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Florida Girl FBI Mystery #3
The Runaway
Have you heard the rumors?
For years, the Florida Everglades surrounding the town of Mangrove Marsh have been the source of many strange rumors.
When a family of three went missing during a hiking trip in the murky marshes.
Whispers began about a sinister figure dwelling in the Everglades, patiently awaiting their next unsuspecting victim.
After a young boy stumbles upon a grisly burial ground filled with dismembered body parts, FBI agent Alexa Landers arrives on the scene to investigate.
The evidence points to the chilling truth – a cunning serial killer is at work.
Out in the everglades, everyone has a different story, and every story is more unbelievable than the last.
Now, it's up to Agent Landers to get to the truth and solve the case.
In Mangrove Marsh, the unspeakable truth will leave a dark legacy that no one can run away from.
For years, the Florida Everglades surrounding the town of Mangrove Marsh have been the source of many strange rumors.
When a family of three went missing during a hiking trip in the murky marshes.
Whispers began about a sinister figure dwelling in the Everglades, patiently awaiting their next unsuspecting victim.
After a young boy stumbles upon a grisly burial ground filled with dismembered body parts, FBI agent Alexa Landers arrives on the scene to investigate.
The evidence points to the chilling truth – a cunning serial killer is at work.
Out in the everglades, everyone has a different story, and every story is more unbelievable than the last.
Now, it's up to Agent Landers to get to the truth and solve the case.
In Mangrove Marsh, the unspeakable truth will leave a dark legacy that no one can run away from.
- GenresThriller
305 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 22, 2023
308 people are currently reading
138 people want to read
About the author
Elle Gray
130 books672 followersElle Gray lives in a small town with her 2 cats, and her handsome husky.
As a girl, she was obsessed with crime novels and thrillers.
Today, she loves writing and creating thrilling novels with courageous, strong heroes/heroines and dangerous psychopaths. She invites you to join her exciting world of detectives and FBI agents that take down killers and kick butt.
As a girl, she was obsessed with crime novels and thrillers.
Today, she loves writing and creating thrilling novels with courageous, strong heroes/heroines and dangerous psychopaths. She invites you to join her exciting world of detectives and FBI agents that take down killers and kick butt.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
December 31, 2024
**A Gripping Dive into Darkness: A Review of Elle Gray's "The Runaway Girls"**
Elle Gray’s "The Runaway Girls" is a thrilling addition to the Olivia Knight FBI series, plunging readers into a complex web of mystery, deceit, and danger. From the first page to the last, this book keeps you guessing, delivering a suspenseful narrative that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Gray masterfully crafts a story that is not only a gripping crime thriller but also a deep exploration of the human condition, delving into the darkness that can lurk beneath seemingly ordinary surfaces.
The story opens with a sense of urgency and unease. FBI Special Agents Olivia Knight and Brock Tanner are assigned a new case that takes them undercover to a seemingly idyllic coastal town. The premise is immediately intriguing: **a series of teen disappearances in Cape Fremont, and the agents must pose as newlyweds on their honeymoon to investigate**. This sets the stage for a narrative that expertly balances the personal lives of Olivia and Brock with the intensity of their investigation. The contrast between the romantic facade they must maintain and the grim reality of their mission adds a layer of complexity to their characters.
The author uses the setting of Cape Fremont brilliantly, starting with descriptions of the coastal town and its unique vibe. The descriptions of the palm trees, humidity and the unique shaped hotel all add to the atmosphere of the story. The vibrant descriptions of the town, from the tiki-style restaurants and bars to the seemingly quaint local spots, create a stark contrast with the insidious underbelly of the town. This contrast is not just window dressing; it’s a critical element that highlights the hidden dangers lurking beneath the surface of the town, where a close-knit community doesn’t see what is happening right under their noses.
The pacing of the novel is one of its greatest strengths. Gray skillfully builds the suspense, slowly revealing clues and introducing a cast of compelling characters. Olivia and Brock's investigation is not a straightforward path; they navigate red herrings, encounter intriguing locals, and face their own inner conflicts. The introduction of characters like Mae and Susanna, two local teenagers, provides crucial insights into the town's social fabric and the lives of those most vulnerable to the mystery they are trying to solve.
The investigation leads Olivia and Brock to the local hangout, Breakers, a tiki-style restaurant on the shore, where they meet the waitress Mila, who becomes an important source of information and an innocent bystander who may also be in danger. It is here, and at the local bar, that they meet other characters, who, whether friendly or not, may be hiding secrets. The author does a great job of using these local spots to create an authentic sense of place, while allowing Olivia and Brock to move naturally through the town without drawing suspicion. **The interactions with these characters serve as a means to deepen the mystery and to lead the agents to the truth.**
One of the most compelling aspects of "The Runaway Girls" is its exploration of the themes of trust and betrayal. As Olivia and Brock delve deeper, they discover that the lines between friend and foe are increasingly blurred. **The characters are complex, with their own motivations and secrets, making it difficult to discern who can be trusted.** This adds an element of psychological tension to the narrative, keeping the reader engaged and questioning every interaction.
The dialogue in the novel is sharp and realistic, further enhancing the authenticity of the characters. Olivia and Brock's banter is a highlight, providing moments of levity amidst the darkness of their mission. Their relationship, both professional and personal, is a strong anchor for the narrative, with their shared history and obvious affection for each other adding depth and heart to the story. The author's ability to weave together the complexities of the case with the evolving dynamics between the two characters makes the story very compelling.
As the investigation progresses, the stakes are raised, and the suspense intensifies. Olivia and Brock find themselves facing unexpected twists and turns, confronting the possibility that there is more to the disappearances than they initially thought. The **discovery of a potential cult**, the possibility of a mass suicide, and the hints of human trafficking add layers of complexity, making the mystery even more disturbing. The author keeps the reader guessing and constantly reevaluating their theories.
The pace quickens as Olivia and Brock zero in on their suspects, and the action sequences that follow are dynamic and gripping, bringing a cinematic feel to the story. Gray doesn't shy away from the darker elements of the story, and the confrontations with the perpetrators are both thrilling and disturbing. **The final showdown is a masterclass in suspense, leaving the reader breathless and eagerly turning pages.** There is a real sense of urgency as the agents try to rescue a young woman, Susanna, and to finally put an end to the mystery.
The author is successful in wrapping up most of the plot lines, but the last few pages provide an important twist that leaves the reader anticipating the next book. The ending is both satisfying and unsettling, providing a resolution to the immediate conflict but also hinting at the larger forces at play.
"The Runaway Girls" is more than just a crime thriller; it's a story about the resilience of the human spirit, the importance of fighting for justice, and the darkness that can hide in plain sight. It is a must-read for fans of the Olivia Knight FBI series and for anyone who enjoys a suspenseful, well-crafted mystery. **The intricate plot, compelling characters, and exploration of complex themes make this book a standout in the genre.**
**Key Highlights:**
* **Intriguing Premise:** The story begins with a compelling mystery involving teen disappearances, immediately drawing readers in.
* **Rich Setting:** The coastal town of Cape Fremont is vividly brought to life, becoming a character in itself.
* **Complex Characters:** Olivia and Brock are well-developed characters with whom readers can easily connect.
* **Suspenseful Plot:** The twists and turns of the investigation keep readers guessing and engaged.
* **Themes of Trust and Betrayal:** The story explores the complexities of human relationships and the hidden dangers of deceit.
* **Dynamic Action:** The final showdown is a thrilling conclusion to the suspenseful narrative.
* **Thought-Provoking Themes:** The book delves into the darkness that can lurk beneath the surface of ordinary lives.
* **Excellent Pacing:** The story maintains a good balance between building suspense and revealing clues.
* **Intriguing Ending:** The ending leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.
* **Well-written and engaging:** The dialogue is sharp and the prose is easy to read.
Overall, "The Runaway Girls" is a must-read for fans of crime thrillers. Elle Gray has created an action-packed story with strong suspense, a complex mystery and well-developed characters, all while maintaining a high degree of realism. You won't want to put it down!
Elle Gray’s "The Runaway Girls" is a thrilling addition to the Olivia Knight FBI series, plunging readers into a complex web of mystery, deceit, and danger. From the first page to the last, this book keeps you guessing, delivering a suspenseful narrative that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Gray masterfully crafts a story that is not only a gripping crime thriller but also a deep exploration of the human condition, delving into the darkness that can lurk beneath seemingly ordinary surfaces.
The story opens with a sense of urgency and unease. FBI Special Agents Olivia Knight and Brock Tanner are assigned a new case that takes them undercover to a seemingly idyllic coastal town. The premise is immediately intriguing: **a series of teen disappearances in Cape Fremont, and the agents must pose as newlyweds on their honeymoon to investigate**. This sets the stage for a narrative that expertly balances the personal lives of Olivia and Brock with the intensity of their investigation. The contrast between the romantic facade they must maintain and the grim reality of their mission adds a layer of complexity to their characters.
The author uses the setting of Cape Fremont brilliantly, starting with descriptions of the coastal town and its unique vibe. The descriptions of the palm trees, humidity and the unique shaped hotel all add to the atmosphere of the story. The vibrant descriptions of the town, from the tiki-style restaurants and bars to the seemingly quaint local spots, create a stark contrast with the insidious underbelly of the town. This contrast is not just window dressing; it’s a critical element that highlights the hidden dangers lurking beneath the surface of the town, where a close-knit community doesn’t see what is happening right under their noses.
The pacing of the novel is one of its greatest strengths. Gray skillfully builds the suspense, slowly revealing clues and introducing a cast of compelling characters. Olivia and Brock's investigation is not a straightforward path; they navigate red herrings, encounter intriguing locals, and face their own inner conflicts. The introduction of characters like Mae and Susanna, two local teenagers, provides crucial insights into the town's social fabric and the lives of those most vulnerable to the mystery they are trying to solve.
The investigation leads Olivia and Brock to the local hangout, Breakers, a tiki-style restaurant on the shore, where they meet the waitress Mila, who becomes an important source of information and an innocent bystander who may also be in danger. It is here, and at the local bar, that they meet other characters, who, whether friendly or not, may be hiding secrets. The author does a great job of using these local spots to create an authentic sense of place, while allowing Olivia and Brock to move naturally through the town without drawing suspicion. **The interactions with these characters serve as a means to deepen the mystery and to lead the agents to the truth.**
One of the most compelling aspects of "The Runaway Girls" is its exploration of the themes of trust and betrayal. As Olivia and Brock delve deeper, they discover that the lines between friend and foe are increasingly blurred. **The characters are complex, with their own motivations and secrets, making it difficult to discern who can be trusted.** This adds an element of psychological tension to the narrative, keeping the reader engaged and questioning every interaction.
The dialogue in the novel is sharp and realistic, further enhancing the authenticity of the characters. Olivia and Brock's banter is a highlight, providing moments of levity amidst the darkness of their mission. Their relationship, both professional and personal, is a strong anchor for the narrative, with their shared history and obvious affection for each other adding depth and heart to the story. The author's ability to weave together the complexities of the case with the evolving dynamics between the two characters makes the story very compelling.
As the investigation progresses, the stakes are raised, and the suspense intensifies. Olivia and Brock find themselves facing unexpected twists and turns, confronting the possibility that there is more to the disappearances than they initially thought. The **discovery of a potential cult**, the possibility of a mass suicide, and the hints of human trafficking add layers of complexity, making the mystery even more disturbing. The author keeps the reader guessing and constantly reevaluating their theories.
The pace quickens as Olivia and Brock zero in on their suspects, and the action sequences that follow are dynamic and gripping, bringing a cinematic feel to the story. Gray doesn't shy away from the darker elements of the story, and the confrontations with the perpetrators are both thrilling and disturbing. **The final showdown is a masterclass in suspense, leaving the reader breathless and eagerly turning pages.** There is a real sense of urgency as the agents try to rescue a young woman, Susanna, and to finally put an end to the mystery.
The author is successful in wrapping up most of the plot lines, but the last few pages provide an important twist that leaves the reader anticipating the next book. The ending is both satisfying and unsettling, providing a resolution to the immediate conflict but also hinting at the larger forces at play.
"The Runaway Girls" is more than just a crime thriller; it's a story about the resilience of the human spirit, the importance of fighting for justice, and the darkness that can hide in plain sight. It is a must-read for fans of the Olivia Knight FBI series and for anyone who enjoys a suspenseful, well-crafted mystery. **The intricate plot, compelling characters, and exploration of complex themes make this book a standout in the genre.**
**Key Highlights:**
* **Intriguing Premise:** The story begins with a compelling mystery involving teen disappearances, immediately drawing readers in.
* **Rich Setting:** The coastal town of Cape Fremont is vividly brought to life, becoming a character in itself.
* **Complex Characters:** Olivia and Brock are well-developed characters with whom readers can easily connect.
* **Suspenseful Plot:** The twists and turns of the investigation keep readers guessing and engaged.
* **Themes of Trust and Betrayal:** The story explores the complexities of human relationships and the hidden dangers of deceit.
* **Dynamic Action:** The final showdown is a thrilling conclusion to the suspenseful narrative.
* **Thought-Provoking Themes:** The book delves into the darkness that can lurk beneath the surface of ordinary lives.
* **Excellent Pacing:** The story maintains a good balance between building suspense and revealing clues.
* **Intriguing Ending:** The ending leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.
* **Well-written and engaging:** The dialogue is sharp and the prose is easy to read.
Overall, "The Runaway Girls" is a must-read for fans of crime thrillers. Elle Gray has created an action-packed story with strong suspense, a complex mystery and well-developed characters, all while maintaining a high degree of realism. You won't want to put it down!
November 2, 2023
intense search for a mission-oriented killer
A hysterical teenager stumbles out of the Everglades, terrified after fleeing from a bow-and-arrow wielding, masked assailant - heeding his wounded brother’s exhortations to keep moving.
Not long afterward, the brother’s body - bearing two arrow wounds - is found.
Among an economic-cultural conflict between a development construction company and the native indigenous residents, the FBI hunts a killer.
A hysterical teenager stumbles out of the Everglades, terrified after fleeing from a bow-and-arrow wielding, masked assailant - heeding his wounded brother’s exhortations to keep moving.
Not long afterward, the brother’s body - bearing two arrow wounds - is found.
Among an economic-cultural conflict between a development construction company and the native indigenous residents, the FBI hunts a killer.
May 29, 2024
Interesting read, never saw the ending coming.
I love how Elle Gray captures the wildness of the Everglades. She also brings to light the continuing tensions between indigenous people and the “whites”. It is so easy to stir up hate when we rely on prejudice and much easier to find justice for all when we work together. I look forward to more in this series.
I love how Elle Gray captures the wildness of the Everglades. She also brings to light the continuing tensions between indigenous people and the “whites”. It is so easy to stir up hate when we rely on prejudice and much easier to find justice for all when we work together. I look forward to more in this series.
October 9, 2024
An intriguing story
What started out as a puzzling mystery, along with numerous other issues getting in the way, ended up being several years of an active serial killer that no one knew existed. Can Alexa and Kage figure it out before it's too late? You'll have to read this to find out!
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and outstanding authors.
What started out as a puzzling mystery, along with numerous other issues getting in the way, ended up being several years of an active serial killer that no one knew existed. Can Alexa and Kage figure it out before it's too late? You'll have to read this to find out!
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and outstanding authors.
October 23, 2023
This was a fast-paced and fun book! "Who was that masked man?" It was a little surprise that was answered at the end. The only issue I had with the book is that it was a little "teachy"and over descriptive in some parts.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2023
This was a excellent story about Alexa and Kage going in the Everglades to see who is killing people and why they are doing it. This had a ending you didn’t see coming who was killing the people with lots of suspense and action. Thank you
October 26, 2023
I did not see that coming!
It's amazing how Elle Gray continues up with up such diverse characters. It's an intriguing mystery with a surprising ending. You don't want to miss this one!
It's amazing how Elle Gray continues up with up such diverse characters. It's an intriguing mystery with a surprising ending. You don't want to miss this one!
November 27, 2023
A serial killer on the loose in the swamps
If you like thrillers that lead you to the swamps, than you will like this FBI story.
It has a good plot but it was too much about the fights between the backwoods people and Indians.
If you like thrillers that lead you to the swamps, than you will like this FBI story.
It has a good plot but it was too much about the fights between the backwoods people and Indians.
February 13, 2024
An Amazing Book!
This is my first Elle Gray/James Holt book and I’m so glad I chose it!
It checks off all the ‘boxes’ that make a great story!
Don’t miss reading this book and others by this gifted author!
This is my first Elle Gray/James Holt book and I’m so glad I chose it!
It checks off all the ‘boxes’ that make a great story!
Don’t miss reading this book and others by this gifted author!
October 20, 2023
Interesting stuff, my husband is reading Killers of the Flower Moon. We comparing notes, about the tribal aspects of everything.
October 28, 2023
the runaway
This is my least favorite of Elle Gray books. One thing I know is that I will never go visit the Everglades!!! I just did not like the story.
This is my least favorite of Elle Gray books. One thing I know is that I will never go visit the Everglades!!! I just did not like the story.
November 2, 2023
Don't think I will walk in the Everglades
I thought I'd figure it out. I was wrong. Parts of this dragged a little. The ending was good. Looking forward to the next one.
I thought I'd figure it out. I was wrong. Parts of this dragged a little. The ending was good. Looking forward to the next one.
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March 22, 2024Hi boy by
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews