The Hunt

Detective Erica Sands #3

by Gregg Dunnett

DCI Erica Sands is on the hunt for her father, the infamous serial killer Charles Sterling, who vanished without a trace after a daring escape from a maximum-security prison.

The trail has gone cold, and the authorities believe he has disappeared forever. But Erica knows her father better than anyone and feels his presence lurking in the shadows.

When journalist Pierre Cloarec uncovers a massive financial fraud – the same method Sterling used to fund his escape – his investigation leads him to a seemingly quiet coastal village. There, a new friendship with a mysterious American takes a dark and disturbing turn, and Erica’s instincts tell her this is no coincidence.

With the clock against her, Erica must unravel the connection between the investigation and her father’s disappearance, before he begins a new reign of terror – and she becomes his next victim.

In this twisty and relentless thriller bestselling author Gregg Dunnett ratchets up the tension and will have you on the edge of your seat as Erica faces her most personal – and deadly – case yet.

Genres: Thriller, Suspense

308 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 21, 2025

About the author

Gregg Dunnett is a British author writing psychological thrillers and stories about travel and adventure, usually with a connection to the coast or to the oceans. Before turning to novels he worked as a journalist for ten years on a windsurfing magazine, briefly owned a sailing school in Egypt, taught English in Thailand, Portugal, Turkey and Italy, taught sailing in Greece and Spain, and also had several rather duller jobs along the way.

His brother is the adventurer Jono Dunnett who in 2015 windsurfed alone and unsupported around the entire coastline of Great Britain, and who is currently windsurfing around the coastline of Europe.

Gregg lives in Bournemouth on the south coast of England with his partner Maria. They have two young children, Alba and Rafa, for whom the phrase “Daddy's working” has absolutely no effect.

Gregg's debut novel was an Amazon top 100 best seller in the UK and was downloaded over a quarter of a million times.

Gregg on why he writes:

"I’ve always wanted to do two things in life, to write, and to have adventures. When I was a kid I imagined grand affairs. Kayaking across Canada, cycling to Australia. Whole summers in the Arctic. Did it happen? Well, partly.

I’ve been lucky, I spent some years abroad teaching English. I worked in sailing schools in Greece and Spain. I really lucked out with a job testing windsurfing boards for the magazine I grew up reading. I made a questionable decision (ok, a bad decision) to buy a windsurfing centre in Egypt. I’ve also done my fair share of less exciting jobs. Packing and stacking potatoes on a farm, which got me fitter than I’ve ever been in my life. I did a few years in local government which taught me that people really do have meetings that result only in the need for more meetings, and they really do take all afternoon. I spent a pleasant few months in a giant book warehouse, where I would deliberately get lost among the miles of shelves unpacking travel guides and daydreaming. I’ve done a bit of writing too, at least I learned how to write. Boards Magazine isn’t well known (it doesn’t even exist today) but it did have a reputation for being well written and I shoe-horned articles in my own gonzo journalism style on some topics with the most tenuous of links to windsurfing. But the real adventures never came. Nor did the real writing.

Then, in 2015, my brother announced he was going to become the first person to windsurf alone around Great Britain. I don’t know why. Apparently it was something he’d always wanted to do (news to me). It was a proper adventure. It was dangerous, it was exciting. Even before he set off he was interviewed on TV, in the papers etc... Some people thought he was reckless, some thought he was inspirational. Lots of people thought he’d fail.

But he didn’t. He made it around. He even sailed solo from Wales to Ireland, the first to make the crossing without the aid of a safety boat. I was lucky enough to be involved in a planning level, and take part in a few training sails, and the last leg of the trip. But he did ninety nine percent of it on his own. One step at a time, just getting on with it. That was quite inspiring.

In a way it inspired me to pull my finger out. I’d been writing novels - or trying to write novels - then for a few years. But it was touch and go as to whether I was going to be one of those ‘writers’ with a half-finished novel lost on a hard drive somewhere, rather than someone who might actually manage to finish the job.

I’ve now got two lovely, highly demanding children, so real adventures are hard right now. I still try to get away when I can for nights out in the wilds rough camping, surf trips sleeping in the van, windsurfing when the big storms come. I love adventures with the kids too.

I hope in time to get around to a few real adventures. I want to sail across an ocean. I want to bike across a continent. I definitely want to spend more time surfing empty waves.

But fo

Reviews

[Antonella · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story combines the chilling intrigue of a relentless serial killer with a high-stakes personal pursuit led by DCI Erica Sands, a determined detective haunted by her father's monstrous legacy.
Her dual role as a detective and the daughter of a notorious killer adds layers to her character, making her struggle deeply personal and relatable.

The book ends on a cliffhanger, which is frustratingly absent from the blurb. While cliffhangers can work well in certain narratives, not warning readers feels like a disservice, especially for those expecting resolution.

If you enjoy serial narratives or are prepared to wait for a sequel, you might find this book worth your time. For others, the lack of closure could be a deal-breaker.

*thanks to Netgalley for the copy of the book

[Gatorman · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pretty good entry in the Erica Sands series about the continued hunt for Erica's serial killer dad, Charles Sterling, who escaped from prison in the last one and may or not have died from cancer. Erica, of course, refuses to believe he's dead and sets off on her own investigation. A bit meandering at times, no real surprises and Erica is back to being really abrasive and unpleasant as she was in the first one. Still, it's well-written and keeps you engaged throughout. Not as good as The Trap but better than The Cove. 3.5 stars. Thanks to Netgalley for the free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Ⓢ Ⓨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hunt is the third in the Erica Sands crime series and I feel like I’ve been waiting ages for this book. I cannot describe how excited I was to read it and it did NOT disappoint!

This one has us travelling the world chasing Sterling after his escape from prison. The scenes are well set and I could easily picture where we were, from pretty French fishing villages to mansions in Brazil. The characters were well developed, the plot was easy to follow and truly gripping. I could not put it down!

It reads fine as a standalone, but I think at this point in the series, if you haven’t read the previous books, it would be beneficial to do so to really appreciate and understand the storyline.

It’s fast paced, there’s twists, there’s turns, there’s jaw droppers and there’s the biggest cliffhanger EVER at the end! How could you do that to us, Gregg?!?!? On the other hand though, it means there will be another in the series which makes me so happy, but I neeeeeeed to know what happens next now!!!

If you like your punchy crime thrillers, this series is perfect for you.

Thank you again to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for my advanced copy.

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: The Hunt
Author: Gregg Dunnett
Publication Date: Friday, February 21, 2025 by Storm Publishing
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

🕵🏼‍♀️ DCI Erica Sands will stop at nothing to find Charles Sterling. Her career, her collegial relationships, as well as her own inner peace are all in jeopardy as she diligently is on the hunt for Charles Sterling, high-profile mass murderer. Charles Sterling, Erica’s father.

🔪 Erica knows Sterling is manipulative and capable of pulling off the greatest disappearing act of all time. How will she convince others that she is not following a “dead end?” She believes Charles Sterling will resurface, but where and when is the question. A question she wants answered before… before more blood is shed. Before more innocent lives are taken. Before the unthinkable happens.

😳🤯 The Hunt is book 3 in the Erica Sands series. I was completely gripped by this story from the very beginning and remained white knuckled all throughout. This novel was broken into four parts. Each part moved quickly, as Dunnett has the undoubtable gift of leaving chapters/parts off with quite a cliffhanger. I couldn’t put this book down because I had to see the result of the finishing chapters. At about 47% through this story, I COULD NOT take it anymore! I just had to purchase the other two novels that preceded this one! If you are looking for a quick moving, spine-chilling novel, then I suggest you check this book out as soon as possible. Even better? Do yourself a favor and start from the beginning. This book is out for publication on Friday, February 21st. If you begin reading the first two books now, I have no doubt you will be ready for publication day!

Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for allowing me to read and review an advanced copy of this stellar novel. All opinions are my own.

[Kelly (Little.shropshire.reader) · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Hunt is book 3 in the Erica Sands series. The two prior I have not read before this, and for me, i really needed to have read them as a series. I really struggled to connect with the main character, Erica. I found her very unlikable. Maybe you see more of a reason for how she is in the other books. I found myself not invested enough in her.
The plot is intriguing, and it kept my interest. Told in separate parts that then come together at the end. I did find that the second part slowed the pace down from the first one, but then it picked back up in the third part. It ends on a cliffhanger, obviously leaving the outcome for the next book. I didn't mind it. For those who have read all the series, I think it would have been a satisfying ending .

Thank you Storm Publishing for my advanced copy.
My opinions are my own

[Kako · Rating 1 out of 5]

worst ending ever. i'm trying to understand why i made the time to finish this book. should have been a dnf

[Tara Leigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how this story is written in parts and how it all comes together in the end. I enjoyed the characters and the settings and found the story easy to follow despite not having read the first two books of the series.

Quite fast paced and incredibly suspenseful, especially nearing the end. Phew!

Holy cliffhanger Batman...

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Hunt is the third installment in the Erica Sands series, and it proves to be just as captivating as its predecessors. The story takes readers on a thrilling international chase, spanning Brazil, Vietnam, France, and back to the UK.

At the heart of the novel is Charles Sterling, a brilliant yet dangerous serial killer who has managed to escape from a high-security prison. Pursuing him relentlessly is his estranged daughter, Erica, whose duty as a law enforcer is complicated by their complex personal history. Their intense game of cat and mouse dominates the plot, creating a gripping dynamic filled with tension and psychological depth.

New characters, such as Cloarec & Clemence, brings fresh intrigue to the story, adding layers to an already intricate narrative. However, the book ends on a nerve-wracking cliffhanger—one that does not seem to promise good fortune for Erica. While this left me eager for the next installment, it was also frustrating to be left hanging at such a pivotal moment.

One of the book’s standout elements is its global scope, which adds a sense of urgency and high stakes as international law enforcement, including Interpol and various police forces, become involved. The constant shift in locations enhances the story’s intensity, making it a fast-paced and thoroughly enjoyable read. I cannot wait to see what happens next in the series.

Thank you Netgalley, Storm Publishing & Gregg Dunnett for this arc!

[Val · Rating 4 out of 5]

Waited way too long for this book. Nice cliffhanger at the end. Been a fan of his books since the first one. Now not so much 😕

[Deanna Loves to Read!!:) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rounded up to 3.25
This is the third book in the DI Erica Sands series. In the latest installment, Erica's serial killer father Charles Sterling has escaped from prison. Erica is determined to hunt him down. This story unfolds in 4 parts, and ends on a cliffhanger. There is a lot happening here.
The first part deals with Erica hyper focused on hunting down her father. She decides to go to Brazil to find Barney Atkinson- the guard at the prison who helped her father escape. While there she meets lawyer Damien Reynolds. He tells Erica that a man named Jeremy Collins has passed away. Jeremy lived in Vietnam. But the man that died is really her father, Charles Sterling. There is so much evidence that she is given to prove that it is indeed her father, but Erica does not believe this. And.. her father has supposedly left her a big inheritance.
Then the story moves to reporter Pierre Cloarec (from Paris). He is looking into a big story about tax evasion, but for safety reasons he is moved to another town where he can hide. While there he meets an american named Richard Brown. Pierre becomes somewhat suspicious of Brown.
Then the story segues to Charles Sterling. His past, his escape and all about him.
Then we return to Erica. She quits her job so that she can go hunt down her father who she refuses to believe is dead.

The main characters from each section converge together to put pieces together.
So.... are you still with me????

This was A LOT!!! There were several characters and plots. I felt I needed a story board to keep track of it all. The pacing was a bit erratic, starting off with a quick pace, then really, really slowed down. It started to pick back up towards the end, just to have a cliffhanger.
I feel that the character of Erica is brash and caustic- much like she was in the first novel. This made it hard for me to connect to her, and I became irritated with her many times.
I do feel that the author connected all the characters/events together well in the end. The ending, although a cliffhanger, was well done and sets the plot for the next installment. I will have to read it to know how this saga ends!

Overall it was an ok read, but gets a bit convoluted in places. I think you would need to read the series from the beginning to really understand Erica.

Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC. This is my honest and voluntary review.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read "The Hunt" in exchange for my honest opinion.

This is the third book in the Detective Erica Sands series. the book consists of 4 parts. The first part is DCI Erica Sands obsessing over her escaped father - Charles Robert Sterling, the high profile mass murderer who not only killed Erica's mother, sister and several young women but also Erica's Deputy DI john Lindham, his wife and their 2 children. Since his escape from prison they have no idea where he is. With Interpol agency Jonathan Briggs she wants to go to Brazil where she has tracked Barney Atkinson, the prison guard who helped plan Sterling's escape. Creating for him the new identity of David Smith. Lawyer Damien Reynolds arrives and tells Erica that Jeremy Collins has passed away in Hoi An, Vietnam, in reality it was Charles Sterling. Erica immediately senses a con, while all the evidence - dental, DNA say it was Sterling. Sterling has left her a massive inheritance.

The second part tells the story of reporter Pierre Cloarec from Le Monde in Paris. He is following a story linked to tax evasion. They feel Cloarec is in danger and send him to Plourec where no one will notice him. He meets an American Richard Brown. Cloarec is slightly suspicious of Brown because he claims to read Le Monde but isn't familiar with famous articles on serial killer Charles Sterling who died a year ago.

The third part tells the story of Charles Sterling and how he got to be where he is. The plans made by Atkinson that were never followed because he had plans of his own. With money he can arrange anything and everything. When he meets a reporter in Plourec he thinks that he will be exposed and he can't have that happen.

Part Four of the story has Erica giving notice at work and following her obsession with finding her father who she does not accept is dead. DS Luke Golding teams with reporter Clemence Girard who worked with Cloarec on the files. Sterling they realize used the law firm that they are investigating. So they follow the aliases, the money and put the pieces together.

The story ends with a cliffhanger with Erica once again in grave danger. According to author Dunnett there will be one last book in the series to tie the pieces together.

[J Kromrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

Gregg Dunnett’s The Hunt is a psychological snare, a slow-burn pursuit that coils tighter with every chapter. While the title might suggest a straightforward chase, Dunnett subverts expectations by crafting a narrative that is as much about the predator within as it is about the one outside.

Unlike many thrillers that rely on relentless action, The Hunt is cerebral. It lures you in with a deceptively calm opening, then gradually reveals the psychological terrain of its characters—terrain that is as treacherous as the physical wilderness they traverse. Dunnett’s prose is lean but evocative, his pacing deliberate, like a hunter circling its prey.

The story follows a protagonist whose identity and motives are slowly unwrapped, and part of the thrill is not knowing whether to trust them. Dunnett excels at moral ambiguity, forcing the reader to question who is truly being hunted—and why.

The natural world in The Hunt is not just a backdrop—it’s a living, breathing antagonist. Whether it’s dense forest, remote coastline, or the eerie silence of isolation, Dunnett uses setting to amplify tension. The environment becomes a psychological mirror, reflecting the characters’ fears, secrets, and survival instincts.

Dunnett’s characters are not flashy or melodramatic. They’re ordinary people caught in extraordinary circumstances, which makes their decisions feel grounded and their fears palpable. The antagonist, in particular, is chilling not because of overt violence, but because of their calm, calculated menace. There’s a quiet dread that builds with each interaction.

Many thrillers throw in twists like confetti—Dunnett, however, plays a longer game. The reveals in The Hunt are earned, not forced. They emerge organically from the narrative, often recontextualizing earlier scenes in ways that reward attentive readers. One twist in particular—delivered late in the novel—reframes the entire story with a gut-punch of emotional resonance.

📚 Recommended for fans of:
- Jane Harper’s The Dry
- Tana French’s The Woods
- Ruth Ware’s The Turn of the Key

[Meg Pearson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hunt by Gregg Dunnett is a gripping third installment in the DCI Erica Sands series, blending dark intrigue with emotional depth. While it can be enjoyed as a standalone, readers will likely appreciate the full scope of Erica’s character and backstory by starting with the earlier books in the series.

Detective Erica Sands faces a deeply personal investigation when her father, infamous serial killer Charles Sterling, escapes from prison. Despite official reports claiming he died in a Vietnamese clinic, Erica is convinced he’s still alive and begins an international pursuit to uncover the truth. Her relentless determination drives her into dangerous territory, as she battles her own doubts and the skepticism of her colleagues.

Parallel to Erica’s story, a journalist in France investigates a high-stakes financial fraud case, leading to surprising connections with Sterling’s escape and a web of crime that spans continents. The dual storylines are expertly woven, creating a narrative that keeps readers on edge while slowly revealing how the two plots intertwine.

Dunnett’s evocative descriptions transport readers to settings ranging from Brazil to Vietnam and France, adding richness to the fast-paced storyline. Erica’s struggle with her father’s monstrous legacy adds layers of emotional complexity to her character, making her more than just a determined detective.

While the plot is thrilling and the twists satisfying, the novel ends on a significant cliffhanger that might frustrate readers expecting resolution. However, for fans of the series and those who enjoy serial narratives with a strong central character, The Hunt delivers an absorbing and suspenseful read.

Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to review this ARC. I’m eagerly anticipating the next book to see how Erica’s journey unfolds.

[Bzz Kolla · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for this eCopy to review

I've just finished 'The Hunt,' and let me tell you, this one really got under my skin. Gregg Dunnett has crafted a truly gripping thriller that delves deep into the complex and disturbing relationship between DCI Erica Sands and her notorious serial killer father, Charles Sterling.

The story opens with a chilling premise: Charles Sterling, Erica's father, has escaped from a maximum-security prison. The authorities believe he's vanished, but Erica, who knows her father better than anyone, feels his presence lurking in the shadows. This personal connection immediately raises the stakes, making this investigation incredibly intense.

The narrative weaves together two compelling storylines. Journalist Pierre Cloarec, investigating a massive financial fraud that mirrors Sterling's methods, hides out in a mysterious coastal village. His encounter with a seemingly harmless American takes a dark and disturbing turn, and Erica's instincts tell her it's connected to her father's escape.

I was immediately drawn into the psychological tension of the story. Erica's internal struggle, balancing her duty as a police officer with her complicated feelings about her father, was palpable. Dunnett does a great job of portraying her inner turmoil.

The investigation itself was well-paced and suspenseful. The gradual uncovering of clues and the increasing sense of dread kept me turning the pages. The connection between the financial fraud and Sterling's escape was cleverly revealed, and the coastal village setting added a sense of isolation and unease.

Dunnett excels at building suspense. Overall, 'The Hunt' is a thrilling and suspenseful read that will appeal to fans of psychological thrillers and police procedurals.

[Jan · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Hunt is the third book in Dunnett's Erica Sands mystery series. While I have not read the first two, I was totally engaged and never felt at a loss.

In a nutshell, DCI Sands is the daughter of infamous serial killer, Charles Sterling. He is on the loose after escaping from a maximum security prison. The trail has gone cold and authorities have all but abandoned their search for him. Despite the lack of interest, Erica is determined to find him. While she is trying to piece together where he went after the escape, she is notified that he died in a Vietnamese clinic. He left her a generous portion of his ill- gotten fortune. She is the only one who believes he is still alive.

In the meantime, newspapers from several countries are working together to uncover a massive network of financial fraud. The Paris newspaper, Le Monde, is part of the investigation. Concerned about the welfare of their lead journalist, the editor sends him to a coastal village in France to work on the story. The tension picks up when he befriends a retired American diplomat living in the village.

You have to suspend belief for part of what transpires but it’s what makes the story a good read. The settings are rich as the investigation goes all over the world—Paris, Brazil, Vietnam, Brittany. And for the most part, the characters are believable. Left as a cliffhanger, I’m looking forward to the next book.

Many thanks to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.

[TrishAM · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unfortunately I didn't know when I started this book that it was the third book in a series, my bad, but most importantly I didn't know that it would end in a cliffhanger, this is not really a deal breaker but I do like to have prior knowledge.
DCI Erica Sterling in unfortunate enough to be a police office who is also the daughter of a serial killer, not just any old serial killer but a highly intelligent, psychopathic killer, a killer who made multi billions with bitcom, a killer who, by bribing a warden, escaped from prison and disappeared.
Erica is a brilliant detective but her job was taking second place to her obsession in finding her father, Charles, and putting him back behind bars.
When Erica received a visit from a lawyer appointed by her father who informed her that her father had died of cancer, despite all the evidence that he provided, photographs, DNA, fingerprints and a very large inheritance for her, Erica didn't believe any of it. The police were happy to close the case but Erica was determined to prove that her father had tricked them once again......but she would find him.
This story follows the cat and mouse chase of a very elusive killer and his determined daughter.
This is a good story although I didn't find the main character likeable, Erica comes across as abrasive, opinionated and self serving, I also didn't like the fact that it ended on a cliffhanger, I now have no choice but to read the next book to see what happens.
Thank you Storm publishing for this ARC, my review is totally my own opinion.

[Jeff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intriguing If A Touch Meandering. Will Be Divisive. I believe this is my first ever review with an asterisk on the rating as far as I'm concerned - because for the first time ever I may well come back and reduce it by a star, depending on how the next book plays out. My reasons here can't be explained without delving into spoiler territory, but I've written about my thoughts on what happens here in other contexts in other places, so they are at least quantities that can be known - and which should be at least partially obvious to those who have read the book.

For what it is though, this book itself is truly a fun and intriguing look at a Sherlock-variant "super detective" who finds herself placed in a situation she refuses to believe is actually true. The story then meanders quite a bit before the big reveal, which then explains the meandering before leading into the final sequences here.

Even in the meandering, the plot is well paced with a lot going on in different areas around the globe, making this easily the most expansive book in the series to date. The characters all play their roles superbly, and the result is a book that reads at least as good as some of the movies that are of its ultimate form. But again, because of the nature of this book, there is really only so much that can be said without revealing spoilers of some form or another.

Very much recommended.

[Monica Mac · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading The Trap, I was really looking forward to another instalment in this series. I have to admit that I found it a bit hard to get into, initially, and wondered in which direction it was going to go.

Erica Sands is abrasive as usual, but her instincts are usually spot-on and she backs her convictions by quitting the police force at the beginning of this book. Her 2IC believes in her but he thinks she is wrong in this instance.

Charles Sterling is a serial killer - he is also Erica's father. He has escaped from prison and Erica is notified of his death, in Vietnam. She smells a rat though and tries to follow his trail. This is the distraction she doesn't need as she tries to solve the cases that cross her desk, in the UK.

One day, Luke Golding, hard at work on the cases that Erica SHOULD have been concentrating on, gets a call from a young French journalist. This tilts his whole world on its axis (both personally and professionally) and he goes to France. That is when things get really, really interesting....

A very fast-paced book, other than the first third of it (which seems quite confusing to me, lots of characters and places introduced etc).

And the cliffhanger at the end of it.......cruel, Gregg Dunnett, cruel!! Hope the next book is coming out very soon, to put us out of our collective miseries!

4 stars from me.

Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing.

[Farah G · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gregg Dunnett's earlier book, The Cove, left me struck by his writing talent. The story saw the introduction of his character, police officer Erica Sands, whose choice of career was directly informed by the experience of being raised by a serial killer for a father.

The latest installment in the saga is a propulsive. compelling read, which I enjoyed enormously. When Erica's father, Charles Sterling, escapes from prison and subsequently dies of cancer at a clinic in Vietnam, he leaves his fortune and a letter for his daughter.

But with his body having been cremated, Erica is not entirely convinced that the murderous Sterling has finally gone to meet his maker. After extensive investigation seems to indicate that this is indeed the case, Erica is left out in the cold, since the police consider the case officially closed.

A parallel storyline in the novel involves something similar to the WikiLeaks experience and centres around two French journalists at the Le Monde newspaper who are writing up the scoop of a lifetime before an Italian crime family exposed in the leaks gets to them. That isn't the only danger they face, though...

While some suspension of disbelief is required to enjoy this tale, the loose ends are tied together neatly at the finale, and my only complaint about the story - and I will admit to being very disgruntled indeed - is that it ends on a cliff hanger. Bring on the next instalment, please!

[Shawna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Books 3 of the series...
Detective Constable Inspector Erica Sands is search for her father - serial killer Charles Sterling. Sterling managed to escape a max security prison, as it turns out with the help of a guard he befriended. Sterling had also managed to accumulate massive crypto wealth before he was arrested - since cryptocurrency is not traceable and he had SO much money at his disposal, it makes it that much harder to try to track him down. Not to mention, reports are that he died in a Viet Nam private hospital of an aggressive form of cancer. But Sands doesn't believe it, making her seem obsessed and crazy.

Meanwhile, French journalist Pierra Cloarec is approached with a tipoff of a massive fraud case linking all sorts of unsavory characters. Due to the risk involved, his publisher sets him up in her old family cottage in a rural fishing village in France so he can finish his story. As this part of the story was introduced, it felt disjointed to me and I had some trouble investing myself as if I were starting a brand new book. But soon enough, the stories were starting to link together.

Definitely full of twists with unexpected turns.

Thanks to NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and Gregg Dunnett for the eARC.

Pub Date Feb 21 2025 #TheHunt #NetGalley

[Sally · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Hunt by author Gregg Dunnett is the 3rd book in the thrilling DCI Erica Sands series. The hunt of the title is Erica trying to catch her father Charles Sterling, the serial killer who escaped from prison. He’s beyond dangerous and no one knows where he is. On the one hand, because he’s her father Erica might have some insight about where he is or what his plans are; on the other hand, he’s a serial killer, not a random dad. He’s unpredictable. Add in the fact that he won’t hesitate to harm or even kill Erica if she gets in his way and author Dunnett has created a spellbinding story that is non-stop action, full of unexpected twists and under a cloud of danger and evil from start to finish.

The pace of The Hunt is fast and exciting. Every time I thought I had finally guessed what Sterling’s next move would be and where Erica would have to dash off to next to try and intercept him, the story took another turn and I was back to square one with my guesses. Plan to be riveted to the book as soon as you start reading it; it will grab you and not let go right up until the shocking ending.

Thanks to Storm Publishing for providing an advance copy of The Hunt via NetGalley. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.

[KDRBCK · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hunt by G. Dunnett, published by Storm Publishing is book three in the Detective Erika Sands Series.
An intriguing read, fast paced, action packed and drama laden, the story had me from start til the last page. I recommend to read the books in order.
5 stars.
Blurb: DCI Erica Sands is on the hunt for her father, the infamous Charles Sterling, who vanished without a trace after a daring escape from a maximum-security prison.
The trail has gone cold, and the authorities believe he has disappeared forever. But Erica knows her father better than anyone and feels his presence lurking in the shadows.
When journalist Pierre Cloarec uncovers a massive financial fraud – the same method Sterling used to fund his escape – his investigation leads him to a seemingly quiet coastal village. There, a new friendship with a mysterious American takes a dark and disturbing turn, and Erica’s instincts tell her this is no coincidence.
With the clock against her, Erica must unravel the connection between the investigation and her father’s disappearance, before he begins a new reign of terror – and she becomes his next victim.

[Concha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing.

DCI Erica Sands continues on the trail of her father, the notorious serial killer Charles Sterling, after his escape from a maximum security prison.
Although everyone tells her to give up after his supposed death, she is tenacious and continues the search despite risking her career.
In this novel Erica confronts herself and her colleagues because she is unable to concentrate on anything but the obsession that has kept her on edge since her father escaped.
On the other hand, we have a journalist in France writing an article about financial fraud involving many well-known people, including a mafia family.
Both parts of this novel have managed to interest me equally. Clearly you know that they have to come together in the end and you start to make assumptions about that connection.
A good narrative pace and an intriguing story for this third installment in the series that culminates with a huge cliffhanger that has me already looking forward to the next one.
I think in this case it is necessary to have read the previous ones to understand the book well, which fans will undoubtedly enjoy.

[Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was very complex and at times a little confusing. I think maybe you would be better off if you read books 1 and 2 in this series first. There are several stories going on at the same time, which do come together. However, I still had a hard time keeping up at times.

Erica Sands is really not a very likable character. She is abrasive and has a general bad attitude. However, I can only assume this is by design. After all, being a detective and the daughter of a famous serial killer has not been an easy life to live.

This is not a quick read because you need to pay attention to all of the moving parts. Erica is a good detective who is determined to find her murderous father. She is tenacious and extremely observant. The book ends with a cliffhanger, which I am not particularly a fan of. But I guess it leaves the reader wanting and waiting for more.

I conclude by stating it is not a bad book, but I would recommend reading books 1 and 2 first. I think the entire plot will make more sense with some more background.

Thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Mike · Rating 2 out of 5]

A continuance of Detective Erica Sands's adventures, The Hunt (2025) by Gregg Dunnett is a pseudo-police procedural series. Infamous serial killer Charles Sterling has vanished after escaping from his maximum-security prison and the trail has gone cold. Yet his daughter, Detective Erica Sands still feels his presence, and is convinced he is still alive. The narrative is split into four sections, opening and closing with Erica’s story. The second section seems odd, given it concerns an international banker and the third is Charles Sterling focused. They do gel together in a cliffhanger climax that, unfortunately, leaves the reader requiring the next book to know its outcome. A tale predominantly focused on Erica and her serial killer father, it's more a family thriller and a ho-hum two and a half star rating. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own, freely given and without any inducement. With thanks to Storm Publishing and the author, for an uncorrected advanced review copy for review purposes.

[TheLisaD · Rating 3 out of 5]

Gregg Dunnett delivers an electrifying thriller in The Hunt, a fast-paced and suspenseful story that keeps readers on edge from start to finish. The novel follows an investigative team as they delve into the mysterious death of an escaped convict, uncovering layers of intrigue, danger, and deception along the way.

Dunnett masterfully weaves action and intensity throughout the narrative, ensuring that every chapter pulses with tension. The plot is multi-layered, demanding the reader’s full attention to keep up with its twists and turns. The complexity of the story adds to its appeal, making it an engaging read for those who enjoy intricate mysteries and high-stakes investigations.

The fast-moving pace and gripping storytelling make The Hunt a standout thriller. Fans of crime fiction and action-packed mysteries will appreciate Dunnett’s ability to craft a story that is as thrilling as it is immersive. With this installment, he continues to prove his talent for delivering compelling narratives, leaving readers eager to see what’s next.

[Ashley Sawyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Hunt by Gregg Dunnett is the third book in the Detective Erica Sands series. I do recommend that you read the first two books in the series so you know the background of the characters and story.

Erica Sands is determined to find her father, infamous serial killer Charles Sterling, before he can kill again. After escaping from a max security prison no one has seen Charles. But Erica can feel his evil presence all around her. With her career, relationships and sanity at stake, will Erica finally come face to face with this vicious killer and stop his killing spree? Or will she be his next victim?

So I really think to actually understand all of the characters motivations and actions, you should read this series in order. This novel is told in four separate parts that all come together at the end. It does end in a cliffhanger so definitely be looking out for the next one!

Thank you to NetGalley, Gregg Dunnett, and Storm Publishing for this ARC. Expected publication date is February 21st 2025.

[Kathleen Riggs · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hunt by Gregg Dunnet is the third book in the series by this Author. You can read this book as a standalone, but I highly recommend the first two books to get a feel for Erika Sands and her father the infamous Serial Killer Charles Sterling. This is an absolute gripping thriller and once you pick up this book you will not want to put it down. Erika’s father Charles Sterling escapes from jail and vanishes without a trace. Erika believes her father is out there somewhere and the author does an excellent job gripping you from page one, with all the suspense you will need as this book has an intriguing action-packed storyline.
The book is dark and complex, and if you love a fast-paced book this one is defiantly worth reading as it will keep you on the edge of your seat until the last page. It has a cliff hanger ending that I found left me wanting more and I am looking forward to the fourth book in this series. Thanks to NetGalley and to the publishers of this book for giving me a free advance copy of the book to preview and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Renee Sutton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of The Hunt and instantly dove into the first 2 books. Detective Erica Sands is instantly a character who grabs your attention and won't let it go. A brilliant detective with a stubborn streak who is on the hunt for a notorious serial killer who has escaped prison. The catch? He's her father and everyone else believes he's dead. The Hunt shifts POV a few times in the story and with each one, I found myself growing more and more anxious attempting to put together the pieces of a puzzle and devouring the pages to see how it all came together. A daughter hunting her father, a huge financial fraud case being investigated by a French journalist, and a sleepy coastal village with a mysterious American diplomat, it all comes together while you hold your breath until the last page leaves you shocked. Gregg Dunnett develops incredible characters and keeps a pace that is absolutely addictive.

[Susanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This had me hooked from the first page. It's written in 4 parts. The first part is about Erica who is told that after his escape from prison, Charles Sterling, her father, subsequently passed away and left her all his money. She's now incredibly wealthy but she refuses to believe Charles is dead and becomes obsessed with trying to find him. The second part is about a journalist investigating documents leaked from a legal firm involved in handling money laundering and tax evasion for some very dangerous and important people. The third part is about Charles after his escape. And lastly, in the fourth part, the author brings all these aspects together in a fantastic, nail-biting race to the end ... which unfortunately ends on a cliffhanger, darn it! I hope we don't wait too long for book 4, I really need to know what happens next!
Thanks to Netgalley, Storm Publishing, and Gregg Dunnett for the free ARC. All opinions are my own.