The Keeper by Charles Martin

In this fourth book in the Murphy Shepherd series, Murphy knows Bones didn't hesitate to give his life to stop the evil perpetuated by his brother, but there's still work to be done. Though Frank is gone, his organization is not, and almost even before Bones's funeral in Arlington is complete, Murph receives a call that the three daughters of presidential hopeful Aaron Ashley have been taken and there are no leads.

The girls' lives on the line and time is of the essence. But Murphy has never done this without Bones. How can he grieve his friend and mentor, figure out who he is without Bones, and navigate a new role for himself with team . . . all while putting total focus into finding these daughters?

When his daughters are finally rescued, Ashley steps back from the presidential race. But Murph knows something about the timing is a little too convenient for the senator who steps in to take his place. The far-reaching tendrils of Frank's organization are entangled even here, and Murph and his team will stop at nothing to root them out.

Audiobook, 14 hours, 51 minutes

Publication date - April 1, 2025

by Harper Collins

4.5/5 stars

Tell me what you know about sheep...they are lost without their Shepherd

The 4th book in the Murphy Shepherd series was yet again another emotional read. Following the death of Bones, Murphy is at loose ends. Bones wasn’t just his best friend, he was his teacher and mentor.

Even though in the previous book the head of a human trafficking ring was killed. That doesn’t mean the end of this barbaric group. What follows here in The Keeper is a prime example of how powerful it is. This was a gripping story that is slightly repetitive in that it goes over things from the previous books which would work for those that have not read them or those who have not binge read this series like myself. However, I feel for this series  you really do need to start with book 1 to really feel the emotional impact as each story continues.

Again, this was a telling story that does come with some action. There are the great characters that I have come to love, including Gunnar the dog who is part of the gang. A twisty story that took this reader on a ride that felt a little bit more predictable than his previous books. 

Will there be a sequel to this one? I’m not sure. But for now I will dive into Charles Martin's backlist, though I wish Jonathan K. Riggs was the narrator of some of those because he did an awesome job with this series.

My only criticism about the series is that the endorsements state two well known authors that combined is what the series is made of. To me that is off-putting as one of the authors is one I do not read anymore, and I feel that could be a deterrent for possible readers.

My thanks to Harper Collins for the e-audio (via Netgalley) in exchange for a honest review.