book to get weighed down in maudlin narrative, I tried to lift it above the muck and show the birth mother’s strength and courage. What better way to do that than throw her in the middle of a dangerous, life-threatening situation?

Note to birth mothers: If you have unresolved issues, there may be triggers in Relinquished. I urge you to spend time in prayer and allow the Lord to heal you regardless of whether you read the book. And, if you need it, there is no shame in getting counseling.

Note to adoptive mothers: I hope you get a glimpse into the other side of the story.

Note to all readers: Praying the Lord shines through Teagan’s story to illuminate your heart.