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Jess Lambert #.5
The Stranger at Black Lake
Secrets, murder and revenge converge in this gripping prequel to Amazon charts bestselling thriller, These Still Black Waters, about a young Jess Lambert drawn into a deadly cat-and-mouse game. Because old ghosts often have old scores to settle.
Jess Lambert and her husband, Mac, have just moved to Black Lake, looking for a quieter, more peaceful life. Until one morning Jess befriends a stranger—beautiful and glamorous Annie Parker—who’s also just moved to town.
Only a few hours later, Jess finds Annie wandering naked and in shock along the lake. And at Annie’s house she encounters a gruesome scene that shows a violent attack. But then Annie disappears.
As Jess is pulled deeper into the mystery of what happened to Annie, she learns about the house’s chilling past. And she begins to who was Annie really? Is she a witness, murderer, victim?
But it’s dangerous hunting down old ghosts. And Jess becomes increasingly unsure if she’s the hunter, or the prey. Who is the stranger at Black Lake?
Jess Lambert and her husband, Mac, have just moved to Black Lake, looking for a quieter, more peaceful life. Until one morning Jess befriends a stranger—beautiful and glamorous Annie Parker—who’s also just moved to town.
Only a few hours later, Jess finds Annie wandering naked and in shock along the lake. And at Annie’s house she encounters a gruesome scene that shows a violent attack. But then Annie disappears.
As Jess is pulled deeper into the mystery of what happened to Annie, she learns about the house’s chilling past. And she begins to who was Annie really? Is she a witness, murderer, victim?
But it’s dangerous hunting down old ghosts. And Jess becomes increasingly unsure if she’s the hunter, or the prey. Who is the stranger at Black Lake?
158 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 19, 2024
237 people are currently reading
9790 people want to read
About the author
Christina McDonald
11 books2,925 followersAbout this author
Christina McDonald is the award-winning, USA Today and Amazon charts bestselling author of What Lies In Darkness, The Stranger At Black Lake, These Still Black Waters, Do No Harm, Behind Every Lie and The Night Olivia Fell, which has been optioned for television by a major Hollywood studio. Originally from Seattle, Washington, she now lives in London, England, with her husband, two sons, and their dog, Tango.
Christina McDonald is the award-winning, USA Today and Amazon charts bestselling author of What Lies In Darkness, The Stranger At Black Lake, These Still Black Waters, Do No Harm, Behind Every Lie and The Night Olivia Fell, which has been optioned for television by a major Hollywood studio. Originally from Seattle, Washington, she now lives in London, England, with her husband, two sons, and their dog, Tango.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 275 reviews
February 10, 2024
This book is the prequel to “These Still Black Waters”, which was a five star read for me last year. To say I was very excited to see and read this novella is an understatement! “The Stranger At Black Lake”, is about a younger Jess Lambert who just moves to the town of Black Lake. Did this novella deliver? It certainly did! But now I need another sequel to the prequel… or prequel to the sequel (you know what I mean).
In this short story, Jess Lambert has just moved with her husband Mac to Black Lake into their new home. Jess is currently not working, after having been a paramedic in NY and is quite lonely while her husband goes to work all day. One morning while getting coffee in town, Jess meets Annie and they become friendly with each other and even exchange phone numbers. Later on that day, Jess sees Annie walking naked by the lake with only her shoes on. When Jess rushes to help Annie at her home (because that’s what paramedics normally do), she finds a dead man on Annie’s kitchen floor. Jess calls 911 for help, but then Annie disappears. Who is the dead man on the floor? And where is Annie?
The story then takes us into Annie’s disappearance and background, with Jess looking for her. Jess then re-enters Annie’s home (which is called The Gingerbread House) for more information on Annie and the family that used to live there. Was that a bad or good move on Jess’s part?
Read this short, twisty thriller to find out! I definitely recommend!
Many thanks to NetGalley, Intrigue Ink Publishing, and the author for an ARC of this novella which I had the pleasure of reading. Publication date: March 19, 2024
Genre~ Novellas & Short Stories, General Fiction (Adult), Mystery & Thrillers
In this short story, Jess Lambert has just moved with her husband Mac to Black Lake into their new home. Jess is currently not working, after having been a paramedic in NY and is quite lonely while her husband goes to work all day. One morning while getting coffee in town, Jess meets Annie and they become friendly with each other and even exchange phone numbers. Later on that day, Jess sees Annie walking naked by the lake with only her shoes on. When Jess rushes to help Annie at her home (because that’s what paramedics normally do), she finds a dead man on Annie’s kitchen floor. Jess calls 911 for help, but then Annie disappears. Who is the dead man on the floor? And where is Annie?
The story then takes us into Annie’s disappearance and background, with Jess looking for her. Jess then re-enters Annie’s home (which is called The Gingerbread House) for more information on Annie and the family that used to live there. Was that a bad or good move on Jess’s part?
Read this short, twisty thriller to find out! I definitely recommend!
Many thanks to NetGalley, Intrigue Ink Publishing, and the author for an ARC of this novella which I had the pleasure of reading. Publication date: March 19, 2024
Genre~ Novellas & Short Stories, General Fiction (Adult), Mystery & Thrillers
June 2, 2024
Jess Lambert and her husband, Mac, have just moved to Black Lake, looking for a quieter, more peaceful life. Until one morning Jess befriends a stranger—beautiful and glamorous Annie Parker—who’s also just moved to town.
Only a few hours later, Jess finds Annie wandering naked and in shock along the lake. And at Annie’s house she encounters a gruesome scene that shows a violent attack. But then Annie disappears.
As Jess is pulled deeper into the mystery of what happened to Annie, she learns about the house’s chilling past. And she begins to wonder: who was Annie really? Is she a witness, murderer, victim?
But it’s dangerous hunting down old ghosts. And Jess becomes increasingly unsure if she’s the hunter, or the prey. Who is the stranger at Black Lake?
Hot damn! A quick, easy read that really packed a punch, The Stranger at Black Lake was a welcome addition into the growing saga of Jess Lambert. A prequel to a pre-existing series (or what will be once the second book, What Lies in Darkness comes out in July), it was everything that I wanted and more. From adding to Jess’s characterization to providing one heck of a rollercoaster ride, the pulse-pounding plot kept me on the edge of my seat. A thriller through and through, McDonald only further proved her virtuoso-like skill at crafting propulsive storylines that pull you in and don’t let go for a second. Take it from me, this is one series you just have to read. I do recommend, however, starting with the first book in the series, These Still Black Waters. You need to know Jess before encountering her backstory, all things considered. By the time I reached the last perfectly placed word, I was fully convinced that this novella couldn’t have been better. And, given my penchant for honest reviews, that’s saying a lot. Rating of 5 stars.
Thank you to Christina McDonald for my complimentary copy and to Thriller Book Lovers: The Pulse for introducing me to this dynamite series.
PUB DATE: Out now and available on Kindle Unlimited!
Trigger warning: chronic illness, being held hostage, fatal stabbing, mention of: child abuse, rape
Only a few hours later, Jess finds Annie wandering naked and in shock along the lake. And at Annie’s house she encounters a gruesome scene that shows a violent attack. But then Annie disappears.
As Jess is pulled deeper into the mystery of what happened to Annie, she learns about the house’s chilling past. And she begins to wonder: who was Annie really? Is she a witness, murderer, victim?
But it’s dangerous hunting down old ghosts. And Jess becomes increasingly unsure if she’s the hunter, or the prey. Who is the stranger at Black Lake?
Hot damn! A quick, easy read that really packed a punch, The Stranger at Black Lake was a welcome addition into the growing saga of Jess Lambert. A prequel to a pre-existing series (or what will be once the second book, What Lies in Darkness comes out in July), it was everything that I wanted and more. From adding to Jess’s characterization to providing one heck of a rollercoaster ride, the pulse-pounding plot kept me on the edge of my seat. A thriller through and through, McDonald only further proved her virtuoso-like skill at crafting propulsive storylines that pull you in and don’t let go for a second. Take it from me, this is one series you just have to read. I do recommend, however, starting with the first book in the series, These Still Black Waters. You need to know Jess before encountering her backstory, all things considered. By the time I reached the last perfectly placed word, I was fully convinced that this novella couldn’t have been better. And, given my penchant for honest reviews, that’s saying a lot. Rating of 5 stars.
Thank you to Christina McDonald for my complimentary copy and to Thriller Book Lovers: The Pulse for introducing me to this dynamite series.
PUB DATE: Out now and available on Kindle Unlimited!
Trigger warning: chronic illness, being held hostage, fatal stabbing, mention of: child abuse, rape
March 22, 2024
I absolutely love this series!! Happy pub day to The Stranger At Black Lake!! 🥳🥳 After reading the first book in the Jess Lambert series… I couldn’t get enough… 😍… so of course I grabbed this fantastic prequel!! Thank you Intrigue Ink Publishing for my gifted digital copy!! 🥰 I wanted to know more about our girl Jess…. and let me tell you… it definitely delivered! 👏👏
Jess is new to Black Lake… so you can imagine how excited she was to meet someone like Annie. They hit it off immediately…. 👯♀️… EXCEPT.. She didn’t expect to find Annie naked and roaming around the neighborhood completely out of her mind… and that isn’t the scariest part….😳… it gets much… much… MUCH worse for Jess… What the hell happened in THAT house??!!! 😳😳🤷♀️… I guess the better question is what hasn’t happened in that creepy house…
This prequel packs a punch 🥊… It’s a super fast binge read!! 😍I finished the first book These Still Black Waters a couple weeks ago… and LOVED it.. and now this prequel.. I am telling you this series is CREEPY and I love it!! 😳😂👏
Jess is new to Black Lake… so you can imagine how excited she was to meet someone like Annie. They hit it off immediately…. 👯♀️… EXCEPT.. She didn’t expect to find Annie naked and roaming around the neighborhood completely out of her mind… and that isn’t the scariest part….😳… it gets much… much… MUCH worse for Jess… What the hell happened in THAT house??!!! 😳😳🤷♀️… I guess the better question is what hasn’t happened in that creepy house…
This prequel packs a punch 🥊… It’s a super fast binge read!! 😍I finished the first book These Still Black Waters a couple weeks ago… and LOVED it.. and now this prequel.. I am telling you this series is CREEPY and I love it!! 😳😂👏
March 19, 2024
4.5 backstory stars * now available
We first met Jess Lambert with “These Still Black Waters,” and she became a memorable character to me. I was excited to see that there’s a second in the series, scheduled to publish in July 2024, called “What Lies in Darkness.”
Then, a surprise! This novella prequel gives us the backstory of Jess Lambert. Jess and her husband are new to Black Lake, hoping for a fresh start after a traumatic event for Jess in her paramedic career.
Open to new friends, Jess befriends Annie, another newcomer, over a cup of coffee. Imagine the shock later when she sees Annie wandering naked near the lake and in shock.
As the mysteries and secrets swirl all through Black Lake, the pace definitely picks up, and I quickly read this one to find out what would happen to Jess. There were some big twists in this one and it was a great way to get reacquainted with the character while I wait for the new book to come out.
My thanks to the author and Intrigue Ink Publishing for the opportunity to read and honestly review this one.
We first met Jess Lambert with “These Still Black Waters,” and she became a memorable character to me. I was excited to see that there’s a second in the series, scheduled to publish in July 2024, called “What Lies in Darkness.”
Then, a surprise! This novella prequel gives us the backstory of Jess Lambert. Jess and her husband are new to Black Lake, hoping for a fresh start after a traumatic event for Jess in her paramedic career.
Open to new friends, Jess befriends Annie, another newcomer, over a cup of coffee. Imagine the shock later when she sees Annie wandering naked near the lake and in shock.
As the mysteries and secrets swirl all through Black Lake, the pace definitely picks up, and I quickly read this one to find out what would happen to Jess. There were some big twists in this one and it was a great way to get reacquainted with the character while I wait for the new book to come out.
My thanks to the author and Intrigue Ink Publishing for the opportunity to read and honestly review this one.
March 21, 2024
the setup…
Jess Lambert is a former paramedic who has just moved to Black Lake from New York with her husband Mac, an attorney. They’re looking for a more serene existence after a traumatic event she experienced and it is shaping up that way. That is until Jess meets Annie Parker one morning, another recent newbie from Paraguay. Just as she’s thinking Annie might be the start of a new friendship, Jess later comes upon her naked by the lake, completely unaware of her surroundings. As they return to Annie’s home, Jess walks into a gruesome scene, only to have Annie mysteriously disappear before law enforcement arrives.
the heart of the story…
I delayed starting the first book when I learned of this prequel and I’m so glad I did. From the onset, everything turned down creepy lane. See, Annie claimed to live in the “gingerbread” house that residents believe is haunted and has a tragic past. When Jess entered that house, I thought we’d entered the twilight zone. Hers isn’t the only point of view as another unnamed character provides the chills and ratcheted up the tension into the stratosphere. I couldn’t put the book down.
the bottom line…
I love intros like this because you get keen insights into the main characters delivered in a deliciously wrapped package of thrills, suspense and the “woo woo,” or so I thought. The mystery was gnarly and there was quite the twist at the end. I can’t wait to begin this series!
(Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Jess Lambert is a former paramedic who has just moved to Black Lake from New York with her husband Mac, an attorney. They’re looking for a more serene existence after a traumatic event she experienced and it is shaping up that way. That is until Jess meets Annie Parker one morning, another recent newbie from Paraguay. Just as she’s thinking Annie might be the start of a new friendship, Jess later comes upon her naked by the lake, completely unaware of her surroundings. As they return to Annie’s home, Jess walks into a gruesome scene, only to have Annie mysteriously disappear before law enforcement arrives.
the heart of the story…
I delayed starting the first book when I learned of this prequel and I’m so glad I did. From the onset, everything turned down creepy lane. See, Annie claimed to live in the “gingerbread” house that residents believe is haunted and has a tragic past. When Jess entered that house, I thought we’d entered the twilight zone. Hers isn’t the only point of view as another unnamed character provides the chills and ratcheted up the tension into the stratosphere. I couldn’t put the book down.
the bottom line…
I love intros like this because you get keen insights into the main characters delivered in a deliciously wrapped package of thrills, suspense and the “woo woo,” or so I thought. The mystery was gnarly and there was quite the twist at the end. I can’t wait to begin this series!
(Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
January 29, 2024
My Review:
Loved, loved and more loved!!!!! This is exactly what I needed for my soul. It truly rejuvenated my love of reading. I’ve been in a bit of a reading slump lately. All the books I have been reading felt like they were the same. They were all really good but just the same if that makes sense. Now back to this awesome read. What didn’t I love is the real question here. It had great characters, an intriguing plot and a wow of an ending. What more can I ask for. I have read this author before but not this series. This one is a prequel along with being a novella which is a short story. I have to say that this book started off with a bang and ended up with one too. There were so many twists and turns. My head was spinning exorcist style by the end of this one. Oh and that ending left me speechless too. So much so that I will be starting the first book in this series really soon. Like tonight soon or early tomorrow soon. I can’t wait to read it and see what happens next to all the characters. Christina McDonald Rocks!!!!!
In conclusion, the plot, the characters and all the twists in this book made this book an enjoyable read. I would definitely recommend it and happily give it 5 Hearts❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Loved, loved and more loved!!!!! This is exactly what I needed for my soul. It truly rejuvenated my love of reading. I’ve been in a bit of a reading slump lately. All the books I have been reading felt like they were the same. They were all really good but just the same if that makes sense. Now back to this awesome read. What didn’t I love is the real question here. It had great characters, an intriguing plot and a wow of an ending. What more can I ask for. I have read this author before but not this series. This one is a prequel along with being a novella which is a short story. I have to say that this book started off with a bang and ended up with one too. There were so many twists and turns. My head was spinning exorcist style by the end of this one. Oh and that ending left me speechless too. So much so that I will be starting the first book in this series really soon. Like tonight soon or early tomorrow soon. I can’t wait to read it and see what happens next to all the characters. Christina McDonald Rocks!!!!!
In conclusion, the plot, the characters and all the twists in this book made this book an enjoyable read. I would definitely recommend it and happily give it 5 Hearts❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
February 4, 2024
After moving to Black Lake with her husband, Jess befriends another new resident, Annie. Hours later she stumbles across Annie, dazed and confused, at the scene of a gruesome murder. As Jess informally investigates the case, she learns of the dark history of a local house, and what happened to its residents.
This prequel novella caught me by surprise. While I haven’t yet read the main series, I was intrigued by the description. While a short read, the story was well paced and fleshed out, and the reader is introduced to quite a cast of characters. I enjoyed Jess’ character and am looking forward to reading her series. I loved the mystery associated with the house, and really enjoyed the way the author wove together the dual narratives.
Definitely worth picking up if you’re looking for a quick, engaging and compelling mystery, with spooky undertones and various twists and turns that will keep you hooked.
Thank you Intrigue Ink Publishing and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.
This prequel novella caught me by surprise. While I haven’t yet read the main series, I was intrigued by the description. While a short read, the story was well paced and fleshed out, and the reader is introduced to quite a cast of characters. I enjoyed Jess’ character and am looking forward to reading her series. I loved the mystery associated with the house, and really enjoyed the way the author wove together the dual narratives.
Definitely worth picking up if you’re looking for a quick, engaging and compelling mystery, with spooky undertones and various twists and turns that will keep you hooked.
Thank you Intrigue Ink Publishing and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.
February 1, 2024
If you enjoyed the “Haunting at Bly Manor”, you’ll enjoy this prequel.
This novel is a short read and very fast paced. There’s a lot of suspense and the story telling is immaculate.
I typically don’t enjoy short reads, but this one makes me want to look out and binge the series! It’s really good and definitely something worth reading.
Once I picked it up, I couldn’t stop reading. I kept telling myself “one more chapter & I’ll go to bed”. The details paint a vivid picture that makes you feel that you’re in Black Lake and seeing it through the lens of Jess.
A true thrill. A twist you won’t even see coming.
I volunteered to read this ARC through NetGalley
This novel is a short read and very fast paced. There’s a lot of suspense and the story telling is immaculate.
I typically don’t enjoy short reads, but this one makes me want to look out and binge the series! It’s really good and definitely something worth reading.
Once I picked it up, I couldn’t stop reading. I kept telling myself “one more chapter & I’ll go to bed”. The details paint a vivid picture that makes you feel that you’re in Black Lake and seeing it through the lens of Jess.
A true thrill. A twist you won’t even see coming.
I volunteered to read this ARC through NetGalley
March 19, 2024
Loved this novella! The characters (being reintroduced to Jess again was like reuniting with an old friend), the mysterious creepy house, the seemingly sweet woman from the coffee shop who ends up being more than a little odd, the feeling that someone was watching Jess and her having to look over her shoulder. So much action was packed into such a short book but it felt fully fleshed out.
Fantastic quick read. I only wish it was longer!
Thanks to Netgalley, Christina McDonald and Intrigue Ink Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Fantastic quick read. I only wish it was longer!
Thanks to Netgalley, Christina McDonald and Intrigue Ink Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 29, 2024
The stranger at Black Lake.
Christina McDonald.
#Domesticthriller
This one will have you looking over your shoulder because things you think you saw,
The stranger at Black Lake is phenomenal.
So many things from the past come back from the past, there lies Deceit murder.
Sometimes you might see a ghost.
A short read, a intense read. This one will have you dropping your jaw . A perfect story.
I must say I'm a fan of this author have been from day one.
Christina McDonald.
#Domesticthriller
This one will have you looking over your shoulder because things you think you saw,
The stranger at Black Lake is phenomenal.
So many things from the past come back from the past, there lies Deceit murder.
Sometimes you might see a ghost.
A short read, a intense read. This one will have you dropping your jaw . A perfect story.
I must say I'm a fan of this author have been from day one.
February 3, 2024
Christina McDonald has created a Detective Jess Lambert universe, with “These Still Black Waters” and the upcoming “What Lies in the Darkness” (July 2024). While fans wait for the latter, the author has gifted us with a prequel, “The Stranger at Black Lake,” which tells us how Jess transformed from paramedic to police woman when she first moved to Black Lake. The prequel doesn’t bring you up to the current timeline (this is about 10 years earlier and a lot of what happened in the interim is revealed in “These Still Black Waters”.) However, the depth of Jess’s character is disclosed — her empathy, her growing investigative skills, her then happy marriage.
There’s a decent murder mystery in the novella (two POVs: Jess and “Him”). The author knows she has a winning main character in Jess Lambert — this terrific prequel will make you add the next 2 books to your TBR list! 4 stars!
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): YES Annie has sea foam green eyes, as do some other characters (the green is a clue).
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO However, why powdered apple seeds might kill a person isn’t fully explained. Anyway, apple seeds contain cyanide and it would take between 100 and 500 to kill a full grown person.
Thank you to Intrigue Ink Publishing/Victory Editing and NetGalley for a free advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review!
There’s a decent murder mystery in the novella (two POVs: Jess and “Him”). The author knows she has a winning main character in Jess Lambert — this terrific prequel will make you add the next 2 books to your TBR list! 4 stars!
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): YES Annie has sea foam green eyes, as do some other characters (the green is a clue).
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO However, why powdered apple seeds might kill a person isn’t fully explained. Anyway, apple seeds contain cyanide and it would take between 100 and 500 to kill a full grown person.
Thank you to Intrigue Ink Publishing/Victory Editing and NetGalley for a free advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review!
April 5, 2024
To get a chance to know the back story of Jess and what shaped her into the person she is. You can be sure from reading this novella that Jess has grown into a caring individual who wants to help others find understanding and also get justice by putting away those that do harm. So much is packed into this that it will keep you turning the pages. Thank you Christina McDonald and NetGalley for a chance to read this fantastic story.
February 1, 2024
Novella by Christina McDonald - thank you, NetGalley, Intrigue Ink Publishing for giving me to opportunity to read in exchange for review
Jess lambert and her husband, Mac have just moved to Black Lake, looking for a quieter, more peaceful life. Jess meets a beautiful stranger, Annie and after a few hours, Jess finds Annie wandering naked and in shock along the lake.
And at Annie’s house, Jess encounters a gruesome scene that shows a violent attack.
As Jess is pulled deeper into the mystery of what has happened to Annie, she learns about the houses chilling past.
A fantastic novella that drags you in deeper with every page, intrigues you about the mysteries yet to be unravelled and final conclusion is an amazing twist that I did not see coming.
Well worth the read, took me longer due to other commitments but will definitely read more of Christina’s work.
5 stars all the way!!
Jess lambert and her husband, Mac have just moved to Black Lake, looking for a quieter, more peaceful life. Jess meets a beautiful stranger, Annie and after a few hours, Jess finds Annie wandering naked and in shock along the lake.
And at Annie’s house, Jess encounters a gruesome scene that shows a violent attack.
As Jess is pulled deeper into the mystery of what has happened to Annie, she learns about the houses chilling past.
A fantastic novella that drags you in deeper with every page, intrigues you about the mysteries yet to be unravelled and final conclusion is an amazing twist that I did not see coming.
Well worth the read, took me longer due to other commitments but will definitely read more of Christina’s work.
5 stars all the way!!
January 29, 2024
The stranger at Black Lake is a short thriller novel revolving around a married couple who move out into a small rural town from New York City in the hopes of finding somewhere calmer and safer to begin building their family.
The wife is yet to find new work there so with extra time on her hands she decides to venture outdoors, where she meets a new friend who claims she is living in “the gingerbread house” that is notorious for its dark history of death, murders and restless ghosts.
A little while later she stumbles upon the scene of a murder at the exact same house, and when mysterious events unravel she lets her curiosity get the better of her and starts to investigate the dark past surrounding the home.
For a short story this was well written, interesting and engaging. Multiple POV allow the reader to try to puzzle together events from the past with current events in the present. The story concludes with all the answers wrapped up and explained nicely.
I liked the main character and the detective involved with the case and their budding friendship.
This is a prequel to these black waters, which I haven’t read. You definitely don’t need to have read it to understand and enjoy this short story. But perhaps if I had read it I may have found more enjoyment in getting a back story to certain characters in this prequel? It’s hard to say without having read it.
Thank you to NetGalley and intrigue ink publishing for a copy!
The wife is yet to find new work there so with extra time on her hands she decides to venture outdoors, where she meets a new friend who claims she is living in “the gingerbread house” that is notorious for its dark history of death, murders and restless ghosts.
A little while later she stumbles upon the scene of a murder at the exact same house, and when mysterious events unravel she lets her curiosity get the better of her and starts to investigate the dark past surrounding the home.
For a short story this was well written, interesting and engaging. Multiple POV allow the reader to try to puzzle together events from the past with current events in the present. The story concludes with all the answers wrapped up and explained nicely.
I liked the main character and the detective involved with the case and their budding friendship.
This is a prequel to these black waters, which I haven’t read. You definitely don’t need to have read it to understand and enjoy this short story. But perhaps if I had read it I may have found more enjoyment in getting a back story to certain characters in this prequel? It’s hard to say without having read it.
Thank you to NetGalley and intrigue ink publishing for a copy!
February 5, 2024
Wow she has done it again! Christina's style of writing has away of grabbing the reader's attention from the start. This novella introduce's the reader to Jess. Reading this was like coming home to the beginning. Jess and her husband move to the quiet small town he grew up in. Not long after Jess is drawn into murder and past legends of the ghost woman of black lake. So many twist in this gripping story will have you on the edge of your seat until the end.
February 5, 2024
I don't read a lot of novellas. By the time I'm invested in a character, I just want more development than a novella typically provides, but I make the exception for characters that I already know and love, like Jess Lambert. The Stranger at Black Lake gave me more insight into Jess's past, more about what makes her tick, and I loved every minute of it. If you've already loved the first book in the Jess Lambert series, These Still Black Waters, then The Stranger at Black Lake is a must read.
February 5, 2024
This book gives you a look at Jess Lambert when she first arrives at Black lake. The mystery and suspense will keep the pages turning. This is a series that will have you wanting to read more about Jess Lambert and her life at Black Lake. Christian McDonald does not disappoint! Just when you think you have it all figures out.....you don't!
February 1, 2024
The Stranger At Black Lake is a prequel to the Jess Lambert series by Christina McDonald. It is a short story about how and why Jess and her husband moved to Black Lake and her decision to become a detective. This story is very fast paced with plenty of twists and I really enjoyed it. Thank you Christina McDonald and Netgalley for this arc.
February 5, 2024
Wow, I was completely hooked throughout this story. It is a prequel and I hadn’t read the first book but I followed the story with no issue. I loved the multiple POV’s and how everything came together at the end.
My first from this author but I will without a doubt be getting the first book (and probably more)
⭐️ 4.5 STARS ROUNDED UP.
———————
Thank you NetGalley and Intrigue Ink Publishing for the opportunity to review this book.
My first from this author but I will without a doubt be getting the first book (and probably more)
⭐️ 4.5 STARS ROUNDED UP.
———————
Thank you NetGalley and Intrigue Ink Publishing for the opportunity to review this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2024
Christina is back with a novella surrounding Jess Lambert. I absolutely loved Jess Lambert in These Still Black Waters but absolutely love that Christina wrote this novella and gave us a chance to meet Mac and meet Jess before all her trauma and heartaches. This novella focuses on Jess and Mac’s life. We finally get to see the man who is anxiously awaiting his wife to heal I can not recommend this series enough. I absolutely love everyone and everything about it.
January 31, 2024
Great suspenseful novella. Just perfect as I’m waiting for the next release from her, What Lies In The Dark. This novella brings us back to just before These Still Black Waters so they all connect. Christina McDonald never fails to bring the reader on a suspenseful journey, leaving the reader craving more each and every time.
February 26, 2024
I enjoyed this short story/novella quite a bit. This is a prequel to the Jess Lambert books and I liked getting a better glimpse into Jess and her history and how she came to be a police detective. I liked that you got the story in two parts which made piecing things together easier. I had mostly figured things out by the end but I liked the way it came together so slowly. I also liked that the mystery in this one was in two timelines. Jess and her husband Mac have moved to a small town and Jess doesn’t even have a job yet. She has been a paramedic but she’s not sure that’s what she wants to do anymore. Before she can get settled she meets a young women and gets pulled into a mystery with a murder scene that could be out of a horror movie. I gave this one 4.5 stars, rounded up because it’s was definitely a fun read and a great intro into this series (you would totally like and get this story without reading book 1).
February 23, 2024
Jess Lambert and her husband move to Black Lake for some solitude. Jess meets a strange young woman named Annie. She sees Annie wandering around naked and afraid one day and takes her back to her ghostly looking cottage where things go haywire. There’s no solitude for Jess anytime soon who also seems to have a stalker after her.
This was an excellent read and a prequel to These Still Black Waters which was also amazing.
Thanks NetGalley and Intrigue Ink Publishing for this eARC that will be released March 19, 2024!
This was an excellent read and a prequel to These Still Black Waters which was also amazing.
Thanks NetGalley and Intrigue Ink Publishing for this eARC that will be released March 19, 2024!
February 16, 2024
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: March 19, 2024
“The Stranger At Black Lake” is the prequel to Christina McDonald’s Jess Lambert series, which includes “These Still Black Waters” and “What Lies in Darkness”.
After an at work incident that left her partner paralyzed, Jess Lambert and her husband, Mac, have relocated to Black Lake, looking for a fresh start. Things are beginning to look up when Jess meets a woman named Annie, who claims to live in a neighbouring house. While out on a run, Jess finds Annie covered in blood and completely mute from shock, with a dead man lying in Annie’s house. When the police investigate and Jess finds out that Annie is not who she claims to be, she begins to investigate the house down the street. As an EMT, Jess’ instinct is to help people and she wants to find Annie and try and help her if she can, but Jess soon finds herself at the centre of a tense standoff, and not everyone will survive.
I was one of the lucky ones to read McDonald’s first Lambert novel, “These Still Black Waters”. I haven’t yet read her second one but I had enough of an introduction to Lambert that I wanted more, and was really excited to be blessed with an ARC of “The Stranger at Black Lake”. I don’t think it’s necessary to read every novel in the series in order to keep up with the plot, but I always encourage it, especially since McDonald’s novels are always such a treat!
“Lake” is told from two perspectives, Jess’ and an individual labeled initially as “Him”, a male stranger who is seeking a female from his past for undisclosed purposes. McDonald offers many possibilities as to who “Him” is, and of course, when it’s revealed, the twist is unexpected but completely believable. I loved the dark and twisted “memento mori” plot line in this novel, and it kept me on the edge of my seat until the very end.
As “Lake” is a novella, it was short and easy to read, and it’s gripping plot made it easily a story that could be read in a day. “Lake” made me want more of Lambert, and I am now enthusiastically bumping “Darkness” up my TBR list. I love McDonald’s suspenseful and entertaining writing, and I hope she delivers more Lambert (and more novels in general!), as I eagerly anticipate her next one!
Expected publication date: March 19, 2024
“The Stranger At Black Lake” is the prequel to Christina McDonald’s Jess Lambert series, which includes “These Still Black Waters” and “What Lies in Darkness”.
After an at work incident that left her partner paralyzed, Jess Lambert and her husband, Mac, have relocated to Black Lake, looking for a fresh start. Things are beginning to look up when Jess meets a woman named Annie, who claims to live in a neighbouring house. While out on a run, Jess finds Annie covered in blood and completely mute from shock, with a dead man lying in Annie’s house. When the police investigate and Jess finds out that Annie is not who she claims to be, she begins to investigate the house down the street. As an EMT, Jess’ instinct is to help people and she wants to find Annie and try and help her if she can, but Jess soon finds herself at the centre of a tense standoff, and not everyone will survive.
I was one of the lucky ones to read McDonald’s first Lambert novel, “These Still Black Waters”. I haven’t yet read her second one but I had enough of an introduction to Lambert that I wanted more, and was really excited to be blessed with an ARC of “The Stranger at Black Lake”. I don’t think it’s necessary to read every novel in the series in order to keep up with the plot, but I always encourage it, especially since McDonald’s novels are always such a treat!
“Lake” is told from two perspectives, Jess’ and an individual labeled initially as “Him”, a male stranger who is seeking a female from his past for undisclosed purposes. McDonald offers many possibilities as to who “Him” is, and of course, when it’s revealed, the twist is unexpected but completely believable. I loved the dark and twisted “memento mori” plot line in this novel, and it kept me on the edge of my seat until the very end.
As “Lake” is a novella, it was short and easy to read, and it’s gripping plot made it easily a story that could be read in a day. “Lake” made me want more of Lambert, and I am now enthusiastically bumping “Darkness” up my TBR list. I love McDonald’s suspenseful and entertaining writing, and I hope she delivers more Lambert (and more novels in general!), as I eagerly anticipate her next one!
May 22, 2024
Prequel novella - book .5 in the Jess Lambert series. I’ve read and loved all three of McDonald’s prior thrillers..and now, this too as well. Can’t wait to read the next!
THE STRANGER AT BLACK LAKE is the backstory of this series. After suffering a traumatic incident while working as a paramedic, Jess and Mac are looking for a fresh start in a cozy, family-oriented, small town. This story follows Jess and husband Mac as they settle into their new home in the town of Black Lake. She befriends Annie Parker, also a new resident, whom Jess sees hours later wandering around naked. What the what?!! It goes from bad to worse when she finds a dead body in Annie’s house(?) when returning her home.. and then “poof” Annie disappears too. Talk in town is that it’s haunted by the Mr. + Mrs. that lived there decades earlier. Jess digs into finding out the truth surrounding the family that once lived in the old gingerbread trimmed house on the hill. This was a mix of crime-psychological thriller, ghost story, and mystery! Very entertaining. 4.5 stars — Pub. 3/19/24
THE STRANGER AT BLACK LAKE is the backstory of this series. After suffering a traumatic incident while working as a paramedic, Jess and Mac are looking for a fresh start in a cozy, family-oriented, small town. This story follows Jess and husband Mac as they settle into their new home in the town of Black Lake. She befriends Annie Parker, also a new resident, whom Jess sees hours later wandering around naked. What the what?!! It goes from bad to worse when she finds a dead body in Annie’s house(?) when returning her home.. and then “poof” Annie disappears too. Talk in town is that it’s haunted by the Mr. + Mrs. that lived there decades earlier. Jess digs into finding out the truth surrounding the family that once lived in the old gingerbread trimmed house on the hill. This was a mix of crime-psychological thriller, ghost story, and mystery! Very entertaining. 4.5 stars — Pub. 3/19/24
February 5, 2024
I loved finding more about Jess Lambert story. We find out how she met her husband, and why she moved to Black Lack. A twist of fate on how she becomes a detective.
Her skills uncovered a mystery in which the town seemed to have forgotten and with small towns, some stories become myths. Thank you for giving us this novella and two books about this flawed and lovable character Jess Lambert.
Her skills uncovered a mystery in which the town seemed to have forgotten and with small towns, some stories become myths. Thank you for giving us this novella and two books about this flawed and lovable character Jess Lambert.
February 7, 2024
This prequel novella takes readers back to the time when Jessica Lambert (not yet a detective), and her husband Marc move to the city of Black Lake. Jess is trying to decide what to do now with her life, unsure if she wants to continue in her line of work as a paramedic, or do something new when she meets Annie Parker, who is also new to town. Just a few hours later, she finds Annie wandering around the lake in shock. Jess takes Annie back to her house only to stumble upon a gruesome crime scene. Then Annie disappears. Jess is pulled deeply into this mystery, in trying to find Annie and figure out who she really was.
I absolutely loved the first book of this series, “These Still Black Waters”, so I was thrilled when Christina McDonald announced she was coming out with a prequel. Here, in the prequel, we get to meet a younger, more carefree Jess Lambert, as the events that turned her life upside down had not yet happened. It was so fun to take a step back into the past with her, to see how she came to Black Lake and ultimately became a detective. Though this is a prequel, I definitely recommend reading it after you read “These Still Black Waters”, as that novel really lays the groundwork for Jess Lambert as a character. Once again, I was amazed at how expertly Christina McDonald packed SO much emotion into a thriller but she did it again!
Thank you to Christina McDonald and Thriller Lover Promotions for the ARC! “The Stranger at Black Lake” releases March 19, 2024. This review will be shared to my instagram blog (@books_by_the_bottle) shortly :)
I absolutely loved the first book of this series, “These Still Black Waters”, so I was thrilled when Christina McDonald announced she was coming out with a prequel. Here, in the prequel, we get to meet a younger, more carefree Jess Lambert, as the events that turned her life upside down had not yet happened. It was so fun to take a step back into the past with her, to see how she came to Black Lake and ultimately became a detective. Though this is a prequel, I definitely recommend reading it after you read “These Still Black Waters”, as that novel really lays the groundwork for Jess Lambert as a character. Once again, I was amazed at how expertly Christina McDonald packed SO much emotion into a thriller but she did it again!
Thank you to Christina McDonald and Thriller Lover Promotions for the ARC! “The Stranger at Black Lake” releases March 19, 2024. This review will be shared to my instagram blog (@books_by_the_bottle) shortly :)
February 5, 2024
One of the best prequels I have read in a while. Jess' backstory make me love her more! My new favorite series.
February 7, 2024
This was a prequel to These Still Black Waters and follows Jess after she moves to Black Lake. If you've read the first book, you'll know that Jess is a detective, separated from her husband, and dealing with an injury and a personal loss. In this book, she is a paramedic, still happily married, and this is before her injury and before her daughter is even a thought. It can be read either before or after the first book, it doesn't make too much difference.
The story helps us understand Jess a bit more, and it's made me super excited to start the new book.
The story helps us understand Jess a bit more, and it's made me super excited to start the new book.
February 7, 2024
Thank you, #NetGalley and #IntrigueInkPublishing, for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my unbiased opinion.
I rarely read novellas, and when I do, they're usually a prequel to a book series, and "The Stranger at the Black Lake" by Christina McDonalds is no different.
Jess Lambert and her husband had just moved into the neighborhood. It was a perfect place to raise a family - quiet and peaceful. But just like Jess, Black Lake harbors some secrets, too. But when she meets Annie Parker, Jess's strong sense of intuition leads her into the horrors of the "gingerbread house," a focal point of Black Lake's local folklore and houses its very own boogeyman.
Every chapter was a page-turner. Being a novella reduces monotony by encapsulating the plot in less than a hundred pages. It was propulsively good. I love the mystery behind the first few pages, wanting to connect the different characters to how the plot would unfold. It even gave an eerie atmosphere that left me wondering if it contained paranormal elements.
The only evident misgiving is that usually, with novellas, any potential for character depth and development is limited. Rather than seeing it as a flaw, I'm more accustomed to a novel structure that explores complex character arcs and themes for reader connection. For example, one character in the story has had their motivations disclosed, yet I feel they warrant more introspection, which left me wanting. However, this being a novella, there's no need for argument. Any expectations of a more intricate storyline are unnecessary. Overall, "The Stranger at the Black Lake" is a well-written narrative supplement to the series exploring Jess Lambert's detective prowess.
I rarely read novellas, and when I do, they're usually a prequel to a book series, and "The Stranger at the Black Lake" by Christina McDonalds is no different.
Jess Lambert and her husband had just moved into the neighborhood. It was a perfect place to raise a family - quiet and peaceful. But just like Jess, Black Lake harbors some secrets, too. But when she meets Annie Parker, Jess's strong sense of intuition leads her into the horrors of the "gingerbread house," a focal point of Black Lake's local folklore and houses its very own boogeyman.
Every chapter was a page-turner. Being a novella reduces monotony by encapsulating the plot in less than a hundred pages. It was propulsively good. I love the mystery behind the first few pages, wanting to connect the different characters to how the plot would unfold. It even gave an eerie atmosphere that left me wondering if it contained paranormal elements.
The only evident misgiving is that usually, with novellas, any potential for character depth and development is limited. Rather than seeing it as a flaw, I'm more accustomed to a novel structure that explores complex character arcs and themes for reader connection. For example, one character in the story has had their motivations disclosed, yet I feel they warrant more introspection, which left me wanting. However, this being a novella, there's no need for argument. Any expectations of a more intricate storyline are unnecessary. Overall, "The Stranger at the Black Lake" is a well-written narrative supplement to the series exploring Jess Lambert's detective prowess.
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