Audrey J. Cole

A new murder occurs that points to a serial killer down to the smallest detail, but there’s one problem: that serial killer received the death penalty a year ago. Wade, the detective on the case 6 years ago, is called back to solve the crime, but making progress in a crime that only points to someone it can’t possibly be is nearly impossible. Meanwhile, Elle wonders what is up with her husband with his changing personality and disappearing for hours at a time. The recipient follows both of these storylines in a complex tale that keeps you on the edge of your seat wondering if you really know who the killer is and how this crime will ever get solved.

Written in the third person, the story follows the points of view of Wade, Elle, the victims and even the killer. Each character is complex and has their own story that makes them real. The story has a strong sense of mystery as you try to put together the clues. While I was able to anticipate some of the surprises before they were revealed, others I didn’t see coming at all. There are references to a medical procedure that doesn’t currently exist, it did not feel like science fiction.

It’s hard to believe that The Recipient is a debut book because it is written and edited so well. Vivid descriptions made you feel like you’re really there and a part of the story. It’s also realistic in that not everything about the crime can be determined instantly - for example, the full toxicology panel takes weeks to get the results. It’s exciting that The Recipient is part of a series because I would love to read more!

I received a free review copy of this book through Voracious Readers Only, but my honest review was completely voluntary.… (more)

Inspired by Murder is a twisted tale about a writer who decides that the best way to write about murder is to commit murder. Written in the third person, this book follows the perspectives of Detective Stephenson and Dr. Eric Leroy. Detective Stephenson is a character from the previous book, The Recipient. He is a homicide detective determined to solve his cases. Eric is a psychiatrist who aspires to become a best-selling author. We quickly learn that Eric is actually more messed up than the patients he sees. He is one of those characters that you love to hate. He is cocky and thinks he is smarter than everyone else, when in reality he makes some dumb mistakes along the way. Unfortunately he is smart enough to not leave behind enough evidence for the detectives to arrest him, even though they know it’s him from the beginning.

Inspired by Murder is not a typical detective murder mystery, as we know up front who the primary criminal is. Instead, we are put into the twisted mind of a killer, wondering what lengths he will go to next to not get caught. There is plenty of action, and even some surprises along the way.

The characters are complex and descriptions are vivid. The book was a page turner for sure and hard to put down. While it is the 2nd book in the series, it can easily be a standalone book.

I received a free review copy of this book, but my honest review was completely voluntary.… (more)

Betrayal and murder are central to this mystery thriller set in Alaska.

Cameron is grieving the death of her beloved husband when she discovers that he was most likely the Teacher Killer. When she turns in the evidence she found in John's hunting cabin, the notoriety of her proximity to her serial killer husband makes her a suspect, some believe an accomplice. In addition, she loses her dental practice and is about to lose her home due to her husband's secret second mortgage and cashout of his life insurance. The question arises -- is John really dead? His best friend says that John was attacked and killed by a bear. Cameron has to find out and sets out on an off the grid wilderness trek for the truth.

This was a quick read though the plot totally strained credibility. Yes, Cameron's exploits in Alaska were unbelievable. In between her pilot abilities, her survival skills, and her knowledge of the terrain, snowmobiles, animals, and tracking -- well, she was quite the avenging warrior woman. The narrative was quite predictable and no surprises. I both read and listened to this book and that combination made the story more entertaining, but I was left really miffed by the conclusion. I can't say why because it would be a big spoiler. I have the second in this series to review as well but won't be rushing to read it.

Thank you to the author for the ARC and I obtained the audiobook from my local library.… (more)

Ethan has cheated on Sloane and now Sloane needs to decide whether to forgive her husband for having an affair or make a life change. She chooses the latter and now Sloane's new love interest's estranged wife has drowned and Ethan investigates. All the while in the back of Sloane's mind, she always dreams of having a family. The book is written in the present tense so readers read the narrative in real-time; thus, the story delves into Sloane's and Ethan's thoughts, making for a descriptive read. This is a personal pleasant way to read since nothing in the future can be foreseen and readers learn what happens at the same time as the characters. The pace at the start is slow and picks up 2/3 of the way in.


I received a free copy and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Thank you to Hidden Gems Books and author.… (more)