Honest review of Holiday Under Wraps

by Katie Mettner (Author)

Updated at: 24/02/2025

In Katie Mettner's Holiday Under Wraps, the sixth installment of the thrilling Secure One series, former army officer Lucas Porter finds his PTSD-ridden peace shattered. He's drawn back into danger to protect Delilah Hartman, a woman from his past, from trained killers. A brutal Minnesota blizzard adds another layer of peril as they race against time to uncover a deadly conspiracy. Their desperate flight rekindles a passionate connection, but revealing the truth could cost them everything. Will their fight for survival lead to a future together, or trap them in a web of deceit? This standalone suspense novel delivers action, romance, and an uplifting resolution, perfect for fans of thrilling mysteries and heartwarming holiday reads.

4.9 / 44 ratings

Review Holiday Under Wraps

"Holiday Under Wraps" completely swept me away! This sixth book in Katie Mettner's Secure One series is a thrilling, suspenseful ride from beginning to end, and honestly, I didn't want it to finish. The Minnesota blizzard setting immediately establishes a sense of isolation and danger, perfectly mirroring the precarious situation Delilah finds herself in. She's running, again, haunted by a past that refuses to stay buried, and the urgency of her situation kept me hooked.

I loved the reunion (or should I say, re-reunion?) between Delilah and Lucas. Their history is palpable; the years apart haven't diminished the connection, even if it's complicated by Lucas's PTSD and Delilah's need to protect him. Mettner masterfully portrays the nuances of their relationship – the lingering affection, the unspoken anxieties, the hesitant steps toward reconnection amidst the chaos. It's not just a romance subplot; it's interwoven beautifully with the main suspense plot, enhancing the emotional stakes at every turn.

The mystery itself is cleverly constructed. The hunt for the person targeting Delilah is a cat-and-mouse game played out against the backdrop of a relentless blizzard, adding another layer of tension. The clues are carefully planted, leading to satisfying "aha!" moments, and the pacing is excellent; I was constantly guessing, always kept on the edge of my seat, and honestly, I was up way past my bedtime trying to finish it! The pacing was perfect!

Mettner's writing is engaging and descriptive, painting vivid pictures of both the harsh winter landscape and the characters' inner turmoil. The supporting characters in the Secure One team are also well-developed and add another layer of heart to the story – they're a true team, and their loyalty and camaraderie provide a comforting contrast to the danger Delilah and Lucas face. There’s a wonderful sense of family and support amongst this unlikely group of heroes.

The inclusion of flashbacks was expertly done, providing crucial context without disrupting the flow of the present narrative. We get glimpses into Delilah and Lucas's past, understanding their shared history and the sacrifices they've made, which in turn makes their present struggles all the more poignant.

The resolution is satisfying, though not without its emotional complexities. It’s a testament to Mettner's skill that even in the midst of high-stakes action and thrilling chases, she allows space for tender moments and emotional vulnerability. The ending felt both hopeful and realistic, a fitting conclusion to their individual journeys and the series as a whole.

Honestly, I'm already missing these characters. I highly recommend "Holiday Under Wraps" to anyone who enjoys a blend of suspense, romance, and strong, well-developed characters. It's a page-turner from start to finish and a fantastic addition to a series I already adore. And I’m so excited to see what Mettner does next, especially with the Secure Watch spin-off!