Frozen Footprints (Christian Suspense Thriller)

This book should be made into a movie!! These people in the story became so real to me. It was just heart wrenching to read about their trials they went through! And how strong they were! I highly recommend this book!

Creepy. The story line is good but I consistently felt disgusted, not thrilled. I was looking for book with suspenseful plot twists and I was disappointed with a largely predictable story overloaded with scenes intended to shock the reader. If horror movies are your thing then you'll probably enjoy Frozen Footprints. I probably will not read the sequel.

This was a riveting, suspenseful novel but had too much repetitive drama and the ending
was like a slap in the face. No doubt, the author intending on leaving a peaceful religious
flare to the ending, instead left the reader without a conclusion and disappointed.
It was well-written and one truly felt the evil from the sadistic murderer.
It is incredulous for one to believe a grandparent could value money so highly
over the life of a loved one but I suppose it sometimes happens. I cannot
believe though the grandfather wouldn't use his resources to find the
kidnapper.
It was cleanly written but very graphic and once reading it is more than enough.

This was the most depressing Christian book I have ever read. It just wouldn't let up talking about evil and families that just weren't. Nothing uplifting about this. You can so suspense and Christian, but not so with the author. I read almost all of it but I just couldn't bear it one more minute.

This was a pretty good read. Did get a little draggy at times. Reminded me of a 3 hour movie that could easily have been a 1 1/2 hour movie. Still the story was great and the characters were ok. Would recommend it to others that enjoy suspense books.

I really wasn't certain if I would complete this book or not ... then I found myself not wanting to put it down! I wanted to shake the grandfather ... and cheer on the siblings to a safe ending. Excellent story!

Excellent, well-written book. It captivates you with its opening and it questions your faith as the story unfolds. The story plot has its twists and turns and I was not able to put it down until I finished it. It was the first Catholic fiction book I have read and I was very impressed. It does have an adult theme that is graphic, but not gory. Where does your faith take you when the unbelievable happens? How do you deal with the evils in this world when all you have is faith? This book deals with those questions and more. I look forward to reading Book 2 soon when it is released.

I had read prior reviews, and was really looking forward to reading this book. I love mystery and suspense stories, and also stories that are termed Christian fiction. This story however had so much graphic violence, and a struggle between good and pure evil, I just found it very difficult to get through. The ending I felt was disappointing too, because you really need to read the next book which is a continuation of the story.

Sorry I loved the other book by this author Past Suspicions but cannot say the same for this. After reading more than half I couldn't take any more of the tortures by the kidnapper and could not enjoy reading. It is not my idea of an enjoyable read and cannot believe this is recommended for older teens

This really was a very good book but seemed totally unrealistic in the "faith" aspect.

WARNING: Since no one has really pointed this out, this is a CHRISTIAN (Catholic) book. I realize that the description does mention something about testing faith but it really did become tedious reading about the rosary, praying, etc. I felt that this was a "born-again" Catholic book.

The story and characters are totally interesting. The constant talk about praying the rosary, etc. did seem out of place. Like another reviewer mentioned, what made them have faith? Going to the grandfathers church was mentioned but at no point did I see that they were into it at all. Then all of a sudden she is a major praying girl? Yes, I do realize someone in her situation might come to that point but she went from a "regular" teenager to a major in your face Christian.

For those of you who do NOT like in your face Christianity then this probably is not the book for you. The first part of the book you get no hint that this is going to be a huge part of the story. Then all of a sudden they are praying the Rosary, etc. As in most Christian category books there is just too much of an emphasis on that part. You don't need to be told over and over that she is praying, saying the rosary, etc.

Overall, I really liked the book & just tried to skip through all the religious stuff. I was going to give up because of that but I wanted to find out what happened to the twins. Apparently there is a sequel (the ending was totally unsatisfying) and might read it but I will check out the reviews because I am not sure where it can go other than more religious stuff.

NOTE: I am NOT anti-Christian I just feel like authors "overdo" that aspect.

Ok, so now that you know how I feel about the ending I will tell you what I thought about the rest of it. The story line was interesting but way beyond any type of reality. Too much reliance on idols that helped them keep their act together. Many things in the story were just too unbelievable. But hey, the editing was great!

Why was this book even published? Don't waste money on it, it is AWFUL, and if it is free, don't get it then either. Pure waste of time, nightmarish, sick.
No redeeming quality in the book, period. Worst read of this year.

I know the story has immature characters but the writing shouldn't be. I was so tired of hearing about the 'twin' thing and silly actions after awhile I only scanned pages. The author tried to wind Christ throughout but left me without conviction. The overall story line had great potential but the author couldn't master it. Only the ending was worthy of a 2 star rating.

Sorely disappointed in the ending. I kept thinking there was a problem with the Kindle book, and I wasn't seeing the last chapter or page. Nope, not a problem with the Kindle book. Just an abrupt ending that leaves the reading thinking "WHAT?!?! That's the end?!?!" Wish I hadn't started it.

Disappointing ending and unbelievable characters. Eighteen year olds saying a rosary while being held captive in a dirt hole unless they are going the convent or seminary is totally unbelievable. The plot had lots of potential but the writer soiled a potentially great book with all kinds of religious stuff. Sorry but can't recommend this book. Glad it was a free ebook.

The writing is not over-whelming, but there are some twists that keep a reader hooked all the through to the end.
We see the results of grudges which invade the holder’s mind and life to the point of insanity. With appropriate adrenalin stimulating suspense, the characters move through kidnapping, torture and finally into escape and survival.
18 yr old twins, Charlene and Max, are the victims of a plot meant to hurt their grandfather who sort of deserves to be hurt, but not at the expense of these two young people. The book is listed as Christian Suspense and I think this fits. The characters are non-practicing Catholics. There is a reasonable description of Catholic practice without proselyting the reader into any particular doctrine. Their faith is definitely nurtured by their drive to survive.
As a Christian pleasure read, know that there is violence (Kidnapping and torture should have tipped you off). The twins are not weak and will exert violence on their own part in their efforts to escape their captor.
I enjoy reading almost everything and found this book ranking high on my list. The style is not heavy, the action moves fast, so you aren’t caught in a reading trap for days or hours of reading time. While there is painful suspense — and a knowledge that no matter what the outcome, these two are ‘marked’ for the rest of their lives by their kidnapping experience, readers will find a solid moral plot line. There is a hint of romantic relationship, but that is just one of the little twists of this particular story. Get ready for another surprise.
I did get a grin out of the interesting relationship with their step=mother…not one of the bad guys.
I recommend this book and will be reviewing it at Cardinal Bluff.

The story was well told. The characters were, if not wholly believable, well enough developed to make this a suspenseful read, which is what kept me coming back. I actually read the sequel first, then this one. Each book stands on its own as an independent story. I found the main characters, Charlene and Clay, to be annoyingly naive at times. She seemed to me to alternate between passivity and ineffective action, as did Clay. But i kept reminding myself she was 18 years old when this story first began, so maybe her actions were believable for an unrealistically sweet, sheltered rich teenager. And Clay was 21. Charlene's twin Max was less developed and more of a tool to flesh out the story. Grandfather was totally unbelievable to me. It was very hard for me to wrap my brain around his actions, even for a spoiled rich man. Abner, the villain, was indeed a very bad man. He may have been the most believable of all. But if you are looking for a book free from the amoral actions of our prevailingly amoral culture, with an emphasis on faith, you cant go wrong with these two books. And in the end, a Christian novel, with an enticingly suspenseful story, is a good way to pass those hours devoted to leisure reading.

This novel was so suspenseful and teetering on the edge of horror that I was both fascinated and repulsed by it...and I mean that in a good way!

I read Therese Heckenkamp's previous novel, Past Suspicion, and really enjoyed it, so I knew I'd probably be pleased with Frozen Footprints as well. Not only was I pleased, I was blown away.

I try to read mostly Christian fiction because I want to avoid the smut and/or graphic violence and language. But many times, Christian novels wind up to be sappy and sophomoric, usually resulting in a completely unrealistic conversion-and-they-live-happily-ever-after experience.

Not so for Charlene and her twin, Maxwell. They are Catholics, but not perfect Catholics, who come from a very dysfunctional family. A tragic experience forces them to rely on their faith in order to survive, but things don't come easy. There are many snares along the way and the reader is kept on the edge of his seat wondering how things will sort themselves out.

Heckenkamp does a great job in creating a villain who is evil and loathsome. The hair on the back of my neck stood up as I read several scenes in the book. It was a treat to read a truly scary story that didn't include gratuitous violence and gore.

I hope Heckenkamp will continue to write more horror stories. We need more quality fiction, especially in this genre. Ms. Heckenkamp, I'll be waiting for another like this, but I'll be sleeping with the lights on!

I loved this book!

The characters were awesome, I especially loved Charlene and Max, their relationship was so cool and reminded me a lot of my relationship with my brother!

This very talented authors writing hooked me on page one and I hated to put the book down from that point on!

The action, suspense and settings of the scenes were portrayed so wonderfully that I felt as though I was watching a movie play out in my head!!!

While reading this book, I found myself experiencing every emotion that the characters experienced so strongly, it felt like I was living the story with them! This the mark of a truly incredible author!!!

And the suspense! Oh my goodness, it was SO good! It is one of the most suspenseful books I have ever read, while reading Frozen Footprints there that I found myself holding my breath and literally sitting on the edge of my seat in anticipation of what would happen next!

Frozen Footprints is the definition of a suspenseful page turner! This book is a must read for all fans of Christian suspense!

I would recommend this book for mature readers, as there are a few scenes of violence that younger readers may find disturbing.

Overall, an amazing read (definitely a keeper), I really hope there will be a sequel because I was not ready to say goodbye to these characters!
Highly recommend!

I received this book from the author, in exchange for my honest review. The above is my honest opinion.
All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.

I first read Therese Heckenkamp’s Catholic suspense novel Frozen Footprints about a year ago. A big fan of Heckenkamp’s work (after reading her debut novel, Past Suspicion), I meant to do a review of Frozen Footprints when I finished it; but I procrastinated just long enough to realize that if I wanted to do the book justice, I would have to re-read it so that I could write about it while the details were still fresh in my mind.

I recently did read Frozen Footprints again--and boy, am I ever glad I did! I remembered that I couldn’t stop turning the pages the first time I read it, anxious to see what was going to happen next. And I remembered that faith played a huge role in the story. But I actually had a deeper appreciation of Heckenkamp’s award-winning book (a recipient of the Catholic Writers Guild Seal of Approval) the second time I read it, even though I knew exactly what was going to happen this time around. I was struck by just how deft a storyteller she is, and just how expertly and movingly she has woven elements of the Catholic Faith into this edge-of-your-seat thriller.

The story revolves around the kidnapping of Maxwell Goodwyne Perigard III ("Max"), the teenage grandson of Maxwell Goodwyne Perigard I and the twin brother of Charlene. The twins have been under the care of their selfish and tight-fisted grandfather since their father’s accidental death left them orphans a couple of years back. Grandfather is an extremely wealthy man who lives in a lavish mansion, complete with a chapel for Mass (although outside the doors of this chapel, he doesn’t come close to acting like a Christian); his great wealth—along with the ruthless business tactics he has employed--make him a perfect target for acts of revenge.

When Max suddenly goes missing, his grandfather assumes he’s just playing a prank and doesn’t take it seriously at all. After all, he’s threatened to run away many times in the past. Charlene, however, receives a frightening call from the kidnapper, with instructions for delivering a $2 million ransom, and she intuitively knows this is no joke. When the police, over whom her grandfather has undue influence, refuse to look into the matter properly, Charlene starts doing her own detective work. Her sleuthing leads her to Max; but unfortunately, she also ends up being taken captive by the same crazed, vengeful, violent man who kidnapped her brother. The two siblings are locked in a cold, tomb-like hole, underneath a lonely ramshackle cabin in the middle of nowhere. There is no phone, no electricity…and most likely, no way out. And because it's winter and the outside world is blanketed with white, if they attempt escape they will leave easy-to-follow footprints in the snow.

Heckenkamp has created a truly terrifying character in kidnapper Abner Morrow; he is a brutal, evil man who is undoubtedly possessed by the forces of darkness. He is utterly barbaric in his treatment of the Perigard twins--and even his younger brother Clay, who unwittingly becomes part of the kidnapping plan, is not spared the violence of his words and his fists. She has also created one of the most resourceful and determined characters in Charlene Perigard, who is about as fully rounded-out as any character I’ve come across in my reading travels of late. She goes through the whole gamut of emotions in the course of the story: despair at the hopelessness of their situation; hope, which keeps her working tirelessly to come up with a way to survive the ordeal; anger—at God, at the kidnappers; empathy--for Clay, who in a way is as much a victim as she and Max; and ultimately, deep faith, which sustains her in her darkest hours.

My husband, a former military man, used to repeat that well-known adage, “There are no atheists in foxholes.” Yet it is rare in this secularized world of ours to find characters in books or movies who turn to God when they are in extremely dangerous and terrifying situations and their lives are in mortal danger. It is rare to see them turn to prayer for comfort and refuge. Heckenkamp’s characters aren’t all as strong in their faith as they should or could be when the story begins; but when they are thrown together into a living nightmare—a true life-or-death situation—they do turn to Him. Sometimes, in their desperation, they wonder if He’s listening at all. But they do pray. And a Rosary Charlene has in her pocket when she’s taken captive proves to be a life-saver, in more ways than one.

This book really has it all, truly. It’s a page-turning thrill ride; but it’s also an insightful character study, and there are even hints of a love story in there. Most of all, Frozen Footprints is a testament to the Catholic Faith, and how it makes sense of the most senseless hardships and sufferings in life. Heckenkamp shows that to believe is to know real courage in the face of fear. The last page of this book illustrates this message so beautifully that it will bring tears to your eyes.

Highly recommended!

As a Catholic and a lover of suspense novels, there is so much I could say about this riveting book! It's about time someone wrote a thriller with a Catholic twist ... and left out the foul language and "Rated R" scenes which for me spoils so many otherwise excellent books.Thank you,Therese! I'm sure many Christians will appreciate this!

From page one, the reader is gripped and never let go of. I was instantly drawn into the story and found it easy to identify with the main character, 18-year-old Charlene Perigard, who, together with her twin brother Max, is thrown into a battle for survival against a ruthless killer in an isolated mountain cabin. As their situation grows more desperate, the twins find themselves turning more and more to God and His Blessed Mother, especially through the rosary, and thus a beautiful message of faith is woven into the tale (yet without being "preachy" in the least). But don't get me wrong: you don't have to be a Catholic to enjoy this book.

The only ones I would not recommend it to are those who are extremely squeamish, as there are some scenes of violence. At one point the villain tortures Charlene with his putrid-smelling feet, and just reading it made me want to throw up! No doubt that was the effect the author was aiming for, and it definitely worked! There is also a brief reference to rape, although nothing happens, and I have to confess I found one loop-hole in the plot (but Hollywood gets away with that all the time, doesn't it?), and it didn't detract from the rest of the story, so I still enthusiastically give it five stars.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book and look forward to the sequel. I think Mrs. Heckenkamp will emerge over time as a Catholic Lois Duncan.

Eighteen-year-old twins Charlene and Max Perigard have grown up under their wealthy but often cruel grandfather. When Max disappears and a ransom note is received, Charlene tries to persuade her grandfather to pay the ransom, but the older man thinks this is another attempt by his grandson to get money from him. Without her grandfather's help, Charlene tries to find her brother before it's too late.

Therese Heckenkamp's second novel is an exciting page turner with non-stop action. It's a very different experience than the author's first book, Past Suspicion (Christian Romantic Suspense). Frozen Footprints has all the elements of an edgy thriller with Catholic references interspersed throughout the novel.

The protagonists are well-developed with flaws and strengths. The antagonists are frightening and believable. As a former court reporter, I enjoyed the courtroom chapters.

For me, as a reader, the measure of a good novel is to be there with the characters as they move forward in the story. Therese Heckenkamp's talent as a storyteller is the ability to create a plot, characters and setting that are realistic and at the same time entertaining. Her writing style is crisp and varied and she keeps the reader on the edge of his/her seat.

Caution to parents: Some parts of this book are graphically violent. However, it is well worth the read and I highly recommend it for older teens and adults.

Ellen Gable (Hrkach)
award-winning author

As a Catholic and a lover of suspense novels, there is so much I could say about this riveting book! It's about time someone wrote a thriller with a Catholic twist ... and left out the foul language and "Rated R" scenes which for me spoils so many otherwise excellent books.Thank you,Therese! I'm sure many Christians will appreciate this!

From page one, the reader is gripped and never let go of. I was instantly drawn into the story and found it easy to identify with the main character, 18-year-old Charlene Perigard, who, together with her twin brother Max, is thrown into a battle for survival against a ruthless killer in an isolated mountain cabin. As their situation grows more desperate, the twins find themselves turning more and more to God and His Blessed Mother, especially through the rosary, and thus a beautiful message of faith is woven into the tale (yet without being "preachy" in the least). But don't get me wrong: you don't have to be a Catholic to enjoy this book.

The only ones I would not recommend it to are those who are extremely squeamish, as there are some scenes of violence. At one point the villain tortures Charlene with his putrid-smelling feet, and just reading it made me want to throw up! No doubt that was the effect the author was aiming for, and it definitely worked! There is also a brief reference to rape, although nothing happens, and I have to confess I found one loop-hole in the plot (but Hollywood gets away with that all the time, doesn't it?), and it didn't detract from the rest of the story, so I still enthusiastically give it five stars.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book and look forward to the sequel. I think Mrs. Heckenkamp will emerge over time as a Catholic Lois Duncan.

This is the first specifically Christian Suspense book I've read, and definitely the first book I've read advertised as told from a Catholic point of view. I found this to be refreshing and enjoyable, as I was raised Catholic.

It was also refreshing that the story was very much a Suspense story, rather than the Christian Romance that is typical of these types of books. And there was a lot of suspense to the story!

It took me a while to really get into the story; I continued reading the first half of the book out of curiousity. Then the suspense really kicked in, and I enjoyed the rest ofthe book a lot! It did end on somewhat of a cliffhanger, which I never like; but since the sequel is already available on kindle unlimited I'm looking forward to reading it soon.

I love the cover and title of Frozen Footprints. So applicable to the story. It was the cover that attracted me in the first place. And I was certainly not disappointed.
What a great story! I would have given it ten stars if I could.
It's so refreshing to read an enthralling, gritty thriller, that is free of expletives! and overt sex.
This was a book I couldn't put down.
I really liked Charlene Perigard, the plucky heroin. With all that she's goes through, she stays true to her faith. As I devoured each page, there were times when I thought, Oh no, this must be it!
Kidnapped by an evil man and suffering cruel torture and deprivation, how can Charlene and her brother Max survive?
I loved the stories honesty. There were times, understandably, when Charlene doubted her faith...struggled to hold on. SO WOULD I. Nevertheless, she did.

Each character in the story was so well written.
I disliked their grandfather, intensely. What a horrible man! Between him and the awful kidnapper, I really felt for Charlene and Max.

This is a great book, I can't recommend it highly enough.

I'll be quite honest here. In the days after receiving the book, it sat on my "to read" pile, and I passed over it several times. I didn't think I would like this book. When I finally opened it up, I didn't feel a whole lot different. I didn't think I would like it. After the first page or two, the feeling hadn't changed. I kept thinking to myself, "if I put this book down, what am I going to read next?"

But somewhere around page four or so, she did it. Therese Heckenkamp grabbed my by the collar and hooked me in... In to a marvelous thriller of murder, dysfunctional relationships, and superb intrigue.

Other reviewers have remarked about their lack of understanding of some of the Catholic related subjects. I'm in the same boat. Not a Catholic myself, but I treated these Catholic references as an opportunity to learn more about the beliefs and practices of the Church.

I loved the characters, and found myself recollecting the bonds that I had with my brother. We were very close and he was lost in a traffic accident when he was 18. So, I could relate to the sibling bonds here.

Therese Heckenkamp is a wonderful writer, with a very positive future in writing. I look forward to future volumes from this gifted young lady, and wish her all the best as she continues to master her craft as an excellent story-teller.

This has it all.... mystery, intrigue, a screwed up family, and more. If you are looking for an interesting, compelling, and entertaining read, get ahold of this book. You will be glad you did.

I received this book directly from the author with the understanding that I would give a fair and honest appraisal. I have not personal or professional affiliations with Therese Heckenkamp or the publisher. There were not financial considerations offered nor expected regarding this review from the writer, publisher, or this reviewer. You may also find this review posted on the store.com; Goodreads.com; and my blog: BookReviewsByJon.wordpress.com.

Thanks. Your feedback is always appreciated.

From its corny cabin cover photo to its shivering and cheesy title, it's obvious to prospective readers that Frozen Footprints is published by a small press. In fact, Tumblar House Books is so small, when compared to other established publishing groups out there, a David and Goliath analogy just doesn't cut it.

On the other hand, it is trying to do what no one else is: provide quality Catholic fiction to an anti-Catholic world. Given their publishing capabilities, the lack of a fancy, contemporary look to the book is forgivable. Even after reading the book, however, the title fails to capture the imagination, or the thrust of the book as a whole.

Neither my pocketbook or my interest were inclining me to order, and sensate attraction was not the only problem. Suspense is not my genre, historical romance is. Nevertheless, I felt some some sort of social responsibility to support small Catholic business and brave Catholic authors, even if I suspected I wouldn't care for the book. As it turned out, I received Frozen Footprints for the purpose of review from its author, Therese Heckenkamp

I had just finished a Clive Cussler novel (suspense historical, of sorts), that took me three weeks to finish, but I was doggedly determined to keep on reading it, and it wasn't that bad. I can say, though, it wasn't hard for me to put down if I needed to.

I began Frozen Footprints thinking I would be doing the same thing. I was wrong. I read it in a single sitting and didn't even notice the hours passing by.

My fears that the book would prove as corny as its cover were entirely unfounded. All the cliches for "nail-biter" and "edge of my seat" fiction apply when it comes to this book.

Ms. Heckenkamp surprised me with the quality of her fiction, not because I didn't think she had it in her, but because her work was not as well-presented as it could have been. Tumblar House Books no doubt did all they could, but there is only so much a small press can do.

Frozen Footprint's characters were believable, and for those young people who are raised in tradition, Charlene and Maxwell's outlook may be enlightening. There are occasions of prosiness, especially in the beginning, but these lessen as the book continues. The narrative was clean, and the dialogue credible, but what I particularly liked was the organic way in which Therese brought her characters face to face with the most important questions of religious existence, how can a good God allow evil? and what does it take to truly be Catholic? She did it without preachiness or melodrama, and in a way that is reflective of what many Catholics may have faced at one point or another.

For this last, if nothing else, she should receive high marks from the reading public, especially the traditional Catholic public. Her ability to include religion without it seeming didactic takes finesse, and a refined writing sensibility.

She has presented us with contemporary Catholics, whose trials act as a catalyst for their spiritual struggle to maintain the Faith. These struggles result in a new-found fervor for a religion they thought they were unconnected to. Her characters discover that the misuse and abuse of the Faith by certain people does not reflect on the truth of the Faith itself. They discover they are more Catholic than they realized.

In sum, Frozen Footprints, corny title and cover notwithstanding, is a perennially entertaining read for anyone anywhere, but especially for traditional Catholics who are frequently hard up for contemporary fiction that is clean, Catholic, and interesting. Put it on your gift list this coming year. I know I will.

"Frozen Footprints" is the latest contribution to Catholic suspense by Therese Heckenkamp, author of "Past Suspicion." I freely admit, suspense is not my genre of choice, but Heckenkamp once again managed to keep me interested and invested in this story. Charlene and Max Perigard are twins, raised by their grandfather, a wealthy oil tycoon who wants little to do with them. When Max is kidnapped, their grandfather thinks it is all a scam and wants nothing to do with it. Charlene then goes after Max on her own and soon becomes trapped as well.

The vast majority of the story takes place in a cabin in the woods and centers on the relationship among Max, Charlene, their captor Abner and his brother Clay. It also, as one might expect given the Catholic fiction designation, focuses on each of the character's relationship with God. Each struggles with God in his or her own way.

Abner, the evil one, is a former seminarian who has since rejected God and now worships the devil. He is truly terrifying. Clay would like to believe in God but, after he accidentally caused his father's death when he was seven years old, feels that God has abandoned him. Max and Charlene have both been turned off of religion by their grandfather, yet in their hour of need turn to God and ask for help, even when it seems God is ignoring their pleas.

Interestingly, I found a very minor character in the story - the mother of Abner and Clay - to be the one that intrigued me the most. She is a devout Catholic, and has remained faithful despite a rash of horrible events in her life. She also teaches Charlene an important lesson at a time when she needs it the most. I think that a story from this mother's point of view would be very compelling.

Overall, if one enjoys Catholic suspense, this would be a good read. It is especially well-suited to teens and young adults.

This is a long overdue review of Mrs. Heckenkamp's latest religious thriller, entitled Frozen Footprints. For those in search of a fantastic, edge-of-your-seat thriller to cozy up with during the final days of winter, look no further. Mrs. Heckenkamp has outdone herself with her latest young adult novel.

The Perigard twins have grown up in their wealthy grandfather's home, where they have access to anything they could ever want, except love. Charlene has always been the more sensible of the two, while Max is overly fond of pushing the limits. The two eighteen year olds have a great relationship, though Charlene's motherly concerns for her brother tend to frustrate him. After Max and his grandfather end a huge argument on ill terms, Max decides to run away. He disappears, and a ransom note appears a couple days later, containing threats against Max's life unless the proper amount of money is delivered. When Charlene tries to meet the kidnapper's requests, she herself falls victim to his schemes, and she and her brother must desperately try to hatch an escape plan that will work while fighting terrors greater than pain itself to do so. "Devoid of all worldly comfort and consolation, will faith and hope be enough to get them through this chilling nightmare?"

I thoroughly enjoyed Mrs. Heckenkamp's first suspense novel, Past Suspicion, and was excited when she sent me this one. In Frozen Footprints, Mrs. Heckenkamp's growth as an author is apparent; the writing style is improved, and the characters believable. The glimpse into the lives of the rich is extremely interesting, and showcases one's inability to fill the holes in his heart with material goods. This book is a fast-paced page turner, and will have you on the edge-of-your-seat until you finish. It is religious without being preachy, and provides guilt-free thrills. I especially liked the way that the author followed her characters beyond the horrible ordeal, and explored the ways they coped with the different burns they suffered. It is definitely geared toward young adults, and would be too much for early teens. The characters are very well-formed, react in realistic ways, and display both flaws and virtues. The ending is unpredictable; this is the kind of novel which could draw anyone in, and hold them until the very last page.

I absolutely loved Frozen Footprints, and would highly recommend it to all those looking for a book that is wholesome without being boring, exciting without being inappropriate, and leaves you with a satisfied feeling. I'm looking forward Mrs. Heckenkamp's future novels, and hope she will continue to produce books which are as thrilling as Hitchcock films, but still succeed in teaching valuable lessons.

(Originally appeared on A Catholic Teen's Perspective at [...]. This review was posted by Abigail C. Reimel, author of the aforementioned blog. All rights reserved)

Frozen Footprints is a page-turner that kept me up past my bedtime. Despite spending most of the book in mortal peril, Charlene, Max, and Clay are well-rounded characters displaying depth. The evil villain, Abner, is multi-faceted as well. Only Max and Charlene's stone-hearted grandfather is somewhat one-dimensional, his behavior propelling Charlene into danger with his cold indifference.

The ending was PERFECT and in keeping with the novel's emphasis on faith as a sustaining constant that points to eternal joy over temporary happiness or relief from suffering. Faith, like love, is a decision.

Can't wait to delve into the the sequel!

(I received a free review copy for my honest review. The author is a fellow member of the Catholic Writers Guild.)

In the last year or so, I've begun to dive into the world of Catholic fiction. I love almost ALL fiction, but it felt like a natural progression to read fiction that incorporated elements of my faith. As you'd probably expect, the Catholic fiction world is relatively small, but I'm very glad to see that it is growing! I was very excited to be given the chance to review Frozen Footprints by Therese Heckenkamp for a few reasons, but for one in particular... it is a Catholic suspense novel! The Catholic fiction I've read so far have been more in the drama or inspirational genres of fiction. I am glad to see someone branching into this genre!

The book is about a very well to do family, and the revenge that is taken on members of that family when the patriarch wrongs one of his employees. There are chases, scenes of captivity, and even a little gore! As someone who enjoys horror movies, this book was right up my alley! Therese did a wonderful job of mixing our faith into the book, showing a very realistic struggle some people have, and also showing instances of people being brought back to Catholicism through trials in their lives. Though the main characters can be a bit hard to identify with in some ways (language choice and familial background), the author builds them into well developed characters early on in the book. And the antagonist... oh, the antagonist! He is someone you hope to never meet in your very worst nightmares, yet is spine chillingly fun to read about when you are cozy in your own safe home. After getting about two chapters in, I found myself having trouble putting the book down and finding every excuse I could to get back to it! I won't ruin the ending, but let me just say that it is a jaw dropper that leaves you wanting more!

i started this book when I could not sleep. I ended up skimming most of it. After just a few pages I was confused and distracted by the non stop narration of the main character. Can we have some real dialogue?

The book was not believable. A few examples:

I don't care how rich you are, you would not own a Catholic church at your home.

Why is the grandfather such a jerk? Why does he hate his grandkids?

Where did the kids get their fairh ?

A maniac kidnaps them and keeps them alive? They know his identity, was he really going to let them go if they could identify him?

This crazy person somehow digs a room under his house, that you enter through a dryer and climb down a rope. The cellar wall is so thin you can dig it out with a spoon. That is ridiculous. How did the ceiling of the room not cave in or the foundation not sink? Why would 't he just lock them in the cellar? It's not like he thought people would find him in ths middle of nowhere .

I could go on....

I was hopeful this would be enjoyable but it was just frustrating.

When I thumbed through my newly arrived, autographed copy of Frozen Footprints (thank you, Therese Heckenkamp!), I was excited to see the book that was going to be one of my "summer readers." I had no intention of reading it upon its arrival as I was knee-deep in a few editing projects and really did not have the time. Mostly I wanted to stoke my anticipation which, for me, is always part of the excitement of lining up books to read.

I read the first sentence and could not stop.

One sentence and I was hooked.

So, I sat and read and pushed my editing projects from my thoughts since I didn't want them crowding out the sheer pleasure I was finding in Heckenkamp's book.

Frozen Footprints is the story of 18 year old twin siblings Charlene and Max Perigard who have spent the better part of their years under their wealthy grandfather's thumb. Sure, they drive nice cars and have lots of goodies, but still there is a sadness in their lives that makes the reader understand that money really isn't everything. All this comes out without the author getting preachy or high-and-mighty. (Good stuff.)

Being quite in sync with her twin, Charlene is a lone voice of concern about Max's disappearance. Try as she might, though, no one will listen and take her concerns seriously. Thus, she finds herself in the midst of a very real, quite harrowing kidnapping saga.

Heckenkamp's descriptions of scenes, events, and feelings weaves a great tale--one that will keep you turning pages long after you should have closed the book and gotten back to your work obligations. LOL! Never overt, Heckenkamp has used the story of the perils of Charlene and Max to bring an interesting and believable aspect of the faith into the dialogue between the main characters and even in a particularly chilling scene (sorry, you'll have to read it to see what scene I am referring to).

With my editing projects patiently waiting for completion, I have learned that while another of Heckenkamp's books is beckoning to me, I will not--I refuse to--open Past Suspicion and read even one sentence until my projects are complete. Talk about incentive!

If you want to get a jump start on your summer reading list, you really do want a copy of Frozen Footprints by Therese Heckenkamp--but I can't promise that by the time summer rolls around you won't be needing another book!

Warning: do NOT pick up this book if you have (a) life responsibilities, (b) less than 24 hours to commit to reading it continuously, and/or (c) the inability to walk away from a stirring and compelling storyline. I should have taken my own warning and saved this book for vacation... It should go without saying that I loved this book-I was on the edge of my seat and I caught myself almost praying for the characters (I modified my prayers and prayed for those who may be caught in similar situations). This is a fast-paced thriller by a Catholic author, though calling it a "Catholic book" makes it sound like faith is shoved down your throat, which it is NOT. You could let your teen read it, but make sure you treat yourself to the adventure of reading it before you do! Highly recommended from me!

If you like reading suspenseful books that keep you on the edge of your seat, you will love "Frozen Footprints!" It is a chilling novel about twins, Charlene and Max. Max is kidnapped and held for ransom. Their rotten grandfather refuses to help so Charlene goes searching for Max herself. What she and Max go through at the hands of the kidnapper is just awful and my stomach was in knots the whole time reading. As a matter of fact, i still get knots in my stomach just thinking about the book!

Suspense aside, "Frozen Footprints" is well-written and keeps your attention throughout,with real, engaging characters. I would definitely recommend this book to all lovers of suspense novels.

I want to thank Therese Heckenkamp for providing me with a review copy of this book.

Having read a LOT of books that include Christian and Catholic characters, I didn't know what to expect at first. So many books are so dull because so many characters of faith are dull. Not Charlene and Max in this suspenseful book by Therese Heckenkamp. The characters are realistically written, believable people who are NOT PERFECT. What a surprise to find people who struggle to live a faith-filled life just like I (and most honest Christians) do. The suspenseful plot - the kidnapping of Max, a tight-fisted grandfather who doesn't believe his grandson has been kidnapped and then Charlene's efforts to find out the truth - they kept me reading long past time when I should have put down my Kindle. Without giving anything away in the plot (because if you like mysteries you HAVE to read this book), I'd have to say that Charlene's struggle to find Max are tense filled chapters. When things go horribly wrong and Charlene becomes a victim herself, she finds herself turning to her faith. Isn't that what most of us do? We go along when things are good, never giving much thought to God or prayer. Then when we are backed into a corner with no way out, we somehow go back to the one thing that will give us comfort, peace and true hope.
This book kept me guessing from chapter to chapter. . . not easily done. I found myself holding my breath during the last end of the book, not sure what was going to happen and who or what was expendable! When I realized I'd read the last sentence in the book, it literally took my breath away and I remember shouting, "No! What happens next?" It is a totally unexpected ending and one to leave the reading wondering.
How happy I was to read that Ms. Heckenkamp is working on a sequel. Hopefully it will answer my question.
You can't go wrong with this book . . . it will leave an impression in your mind for a long, long time. Just one word of advice, don't begin to read at night when you have to work the next day . . . you will never put it down to go to sleep.

The story-line moved quickly. It had some twists that were well placed. I particularly liked Lydia's insertion into the action. However, I found the grandfather's role to be underdeveloped and almost as though he was a cardboard cut-out of Scrooge. I wanted to see something human in him. Maybe in 'After The Thaw'. This is my second Heckenkamp book. I plan to follow this author. even if I'm way out of her target age range!

What constitutes acting against one's will? Where do character traits help or hinder: integrity, faith, truth, greed, trust, loyalty etc.? When is the turning or breaking point reached in the psyche?

All enter into this page turner about kidnapping and strongly developed characters.

This was an interesting read about millionaire twins who were kidnapped by an angry man who hated the twins' grandfather. As much as I love a good suspenseful mystery, this was a bit too much for me. I found it too gruesome and at times hopeless and really wanted to just put the book down, but I kept telling myself it has to have a good ending, but I was disappointed in that, also. I loved the themes of sibling love and religious hope (even though it was a lot of Catholicism), but it just wasn't my type of book. I give the author credit for keeping my attention to see how the book ended, but I will not be reading any more in this series.

Therese has an amazing way of mingling faith, suspence, romance, and family struggles in this terror filled series. I am on the third book in the series & can't wait to see how this fast paced plot will play out. Thanks Therese

I gave 4 stars because it started slow but soon began to show strong character development. Charlene and Max began to rely on faith, though tested by the actions of Abner and Clay. Finally Clay put on the courage he'd needed to defy Abner. Chalrene and Max matured, began to build new lives and grow in faith.

I really enjoy reading Christian Books of all genres, and this one did not disappoint. I am eager to read the next book After The Thaw. I want to find out what happens with Clay, Charlene and Max, and see how certain parts play out. Great job Therese!

Kept me on the edge wondering what now...God never promised life without pain or suffering, but He did promise that He’d be there with us each step of the way...This story reminded me of that promise.

I really enjoyed this book. It was exciting with lots of suspense as to what would happen next. I didn't like the grandfather since, as a grandparent, I couln't believe he would be such a tyrant, but it made a good story.

The characters were so realistic! I felt like I was with them during their horrific time. It was very difficult to put the book down. I would get up in the middle of the night just to see what happened next. Wow! Is all I can say. If anyone is in doubt about the book, I promise you won't be disappointed. Intriguing to say the least.

What?! How can the story end like that! No spoiler from me in this review but I feel so frustrated! But for the ending, this would probably have been three stars for me.

This book was not so much suspense (what I expected) but a captive torture story. Not really my cup of tea. I eventually began scan-reading, which is usually an automatic two stars.