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Haven's Rock #4
First Sign of Danger: A Haven's Rock Novel
New York Times
bestselling author Kelley Armstrong continues the atmospheric Haven's Rock series as Casey Duncan investigates a threat to their off-the-grid Yukon town.
Detective Casey Duncan and her husband, Sheriff Eric Dalton, are entering a new chapter of life as parents to their six-month-old baby. Their family is hidden away in the sanctuary town of Haven's Rock where they can live safe and private lives. But when they encounter hikers too close to the borders of Haven's Rock, they realize they're in danger of being exposed.
When they find one of the hikers dead the next day, they realize that their paranoia was justified, but they're no closer to finding out who these people were and what they were doing in the vicinity of Haven's Rock. Only by tracing the hikers' movements, as well as examining the recent behavior of their closest neighbors, the workers of a secretive mining camp, will they be able to figure out where the threat is coming from and shut it down. Otherwise, the lives of everyone in Haven's Rock--and their safe, secure new existence--are at risk.
Detective Casey Duncan and her husband, Sheriff Eric Dalton, are entering a new chapter of life as parents to their six-month-old baby. Their family is hidden away in the sanctuary town of Haven's Rock where they can live safe and private lives. But when they encounter hikers too close to the borders of Haven's Rock, they realize they're in danger of being exposed.
When they find one of the hikers dead the next day, they realize that their paranoia was justified, but they're no closer to finding out who these people were and what they were doing in the vicinity of Haven's Rock. Only by tracing the hikers' movements, as well as examining the recent behavior of their closest neighbors, the workers of a secretive mining camp, will they be able to figure out where the threat is coming from and shut it down. Otherwise, the lives of everyone in Haven's Rock--and their safe, secure new existence--are at risk.
Audible Audio
First published February 17, 2026
312 people are currently reading
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About the author
Kelley Armstrong
293 books33.6k followersKelley Armstrong has been telling stories since before she could write. Her earliest written efforts were disastrous. If asked for a story about girls and dolls, hers would invariably feature undead girls and evil dolls, much to her teachers' dismay. All efforts to make her produce "normal" stories failed.
Today, she continues to spin tales of ghosts and demons and werewolves, while safely locked away in her basement writing dungeon. She's the author of the NYT-bestselling "Women of the Otherworld" paranormal suspense series and "Darkest Powers" young adult urban fantasy trilogy, as well as the Nadia Stafford crime series. Armstrong lives in southwestern Ontario with her husband, kids and far too many pets.
Today, she continues to spin tales of ghosts and demons and werewolves, while safely locked away in her basement writing dungeon. She's the author of the NYT-bestselling "Women of the Otherworld" paranormal suspense series and "Darkest Powers" young adult urban fantasy trilogy, as well as the Nadia Stafford crime series. Armstrong lives in southwestern Ontario with her husband, kids and far too many pets.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 331 reviews
December 7, 2025
Gripping, tense, chilling, thrilling and pulse pounding!!!!!! Kelley Armstrong had delivered yet another riveting and addictive book in her Haven's Rock series!!!!!!First Sign of Danger grabbed my attention from the very first page and never let go! This is the fourth book in this wonderful series and while it could be read as a stand-alone, I highly encourage readers to begin with the first book in the series to get backstories, history, and to learn more about the off the grid community of Haven's Rock in the Canadian Yukon.
Detective Casey Duncan and her husband, Sheriff Eric Dalton, have a six-month-old baby now and are still adjusting to life as new parents while doing their best to keep their community safe. While out in the woods, they come across hikers close to the border of their private community. It raises some red flags and the next day when one of the hikers is found dead, they know something is terribly wrong and work diligently to get to the bottom of who killed the one hiker and what they were really doing in the Yukon so far from civilization.
Whew! Kelley Armstrong put me and her characters through the ringer. Safety and secrecy are highly important to the residents of Haven's Rock. They have joined this secretive community to get away from things and to live a simpler life. This is a tight knit community, and I have enjoyed getting to know many of the characters through reading the first three books in this series. I have enjoyed the character development and the ways the characters have become more like a found family to each other than just residents in the same community.
Casey and Eric have their hands full in this book and then some. They have more than one mystery to solve while doing their best to keep themselves, their baby, and the residents safe. I enjoyed the tension, the chilling moments, the pulse pounding moments, and the moments spent investigating the case. I love how they work as a team and bounce ideas off each other as to who may be a suspect and why. I enjoy the dynamics of the town and the desire of the residents to live a quieter life.
This book is not only full of amazing characters, but also of secrets, deceptions, and some scary encounters. I loved the setting and could feel the chill in the air as the snow fell. This book is brimming with atmosphere, intriguing characters, a well thought out plot, wonderful writing, intense scenes, and a great mystery.
I look forward to the next book in the series. The author made mention of the next book in the series, and I was left with my mouth hanging open.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
Detective Casey Duncan and her husband, Sheriff Eric Dalton, have a six-month-old baby now and are still adjusting to life as new parents while doing their best to keep their community safe. While out in the woods, they come across hikers close to the border of their private community. It raises some red flags and the next day when one of the hikers is found dead, they know something is terribly wrong and work diligently to get to the bottom of who killed the one hiker and what they were really doing in the Yukon so far from civilization.
Whew! Kelley Armstrong put me and her characters through the ringer. Safety and secrecy are highly important to the residents of Haven's Rock. They have joined this secretive community to get away from things and to live a simpler life. This is a tight knit community, and I have enjoyed getting to know many of the characters through reading the first three books in this series. I have enjoyed the character development and the ways the characters have become more like a found family to each other than just residents in the same community.
Casey and Eric have their hands full in this book and then some. They have more than one mystery to solve while doing their best to keep themselves, their baby, and the residents safe. I enjoyed the tension, the chilling moments, the pulse pounding moments, and the moments spent investigating the case. I love how they work as a team and bounce ideas off each other as to who may be a suspect and why. I enjoy the dynamics of the town and the desire of the residents to live a quieter life.
This book is not only full of amazing characters, but also of secrets, deceptions, and some scary encounters. I loved the setting and could feel the chill in the air as the snow fell. This book is brimming with atmosphere, intriguing characters, a well thought out plot, wonderful writing, intense scenes, and a great mystery.
I look forward to the next book in the series. The author made mention of the next book in the series, and I was left with my mouth hanging open.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
February 17, 2026
Nowhere to hide in the middle of nowhere.
Happy Publication Day to the inhabitants of Haven's Rock and their newest misadventure!
In First Sign of Danger, Kelley Armstrong returns to the isolated Yukon settlement of Haven's Rock with another taut, character-driven mystery.
Detective Casey Duncan and her husband, Sheriff Eric Dalton, are learning the ropes of parenthood while maintaining order in their off-the-grid community of Haven's Rock, a town built to protect those who need to disappear. But when a pair of hikers wander too close to Haven's Rock's hidden borders and one turns up dead, Casey and Dalton realize their carefully constructed sanctuary may not be as safe as they thought. What begins as a territorial dispute quickly unravels into a far more sinister puzzle involving not just missing hikers but also a nearby mining camp.
Armstrong once again proves herself a master of slow-burn suspense. The Yukon wilderness is its own breathtaking but brutal character, and Armstrong's ability to balance procedural precision with creeping paranoia is as strong as ever. The mystery is well-plotted, the pacing brisk, and the new-parent subplot refreshingly understated: even though their daughter definitely makes an appearance, she is blissfully well-behaved, so parenthood never overshadows the central investigation, but adds warmth without diluting the tension.
I listened to the audiobook, and narrator Thérèse Plummer delivers another pitch-perfect performance. Her narration captures both the grit of Haven's Rock's surroundings and Casey's voice, which is both intelligent and unyielding. Plummer's delivery lends authenticity to the setting and brings every new suspicion, as well as the balancing act of juggling motherhood and job demands, to life perfectly.
First Sign of Danger is everything longtime readers of the Haven's Rock series have come to expect: smart, atmospheric, and grounded in the rugged beauty of survival. Thought technically the fourth installment in the series (which itself is a spinoff to the earlier Rockton series also featuring Casey), it can absolutely be read as a standalone, and there is a helpful introduction for newcomers to the series, or those who haven't read every single previous book. Armstrong also includes just enough context in the story to orient newcomers without bogging down the plot.
With just the right mix of mystery, danger, and human drama, this is Haven's Rock at its most compelling - a reminder that even off the grid, trouble always finds a way in.
Many thanks to Macmillan Audio for providing me with an advance copy of the audiobook via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
"First Sign of Danger" is published TODAY, February 17, 2026.
Happy Publication Day to the inhabitants of Haven's Rock and their newest misadventure!
In First Sign of Danger, Kelley Armstrong returns to the isolated Yukon settlement of Haven's Rock with another taut, character-driven mystery.
Detective Casey Duncan and her husband, Sheriff Eric Dalton, are learning the ropes of parenthood while maintaining order in their off-the-grid community of Haven's Rock, a town built to protect those who need to disappear. But when a pair of hikers wander too close to Haven's Rock's hidden borders and one turns up dead, Casey and Dalton realize their carefully constructed sanctuary may not be as safe as they thought. What begins as a territorial dispute quickly unravels into a far more sinister puzzle involving not just missing hikers but also a nearby mining camp.
Armstrong once again proves herself a master of slow-burn suspense. The Yukon wilderness is its own breathtaking but brutal character, and Armstrong's ability to balance procedural precision with creeping paranoia is as strong as ever. The mystery is well-plotted, the pacing brisk, and the new-parent subplot refreshingly understated: even though their daughter definitely makes an appearance, she is blissfully well-behaved, so parenthood never overshadows the central investigation, but adds warmth without diluting the tension.
I listened to the audiobook, and narrator Thérèse Plummer delivers another pitch-perfect performance. Her narration captures both the grit of Haven's Rock's surroundings and Casey's voice, which is both intelligent and unyielding. Plummer's delivery lends authenticity to the setting and brings every new suspicion, as well as the balancing act of juggling motherhood and job demands, to life perfectly.
First Sign of Danger is everything longtime readers of the Haven's Rock series have come to expect: smart, atmospheric, and grounded in the rugged beauty of survival. Thought technically the fourth installment in the series (which itself is a spinoff to the earlier Rockton series also featuring Casey), it can absolutely be read as a standalone, and there is a helpful introduction for newcomers to the series, or those who haven't read every single previous book. Armstrong also includes just enough context in the story to orient newcomers without bogging down the plot.
With just the right mix of mystery, danger, and human drama, this is Haven's Rock at its most compelling - a reminder that even off the grid, trouble always finds a way in.
Many thanks to Macmillan Audio for providing me with an advance copy of the audiobook via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
"First Sign of Danger" is published TODAY, February 17, 2026.
February 17, 2026
Happy Publication Day
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️—First Signs of Danger is the gripping fourth installment in the Haven Rock series.
The story picks up six months after Rory’s birth.
Detective Casey Duncan and her husband, Sheriff Eric Dalton, are adjusting to life as new parents to the adorable six-month-old, Rory. For the first time, they seem to enjoy a rare moment of peace in their secluded town, Haven's Rock. While hiking with Casey, Eric, and their loyal dog Storm, they come across hikers Gretchen and Blake, who have ventured too close to Haven's Rock. Naturally, they want to keep intruders at bay—mainly to protect against the dangers lurking near the mining camp. A suspicious story about her husband’s injury sparks Casey and Eric’s detective instincts. Their suspicions deepen when they discover one of the hikers dead the very next day.
Who is responsible for the man’s death? Is it the wife who lured her husband into the wilderness for a perfect murder hidden as an accident? Or is something darker at play? What draws both hikers to the area so late in the hiking season? Could all of these clues be tied to the mysterious mining camp? Casey and her team race against time to uncover the threat before Haven's Rock and its residents are in grave danger. In a bold move, Casey and Eric put the town on lockdown to ensure everyone’s safety, even as they investigate the strange death.
This dark, twisty tale is a fast-paced, compelling read—perfect for fans of "whodunit" mysteries. I devoured it over a weekend, eager for each new twist.
"First Signs of Danger" kept me guessing with every swipe of my Kindle. Just when I thought I’d solved the case, Kelley Armstrong’s masterful misdirection proved me wrong again and again. Every clue posed new questions, and the puzzle pieces kept me hooked. Kelley Armstrong crafts well-loved, relatable characters who make the story impossible to put down. I was saddened and completely taken off guard to learn that Casey and Eric’s adventures will come to an end in the final book, coming in February 2027.
If you're craving your next great mystery or thriller, I highly recommend this series. However, I suggest not starting with this one, as it references events from the first book, "Murder at Haven’s Rock," the second book, "A Boy Who Cried Bear," and the broader Rockton series—spoiling some surprises. You don’t need to begin with Rockton, but I do recommend it if you enjoy deep character development and ongoing story arcs.
I want to thank St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for providing the ARC. In exchange for an honest review. All opinons are my own. A special thanks to Kate White from the marketing team at St. Martin’s Press for sending the widgets for First Signs of Danger and An Ordinary Sort of Evil from Kelley Armstrong.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️—First Signs of Danger is the gripping fourth installment in the Haven Rock series.
The story picks up six months after Rory’s birth.
Detective Casey Duncan and her husband, Sheriff Eric Dalton, are adjusting to life as new parents to the adorable six-month-old, Rory. For the first time, they seem to enjoy a rare moment of peace in their secluded town, Haven's Rock. While hiking with Casey, Eric, and their loyal dog Storm, they come across hikers Gretchen and Blake, who have ventured too close to Haven's Rock. Naturally, they want to keep intruders at bay—mainly to protect against the dangers lurking near the mining camp. A suspicious story about her husband’s injury sparks Casey and Eric’s detective instincts. Their suspicions deepen when they discover one of the hikers dead the very next day.
Who is responsible for the man’s death? Is it the wife who lured her husband into the wilderness for a perfect murder hidden as an accident? Or is something darker at play? What draws both hikers to the area so late in the hiking season? Could all of these clues be tied to the mysterious mining camp? Casey and her team race against time to uncover the threat before Haven's Rock and its residents are in grave danger. In a bold move, Casey and Eric put the town on lockdown to ensure everyone’s safety, even as they investigate the strange death.
This dark, twisty tale is a fast-paced, compelling read—perfect for fans of "whodunit" mysteries. I devoured it over a weekend, eager for each new twist.
"First Signs of Danger" kept me guessing with every swipe of my Kindle. Just when I thought I’d solved the case, Kelley Armstrong’s masterful misdirection proved me wrong again and again. Every clue posed new questions, and the puzzle pieces kept me hooked. Kelley Armstrong crafts well-loved, relatable characters who make the story impossible to put down. I was saddened and completely taken off guard to learn that Casey and Eric’s adventures will come to an end in the final book, coming in February 2027.
If you're craving your next great mystery or thriller, I highly recommend this series. However, I suggest not starting with this one, as it references events from the first book, "Murder at Haven’s Rock," the second book, "A Boy Who Cried Bear," and the broader Rockton series—spoiling some surprises. You don’t need to begin with Rockton, but I do recommend it if you enjoy deep character development and ongoing story arcs.
I want to thank St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for providing the ARC. In exchange for an honest review. All opinons are my own. A special thanks to Kate White from the marketing team at St. Martin’s Press for sending the widgets for First Signs of Danger and An Ordinary Sort of Evil from Kelley Armstrong.
February 18, 2026
A breathtaking tale of murder, conspiracy, espionage, and intrigue, First Sign of Danger was everything I’ve come to expect from one of Ms. Armstrong’s crime thriller novels. From the compelling, root-for-able main characters, who are up against a variety of true-to-life villains, to the isolated setting, which made me shiver in delight yet again, it was the perfect addition to the Haven’s Rock series. You see, not only were the crimes in this book perfectly teed up by the cases and adventures in the first three novels, but it left me with a huge s***-eating grin on my face by the end. Well, apart from the news that there’s only going to be one more book in the series. After all, with quirky characters, a puzzle-like mystery, and twisty plotting, it was a humdinger of a read that I couldn’t put down. Yup. You guessed it. I finished it in one single sitting.
One thing I’ve said from the beginning of this addictively binge-able series is that they’re all fine as standalone novels. I do have to warn you that that’s not quite true for this one. Well, maybe you could…but you’d miss a ton of the backstory. That being said, you’re going to want to read them all anyway. Spellbinding, propulsive, and packed with action, it was an adrenaline-fueled ride that I absolutely loved. I mean, how could I not fall for the intense atmosphere, interwoven plot lines, and oodles of secrets? Altogether, this book was an utter home run and I’m going to be beyond sad when the series is over. So if you’re a fan of Tessa Wegert or if you loved the vibe of Loreth Anne White’s In the Dark, grab this one now. Just please start with book one. You don’t want to miss a minute with Casey, Dalton, or Storm. Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Detective Casey Duncan and her husband, Sheriff Eric Dalton, are entering a new chapter of life as parents to their six-month-old baby. Their family is hidden away in the sanctuary town of Haven's Rock where they can live safe and private lives. But when they encounter hikers too close to the borders of Haven's Rock, they realize they're in danger of being exposed.
When they find one of the hikers dead the next day, they realize that their paranoia was justified, but they're no closer to finding out who these people were and what they were doing in the vicinity of Haven's Rock. Only by tracing the hikers' movements, as well as examining the recent behavior of their closest neighbors, the workers of a secretive mining camp, will they be able to figure out where the threat is coming from and shut it down. Otherwise, the lives of everyone in Haven's Rock—and their safe, secure new existence—are at risk.
Thank you Kelley Armstrong and Minotaur Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: February 17, 2026
Content warning: murder, blood, violence, gun violence, animal death/injury, stalking
**If you’re curious about the animal death/injury trigger warning, DM me on Instagram at @suspenseisthrillingme.
One thing I’ve said from the beginning of this addictively binge-able series is that they’re all fine as standalone novels. I do have to warn you that that’s not quite true for this one. Well, maybe you could…but you’d miss a ton of the backstory. That being said, you’re going to want to read them all anyway. Spellbinding, propulsive, and packed with action, it was an adrenaline-fueled ride that I absolutely loved. I mean, how could I not fall for the intense atmosphere, interwoven plot lines, and oodles of secrets? Altogether, this book was an utter home run and I’m going to be beyond sad when the series is over. So if you’re a fan of Tessa Wegert or if you loved the vibe of Loreth Anne White’s In the Dark, grab this one now. Just please start with book one. You don’t want to miss a minute with Casey, Dalton, or Storm. Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Detective Casey Duncan and her husband, Sheriff Eric Dalton, are entering a new chapter of life as parents to their six-month-old baby. Their family is hidden away in the sanctuary town of Haven's Rock where they can live safe and private lives. But when they encounter hikers too close to the borders of Haven's Rock, they realize they're in danger of being exposed.
When they find one of the hikers dead the next day, they realize that their paranoia was justified, but they're no closer to finding out who these people were and what they were doing in the vicinity of Haven's Rock. Only by tracing the hikers' movements, as well as examining the recent behavior of their closest neighbors, the workers of a secretive mining camp, will they be able to figure out where the threat is coming from and shut it down. Otherwise, the lives of everyone in Haven's Rock—and their safe, secure new existence—are at risk.
Thank you Kelley Armstrong and Minotaur Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: February 17, 2026
Content warning: murder, blood, violence, gun violence, animal death/injury, stalking
**If you’re curious about the animal death/injury trigger warning, DM me on Instagram at @suspenseisthrillingme.
February 18, 2026
First Sign of Danger by Kelley Armstrong
Haven’s Rock series #4. thriller, police procedural. Spin off from Rockton / Casey Duncan series.
Detective Casey Duncan and husband Sheriff Eric Dalton are in charge of their settlement. They must deal with stray animals and random strangers as well everyone in their small group. A spy or just a Human Resources problem? A dog or a babysitter? Leave the body to the scavenging bear or take the body back to town?
🎧 I received both an ebook and an audiobook. The narrator is Therese Plummer who performs the full series. The tension is thick and the worry is clearly heard in the performance as the danger and questions increase. The audiobook is attention grabbing and consistently enthralling.
Murder in the Yukon. Casey, Eric and Newfie Storm take care of baby Rory while also investigating the newest intrusion into their hidden homestead.
Thrilling police procedural with the humor of baby, dog, and unusual people in the Yukon.
I received this from NetGalley and Macmillan Audio.
Haven’s Rock series #4. thriller, police procedural. Spin off from Rockton / Casey Duncan series.
Detective Casey Duncan and husband Sheriff Eric Dalton are in charge of their settlement. They must deal with stray animals and random strangers as well everyone in their small group. A spy or just a Human Resources problem? A dog or a babysitter? Leave the body to the scavenging bear or take the body back to town?
🎧 I received both an ebook and an audiobook. The narrator is Therese Plummer who performs the full series. The tension is thick and the worry is clearly heard in the performance as the danger and questions increase. The audiobook is attention grabbing and consistently enthralling.
Murder in the Yukon. Casey, Eric and Newfie Storm take care of baby Rory while also investigating the newest intrusion into their hidden homestead.
Thrilling police procedural with the humor of baby, dog, and unusual people in the Yukon.
I received this from NetGalley and Macmillan Audio.
February 1, 2026
(4.5 stars)
Thank you to Minotaur Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of First Sign of Danger, the fourth book in the Haven’s Rock series by Kelley Armstrong.
It was so great to be back in the wilds of the Yukon with Casey, Eric, Will, April and all the returning regulars! I loved Armstrong’s Rockton series and I was so happy that she decided to write this spinoff series so I could read more adventures with these characters.
For those who don’t know anything about this series (or the Rockton series), Armstrong includes a brief summary/intro at the beginning of the book for new readers or for readers who just need a refresher. I wish all series authors would do the same! While each book has a self-contained mystery for Casey and Eric to solve, there’s an overall character arc for the series.
As always, Casey is the narrator of the story. She’s the sole detective in Haven’s Rock, and is married to Eric Dalton (she calls him Dalton!). They now have a six-month-old baby, Rory, which complicates their professional lives, but is also a major blessing, since Casey was convinced she couldn’t have children (backstory!). Haven’s Rock proves the adage, “It takes a village.” Rory is well looked after, no matter what Casey and Eric have to do as the main guardians of the wilderness town.
This time the main mystery involves lost hikers as well as the neighboring mining camp. There’s also an amazing sequence involving a grizzly bear!
At the end of the book, we find out that there will be ONE more book in this series. I will be first in line to read it but I will be sad to see this series end.
Thank you to Minotaur Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of First Sign of Danger, the fourth book in the Haven’s Rock series by Kelley Armstrong.
It was so great to be back in the wilds of the Yukon with Casey, Eric, Will, April and all the returning regulars! I loved Armstrong’s Rockton series and I was so happy that she decided to write this spinoff series so I could read more adventures with these characters.
For those who don’t know anything about this series (or the Rockton series), Armstrong includes a brief summary/intro at the beginning of the book for new readers or for readers who just need a refresher. I wish all series authors would do the same! While each book has a self-contained mystery for Casey and Eric to solve, there’s an overall character arc for the series.
As always, Casey is the narrator of the story. She’s the sole detective in Haven’s Rock, and is married to Eric Dalton (she calls him Dalton!). They now have a six-month-old baby, Rory, which complicates their professional lives, but is also a major blessing, since Casey was convinced she couldn’t have children (backstory!). Haven’s Rock proves the adage, “It takes a village.” Rory is well looked after, no matter what Casey and Eric have to do as the main guardians of the wilderness town.
This time the main mystery involves lost hikers as well as the neighboring mining camp. There’s also an amazing sequence involving a grizzly bear!
At the end of the book, we find out that there will be ONE more book in this series. I will be first in line to read it but I will be sad to see this series end.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to NetGalley and St.Martin's Press for access to this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
I love a good Kelley Armstrong read. Some years ago, when I was a wee rookie in the NetGalley world, I gave Armstrong's latest release at the time a low rating. That review, I theorize, led to being denied for the next number of years. But perhaps in 2026, I finally be forgiven, and here I am once again reviewing a beloved Canadian author.
This is the 4th book in the Haven's Rock series. I have read none of the previous titles. However, the main protagonist, Detective Casey Duncan, in her narration, provides new or returning readers with what has already been established in the storyline. I never felt lost.
Haven's Rock is in the Yukon wilderness. As a sanctuary town, Haven's Rock has become a place where Casey and her husband, Sheriff Eric Dalton, feel that all citizens are safe from the dangers that lurk in other communities. Of course, in the storyline, newcomers reveal that some may have their secrets. Casey and Eric will have to act fast because not only are their lives at stake, but they must also think of their infant daughter and the other residents of Haven's Rock.
I liked the characters and the storyline, and the story moves at a relatively good pace. On the other hand, I do have to admit that I wasn't really invested in it all. That is most likely because I haven't read the previous books in the series. Overall, I wouldn't invite newcomers to just read a random title, but at least read book one to establish the characters and orient themselves to Armstrong's world.
In the author's note, Kelley Armstrong states that the finale will be released in 2027.
Expected Publication Date: 17/02/26
Goodreads Review Date: 11/02/26
I love a good Kelley Armstrong read. Some years ago, when I was a wee rookie in the NetGalley world, I gave Armstrong's latest release at the time a low rating. That review, I theorize, led to being denied for the next number of years. But perhaps in 2026, I finally be forgiven, and here I am once again reviewing a beloved Canadian author.
This is the 4th book in the Haven's Rock series. I have read none of the previous titles. However, the main protagonist, Detective Casey Duncan, in her narration, provides new or returning readers with what has already been established in the storyline. I never felt lost.
Haven's Rock is in the Yukon wilderness. As a sanctuary town, Haven's Rock has become a place where Casey and her husband, Sheriff Eric Dalton, feel that all citizens are safe from the dangers that lurk in other communities. Of course, in the storyline, newcomers reveal that some may have their secrets. Casey and Eric will have to act fast because not only are their lives at stake, but they must also think of their infant daughter and the other residents of Haven's Rock.
I liked the characters and the storyline, and the story moves at a relatively good pace. On the other hand, I do have to admit that I wasn't really invested in it all. That is most likely because I haven't read the previous books in the series. Overall, I wouldn't invite newcomers to just read a random title, but at least read book one to establish the characters and orient themselves to Armstrong's world.
In the author's note, Kelley Armstrong states that the finale will be released in 2027.
Expected Publication Date: 17/02/26
Goodreads Review Date: 11/02/26
February 17, 2026
Casey and Eric are back and are finally getting into the routine of being first-time parents while keeping the citizens of Haven's Rock safe. It appears that things have settled down in their little safe haven until they discover two hikers near the town. Casey and Eric are immediately suspicious of the two hikers, wondering if they are spies for their previous settlement or connected to the mining town that is determined to hide their secrets. When one of the hikers is found dead, Haven's Rock is put on high alert, and it's up to Eric and Casey to find out what happened before the danger arrives in their small town.
I am obsessed with the series and all of Kelly Armstrong’s books. I jumped into the Haven’s Rock books without reading any of the previous books from the Rockton series, but I immediately fell in love with the characters and the mysteries around Haven’s Rock. It was fun to see Casey and Eric's characters grow as they try to balance being parents of a six-month-old who is constantly teething while investigating a homicide of a hiker. During their investigation, secrets are revealed that had me on the edge of my seat, and it seems that the events from the previous book are all starting to come together for a fantastic conclusion. I am excited to see how Casey and Eric’s adventures will come to an end in the final book, coming in February 2027.
First Sign of Danger is out February 17th, 2026.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the opportunity to review First Sign of Danger. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I am obsessed with the series and all of Kelly Armstrong’s books. I jumped into the Haven’s Rock books without reading any of the previous books from the Rockton series, but I immediately fell in love with the characters and the mysteries around Haven’s Rock. It was fun to see Casey and Eric's characters grow as they try to balance being parents of a six-month-old who is constantly teething while investigating a homicide of a hiker. During their investigation, secrets are revealed that had me on the edge of my seat, and it seems that the events from the previous book are all starting to come together for a fantastic conclusion. I am excited to see how Casey and Eric’s adventures will come to an end in the final book, coming in February 2027.
First Sign of Danger is out February 17th, 2026.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the opportunity to review First Sign of Danger. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Pre-Read Notes:
Last year, I read another of this author's books, The Haunting of Payne's Hollow, and really enjoyed it. So when I was offered this arc, I snagged it!
Final Review
(thoughts & recs) I loved the setting and character work here, but I didn't think the mystery itself was very compelling. I also thought Armstrong missed an opportunity to address private prisons and modern slavery. But seriously, I'm still going back for the rest of the series because I liked so much of this.
This book presents animal as threat in what I consider a responsible way. The bear is a no-freaking-joke force-of-nature adversary, but Armstrong writes factual data about bears throughout the bear scenes, information that works to keep both the bear and the character alive. The author doesn't sanitize the bear, nor does she demonize it. She allows it to be dangerous, rational, embodied, and uninterested in human moral categories. By keeping the bear’s logic intact, the story decenters humans as the axis of meaning; they are mere participants. That’s honest nature writing and it works *so* well in this mystery.
I want to mention that, because I agree with the author's and characters' world views, I enjoyed this book. But other readers may find it overtly political or even didactic.
My Favorite Things:
✔️ The opening scene contains some of the best usage of third person plural I've ever encountered in a book.
✔️ I haven't read any of the other books in this series, so I really appreciated the catch-up and cast of characters at the front of the book!
✔️ "Tears prickle my eyes. “I’m lucky, aren’t I? To have so much support.” p59 Yes, yes you are. “You get what you give, Casey,” he says softly. “And you give a lot.”" p59 No. No no no, that's not how this works, okay? She's *lucky* to have a good support system. And maybe she does deserve it, but not because she supports others. She supports others because she has a generous heart. She has a good support system because she has people in her life with the same mindset. But even if she didn't? She would still deserve support. We *all* deserve support. It's kind of part of the social contract.
✔️ "Her voice lowers. “I never give you ‘shit,’ Casey. I tease you.” “Yes, well, it can sound like giving me shit, and I’ve had a very long day" p74 I love how the characters demonstrate really healthy communication.
Content Notes: wildlife, bears, isolation, guns, wilderness, murder, stalking,
Thank you to Kelley Armstrong, Minotaur Books, and NetGalley for an accessible digital arc of FIRST SIGN OF DANGER. All views are mine.
Pre-Read Notes:
Last year, I read another of this author's books, The Haunting of Payne's Hollow, and really enjoyed it. So when I was offered this arc, I snagged it!
Final Review
(thoughts & recs) I loved the setting and character work here, but I didn't think the mystery itself was very compelling. I also thought Armstrong missed an opportunity to address private prisons and modern slavery. But seriously, I'm still going back for the rest of the series because I liked so much of this.
This book presents animal as threat in what I consider a responsible way. The bear is a no-freaking-joke force-of-nature adversary, but Armstrong writes factual data about bears throughout the bear scenes, information that works to keep both the bear and the character alive. The author doesn't sanitize the bear, nor does she demonize it. She allows it to be dangerous, rational, embodied, and uninterested in human moral categories. By keeping the bear’s logic intact, the story decenters humans as the axis of meaning; they are mere participants. That’s honest nature writing and it works *so* well in this mystery.
I want to mention that, because I agree with the author's and characters' world views, I enjoyed this book. But other readers may find it overtly political or even didactic.
My Favorite Things:
✔️ The opening scene contains some of the best usage of third person plural I've ever encountered in a book.
✔️ I haven't read any of the other books in this series, so I really appreciated the catch-up and cast of characters at the front of the book!
✔️ "Tears prickle my eyes. “I’m lucky, aren’t I? To have so much support.” p59 Yes, yes you are. “You get what you give, Casey,” he says softly. “And you give a lot.”" p59 No. No no no, that's not how this works, okay? She's *lucky* to have a good support system. And maybe she does deserve it, but not because she supports others. She supports others because she has a generous heart. She has a good support system because she has people in her life with the same mindset. But even if she didn't? She would still deserve support. We *all* deserve support. It's kind of part of the social contract.
✔️ "Her voice lowers. “I never give you ‘shit,’ Casey. I tease you.” “Yes, well, it can sound like giving me shit, and I’ve had a very long day" p74 I love how the characters demonstrate really healthy communication.
Content Notes: wildlife, bears, isolation, guns, wilderness, murder, stalking,
Thank you to Kelley Armstrong, Minotaur Books, and NetGalley for an accessible digital arc of FIRST SIGN OF DANGER. All views are mine.
Read
February 10, 2026I listened to 7%. I DNF’d due to profanity. The story and narrator were great.
February 17, 2026
Thanks to Netgalley and St. Martin's for the pre-release copy of First Sign of Danger by Kelley Armstrong. Below you'll find my honest review.
ALL the stars. Extra if I could.
I love love love this series (from Rockton #1 all the way through until this one, Haven's Rock #4), and this one was no exception. Twists and turns and a dark mystery to solve.
There were some touch and go moments in this one that were hard to process, but I can't spoil anything so I won't say what they were.
All in all, another fantastic entry into Armstrong's delectable Yukon settlement series. I was super sad to see the note at the end that said to look out for Casey and Eric's final installment in February 2027. I don't want another one of my favorite series to end. Sad.
Five stars, highly recommended, but please don't start here. This is like 11 books deep into a series and its spinoff. You'll spoil so much for yourself if you start here. The series is entirely bingeworthy, so do yourself the favor and start at the beginning.
Sad to see the note at the end saying the final Haven’s Rock book will be Feb 2027. Another of my favorites ending :(
ALL the stars. Extra if I could.
I love love love this series (from Rockton #1 all the way through until this one, Haven's Rock #4), and this one was no exception. Twists and turns and a dark mystery to solve.
There were some touch and go moments in this one that were hard to process, but I can't spoil anything so I won't say what they were.
All in all, another fantastic entry into Armstrong's delectable Yukon settlement series. I was super sad to see the note at the end that said to look out for Casey and Eric's final installment in February 2027. I don't want another one of my favorite series to end. Sad.
Five stars, highly recommended, but please don't start here. This is like 11 books deep into a series and its spinoff. You'll spoil so much for yourself if you start here. The series is entirely bingeworthy, so do yourself the favor and start at the beginning.
Sad to see the note at the end saying the final Haven’s Rock book will be Feb 2027. Another of my favorites ending :(
February 19, 2026
First Sign of Danger is the fourth installment in the Haven’s Rock series, and while each book features its own mystery, the ongoing character arcs and history make it far more rewarding to read in order. Better yet, start with the original Rockton series to fully appreciate how this off the grid refuge came to be.
Like Rockton before it, Haven’s Rock is designed as a sanctuary for people who need to disappear. Victims fleeing stalkers or abusive partners, individuals escaping unjust convictions, anyone who needs a second chance. Every applicant is vetted to ensure they pose no threat to the community.
In this installment, Casey and Eric encounter a couple hiking near the settlement under circumstances that immediately raise red flags. Are they harmless backpackers, or are they spying on Haven’s Rock? Hunting for someone inside the community? Or connected to the nearby mining camp that’s been a growing concern?
The situation goes from uneasy to dangerous when they discover one of the hikers dead the next day. Casey, Eric, Anders, Yolanda and the usual crew at Haven’s Rock work the evidence to figure out what’s going on. All the while keeping an eye on the miner’s camp. There’s also a curious break-in without theft in town that seems unrelated. Casey and Eric examine all the details at every angle and a darker picture emerges.
First Sign of Danger starts quietly but soon spirals into the kind of tense, layered mystery this series excels at. I was genuinely surprised by how the pieces ultimately fit together, and by the thrilling revelations that set the stage for the upcoming final installment!
I’ve alternately read and listened to the entire series and I recommend either version. Thérèse Plummer narrates the audios and they are fantastic! She expertly performs male and female voices and a variety of age ranges and emotion.
I voluntarily read/listened to a copy courtesy of the publishers. These are my thoughts and opinions.
Like Rockton before it, Haven’s Rock is designed as a sanctuary for people who need to disappear. Victims fleeing stalkers or abusive partners, individuals escaping unjust convictions, anyone who needs a second chance. Every applicant is vetted to ensure they pose no threat to the community.
In this installment, Casey and Eric encounter a couple hiking near the settlement under circumstances that immediately raise red flags. Are they harmless backpackers, or are they spying on Haven’s Rock? Hunting for someone inside the community? Or connected to the nearby mining camp that’s been a growing concern?
The situation goes from uneasy to dangerous when they discover one of the hikers dead the next day. Casey, Eric, Anders, Yolanda and the usual crew at Haven’s Rock work the evidence to figure out what’s going on. All the while keeping an eye on the miner’s camp. There’s also a curious break-in without theft in town that seems unrelated. Casey and Eric examine all the details at every angle and a darker picture emerges.
First Sign of Danger starts quietly but soon spirals into the kind of tense, layered mystery this series excels at. I was genuinely surprised by how the pieces ultimately fit together, and by the thrilling revelations that set the stage for the upcoming final installment!
I’ve alternately read and listened to the entire series and I recommend either version. Thérèse Plummer narrates the audios and they are fantastic! She expertly performs male and female voices and a variety of age ranges and emotion.
I voluntarily read/listened to a copy courtesy of the publishers. These are my thoughts and opinions.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 rounded to a 5
Another great book in the Haven's Rock series! I love Eric and Casey, and with the addition of a little one, just makes their relationship that much more interesting. Although they've cautiously worked beside each other, this book deal directly with the mining camp that has been causing the town problems. It was a great suspense!!
Thank you to Net Galley and St Martin's Press for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Another great book in the Haven's Rock series! I love Eric and Casey, and with the addition of a little one, just makes their relationship that much more interesting. Although they've cautiously worked beside each other, this book deal directly with the mining camp that has been causing the town problems. It was a great suspense!!
Thank you to Net Galley and St Martin's Press for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
February 20, 2026
A brilliant puzzle to be solved as Always You would think in a town with only 85 residents any crimes would be easily solved.............not so, at least not in Havens Rock, but then their community is different as it's made up of people who have fallen foul of the law. Victims in one way or another who 're just looking for a place to hide for a while. Now there are outside forces the town were not expecting, the good mind opening up after they had already built Havens Rock being one but they have been trying to work with the minds managers to work out compromises so each has their privacy. The situation Is also different now as Casey and Dalton are the proud parents of a gorgeous baby girl..........six month old Rory.......................
November 18, 2025
4.25 Stars ⭐️
Detective Casey Duncan and Sheriff Eric Dalton’s new baby Rory is now 6 months old and things have been fairly quiet for the last few months until they run into a couple of "lost hikers" while out of their compound on a hike. For those of you who have been following this series, you know that there is never just a "lost hiker" in that part of the Yukon, so immediate red flags go up for everyone. This one event ends up snowballing into a massive quandary as Eric and Casey try to figure out if they are being paranoid, or if there really is something to worry about. When they find a dead body the next day....well, that only makes things more confusing.
What I enjoyed about this book was that in addition to the storyline with the hikers, we also got to finally address the issue of the "mining camp" that has set up shop near Haven's Rock and we finally got some answers about what exactly was going on there.
Even though this is the 4th book in this series, it is actually a continuation and spin off of the original Rockton Series, so we have actually been following Eric and Casey for a very long time. I love the fact that there is such a wonderful established setting here with fantastic secondary characters that are a joy to pop back in on. It always feels so comfortable to drop back into this world to see what everyone is up to. It is like a comfy sweater that makes you feel so good when you put it on.
As always, life is not easy running a compound for people who are hiding from the world and running it with a 6 month old baby adds a layer that neither of them had planned on but they are making it work. It is great to see the found family and support that they have developed - people that have been through the fire with each other and who are now there to enjoy this new addition -and fighting over who gets to baby sit.
It wouldn't be a Haven's Rock book if there weren't a couple of dead bodies that April has to autopsy, and a crime or two that Casey, Dalton and Anders have to figure out. So yep, just another day in the Yukon wilderness.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. This book will be out for publication on February 17, 2026.
Detective Casey Duncan and Sheriff Eric Dalton’s new baby Rory is now 6 months old and things have been fairly quiet for the last few months until they run into a couple of "lost hikers" while out of their compound on a hike. For those of you who have been following this series, you know that there is never just a "lost hiker" in that part of the Yukon, so immediate red flags go up for everyone. This one event ends up snowballing into a massive quandary as Eric and Casey try to figure out if they are being paranoid, or if there really is something to worry about. When they find a dead body the next day....well, that only makes things more confusing.
What I enjoyed about this book was that in addition to the storyline with the hikers, we also got to finally address the issue of the "mining camp" that has set up shop near Haven's Rock and we finally got some answers about what exactly was going on there.
Even though this is the 4th book in this series, it is actually a continuation and spin off of the original Rockton Series, so we have actually been following Eric and Casey for a very long time. I love the fact that there is such a wonderful established setting here with fantastic secondary characters that are a joy to pop back in on. It always feels so comfortable to drop back into this world to see what everyone is up to. It is like a comfy sweater that makes you feel so good when you put it on.
As always, life is not easy running a compound for people who are hiding from the world and running it with a 6 month old baby adds a layer that neither of them had planned on but they are making it work. It is great to see the found family and support that they have developed - people that have been through the fire with each other and who are now there to enjoy this new addition -and fighting over who gets to baby sit.
It wouldn't be a Haven's Rock book if there weren't a couple of dead bodies that April has to autopsy, and a crime or two that Casey, Dalton and Anders have to figure out. So yep, just another day in the Yukon wilderness.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. This book will be out for publication on February 17, 2026.
February 20, 2026
I've read both Rockton and Havens Rock series. As much as I like to visit Casey and Eric and their baby in the wilderness of Canada we spent far too much time in Casey's head in this book!
There are 87 people in Haven's Rock but we hardly met anyone! If I remember right the other books showed us the other characters a lot more! There was a lot of walking in the forest and feeding the baby! I'm sure that other things were going on as well! We have no clue what Eric thinks about anything!
Casey and Eric are walking with their baby and dog when they find two hikers who are lost. The guy had injured his ankle and they had lost the GPS, compass and map!
They don't like finding people that close to town! Are they really just hikers or something else!?
Some of the people in town are hiding from what had happened to them before. Is someone looking for one of them!?
Things get even worse when they find two dead bodies in the forest!
I used one of my credits and bought this book from Audible.
There are 87 people in Haven's Rock but we hardly met anyone! If I remember right the other books showed us the other characters a lot more! There was a lot of walking in the forest and feeding the baby! I'm sure that other things were going on as well! We have no clue what Eric thinks about anything!
Casey and Eric are walking with their baby and dog when they find two hikers who are lost. The guy had injured his ankle and they had lost the GPS, compass and map!
They don't like finding people that close to town! Are they really just hikers or something else!?
Some of the people in town are hiding from what had happened to them before. Is someone looking for one of them!?
Things get even worse when they find two dead bodies in the forest!
I used one of my credits and bought this book from Audible.
January 8, 2026
4.5/5 stars
First Sign Of Danger is the fourth book in the Haven's Rock series.
Haven's Rock is a spinoff of the Rockton series. Both series have the same narrator, female detective Casey Duncan. The books are set in the Yukon. Each book contains a standalone mystery.
I love Casey and Dalton. I adore their family. I’ve really enjoyed seeing them in Haven’s Rock. And I just love the cases they solve in each book.
The mystery in this book is good. But my favorite part is getting to see the supporting characters shine. Casey and Dalton are the stars. However April, Will, Phil and the gang feel like old friends.
I can’t believe that the next book will be the final book in the series. Overall another enjoyable book in a wonderful series.
Thanks to netgalley and Minotaur books for allowing me to read this book.
First Sign Of Danger is the fourth book in the Haven's Rock series.
Haven's Rock is a spinoff of the Rockton series. Both series have the same narrator, female detective Casey Duncan. The books are set in the Yukon. Each book contains a standalone mystery.
I love Casey and Dalton. I adore their family. I’ve really enjoyed seeing them in Haven’s Rock. And I just love the cases they solve in each book.
The mystery in this book is good. But my favorite part is getting to see the supporting characters shine. Casey and Dalton are the stars. However April, Will, Phil and the gang feel like old friends.
I can’t believe that the next book will be the final book in the series. Overall another enjoyable book in a wonderful series.
Thanks to netgalley and Minotaur books for allowing me to read this book.
October 18, 2025
Book Review
First Sign of Danger by Kelley Armstrong
Genre: Detective type mystery with a twist
Publisher: Minotaur books
Publishing Feb 17 2026
Havens Rock series (spinoff of Rockton series)
Thoughts
I would absolutely love to live in Havens Rock. I could be their librarian. I would babysit for Casey and Dalton, have beers with Isabel, flirt with Anders- I can picture it clear as day. It would be an awesome adventure.
I always slip so easily into this world Armstrong has created. It has become a good friend that I love to visit and I will be crushed when it finally comes to an end.
What drew me in and has kept me a fan throughout?
Off grid living. Strong female characters. Men who arent afraid to be vulnerable. Small town vibes. Found family. Protectors.
And deeply disturbing twists and turns that are soo plausible they make you wonder… what if?
Thanks to @netgalley @stmartinspress and @minotaurbooks for my digital ARC in return for an honest review. Opinions expressed are my own.
First Sign of Danger by Kelley Armstrong
Genre: Detective type mystery with a twist
Publisher: Minotaur books
Publishing Feb 17 2026
Havens Rock series (spinoff of Rockton series)
Thoughts
I would absolutely love to live in Havens Rock. I could be their librarian. I would babysit for Casey and Dalton, have beers with Isabel, flirt with Anders- I can picture it clear as day. It would be an awesome adventure.
I always slip so easily into this world Armstrong has created. It has become a good friend that I love to visit and I will be crushed when it finally comes to an end.
What drew me in and has kept me a fan throughout?
Off grid living. Strong female characters. Men who arent afraid to be vulnerable. Small town vibes. Found family. Protectors.
And deeply disturbing twists and turns that are soo plausible they make you wonder… what if?
Thanks to @netgalley @stmartinspress and @minotaurbooks for my digital ARC in return for an honest review. Opinions expressed are my own.
November 2, 2025
Since it has been a little while since I have read this series I was very glad to jump back into Casey's world. There is a little blurb at the front to get everyone caught up on important information which I found extremely helpful as a reader. Once again I quickly fell in love with the characters and now to see Casey and Dalton as parents it really shows a different side of them which I love seeing. They now struggle with parenthood on top of their already challenging job of policing a brand new city filled with people who have something to hide. Their lives seem to have calmed down a bit as they try to embrace parenthood and now take on emergencies such as a crying baby or a diaper blowout, that doesn't mean however that they have lost touch with why they started havens rock in the first place. When a walk through the forest leads Casey and Dalton to a lost hiker with an "injured partner" their warning bells start going off. The more they interact with the hikers the more their stories don't seem to fit. And when one of those hikers mysteriously ends up dead not long after and not by natural causes, Casey and Dalton must jump back into their old habits if they want to keep not only their town safe but also their little family. I really enjoyed all of the mystery that went along with this story however it will always be the characters in this series that completes it for me. They are so well written and so full of tension and flaws that as a reader I always want the best for them. This was a fast paced book and I loved every minute of it. I was great to get back to this world and to see their protective instincts increase ten folds now that they are parents was wonderful. There were so many twists in this book that I couldn't get enough of. If you thought that Kelley Armstrong was just a fantasy writer than this series will prove you wrong. Mrs Armstrong can take on any genre she dreams of and every time she does it with grace, and excellence. She is a gift to the literary world. Fantastic job and I can't wait to see this one hit the best seller list. This is a world and series that I never want to see come to an end but I will devoure every piece that comes out of it. This is a book that will keep you glued to the pages with a plot and execution above anything I could have ever expected. I loved this book and can't wait for everyone else to enjoy it as well.
November 6, 2025
Book 4 in the Rockton series spin-off, Havens Rock, continues the story of Casey and Eric in the rugged, isolated wilderness of the Yukon. Kelley Armstrong successfully maintained the series’ signature style, weaving in her well-paced, concise writing that kept me engaged the entire time. The familiar blend of suspense and character-driven storytelling remains strong, as Armstrong delves deeper into Casey, Eric, and even the town relationships while navigating fresh challenges in an unforgiving environment.
I enjoyed continuing this journey, especially as the plot unfolds with another compelling murder mystery set against the stark, atmospheric backdrop of the Yukon. Casey and Eric are confronted once again with a case involving a mysterious death under suspicious circumstances. As they investigate, they uncover a web of deceit, hidden motives, and secrets in their little community. Complex character backgrounds and questionable intentions add layers of intrigue to the narrative.
I did find myself wondering how well Casey manages Storm’s frequent hair matts, considering that Newfoundlands are prone to matting quickly, especially in snowy, wet environments. Hair concerns do seem a little out of character for Casey. This minor quibble aside, it’s a testament to Armstrong’s immersive world-building that such questions stand out.
Despite this little wonder I had, my enthusiasm for the series remains strong. I’m eagerly anticipating the next installment and I’m curious to see how the story develops and concludes. Armstrong’s ability to maintain tension, introduce fresh mysteries, and deepen character arcs ensures that each book feels like a rewarding continuation of Casey and Eric’s adventure.
I enjoyed continuing this journey, especially as the plot unfolds with another compelling murder mystery set against the stark, atmospheric backdrop of the Yukon. Casey and Eric are confronted once again with a case involving a mysterious death under suspicious circumstances. As they investigate, they uncover a web of deceit, hidden motives, and secrets in their little community. Complex character backgrounds and questionable intentions add layers of intrigue to the narrative.
I did find myself wondering how well Casey manages Storm’s frequent hair matts, considering that Newfoundlands are prone to matting quickly, especially in snowy, wet environments. Hair concerns do seem a little out of character for Casey. This minor quibble aside, it’s a testament to Armstrong’s immersive world-building that such questions stand out.
Despite this little wonder I had, my enthusiasm for the series remains strong. I’m eagerly anticipating the next installment and I’m curious to see how the story develops and concludes. Armstrong’s ability to maintain tension, introduce fresh mysteries, and deepen character arcs ensures that each book feels like a rewarding continuation of Casey and Eric’s adventure.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Haven’s Rock series is a spinoff of the Rockton series, featuring an off-the-grid town in remote Alaska. Each novel in the series features a different mystery and danger for Detective Casey Duncan and her husband, Sheriff Eric Dalton, to solve. Armstrong does a fantastic job of bringing new readers up to speed, but I recommend reading them in the order of their release.
Casey and Eric are enjoying a walk in the woods with their infant daughter and trusted dog when they come across a hiker and her injured husband. Immediately suspicious, they set out the next day to ensure that the couple had left the area and sus out their story. Instead, they find a dead body, but not before a bear drags it into a cave. The tale that unfolds brings danger and an intense mystery that kept me reading past my bedtime.
Despite wanting to live a life off the grid, our heroes are no stranger to murder and danger. The tale that unfolds brings plenty of danger, high-speed chases, betrayal, and secrets revealed regarding the nearby mining operation. Armstrong builds on the suspense while weaving in tender family moments and town-life in this remote wilderness. I loved the thread regarding April and hope we learn more.
The author closed many threads and answered questions, and I almost feared this was the last book before learning we will be treated to one more. While I agree it is time for a new series, I am excited about spending a little more time with these characters I enjoy.
If you are looking for a murder-mystery with plenty of twists and turns that will keep you guessing all set in a remote, off-the grid town, you’ll want to grab First Sign of Danger and the entire Haven’s Rock series.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Casey and Eric are enjoying a walk in the woods with their infant daughter and trusted dog when they come across a hiker and her injured husband. Immediately suspicious, they set out the next day to ensure that the couple had left the area and sus out their story. Instead, they find a dead body, but not before a bear drags it into a cave. The tale that unfolds brings danger and an intense mystery that kept me reading past my bedtime.
Despite wanting to live a life off the grid, our heroes are no stranger to murder and danger. The tale that unfolds brings plenty of danger, high-speed chases, betrayal, and secrets revealed regarding the nearby mining operation. Armstrong builds on the suspense while weaving in tender family moments and town-life in this remote wilderness. I loved the thread regarding April and hope we learn more.
The author closed many threads and answered questions, and I almost feared this was the last book before learning we will be treated to one more. While I agree it is time for a new series, I am excited about spending a little more time with these characters I enjoy.
If you are looking for a murder-mystery with plenty of twists and turns that will keep you guessing all set in a remote, off-the grid town, you’ll want to grab First Sign of Danger and the entire Haven’s Rock series.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Review:
🐻❄️ 🐻❄️ 🐻❄️ 🐻❄️ 🐻
First Sign of Danger begins with an unsettling encounter with a hiking couple and a very hungry, cranky grizzly bear that broadens to a twisting murder mystery.
🐻❄️First Sign of Danger is the fourth in a connected series of books that spinoff from the previous Rockton series about a hidden off-grid town in the wilderness and the way murder and nailbiting adventure seems to be set them, keeping town sheriff Eric and detective Casey, husband and wife team, to investigate.
❄️ 🐻 In this latest, Eric and Casey, fairly new parents, are juggling commitment to their job to provide safety for the hidden town of refugees from ‘civilization’ and care of their daughter, the volatile situation with the nearby mine guarded by a military-like organization, seeming small issues in Haven’s Rock, and now strangers in the nearby woods. It all culminates in a jaw-dropping finish as usual.
Unputdownable and most anticipated describe my opinion of this latest and the series as a whole. Those who want a murder mystery in an unusual setting should pick up first the Rockton and then Kelley Armstrong’s Haven Rock series.
Rating: 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
I rec’d an eARC via NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review.
#FirstSignofDanger #KelleyArmstrong #HavensRock #MurderMystery #Thriller #romanticsuspense #OffGrid #CanadaSetting #UpNorth
My full review will post on my Instagram page, @sophiarose1816, on 2.16.26
🐻❄️ 🐻❄️ 🐻❄️ 🐻❄️ 🐻
First Sign of Danger begins with an unsettling encounter with a hiking couple and a very hungry, cranky grizzly bear that broadens to a twisting murder mystery.
🐻❄️First Sign of Danger is the fourth in a connected series of books that spinoff from the previous Rockton series about a hidden off-grid town in the wilderness and the way murder and nailbiting adventure seems to be set them, keeping town sheriff Eric and detective Casey, husband and wife team, to investigate.
❄️ 🐻 In this latest, Eric and Casey, fairly new parents, are juggling commitment to their job to provide safety for the hidden town of refugees from ‘civilization’ and care of their daughter, the volatile situation with the nearby mine guarded by a military-like organization, seeming small issues in Haven’s Rock, and now strangers in the nearby woods. It all culminates in a jaw-dropping finish as usual.
Unputdownable and most anticipated describe my opinion of this latest and the series as a whole. Those who want a murder mystery in an unusual setting should pick up first the Rockton and then Kelley Armstrong’s Haven Rock series.
Rating: 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
I rec’d an eARC via NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review.
#FirstSignofDanger #KelleyArmstrong #HavensRock #MurderMystery #Thriller #romanticsuspense #OffGrid #CanadaSetting #UpNorth
My full review will post on my Instagram page, @sophiarose1816, on 2.16.26
November 10, 2025
Another book from my happy place! I'm not going to lie...there's something compelling about Haven's Rock. I'd live there.
For those new to the series, the author gives a bit of an explanatory introduction. As such, this does work as a standalone. However, I'd actually suggest starting from book 1 (or the connected series before this one). It's good and will give you more context.
As for this latest in the book, it's terrific - suspenseful, engaging and I was all in on our latest mystery. It actually clears up some interesting aspects about the 'neighbors' in the woods. I adore Casey and Dalton and loved getting to know some of our other residents as well.
Fair warning - this is apparently the next to last book in the series. While I get that (there's only so much the author can do with this), I'll be sorry to see it end.
A wonderfully suspenseful comfort read!
Looking forward to the next and (sob) final book!
* ARC via Publisher
For those new to the series, the author gives a bit of an explanatory introduction. As such, this does work as a standalone. However, I'd actually suggest starting from book 1 (or the connected series before this one). It's good and will give you more context.
As for this latest in the book, it's terrific - suspenseful, engaging and I was all in on our latest mystery. It actually clears up some interesting aspects about the 'neighbors' in the woods. I adore Casey and Dalton and loved getting to know some of our other residents as well.
Fair warning - this is apparently the next to last book in the series. While I get that (there's only so much the author can do with this), I'll be sorry to see it end.
A wonderfully suspenseful comfort read!
Looking forward to the next and (sob) final book!
* ARC via Publisher
November 16, 2025
First Sign of Danger is a mystery novel by Kelley Armstrong, and the fourth book in her Haven's Rock series. This wonderful series follows former Police Detective Casey Duncan and her husband, Sheriff Eric Dalton, in their remote, off-the-grid town in the Yukon.
The couple is navigating life with their six-month-old (adorable) baby when two hikers near their hidden sanctuary threaten the community's safety. This encounter leads to a murder investigation, forcing the couple to protect their town and family from an external threat.
What. A. Book. I love the all the characters, including the dog, Storm, of course! Without spoiling the plot, there is a LOT of mystery, family, friendship, and suspense in First Sign of Danger! (Also some medical, and a bit of romance.) This book took me to places I never expected to go.
For those who dislike swearing (especially the F word) there's lots and LOTS of swearing in this book. And there I was, thinking Eric was finally using his words, haha!!
So, that's all I'm going to write. I was happy to have gone into First Sign of Danger blindly, and I want my friends to be able to do the same! (Other than to mention
Thank you, #MinotaurBooks, for providing this book for review and consideration via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own. First Sign of Danger has an expected publication date of February 17, 2026.
#Mystery #Crime #Thriller #KelleyArmstrong #Series
The couple is navigating life with their six-month-old (adorable) baby when two hikers near their hidden sanctuary threaten the community's safety. This encounter leads to a murder investigation, forcing the couple to protect their town and family from an external threat.
What. A. Book. I love the all the characters, including the dog, Storm, of course! Without spoiling the plot, there is a LOT of mystery, family, friendship, and suspense in First Sign of Danger! (Also some medical, and a bit of romance.) This book took me to places I never expected to go.
For those who dislike swearing (especially the F word) there's lots and LOTS of swearing in this book. And there I was, thinking Eric was finally using his words, haha!!
So, that's all I'm going to write. I was happy to have gone into First Sign of Danger blindly, and I want my friends to be able to do the same! (Other than to mention
Thank you, #MinotaurBooks, for providing this book for review and consideration via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own. First Sign of Danger has an expected publication date of February 17, 2026.
#Mystery #Crime #Thriller #KelleyArmstrong #Series
October 25, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
I've read the Rockton series in its entirety and am now up to date on Haven's Rock as well. I really enjoy Armstrong's world building within this series. My only complaint is how we get so stuck in the head of the main character, Casey. A lot of the book, especially the middle portion is spent with Casey debating things over and over in her mind, which gets tiring for the reader. I would love to see the fifth and final installment in this series take place from another character's point of view (perhaps Dalton or April?).
At the end of the day, I've never kept up with a series/series spin off this long before (eleven books in total so far!) so it's safe to say Armstrong has something special here. I would recommend this book to readers of her previous work and anyone looking for a blustery mystery.
I've read the Rockton series in its entirety and am now up to date on Haven's Rock as well. I really enjoy Armstrong's world building within this series. My only complaint is how we get so stuck in the head of the main character, Casey. A lot of the book, especially the middle portion is spent with Casey debating things over and over in her mind, which gets tiring for the reader. I would love to see the fifth and final installment in this series take place from another character's point of view (perhaps Dalton or April?).
At the end of the day, I've never kept up with a series/series spin off this long before (eleven books in total so far!) so it's safe to say Armstrong has something special here. I would recommend this book to readers of her previous work and anyone looking for a blustery mystery.
February 24, 2026
Trzy gwiazdki ale może to dlatego że miałam dość sporą przerwę przez oczekiwanie na ten tom (11?) i na ostatni muszę czekać aż do 2027 T..........T jakoś początek mi się podobał a potem strasznie mi się dłużyła końcówka.
Będzie mi brakować Casey i Daltona, to moja comfort seria kryminalna + dużo to mówi o książce i autorce jeśli opisane w niej tematy których nie lubię (ciąża, poród, wychowywanie dziecka) są czytalne i mi nie przeszkadzają :3
Będzie mi brakować Casey i Daltona, to moja comfort seria kryminalna + dużo to mówi o książce i autorce jeśli opisane w niej tematy których nie lubię (ciąża, poród, wychowywanie dziecka) są czytalne i mi nie przeszkadzają :3
February 18, 2026
Disclaimer: I received an e-ARC of this book. I chose to review it and this in no way impacts my opinion of it.
So I understand that I am terribly biased about this series seeing as it is one of my favourite series ever, but this novel was *chef kiss* amazing. Armstrong has a really amazing ability to keep me guessing with each turn of the page.
This book, (and this entire series) has such delicious suspense and mystery throughout. When Casey and Eric come across a couple hikers while out on a walk with their 6-month-old baby, Rory, I was immediately suspicious. So when one of those hikers turns up dead, Casey and Eric start to investigate.
I found this novel to be so interesting and it held my attention from the first page until the very last page. We receive some answers on the mining camp in this novel and also the absolutely devastating (to me anyways) news that the final Haven’s Rock novel will be out next year, 2027.
If you like mysteries and thrillers, you will love this series. I do highly recommend starting with Murder at Haven’s Rock if you haven’t read any books in this series yet (though I’d really recommend beginning with the Rockton series first but it’s not necessary to understand this spin-off series).
So I understand that I am terribly biased about this series seeing as it is one of my favourite series ever, but this novel was *chef kiss* amazing. Armstrong has a really amazing ability to keep me guessing with each turn of the page.
This book, (and this entire series) has such delicious suspense and mystery throughout. When Casey and Eric come across a couple hikers while out on a walk with their 6-month-old baby, Rory, I was immediately suspicious. So when one of those hikers turns up dead, Casey and Eric start to investigate.
I found this novel to be so interesting and it held my attention from the first page until the very last page. We receive some answers on the mining camp in this novel and also the absolutely devastating (to me anyways) news that the final Haven’s Rock novel will be out next year, 2027.
If you like mysteries and thrillers, you will love this series. I do highly recommend starting with Murder at Haven’s Rock if you haven’t read any books in this series yet (though I’d really recommend beginning with the Rockton series first but it’s not necessary to understand this spin-off series).
February 19, 2026
Picking up six months after the end of the previous book, Casey and Dalton have a six-month-old, healthy daughter, and plenty of Haven's Rock residents happy to babysit for the parents when they need to patrol or investigate.
One day on a family hike, they run into a pair of hikers, a married couple, who claim to be a little lost. Worried the pair may get too close to Haven's Rock, Casey and Eric ensure the hikers are going towards civilization, which is in Whitehorse, and away from the sanctuary of the Rock.
Casey and Eric go back the next day to check that the hikers are truly gone, and find the man not only dead, but murdered, and the wife nowhere to be found. Assuming she killed her husband, they bring the body back to Haven's Rock, angering a grizzly. But, with Anders' help, they manage to get back eventually so April can perform an autopsy.
Worried that the hikers may be associated with the nearby mining camp, Casey and Duncan decide to investigate, and find yet another body, but this time buried and also murdered.
This only amps up the tension, as well as the need to clarify just what the heck is going on, and prompts Casey to Eric to decide it's high time they dealt conclusively with the mining camp. Problem is, each time they make one step forwards on figuring out who the dead hiker is, and whether or not he and the dead miner are connected, they encounter yet another obstacle, and it gets harder to keep Haven's Rock safe and secluded.
And when the answers actually arrive, they're disturbing, and tie not only to the previous entries in this series, but also to the Rockton books. I loved this aspect of this story by Kelley Armstrong, who maintains a terrific tension and pace throughout this novel. Armstrong keeps the revelations coming, while continuing to deepen her portrayals of Casey and Eric.
I went back and forth from the prose to the audio, and loved the work Thérèse Plummer does with the voices. She's been voicing Casey wonderfully for several years, and her comfort with the other main and frequent supporting characters (Eric, Anders, Yolanda) make them, and the other supporting characters, also come alive.
I cannot wait to see what happens next for Casey and for Haven's Rock.
Thank you to Netgalley, St. Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio for these ARCs in exchange for my review.
One day on a family hike, they run into a pair of hikers, a married couple, who claim to be a little lost. Worried the pair may get too close to Haven's Rock, Casey and Eric ensure the hikers are going towards civilization, which is in Whitehorse, and away from the sanctuary of the Rock.
Casey and Eric go back the next day to check that the hikers are truly gone, and find the man not only dead, but murdered, and the wife nowhere to be found. Assuming she killed her husband, they bring the body back to Haven's Rock, angering a grizzly. But, with Anders' help, they manage to get back eventually so April can perform an autopsy.
Worried that the hikers may be associated with the nearby mining camp, Casey and Duncan decide to investigate, and find yet another body, but this time buried and also murdered.
This only amps up the tension, as well as the need to clarify just what the heck is going on, and prompts Casey to Eric to decide it's high time they dealt conclusively with the mining camp. Problem is, each time they make one step forwards on figuring out who the dead hiker is, and whether or not he and the dead miner are connected, they encounter yet another obstacle, and it gets harder to keep Haven's Rock safe and secluded.
And when the answers actually arrive, they're disturbing, and tie not only to the previous entries in this series, but also to the Rockton books. I loved this aspect of this story by Kelley Armstrong, who maintains a terrific tension and pace throughout this novel. Armstrong keeps the revelations coming, while continuing to deepen her portrayals of Casey and Eric.
I went back and forth from the prose to the audio, and loved the work Thérèse Plummer does with the voices. She's been voicing Casey wonderfully for several years, and her comfort with the other main and frequent supporting characters (Eric, Anders, Yolanda) make them, and the other supporting characters, also come alive.
I cannot wait to see what happens next for Casey and for Haven's Rock.
Thank you to Netgalley, St. Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio for these ARCs in exchange for my review.
February 17, 2026
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I love this Rockton series, now Haven's Rock series which is a spin-off as well as a direct continuation of the previous series. I personally would start with the previous series because of the background and character development but also because it is amazing! Haven's Rock is a new town with Casey and Eric along with a few others as the owners, making a fresh start and hopefully better situation than Rockton.
Casey provides our point of view for everything. Her compassion and intelligence, plus her skills from her police work give her a solid perspective of things. She and Eric are out enjoying a hike on their day off with Rory, when they meet a couple who say they are out hiking. The husband has hurt his ankle. Being in a remote area, Casey finds it hard to believe any hikers are out this far without a nefarious reason. Eric and Rory go back and Casey helps wrap his ankle.
Once she gets back to Haven's Rock, they put the town on lockdown. There are a few possibilities, some related to the miners' camp and some related to the corporate types trying to run Rockton without Casey and Eric (which is going poorly). Lockdown isn't easy for some to follow the rules. One woman seems to be going out early every morning to have her own space. But when bodies turn up, some shot and some eaten by a bear, it is more urgent to keep people out of the forest on their own.
The husband has been found dead and they search for the wife to keep her safe. Are the miners after women to abduct for sex? Is it people from Rockton trying to take Eric or Casey? Haven's Rock feels unsafe until they can ferret out the answers to the situations and murders. Thankfully, Eric and Casey have the resources and ability to find solutions and protect their home.
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I love this Rockton series, now Haven's Rock series which is a spin-off as well as a direct continuation of the previous series. I personally would start with the previous series because of the background and character development but also because it is amazing! Haven's Rock is a new town with Casey and Eric along with a few others as the owners, making a fresh start and hopefully better situation than Rockton.
Casey provides our point of view for everything. Her compassion and intelligence, plus her skills from her police work give her a solid perspective of things. She and Eric are out enjoying a hike on their day off with Rory, when they meet a couple who say they are out hiking. The husband has hurt his ankle. Being in a remote area, Casey finds it hard to believe any hikers are out this far without a nefarious reason. Eric and Rory go back and Casey helps wrap his ankle.
Once she gets back to Haven's Rock, they put the town on lockdown. There are a few possibilities, some related to the miners' camp and some related to the corporate types trying to run Rockton without Casey and Eric (which is going poorly). Lockdown isn't easy for some to follow the rules. One woman seems to be going out early every morning to have her own space. But when bodies turn up, some shot and some eaten by a bear, it is more urgent to keep people out of the forest on their own.
The husband has been found dead and they search for the wife to keep her safe. Are the miners after women to abduct for sex? Is it people from Rockton trying to take Eric or Casey? Haven's Rock feels unsafe until they can ferret out the answers to the situations and murders. Thankfully, Eric and Casey have the resources and ability to find solutions and protect their home.
February 24, 2026
Eric and Casey have their hands full keeping their secret town and their brand-new daughter safe from murderous people and bears.
There was a lot of fairly mundane investigation, asking questions, formulating theories, examining scant evidence. Every once in a while, some new crucial piece would pop up to lead our intrepid detectives in a new direction. And every bit uncovered helped to build the full picture.
All of this together made for a nail-biting mystery that was gripping and fascinating. There were twists and turns revealing some startling surprises, interspersed with everyday life in Haven's Rock. And you just knew that everything would get resolved because of Eric and Casey's quiet confidence, and the steady and meticulous way they approached every situation.
I can highly recommend this series if you like a thriller set in a remote location. The author describes the environment and life in Haven's Rock in exquisite detail and the characters are interesting and well-developed. I think it's best to read the books in order, as day-to-day life and character development happen from one book to the next. In fact, it might be even better to start with the Rockton series to get to know Casey and Eric better.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This review is also on Hooked By That Book.
There was a lot of fairly mundane investigation, asking questions, formulating theories, examining scant evidence. Every once in a while, some new crucial piece would pop up to lead our intrepid detectives in a new direction. And every bit uncovered helped to build the full picture.
All of this together made for a nail-biting mystery that was gripping and fascinating. There were twists and turns revealing some startling surprises, interspersed with everyday life in Haven's Rock. And you just knew that everything would get resolved because of Eric and Casey's quiet confidence, and the steady and meticulous way they approached every situation.
I can highly recommend this series if you like a thriller set in a remote location. The author describes the environment and life in Haven's Rock in exquisite detail and the characters are interesting and well-developed. I think it's best to read the books in order, as day-to-day life and character development happen from one book to the next. In fact, it might be even better to start with the Rockton series to get to know Casey and Eric better.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This review is also on Hooked By That Book.
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