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Jenna Wyatt #2
Never Speak Of It
When a high-powered executive is charged with murder, PI Jenna Wyatt must decide whether to trust the one person she’s never forgiven—or risk letting a killer go free.
Jenna Wyatt never expected to see Riley Chatsworth again—not after the betrayal that shattered their friendship at Harvard. But when Riley, now a top executive at a powerful insurance company, is charged with murdering her agency’s biggest client, she pleads with Jenna to clear her name. Torn between distrust and duty, Jenna reluctantly agrees to investigate, wary of the woman who nearly destroyed her life years ago.
As Jenna probes into Riley’s company and the victim’s health system, she begins uncovering a dark web of insurance fraud, medical malpractice, and whistleblowers who were silenced for knowing too much. Strange break-ins and cryptic threats soon reveal that this case is far more dangerous than Jenna imagined. And the closer she gets to the truth, the more she begins to question Riley’s innocence—wondering if her former friend is still lying, or worse, manipulating her all over again.
Teaming up with seasoned PI Jack Parks, Jenna races against time to expose the deadly conspiracy. But in a world where everyone has secrets, trust could be her deadliest mistake.
In this gripping thriller, USA Today bestselling author Carolyn Ridder Aspenson weaves a tale of betrayal, justice, and the high stakes of corporate corruption. Never Speak of It will keep readers guessing until the very last page.
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Praise for Carolyn Ridder
“Intelligent, clever and snarky, PI Jenna Wyatt is a woman you don’t want to cross.” —Bruce Robert Coffin, bestselling author of Crimson Thaw
"Utterly compelling and taut with tension, Carolyn Ridder Aspenson delivers another must-read series." —Ava Roberts, author of The Perfect Boyfriend
“With more twists and turns, bumps and crashes than an Atlanta highway at rush hour, Carolyn Ridder Aspenson's latest series will take your breath away.” —Shannon Baker, award-winning author of Stripped Bare
___________________
What readers are
★★★★★ “...clever...”
★★★★★ “...action-packed...”
★★★★★ “...complex characters...”
★★★★★ “...very enjoyable PI thriller!”
★★★★★ “...gripping, fast-paced mystery...”
Jenna Wyatt never expected to see Riley Chatsworth again—not after the betrayal that shattered their friendship at Harvard. But when Riley, now a top executive at a powerful insurance company, is charged with murdering her agency’s biggest client, she pleads with Jenna to clear her name. Torn between distrust and duty, Jenna reluctantly agrees to investigate, wary of the woman who nearly destroyed her life years ago.
As Jenna probes into Riley’s company and the victim’s health system, she begins uncovering a dark web of insurance fraud, medical malpractice, and whistleblowers who were silenced for knowing too much. Strange break-ins and cryptic threats soon reveal that this case is far more dangerous than Jenna imagined. And the closer she gets to the truth, the more she begins to question Riley’s innocence—wondering if her former friend is still lying, or worse, manipulating her all over again.
Teaming up with seasoned PI Jack Parks, Jenna races against time to expose the deadly conspiracy. But in a world where everyone has secrets, trust could be her deadliest mistake.
In this gripping thriller, USA Today bestselling author Carolyn Ridder Aspenson weaves a tale of betrayal, justice, and the high stakes of corporate corruption. Never Speak of It will keep readers guessing until the very last page.
___________________
Praise for Carolyn Ridder
“Intelligent, clever and snarky, PI Jenna Wyatt is a woman you don’t want to cross.” —Bruce Robert Coffin, bestselling author of Crimson Thaw
"Utterly compelling and taut with tension, Carolyn Ridder Aspenson delivers another must-read series." —Ava Roberts, author of The Perfect Boyfriend
“With more twists and turns, bumps and crashes than an Atlanta highway at rush hour, Carolyn Ridder Aspenson's latest series will take your breath away.” —Shannon Baker, award-winning author of Stripped Bare
___________________
What readers are
★★★★★ “...clever...”
★★★★★ “...action-packed...”
★★★★★ “...complex characters...”
★★★★★ “...very enjoyable PI thriller!”
★★★★★ “...gripping, fast-paced mystery...”
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 18, 2025
88 people are currently reading
1481 people want to read
About the author
Carolyn Ridder Aspenson
150 books544 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Carolyn Ridder Aspenson writes cozy mysteries, thrillers, and paranormal women's fiction featuring strong female leads. Her stories shine through her dialogue, which readers have praised for being realistic and compelling.
A multiple number one bestseller on Amazon, her first novel, Unfinished Business, was a five-star Reader's Favorite, a Rone Award finalist, as well as a number one bestseller on both Amazon and Barnes and Noble. In 2021, she introduced readers to detective Rachel Ryder in Damaging Secrets, also a number one bestseller on Amazon. Overkill, the third book in the Rachel Ryder series, was one of Thrillerfix’s best thrillers of 2021.Reviews have praised her work as ‘compelling, and intense,’ and ‘read through the night, edge of your seat thrillers. Carolyn’s most recent Rachel Ryder novel, Deadly Means, has been submitted for an Edgar Award by her publisher, Severn River Publishing.
Prior to publishing, she worked as a journalist in the suburbs of Atlanta where her work appeared in multiple newspapers and magazines. She wrote a monthly featured column in Northside Woman magazine.
Writing is only one of Carolyn's passions. She is an avid dog lover and currently spoils an American Staffordshire terrier boxer mix. She lives in the mountains of North Georgia as an empty nester (who misses her kids terribly but loves having a lower grocery bill) with her husband, a cantankerous cat, and her very spoiled pup.
Connect with Carolyn via carolyn@carolynridderaspenson.com
A multiple number one bestseller on Amazon, her first novel, Unfinished Business, was a five-star Reader's Favorite, a Rone Award finalist, as well as a number one bestseller on both Amazon and Barnes and Noble. In 2021, she introduced readers to detective Rachel Ryder in Damaging Secrets, also a number one bestseller on Amazon. Overkill, the third book in the Rachel Ryder series, was one of Thrillerfix’s best thrillers of 2021.Reviews have praised her work as ‘compelling, and intense,’ and ‘read through the night, edge of your seat thrillers. Carolyn’s most recent Rachel Ryder novel, Deadly Means, has been submitted for an Edgar Award by her publisher, Severn River Publishing.
Prior to publishing, she worked as a journalist in the suburbs of Atlanta where her work appeared in multiple newspapers and magazines. She wrote a monthly featured column in Northside Woman magazine.
Writing is only one of Carolyn's passions. She is an avid dog lover and currently spoils an American Staffordshire terrier boxer mix. She lives in the mountains of North Georgia as an empty nester (who misses her kids terribly but loves having a lower grocery bill) with her husband, a cantankerous cat, and her very spoiled pup.
Connect with Carolyn via carolyn@carolynridderaspenson.com
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
November 15, 2025
Jenna Wyatt and Jack Parks more or less share office spaces in their building, but from the start of this story it becomes clear that they, sometimes reluctantly, make a good team. Together they dive into the world of insurance fraud and medical malpractice, because Jenna’s old friend Riley asks for her help. Now, Jenna has to overcome a lot of bad feelings she still has for Riley after she almost got kicked out of university because of her, but she cannot withstand Riley’s pleading that she didn’t do it.
This is an interesting story with strong characters and depth. What made me give it three stars is not because it doesn’t deserve more, but because readers outside of the US may have, like me, not enough insight in how the medical insurance system works. It is very complicated and I had to read some parts of the book several times before I actually could more or less understand what was happening and why people got killed over this.
Jenna and Jack learn to work together and eventually even respect each others way of thinking. There is a lot of mistrust to overcome between Riley, Jenna and Jack and all three have to learn to trust the others and be completely honest.
A very well-written story with engaging characters, a good pace and lots of twists and turns.
Thanks to Severn River Publishing and Edelweiss for this review copy.
This is an interesting story with strong characters and depth. What made me give it three stars is not because it doesn’t deserve more, but because readers outside of the US may have, like me, not enough insight in how the medical insurance system works. It is very complicated and I had to read some parts of the book several times before I actually could more or less understand what was happening and why people got killed over this.
Jenna and Jack learn to work together and eventually even respect each others way of thinking. There is a lot of mistrust to overcome between Riley, Jenna and Jack and all three have to learn to trust the others and be completely honest.
A very well-written story with engaging characters, a good pace and lots of twists and turns.
Thanks to Severn River Publishing and Edelweiss for this review copy.
November 19, 2025
Jenna and Parks wade into the convoluted quagmire of insurance fraud and medical treatment malpractice, which unsurprisingly leads to murder. This is a well crafted thriller with as many twists as the insurance industry itself. Jenna and Parks are great lead characters who are continuing to figure out how their fledgling partnership is going to work. Jenna’s former college best friend, Riley Chatsworth has been arrested for murder and she’s begging Jenna to help prove her innocence. But Jenna’s been burned by Riley’s lies before and she’s not sure she can trust Riley or believe in her innocence. Jenna and Parks reluctantly agree to take the case and soon find themselves immersed in lies, obsession, medical malpractice, insurance fraud, infidelity, embezzlement, threats and even more murder. All of that keeps you riveted to the pages until the very end. A highly recommended series!
January 29, 2026
Great book!
November 19, 2025
This is the second story in this fascinating and twisted mystery series. P.I. Jenna Wyatt, former GBI and law enforcement, works with P.I. Jack Parks, former NCIS and Navy. The chemistry and humor between them highlight the beginning of their working friendship. Jenna is asked to investigate the case of CEO Riley Chatsworth, who has been charged with murder. After her earlier friendship, at Harvard, she had hoped to never see Riley again. They were the best of friends…until they weren’t. Riley’s insurance company is deciding what new possible cancer treatments and trials should advance forward. When the continuance of one is overruled by the board of directors, a murder occurs. Unfortunately for Riley, she had continued a years-long affair with the victim. As Jenna and Jack agree to work with her attorney to find the killer, Jenna deals with the co-parenting of her young daughter and her ex-husbands’ pregnant wife. When she receives an anonymous veiled threat towards her and her young daughter, she demands protection for her daughter. Someone had entered her apartment to leave the picture. Who could have killed the company founder, his wife, his many conquests or someone involved in the treatments and trials? Jenna relies on her friend at GBI as well as her photographic memory. I love a story with a strong female lead, and Jenna is that woman! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
November 19, 2025
Jenna Wyatt never expected to see Riley Chatsworth again, after Riley betrayed her when they were at Harvard. Riley, now an executive at an insurance company, is charged with murdering the company's biggest client, so she pleads with Jenna for help. Jenna reluctantly agrees to investigate, wary of Riley's innocence. As Jenna probes into the case, she uncovers a web of insurance fraud, medical malpractice, and whistleblowers who were silenced for knowing too much. Break-ins and personal threats soon reveal that this case is more dangerous than Jenna imagined and she questions whether her former friend is still lying, or worse, manipulating her all over again. Teaming up with seasoned PI Jack Parks, Jenna works to expose the deadly conspiracy.
This is my first read by this author and I really enjoyed it! There's great chemistry and camaraderie between Jenna and Jack, both fabulous and intelligent characters. The storyline is clever, with enough twists to keep you on your toes, while still maintaining a great plot. The pacing and development of the story keeps you engaged and the secondary characters add depth to the overall feel of the story. It's a definite recommendation from me and I look forward to reading more from this author.
Thank you Severn River Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This is my first read by this author and I really enjoyed it! There's great chemistry and camaraderie between Jenna and Jack, both fabulous and intelligent characters. The storyline is clever, with enough twists to keep you on your toes, while still maintaining a great plot. The pacing and development of the story keeps you engaged and the secondary characters add depth to the overall feel of the story. It's a definite recommendation from me and I look forward to reading more from this author.
Thank you Severn River Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book.
October 13, 2025
“Never Speak of It” is action-packed from beginning to end. When a high-power executive is charged with murder, she asks her college friend, Jenna, to investigate the crime. Riley shattered the friendship a long time ago. Remembering how that friendship dissolved, Jenna is reluctantly to take the case on. Partnering with Jack as they gather the clues, the lies and cover-ups continue to grow. Who can she trust and is there a conspiracy? Join Jenna and Jack as they travel down the road of lies, manipulation and deadly mistakes. This is a great suspense thriller with plenty of twists to leave you guessing until the end. This is a very well-written, intense story with a great plot line, fantastic characters and narrative of describing the scene and police procedures they followed to solve this crime. Highly recommend.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 29, 2025
I read the ebook Never Speak Of It. This book got more twists than my extension cords. I kept thinking I knew who had done it then it turns out I was wrong.
That Jenna gal got herself in one big ol mess trying to help out that Riley woman she used to know. I didn't trust Riley. Soon as her name popped up I said girl don't do it but she went and did it anyhow. Next thing you know it had folks sneaking around breaking in and threatening her like she has already got enough problems.
That Jack fella she works with is a cool fella. This ebook like had that been there seen that before vibe. Like the way they chase after all that shady business stuff with the insurance and hospital fraud and everything else had me. I felt like I was watching a true crime show.
By the end I was sitting there thinking well dang this isn't just about who killed who it's about who you can really trust. And sometimes that isn't anyone not even the one you think you knew.
I give it a 3 outta 5 catfish!
That Jenna gal got herself in one big ol mess trying to help out that Riley woman she used to know. I didn't trust Riley. Soon as her name popped up I said girl don't do it but she went and did it anyhow. Next thing you know it had folks sneaking around breaking in and threatening her like she has already got enough problems.
That Jack fella she works with is a cool fella. This ebook like had that been there seen that before vibe. Like the way they chase after all that shady business stuff with the insurance and hospital fraud and everything else had me. I felt like I was watching a true crime show.
By the end I was sitting there thinking well dang this isn't just about who killed who it's about who you can really trust. And sometimes that isn't anyone not even the one you think you knew.
I give it a 3 outta 5 catfish!
November 14, 2025
I received an ARC through "Severn River" and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This story begins with Jack in Jenna's office looking for wite-out. Jack also mentions that Riley has been attempting to call Jenna, but has had no luck. Shortly they are listening to the news and discover that Riley has been arrested for murder. Once more a call comes from Riley's number and after answering discover that it is her lawyer and wants them to meet Riley at the jail. Once there Riley asked them to work for her and find out the real killer of Gregg that she was in love with. The two agree and soon start their investigation.
Follow Jenna and Jack as they chase any information in their search for the real killer. While this was happening, several other incidents related to the murder happen and quickly the focus changes. Learn who was assisting in background and how everything worked out in the end.
The story is well done and worth the read, Don't miss out!
This story begins with Jack in Jenna's office looking for wite-out. Jack also mentions that Riley has been attempting to call Jenna, but has had no luck. Shortly they are listening to the news and discover that Riley has been arrested for murder. Once more a call comes from Riley's number and after answering discover that it is her lawyer and wants them to meet Riley at the jail. Once there Riley asked them to work for her and find out the real killer of Gregg that she was in love with. The two agree and soon start their investigation.
Follow Jenna and Jack as they chase any information in their search for the real killer. While this was happening, several other incidents related to the murder happen and quickly the focus changes. Learn who was assisting in background and how everything worked out in the end.
The story is well done and worth the read, Don't miss out!
November 16, 2025
Tantalizing thriller!
Their friendship shattered years ago, so Jenna Wyatt ignored the phone calls, repeatedly, until the news story broke. Riley Chatsworth, the CEO of Paramount Assurance Corporation, was arrested for murdering an important client. PAC was the biggest player in the insurance marketplace, with an influence that could make or break people and companies. Was the murder political, personal, or financial? The evidence against Riley is too convenient. Jenna reluctantly accepts the case. She and Jack Parks are soon immersed in a web of fraud, malpractice, revenge, and danger.
So much suspense and drama! I could not stop reading. Carolyn Ridder Aspenson is a master of crime thrillers. I am eagerly looking forward to the next book in this series. I received an advance copy, but my review is honest and voluntary.
Their friendship shattered years ago, so Jenna Wyatt ignored the phone calls, repeatedly, until the news story broke. Riley Chatsworth, the CEO of Paramount Assurance Corporation, was arrested for murdering an important client. PAC was the biggest player in the insurance marketplace, with an influence that could make or break people and companies. Was the murder political, personal, or financial? The evidence against Riley is too convenient. Jenna reluctantly accepts the case. She and Jack Parks are soon immersed in a web of fraud, malpractice, revenge, and danger.
So much suspense and drama! I could not stop reading. Carolyn Ridder Aspenson is a master of crime thrillers. I am eagerly looking forward to the next book in this series. I received an advance copy, but my review is honest and voluntary.
November 19, 2025
This is the second book in this series; I really loved the first book, but this book easily stands alone. Jenna is a great character, really observant and smart, and she reads people well. Her private investigator partner, Parks, is witty and brave, and they have an almost Moonlighting type of repartee at times, if you’re familiar with that show. In this book, they’re hired by an old friend of Jenna’s, one from whom she’s estranged. The friend is accused of murder and Jenna isn’t sure whether to believe her claims of innocence. The investigation is involved and really exciting at times, and the book is hard to put down. I can definitely recommend this book and series and look forward to the next book. I was provided an ARC, which I really appreciate, but these opinions are my own.
November 4, 2025
The second book in the series, Jenna Wyatt, a PI, is back with a new case, an old estranged friend who is accused of murder. Jenna is not entirely sure of her innocence, which adds a bit of a dilemma to the storyline! This book has it all, cheating husbands, corporate espionage, insurance fraud, murder, even a tiny bit of romance, danger, and lots of action packed excitement that makes it hard to put down! Jenna once again teams up with Jack Parks, the PI she met on her last case, as they uncover the truth to prove the innocence of her client. This new series is wonderful and it leaves me with anticipation for the next book in the series!
November 8, 2025
Jenna is a PI. She never lets anything go. However, she never expects to go to bat for her college nemesis. Riley is charged with the murder of her lover, the gun has her prints, and everything points to her guilt. Even Jenna is not convinced of her innocence. Jack Parks has joined her to solve this murder. Jack is a great pairing with Jenna as he mostly is able to keep her grounded. He’s a lot of what Jenna doesn’t know she needs. This story has a lot twists and turns and a lot of wondering if anyone will be able to clear up this murder. Great mystery!
October 14, 2025
Fast-paced! Riveting! Emotional! Suspenseful! Compelling! Complex! This book brings it ALL! It was an artful melding of twisted psychological thrills and nail-biting suspense. THIS is how you successfully keep a series interesting and keep your readers wanting more!
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
November 9, 2025
Private investigator Jenna is reluctant to take on a case involving an old classmate. The deeper she digs, the more complex the case becomes. Murder, fraud, and malpractice…this one has it all! Delightfully twisty storytelling and great characters make this one a must read. Highly recommended! I enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next in the series. I received a complimentary copy of this book and chose to write a voluntary, unbiased review.
November 18, 2025
im just a fan of this author so each book is a treat.
reading her books keep me on the edge of my seat.
Jenna watts
series is simply my favorite reading the First book got me hooked. every thing about Jenna and her partner in this story kept me turning the pages.
this case working for a old friend
well being estranged from.
will ever thing work out.
grab your copy you definitely won't be disappointed.
Carolyn Aspenson delivers heart-pounding
books. the best.
reading her books keep me on the edge of my seat.
Jenna watts
series is simply my favorite reading the First book got me hooked. every thing about Jenna and her partner in this story kept me turning the pages.
this case working for a old friend
well being estranged from.
will ever thing work out.
grab your copy you definitely won't be disappointed.
Carolyn Aspenson delivers heart-pounding
books. the best.
November 16, 2025
Riley is a CEO arrested for murder. She contacts Jenna Wyatt PI who she went to Harvard law school together. Jenna does not want to deal with Riley after she betrayed her in law school. But she and Jack Parks take the case to find out if she is guilty. A number of twists in the novel. It kept my interest from the beginning.
November 18, 2025
I found this latest book was light hearted with a good flowing plot.
Riley almost got Jenna kicked out of Harvard and Jenna held a gridge
against Riley. Riley was a top executive at her insurance company.
now accused of murder and wants Jenna to represent her,
Will Jenna or won't she. I enjoyed reading this author's books and recommend them.
Riley almost got Jenna kicked out of Harvard and Jenna held a gridge
against Riley. Riley was a top executive at her insurance company.
now accused of murder and wants Jenna to represent her,
Will Jenna or won't she. I enjoyed reading this author's books and recommend them.
August 22, 2025
Jenna, a PI gets asked to help an estranged college friend who betrayed her, now accused of murder. Is it related to the pharmalogical company she works for and drug trials or the many complicated inter relationships Easy to read, fast and light reading 3.5
October 15, 2025
PI Jenna Wyatt is tasked with helping a former Harvard friend who is arrested for murder. This is a quick read that delves lightly into the world of pharmaceuticals and clinical trials.
October 28, 2025
I enjoyed reading this book. It is the first time I've read a book by Carolyn and I would read others. The ending took me by surprise.
November 19, 2025
Can PI Jenna get to the bottom of the case in time. Can she trust the one person who betrayed Hera long time ago. Well written as always with plenty of suspense to keep you intrigued.
November 24, 2025
Great new series
Love this series! Cant wait for the next!!! Awesome characters!
Kept me up way past my bed time! Give it a read
Love this series! Cant wait for the next!!! Awesome characters!
Kept me up way past my bed time! Give it a read
December 20, 2025
Never Speak of It is a fantastic book. It is full of mystery and suspense. The mystery is complex and has many twists and turns to keep you guessing until the very end. I really enjoyed this book.
December 27, 2025
Good plot but got confusing and wordy at times
January 18, 2026
great second book in the series, really enjoying it...
December 12, 2025
Jack and Jenna are back! This time, a once-upon-a-time friend of Jenna's is in need of help. Jenna doesn't trust her, but still looks into the crime.
Jenna's working relationship with Jack is great, they really respect one another and they bounce off each other when investigating.
Another great read from this author!
Jenna's working relationship with Jack is great, they really respect one another and they bounce off each other when investigating.
Another great read from this author!
December 30, 2025
NEVER SPEAK OF IT - I have several of this author's older books but haven't gotten around to reading them. This one sounded interesting, so I thought I'd try this newer book. It is interesting with good characters and a steady pace. I figured out two possible killers and was half right, so this may be a easy solve, and relaxing. When I have time, I'll check out what I have in my K. library. Source: Severn. 4*
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews