“Buried Secrets” by S. F. Baumgartner is a thrilling story packed with family secrets and shocking twists. The suspense kept me hooked from start to finish. If you’re looking for a “clean” thriller that still delivers plenty of tension and surprises, this is the perfect read.

From the very first chapter, this story had me hooked. The suspense builds layer by layer, creating an atmosphere that feels both gripping and immersive. The characters are well-drawn, with just enough mystery to keep me questioning their motives as the story unfolded. Every chapter pulled me in deeper, and I found myself completely caught up in the twists and tension. It’s the kind of thriller that stays with you long after you close the book.

Buried Secrets – Where It All Begins is a compelling prequel that draws you into a world of hidden legacies, long-buried truths, and faith tested by danger. S.F. Baumgartner crafts a suspenseful and emotionally resonant story that feels both intimate and expansive, setting the stage for what promises to be a gripping series.

Dylan Roche is a quietly engaging protagonist—his journey from a life of quiet anonymity to the heart of a deadly inheritance is paced with tension and heart. The moment he’s summoned by a grandmother he’s never met, the story begins to unravel with eerie precision. Secrets emerge, shadows lengthen, and the stakes rise with every chapter.

Baumgartner’s writing balances psychological intrigue with spiritual depth, offering a thriller that’s not just about survival, but about identity, legacy, and the courage to claim one’s place in a fractured family history. The atmosphere is rich, the danger palpable, and the emotional beats land with sincerity.

Perfect for fans of faith-infused suspense like Terri Blackstock and Lynette Eason, this re-edited edition is a strong entry point into Dylan’s world—and a satisfying read in its own right.

With thanks to S F Baumgartner, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC,

I really enjoyed getting to read this book, it had that element that I was wanting and enjoyed in a suspenseful thriller novel. It was a great opening chapter to the Mirror Estate series and had that concept that I was looking for and enjoyed overall reading this. The characters were everything that I was wanting and glad they worked overall. S.F. Baumgartner wrote this so well and am excited for more in this series.

I love a good psychological thriller!
This was a short, tense, suspenseful and a page turner of a book
If you like thrillers definitely give this one a try

After Dylan’s mother passes away he is invited to meet his wealthy grandmother who he didn’t know existed. While he’s there he feels he’s being watched. Someone doesn’t want him getting his inheritance.

This book was a pretty fast read which I liked. And it had an intriguing plot. However it just felt kind of bland and flat for me. I felt the characters didn’t have much depth and the plot was very rushed.