CRIME FICTION – Dive into the shadows where danger lurks and suspense grips every page. Crime thrillers ignite with twists, betrayals, and heart-pounding suspense, keeping you on the edge of your seat as detectives chase elusive truths, and criminals weave intricate webs of deception. Prepare for adrenaline-fueled escapades where every clue is a puzzle, every suspect a potential threat, and every revelation a shock to the system. Enter a world where the line between justice and vengeance blurs, and the only certainty is the thrill of the chase . . . coffee and thrillers: the perfect partners in crime.
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How To Get Away With Murder
Read more: How To Get Away With MurderMy rating: 3.5/5 stars. How To Get Away With Murder is an impressive debut from Rebecca Philipson, built around a clever and compelling premise that offers a fresh spin on the detective genre. I’ve always liked a book-within-a-book structure, and this novel makes effective use of that device. I’ll also say upfront that didn’t see…
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Everyone In This Bank Is A Thief
Read more: Everyone In This Bank Is A ThiefMy rating: 4/5 stars. Everyone In This Bank Is A Thief by Benjamin Stevenson is a clever, witty, and wildly entertaining thriller. As the fourth installment in the Ernest Cunningham series, it delivers the same chaotic antics that made the earlier books so much fun to read.
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I Have Some Questions For You
Read more: I Have Some Questions For YouMy rating: 3/5 stars. I Have Some Questions For You by Rebecca Makkai is a character-forward literary novel, and one I really wanted to love. Makkai’s writing is excellent, and I was immediately drawn in by her narrative style. It’s clear throughout the novel that she’s trying to say something meaningful: offering a critique of…
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Penance
Read more: PenanceMy rating: 4.5/5 stars. Penance by Eliza Clark is a brilliantly written, addictive work of crime fiction with a dark and unsettling core. Clark packs an extraordinary amount into the novel without ever making it feel dense or overloaded. Beneath the gripping, expertly told story lies a sharp critique of true-crime obsession, toxic internet culture,…
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I’m Traveling Alone
Read more: I’m Traveling AloneMy rating: 4/5 stars. I’m Traveling Alone by Samuel Bjørk has been sitting on my TBR shelf for ages, and I’m glad I finally picked it up over the weekend. This dark, atmospheric Nordic Noir police procedural hooked me right from the start. Set in Norway, the story follows members of a special police unit…
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Long Bright River
Read more: Long Bright RiverMy rating: 4/5 stars. Long Bright River by Liz Moore is a character-driven, emotional crime thriller that transcends its genre label. While it’s framed as a mystery, at its core is a story about family, sisterhood, and the ties that bind and break communities. Moore crafts a dark, gritty, and deeply believable portrait of Philadelphia’s…
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The Midnight King
Read more: The Midnight KingMy rating: 3.5/5 stars. The Midnight King by Tariq Ashkanani is a dark and unsettling serial killer thriller with a unique twist on the genre. Rather than focusing on the gruesome details of murder, Ashkanani dives deep into the psychological fallout by exploring the lingering effects of trauma and the slow, inevitable descent into madness.…
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To Love A Liar
Read more: To Love A LiarMy rating: 5/5 stars. To Love A Liar by L. V. Matthews is a terrific thriller that’s hard to pin down to just one genre. It’s part psychological thriller, part crime story, part love story, with a touch of police procedural thrown in. Matthews blends these elements seamlessly, creating a layered and emotionally charged read…
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Inside Man – PAR Unit #2
Read more: Inside Man – PAR Unit #2My rating: 4/5 stars. Inside Man by John McMahon is the second installment in the PAR series, following Head Cases. I read the first book last year and was immediately drawn in by McMahon’s sharp writing and the incredibly likable FBI team at its core. Naturally, I couldn’t help but compare Inside Man to its…
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The Death Watcher – Robert Hunter Series #13
Read more: The Death Watcher – Robert Hunter Series #13My rating: 4/5 stars. The Death Watcher by Chris Carter marks the 13th entry in the Robert Hunter series, and once again, Carter proves he’s a master of dark, graphic, and psychologically intense serial killer thrillers. I tend to reach for these books when I want something chilling yet oddly comforting thanks to Carter’s reliably…
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Human Remains – Kat & Lock #3
Read more: Human Remains – Kat & Lock #3My rating: 5/5 stars. Human Remains by Jo Callaghan, is the third installment in the exceptional Kat & Lock series. This gripping crime procedural goes far beyond the typical whodunit, tackling themes of grief, loyalty, the double-edged sword of social media, and the exciting and unnerving potential of AI. Callaghan skillfully weaves these elements together,…
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The Countdown Killer – Major Crimes Series #4
Read more: The Countdown Killer – Major Crimes Series #4My rating: 4/5 stars. The Countdown Killer by Sam Holland is the fourth book in the Major Crimes Series, and an impressive, engrossing addition that showcases Holland’s exceptional skill for gripping and dark storytelling. While this installment can be read as a standalone, I strongly recommend starting with The Echo Man (the first in the…
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The 7 1/2 Deaths Of Evelyn Hardcastle
Read more: The 7 1/2 Deaths Of Evelyn HardcastleMy rating: 4/5 stars. The 7 1/2 Deaths Of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton is a mind-blowing and complex mystery with an intriguing sci-fi twist. After thoroughly enjoying The Last Murder at the End of the World, I’m glad I was finally able to dive into Turton’s debut novel, and what a ride it was!…
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King Of Ashes
Read more: King Of AshesMy rating: 4/5 stars. S.A. Cosby is back with King of Ashes, a standalone southern noir crime thriller that’s equal parts gritty and lyrical. This compelling story dives deep into morality, family, and the dark underbelly of Jefferson Run, a small southern town overrun by violence and drug-related gangs. I’ll read anything Cosby writes. His…
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Our Last Resort
Read more: Our Last ResortMy rating: 3/5 stars. Our Last Resort has an intriguing premise; unfortunately, it left me wanting more, especially when it came to the cult storyline. As a drama with a touch of suspense, it had moments of potential but ultimately fell short of delivering the depth and emotion I had hoped for. For me, it…
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The Cracked Mirror
Read more: The Cracked MirrorMy rating: 5/5 stars. The Cracked Mirror by Chris Brookmyre is a delightful blend of cozy mystery and action thriller, and I absolutely loved it! Brookmyre’s sharp wit and clever storytelling were completely addictive, and I breezed through this hefty novel in just two days. In the hands of a less capable writer, this multi-layered…
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The Puppet Master – Major Crimes Series #3
Read more: The Puppet Master – Major Crimes Series #3My rating: 3.5/5 stars. The Puppet Master by Sam Holland is the third installment in the Major Crimes series. While I was captivated by The Echo Man and thoroughly enjoyed The Twenty, this entry didn’t quite deliver the same level of thrills or intricate police procedural elements I’ve come to expect. It felt more like…
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The Twenty – Major Crimes Series #2
Read more: The Twenty – Major Crimes Series #2My rating: 4/5 stars. Sam Holland’s The Twenty, is the second book in the Major Crimes series, and delivers a dark, gripping police procedural that kept me hooked from start to finish. While it doesn’t quite reach the heights of her debut, The Echo Man, it’s still a thoroughly entertaining serial killer thriller and a…
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An Honest Man
Read more: An Honest ManMy rating: 4/5 stars. An Honest Man is an excellent suspense novel by Michael Koryta. While I wouldn’t consider it a thriller, the storyline has everything I look for in crime fiction: a gripping story, depth that doesn’t drag down the pace, and a sense of place so vivid it almost feels like you’re there.…
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The Swimmer
Read more: The SwimmerMy rating: 3/5 stars. Loreth Anne White’s The Swimmer is a psychological thriller that, while entertaining, didn’t quite hit the mark for me. My favorite novel by White remains The Patient’s Secret, and I’ve yet to find another work of hers that matches its depth of character and story development.
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The Death Of Us
Read more: The Death Of UsMy rating: 4/5 stars. The Death Of Us is a gripping novel by Abigail Dean. This story burrowed into my mind and refused to let go. In this slow-burn narrative, Dean carefully unveils the main characters’ world, drawing us into their pain, their passion, and the haunting consequences of a life-shattering event. It’s raw, traumatic,…
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We Are All Guilty Here – North Falls #1
Read more: We Are All Guilty Here – North Falls #1My rating: 5/5 stars. We Are All Guilty Here is the first novel in the new North Falls series by Karin Slaughter. Slaughter’s writing is precise and deliberate, and every word is chosen with care to drive the narrative forward. As a longtime fan of her work, I was thrilled to dive into this new…
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Leave No Trace – Kat & Lock #2
Read more: Leave No Trace – Kat & Lock #2My rating: 4/5 stars. Leave No Trace by Jo Callaghan Jo Callaghan is the second book in the Kat & Lock series, and after thoroughly enjoying the first novel, I was excited to dive into this one over the weekend. In this latest installment, DCS Kat Frank and AIDE (Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity) Lock are…
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Gone Too Far – Devlin & Falco #2
Read more: Gone Too Far – Devlin & Falco #2My rating: 4/5 stars. Gone Too Far is another twisty, fast-paced crime thriller by Debra Webb. While it may not be a gritty, hard-hitting portrayal of crime, I thoroughly enjoyed reading the various threads of three intense storylines come together by the end of the novel. Kudos to Webb for her creativity and skill in…
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Trust No One – Devlin & Falco #1
Read more: Trust No One – Devlin & Falco #1My rating: 4/5 stars. Trust No One by Debra Webb is a fun, entertaining crime thriller and one I thoroughly enjoyed reading. As a fan of police procedurals, I was eager to dive into this new series, and it did not disappoint. In Trust No One (and trust me, you definitely can’t trust anyone in…
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Dead Money
Read more: Dead MoneyMy rating: 4/5 stars. Dead Money by Jakob Kerr is an absolute rollercoaster of a crime thriller, and I was hooked from page one. Honestly, it’s hard to believe this is Kerr’s debut. The story is twisty and full of unexpected turns that kept me flipping pages late into the night. At the center of…
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Shadowheart – UNSUB #3
Read more: Shadowheart – UNSUB #3My rating: 4/5 stars. Shadowheart, the fourth installment in the UNSUB series, delivers another gripping police procedural from Meg Gardiner. One of the things I love about Gardiner’s writing is that every word matters—there’s no fluff, no unnecessary tangents, just a sharp, dark, well-crafted story. Her style is gritty, smart, and packed with meticulously researched…
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The Glass Man – Asker Series #2
Read more: The Glass Man – Asker Series #2My rating: 5/5 stars. The Glass Man by Anders de la Motte is the second installment in the Asker series and a gripping Nordic Noir crime novel. After finishing The Mountain King, I couldn’t wait to dive into this one and it definitely didn’t disappoint. This narrative weaves together two compelling storylines, and de la…
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The Mountain King – Asker Series #1
Read more: The Mountain King – Asker Series #1My rating: 4/5 stars. The Mountain King by Anders de la Motte is a Nordic Noir crime novel and the first book in the Asker series. This was my first time reading de la Motte, and I’m already excited for the next installment coming later this year. The story is expertly crafted – there’s a…
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The Dark Corners Of The Night – UNSUB #2
Read more: The Dark Corners Of The Night – UNSUB #2My rating: 5/5 stars. The Dark Corners Of The Night is the third installment in the UNSUB series and another top-notch police procedural crime fiction novel by Meg Gardiner. She’s a brilliant writer, and this one is easily my favorite in the series so far. Gardiner’s writing is sharp, gritty, and smart, and the police…
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Night Will Find You
Read more: Night Will Find YouMy rating: 4/5 stars. Night Will Find You is the second Julia Heaberlin novel I’ve read, and I’m officially hooked on her dark, complex, and emotional storytelling. She has an incredible way of creating flawed, deeply human characters that linger in my mind long after I’ve finished the book. This one’s another slow-burn suspense that…
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We Are All The Same In The Dark
Read more: We Are All The Same In The DarkMy rating: 4.5/5 stars. We Are All The Same In The Dark by Julia Heaberlin is an unforgettable crime fiction novel that completely pulled me in. It’s a chilling, slow-burn mystery centered around three women – one who’s been missing for a decade, one who’s found on the side of the road, mute, and surrounded…
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Into The Black Nowhere – UNSUB #2
Read more: Into The Black Nowhere – UNSUB #2My rating: 4/5 stars. Into The Black Nowhere is the second installment in the UNSUB series and another top-notch police procedural crime fiction novel by Meg Gardiner. Gardiner’s writing is sharp, intelligent, and full of detail—I’ve definitely become a big fan! This one had a different structure and intensity compared to UNSUB, but that’s not…
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Under The Storm – Hallandssviten #1
Read more: Under The Storm – Hallandssviten #1My rating: 4/5 stars. Under The Storm by Christoffer Carlsson is the first installment in this Nordic Noir, crime fiction series. It’s the first novel I’ve read by Carlsson and definitely won’t be my last. This story is exceptionally well-written and complex, and I was quickly drawn into its brooding, melancholic atmosphere. It captures everything…
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The Cul-de-sac
Read more: The Cul-de-sacMy rating: 2.5/5 stars. The Cul-de-sac was my first read by Christopher Null, and the premise of this domestic suspense novel immediately grabbed my attention. I was excited to dive in and discover a new author. While the story kept my interest, and I loved the dark, claustrophobic atmosphere, it didn’t completely hit the mark…
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UNSUB
Read more: UNSUBMy rating: 4.5/5 stars. UNSUB by Meg Gardiner is a gripping, smartly written, and atmospheric police procedural that drew me in from the start. It’s gritty, dark, and packed with tension, keeping the action nonstop from beginning to end. Gardiner’s writing is sharp and to the point, there’s no wasted words, just pure adrenaline. While…
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Cat and Mouse
Read more: Cat and MouseMy rating: 4/5 stars. Cat and Mouse by MJ Arlidge is the 11th novel in the Helen Grace series. Dark, brutal, and packed with tension, Arlidge has delivered another well-written and thrilling police procedural. Helen Grace remains one of the most compelling investigators in crime fiction, and I was eager to dive into this installment.…
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Redemption
Read more: RedemptionMy rating: 4/5 stars. Redemption by Jack Jordan is an emotional rollercoaster of a crime thriller, packed with nonstop action from start to finish. It’s a moving story that begins with loss, grief, and retribution but gradually shifts into one of resilience and redemption. I’ll admit, I had mixed feelings about it at first, but…
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The Writer
Read more: The WriterMy rating: 4/5 stars. The Writer by James Patterson and JD Barker is a fast-paced, twisty crime thriller that keeps the tension high from start to finish. This was my first Patterson novel, but since I’m a big fan of JD Barker’s 4MK series, I couldn’t wait to see how this collaboration compared. While it…
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Presumed Guilty
Read more: Presumed GuiltyMy rating: 5/5 stars. Presumed Guilty by Scott Turow is a brilliant legal thriller that really showcases his talent for the genre. The story is layered, immersive, and feels incredibly real. The plot is so well put together, the characters are compelling, and there’s a strong sense of authenticity throughout. I was completely drawn into…
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In The Blink Of An Eye
Read more: In The Blink Of An EyeMy rating: 4.5/5 stars. In The Blink Of An Eye is an exciting, brilliantly written, and thought-provoking debut crime fiction novel by Jo Callaghan. The plot is intricate and layered, with deeply emotional and well-crafted characters. Callaghan’s expertise in AI shines throughout, adding authenticity and a fresh perspective to the story. While the central investigation…
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Head Cases – PAR Unit #1
Read more: Head Cases – PAR Unit #1My rating: 4/5 stars. Head Cases by John McMahon is a smart, gripping crime thriller that pulled me in from the first chapter. It’s a perfect mix of character study and police procedural, with nonstop tension that kept me hooked. I enjoy discovering new authors, and what really sets this book apart is the quirky…
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What Happened To Nina?
Read more: What Happened To Nina?My rating: 4.5/5 stars. What Happened To Nina? by Dervla McTiernan is a gripping thriller that I found almost impossible to put down. It immediately grabbed my attention, and I cleared my calendar for the day so I could read it in one sitting. This isn’t your typical whodunit thriller or police procedural. Rather, it’s…
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Long Time Gone
Read more: Long Time GoneMy rating: 3/5 stars. Long Time Gone by Charlie Donlea is a mystery thriller that immediately captured my attention. The premise is compelling, blending forensic pathology, familial genealogy, a missing child, and a likable protagonist, setting the stage for a promising start. While the novel is a fast-paced read, I felt the storyline and characters…
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Ten Seconds – Ben Harper #3
Read more: Ten Seconds – Ben Harper #3My rating: 4/5 stars. Ten Seconds by Robert Gold is the 3rd installment in the Ben Harper series, and though it’s my first time diving into this series, I found it easy to enjoy as a standalone. The opening chapters skillfully introduce the characters and weave together multiple subplots that later intertwine to form the…
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Everyone In My Family Has Killed Someone
Read more: Everyone In My Family Has Killed SomeoneMy rating: 4.5/5 stars. Everyone In My Family Has Killed Someone is a suspense thriller by Benjamin Stevenson. Wow! I chose this book based on the title, and I was surprised in all of the best ways. The narrative is clever, witty, engaging, and incredibly entertaining.
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A Dead Draw – Tracy Crosswhite Series #11
Read more: A Dead Draw – Tracy Crosswhite Series #11My rating: 4/5 stars: A Dead Draw by Robert Dugoni is the 11th installment in the Tracy Crosswhite series. The expected publish date is April 2025. As with every Dugoni book I read, I’m continually impressed by his ability to craft smart, well-written, and thoroughly engaging stories. This installment, however, takes a slightly different approach,…
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The Mysterious Case Of The Alperton Angels
Read more: The Mysterious Case Of The Alperton AngelsMy rating: 5/5 stars. The Mysterious Case Of The Alperton Angels by Janice Hallett is a gripping crime fiction suspense novel that took me by surprise in all the best ways. With its intricate plot, complex layers, multiple timelines, and a cast of compelling characters, it presents a tantalizing puzzle waiting to be unraveled. Hallett…
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The Unquiet Bones
Read more: The Unquiet BonesMy rating: 3/5 stars. The Unquiet Bones is a crime fiction/mystery novel by Loreth Anne White. The true highlight of the story lies in its intricate forensic anthropology details, centered around the discovery of a body during the excavation of a site in a small community near Vancouver, British Columbia. From the moment the body…
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The Patient’s Secret
Read more: The Patient’s SecretMy rating: 4.5/5 stars. The Patient’s Secret by Loreth Anne White is a crime fiction/psychological thriller inspired by a shocking true crime that occurred in a quiet neighborhood in the Canadian prairies. Skillfully written, this chilling novel captivates from the very first page and maintains its intensity throughout. White expertly crafts an intricate web of…
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Two Nights In Lisbon
Read more: Two Nights In LisbonMy rating: 4/5 stars. Two Nights In Lisbon by Chris Pavone is a smart, rollercoaster ride of a thriller that held my attention from start to finish. Pavone excels in character development, and while I had my suspicions about the direction of the story, a few twists near the end genuinely surprised me. The Lisbon…
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Close to Death – Hawthorne & Horowitz #5
Read more: Close to Death – Hawthorne & Horowitz #5My rating: 3.5/5 stars. Close to Death is the fifth installment in the Hawthorne & Horowitz series by Anthony Horowitz. Since I haven’t read the earlier books, my review focuses on this novel as a standalone. Horowitz has been on my list of authors to read for a while, and I was eager to dive…
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Shadow Sands – Kate Marshall Series #2
Read more: Shadow Sands – Kate Marshall Series #2My rating: 3/5 stars. Shadow Sands by Robert Bryndza is the 2nd installment in the Kate Marshall series. It’s a decent thriller and a good choice if you’re in the mood for a serial killer story that’s less graphic than many popular series. While Bryndza’s writing is strong, I find it hard to rate this…
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Genesis – Robert Hunter Series #12
Read more: Genesis – Robert Hunter Series #12My rating: 3.5/5 stars. Genesis by Chris Carter is the 12th installment in the Robert Hunter series. I reach for these novels when I’m in the mood for a dark, intense, and graphically detailed serial killer story—one that’s oddly comforting thanks to Carter’s distinctive style. While the narrative structure tends to follow a familiar pattern,…
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The Last Murder At The End Of The World
Read more: The Last Murder At The End Of The WorldMy rating: 4/5 stars. The Last Murder At The End Of The World is the first book I’ve read by Stuart Turton. This novel blends post-apocalyptic science fiction with a crime thriller – a cross-genre mix I absolutely love – and after reading the synopsis, I couldn’t wait to dive in. The story is a…
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A Cold Trail – Tracy Crosswhite Series #7
Read more: A Cold Trail – Tracy Crosswhite Series #7My rating: 4.5/5 stars: A Cold Trail by Robert Dugoni is the 7th installment in the Tracy Crosswhite series and once again, I find myself eagerly diving in! I seem to say this with every Dugoni book I read, but it’s true — he consistently delivers a smart, well-crafted, and utterly engrossing novel. Over time,…
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This Is Why We Lied- Will Trent Series #12
Read more: This Is Why We Lied- Will Trent Series #12My rating: 4.5/5 stars. This Is Why We Lied is the 12th installment in the Will Trent series from Karin Slaughter. Reading it was a bittersweet experience—I was thrilled to immerse myself in another story, yet a bit wistful knowing it’s the latest novel in the series. Give me a story set in a remote…
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After That Night – Will Trent Series #11
Read more: After That Night – Will Trent Series #11My rating: 4/5 stars. After That Night is the 11th installment in the Will Trent series from Karin Slaughter. Slaughter is undeniably a fantastic storyteller and her novels are intense, dark, and gripping. While this wasn’t my favorite in the series, it’s still a hard-hitting police procedural and advances the overarching character backstories. It took…
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A Steep Price – Tracy Crosswhite Series #6
Read more: A Steep Price – Tracy Crosswhite Series #6My rating: 4/5 stars. A Steep Price by Robert Dugoni is the sixth installment in the Tracy Crosswhite series. Once again, Dugoni delivers an engaging, well-written and meticulously plotted police procedural novel. This series has always been a favorite of mine, largely due to its realistic character development and layered storylines. Dugoni is an expert…
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The Silent Wife – Will Trent Series #10
Read more: The Silent Wife – Will Trent Series #10My rating: 4/5 stars. The Silent Wife is the 10th installment in the Will Trent series and is yet another impressive addition. Over the years, I’ve followed the series, and each new book feels like reconnecting with old friends, uncovering more about their lives. Although I haven’t read the Grant County series, I found it…
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Blood Ties – The Kingdom Series #2
Read more: Blood Ties – The Kingdom Series #2My rating: 3.75/5 stars. Blood Ties by author Jo Nesbø is a Nordic Noir thriller and the second installment in The Kingdom series. The story revolves around themes of loyalty, deception, and violence, following two brothers as they struggle to maintain control over their small town while a dark past threatens to dismantle everything they’ve…
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The Return Of Ellie Black
Read more: The Return Of Ellie BlackMy rating: 3.5/5 stars. The Return Of Ellie Black by Emiko Jean is a blend of police procedural and psychological thriller. This character-driven story explores themes of exploitation and victimization of women. Although the plot didn’t align entirely with my expectations based on the synopsis, it was a compelling read and Jean’s writing is straightforward…
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This Book Will Bury Me
Read more: This Book Will Bury MeMy rating: 4.5/5 stars. This Book Will Bury Me by Ashley Winstead is an incredible, multi-layered story about a young woman who becomes entangled in true crime after the loss of her father. Following his death, Jane joins a true crime community and finds herself deeply involved in several cases. As her small group of…
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Written in Blood
Read more: Written in BloodMy rating: 4/5 stars. Written In Blood by Chris Carter by Chris Carter is a dark, intense, and heart-pounding thriller that delivers a frantic adrenaline rush from start to finish. I was hooked from the beginning, drawn into a story centered on what initially seems to be a mentally unstable serial killer—someone who has operated…
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Chasing the Boogeyman
Read more: Chasing the BoogeymanMy rating: 3/5 stars. Chasing the Boogeyman by Richard Chizmar is is labeled as a horror crime thriller, but to me, it feels more like a memoir blended with a fictional serial killer narrative. The novel’s structure is intriguing, resembling a true crime book, yet framed as a horror novel, I felt like I was…
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Criminal (Will Trent Series #6)
Read more: Criminal (Will Trent Series #6)My rating: 4.5/5 stars. Criminal is the sixth book in Karin Slaughter’s Will Trent series. I’m gradually making my way through the series and this installment is exceptional! The story unfolds across two timelines, showcasing the elements that make Slaughter’s novels so captivating: gripping, suspense-filled mysteries and deeply compelling characters you can’t help but care…
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Girl, Forgotten
Read more: Girl, ForgottenMy rating: 4/5 stars. Girl, Forgotten is the second installment in the Andrea Oliver series and another strong psychological thriller from Karin Slaughter. One of the reasons I consistently return to Slaughter’s work is her exceptional storytelling and her talent for crafting realistic, relatable characters. Girl, Forgotten delivers on that front, making it a solid…
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The Echo Man – Major Crimes Series #1
Read more: The Echo Man – Major Crimes Series #1My rating: 4/5 stars. The Echo Man is a compelling and thoroughly entertaining serial killer thriller that delivers all the gritty, grisly elements you expect from the genre. From the very beginning, I was quickly drawn into the dark and twisted storyline, captivated by the high stakes and the chilling details of the crimes. Holland…
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Bright Young Women
Read more: Bright Young WomenMy rating: 4.5/5 stars. Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll is a gripping and immersive crime fiction novel that effectively strips away the glamor often associated with one of America’s most notorious serial killers. It also serves as an empowering manifesto, following a courageous, intelligent, and resilient group of women determined to confront their deepest…
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The Gone World
Read more: The Gone WorldMy rating: 5/5 stars. The Gone World by Tom Sweterlitsch is a mesmerizing, addictive, extraordinary story that very successfully blends elements of science fiction, crime fiction, and apocalyptic genres. The storyline is intricate and so mind-bending that at times, it felt like a challenge to fully wrap my mind around it. The book left me…
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Close to Home – Tracy Crosswhite Series #5
Read more: Close to Home – Tracy Crosswhite Series #5My rating: 4.5/5 stars. Close To Home by Robert Dugoni is the fifth novel in the Tracy Crosswhite series. This installment is a standout addition that continues to highlight Dugoni’s superb writing and storytelling skills. True to style, Dugoni provides detailed police procedural and forensics elements and the narrative paints a harrowing picture of addiction…
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All The Colors Of The Dark
Read more: All The Colors Of The DarkMy rating: 5/5 stars. All The Colors Of The Dark by Chris Whitaker is a remarkable and beautifully crafted story that spans decades. It weaves a tale of love, loss, courage, determination, sacrifice, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of passion and justice. Rather than delivering a high-octane, edge-of-your-seat experience, this novel offers a nuanced, character-driven…
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The God Of The Woods
Read more: The God Of The WoodsMy rating: 5/5 stars. God Of The Woods by Liz Moore is an exceptional, emotionally charged, character-driven story that masterfully weaves elements of crime fiction and police procedural into the narrative. While the plot revolves around two central mysteries, it’s not what I’d categorize as a thriller. If you’re expecting an intense, edge-of-your-seat experience, you…
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Razorblade Tears
Read more: Razorblade TearsMy rating: 5/5 stars. Razorblade Tears by S.A. Cosby is an exceptional crime thriller that stands out as one of the top five books I’ve read this year. Cosby crafts a powerful, high-octane Southern thriller that shouldn’t be missed. Set in Virginia, the novel explores themes of fatherhood, family, race, and homophobia, while also exploring…
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The Executioner
Read more: The ExecutionerMy rating: 3.5/5 stars. The Executioner by Chris Carter is a dark, intense, and graphic serial killer thriller that is not for the faint of heart. Carter’s strength lies in crafting intricate crimes with unflinching detail, exploring deeply disturbing scenarios with skill. His writing doesn’t hold back, delivering a vivid and sometimes stomach-churning narrative that…
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The Crucifix Killer
Read more: The Crucifix KillerMy rating: 3.5/5 stars. The Crucifix Killer by Chris Carter is a dark, graphic, and thoroughly gripping serial killer crime thriller. I’ve heard about this series for a while, and I’m glad I finally picked up the first book. In this debut novel, Carter created a strong foundation for the series by skillfully weaving in…
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The Trapped Girl – Tracy Crosswhite Series #4
Read more: The Trapped Girl – Tracy Crosswhite Series #4My rating: 4.5/5 stars. The Trapped Girl by Robert Dugoni is the fourth novel in the Tracy Crosswhite series, and it’s my favorite so far. This installment is a strong continuation of the series, showcasing Dugoni’s exceptional writing and storytelling abilities. The novel features some very clever twists, and just when I thought I had…
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Her Final Breath – Tracy Crosswhite Series #2
Read more: Her Final Breath – Tracy Crosswhite Series #2My rating: 4/5 stars. Her Final Breath by Robert Dugoni is the second novel in the Tracy Crosswhite series. This installment is a strong continuation of the series, showcasing Dugoni’s top-notch writing and intricate details, which I’ve come to expect from this talented author. What keeps me engaged in a series is the overarching character…
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My Sister’s Grave – Tracy Crosswhite Series #1
Read more: My Sister’s Grave – Tracy Crosswhite Series #1My rating: 4/5 stars. My Sister’s Grave is a compelling story that masterfully combines the best elements of a legal thriller with a gripping police procedural. Tracy Crosswhite is an engaging protagonist, and the story moves at such a fast pace that it’s nearly impossible to put the book down once it gets rolling. Overall,…
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All The Sinners Bleed
Read more: All The Sinners BleedMy rating: 5/5 stars. All The Sinners Bleed by S. A. Cosby is a fantastic crime thriller! This novel is a provocative and riveting journey, showcasing Cosby’s talent for storytelling right from the first page. With powerful writing, an intriguing plot, and compelling characters, All The Sinners Bleed delivers a gritty and intense story that…
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The Kill List – Inspector Anjelica Henley Series #3
Read more: The Kill List – Inspector Anjelica Henley Series #3My rating: 4/5 stars. The Kill List is a fantastic police procedural crime thriller from an author I’ve eagerly recommended to my friends. The three books in the series are complex, featuring dark and compelling crimes. Matheson’s attention to detail adds depth and authenticity to the investigative process, making her books both engaging and thrilling.…
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One Last Kill – Tracy Crosswhite Series #10
Read more: One Last Kill – Tracy Crosswhite Series #10My rating: 4/5 stars. One Last Kill by Robert Dugoni is the tenth installment in the Tracy Crosswhite series. It’s the first book I’ve read in the series, and I’ll definitely be diving into the others, starting with My Sister’s Grave. One Last Kill is a solid, gripping police procedural set in Seattle, one of…
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The Binding Room – Inspector Anjelica Henley Series #2
Read more: The Binding Room – Inspector Anjelica Henley Series #2My rating: 4/5 stars. The Binding Room by Nadine Matheson is the second book in the Anjelica Henley crime fiction series. Having thoroughly enjoyed Matheson’s debut novel, The Jigsaw Man, I found The Binding Room equally impressive. This dark and chilling crime novel kept me engaged from the very beginning. The crimes are gory, unique,…
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City In Ruins, Danny Ryan Trilogy #3
Read more: City In Ruins, Danny Ryan Trilogy #3My rating: 4/5 stars. City in Ruins by Don Winslow is a gritty, engrossing, and captivating finale to the Danny Ryan trilogy, written by one of America’s most compelling storytellers. Reading this book was a bittersweet experience for me. Winslow, known for his exceptional crime fiction, delivers a solid conclusion to the trilogy, marking the…
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City on Fire, Danny Ryan Trilogy #1
Read more: City on Fire, Danny Ryan Trilogy #1My rating: 4/5 stars. City on Fire by Don Winslow is a gritty and captivating story from one of America’s most engaging storytellers. Winslow masterfully writes about crime, the mafia, drug lords, and cartels like few others today. While I don’t often read mafia books, I couldn’t resist this trilogy, especially knowing it will be…
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Pretty Girls
Read more: Pretty GirlsMy rating: 4/5 stars. Pretty Girls by Karin Slaughter is a shocking, graphically violent, and totally engrossing novel! As a fan of gritty serial killer stories, I must admit this one pushed the boundaries for me. The book features extremely graphic scenes of torture and abuse, making it a challenging read at times. Despite this,…
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The Jigsaw Man – Inspector Anjelica Henley Series #1
Read more: The Jigsaw Man – Inspector Anjelica Henley Series #1My rating: 4/5 stars. The Jigsaw Man by Nadine Matheson was a surprisingly good crime thriller! And, for a debut novel, it was excellent. Though the storyline wasn’t entirely original, Matheson added her own twist to the serial killer, cat and mouse theme, so the story kept me engaged and interested for 500 pages.
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Snowblind – Dark Iceland Series #1
Read more: Snowblind – Dark Iceland Series #1My rating: 3/5 stars. Snowblind by Ragnar Jónasson was a somewhat engaging read for me. Jónasson skillfully captured the essence of small-town life, where everyone is familiar with each other’s business. The story featured numerous characters, and I felt that Jónasson successfully navigated between them. He provided enough backstory for each character, and I felt…
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The Night Bird – Frost Easton Series Book #1
Read more: The Night Bird – Frost Easton Series Book #1My rating: 4/5 stars. The Night Bird by Brian Freeman is quite a ride! This psychological thriller focuses on the psychological trauma of the main characters and the inner demons each must struggle with while racing to solve the main mystery of the story. This isn’t dark, gritty crime fiction, but it does offer a…
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A Drink Before The War – Kenzie and Gennaro Series Book #1
Read more: A Drink Before The War – Kenzie and Gennaro Series Book #1My rating: 4/5 stars. A Drink Before The War is a solid crime novel by Dennis Lehane. Although it’s been a while since I read one of his books, I’ll definitely read the other installments in this series. This is a dark, compelling, and violent crime story that also explores racial and class conflicts, politics,…
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The Mercy Chair – Washington Poe Series Book #6
Read more: The Mercy Chair – Washington Poe Series Book #6My rating: 4.5/5 stars. M. W. Craven is one of my favorite British crime fiction writers. I’ve been following Washington Poe and Tilly Bradshaw for years and this series is always at the top of my reading list. I couldn’t wait for the hardback release in September, so I happily paid for the ebook. Craven’s…
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The Border – The Cartel Trilogy #3
Read more: The Border – The Cartel Trilogy #3My rating: 5/5 stars. Wow! The Border is the stunning conclusion to the brilliant Cartel trilogy by Don Winslow. Thank you, Mr. Winslow for using fiction to tell this important, horrifying, and powerful story. It was endlessly engaging and one of the most exciting, disturbing, and informative reads for me this year. The Border is…
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The Cartel – The Cartel Trilogy #2
Read more: The Cartel – The Cartel Trilogy #2My rating: 5/5 stars. The Cartel by Don Winslow is extraordinary! Winslow’s sustained effort of imagination, research, and outstanding writing skills is unparalleled in crime fiction. While undeniably a crime thriller, The Cartel transcends the genre to offer a thought-provoking and harrowing exploration of the War on Drugs. Using fiction as his tool, Winslow masterfully…
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Nine Elms – Kate Marshall Series #1
Read more: Nine Elms – Kate Marshall Series #1My rating: 4/5 stars. Nine Elms by Robert Bryndza is compelling crime thriller and an impressive start to a new series! It took me a little while to become fully immersed, as Bryndza was laying the groundwork for the series with his new protagonist, Kate Marshall — a mother struggling with emotional and psychological scars,…
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The Power of the Dog – The Cartel Trilogy #1
Read more: The Power of the Dog – The Cartel Trilogy #1My rating: 5/5 stars. The Power of the Dog by Don Winslow is crime fiction at its best! I’ve read that although Winslow initially didn’t plan to write a trilogy, the ongoing atrocities related to the War on Drugs compelled him to continue, resulting in the acclaimed Cartel Trilogy. Winslow is a brilliant storyteller and…
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Death at the Sanatorium
Read more: Death at the SanatoriumMy rating: 3/5 stars. Death at the Sanatorium by Ragnar Jónasson was a fast-paced and somewhat engaging read for me. Jónasson skillfully navigated between characters and timelines and it was extremely easy to follow. The storyline built nicely but I thought the frequent references to the main character’s interest in classic detective fiction and whodunnits…
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The Force
Read more: The ForceMy rating: 5/5 stars. The Force by Don Winslow is crime fiction at its best! Winslow is a brilliant storyteller and his writing is absolutely addictive. The Force is a gritty, dark, complex story of a New York City police detective’s descent into corruption, exploring moral decay within the police department, judicial system, and city…
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Endgame – Fawkes and Baxter Series Book #3
Read more: Endgame – Fawkes and Baxter Series Book #3My rating: 3.5/5 stars. Endgame by Daniel Cole is the third book in the series and the conclusion to the Fawkes and Baxter trilogy. This novel is a departure from Cole’s gritty, dark, and brutal style of the previous installments and focuses more on the relationships between the characters. This is an enjoyable read; however,…
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Hangman – Fawkes and Baxter Series Book #2
Read more: Hangman – Fawkes and Baxter Series Book #2My rating: 4/5 stars. Hangman by Daniel Cole is the second book in the Fawkes and Baxter trilogy. Cole maintains the gritty, dark, and brutal style of the previous installment, and this book is definitely not for the faint of heart. This is macabre at its best if you love chilling serial killer thrillers packed…
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ragdoll – Fawkes and Baxter Series Book #1
Read more: ragdoll – Fawkes and Baxter Series Book #1My rating: 4/5 stars. Ragdoll by Daniel Cole is the first book in the trilogy and had been sitting on my TBR shelf for a couple of years before I finally moved it to the top of my list. I’m so glad that I did. This gritty, dark, and brutal serial killer story was masterfully…
Mugs & Manuscripts 