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Pike, Wisconsin #1
Don't Look
IF YOU'RE ON HIS LIST
A woman's naked body is discovered, cold and pale as the surrounding snow--except for the crimson scarf around her neck. The weeks that follow bring more victims and evidence of a terrifying pattern. The killer has a list. And every woman on it will get what she deserves . . .
YOU'RE AS GOOD
Dr. Lynne Gale followed in her father's footsteps to become a vet in Pike, Wisconsin. For years, she's had little contact with Kir Jansen, son of the town's late sheriff. Suddenly he's back, insisting that Lynne's in danger. She can't believe anyone would target her, but someone is hunting the women of Pike, savoring every last moment.
AS DEAD
Kir hoped that his father's frantic calls about a serial killer were just an old man's delusions. But the body count doesn't lie. In this quiet town, a monster stalks and kills. And soon, Lynne's will be the last name on his list . . .
A woman's naked body is discovered, cold and pale as the surrounding snow--except for the crimson scarf around her neck. The weeks that follow bring more victims and evidence of a terrifying pattern. The killer has a list. And every woman on it will get what she deserves . . .
YOU'RE AS GOOD
Dr. Lynne Gale followed in her father's footsteps to become a vet in Pike, Wisconsin. For years, she's had little contact with Kir Jansen, son of the town's late sheriff. Suddenly he's back, insisting that Lynne's in danger. She can't believe anyone would target her, but someone is hunting the women of Pike, savoring every last moment.
AS DEAD
Kir hoped that his father's frantic calls about a serial killer were just an old man's delusions. But the body count doesn't lie. In this quiet town, a monster stalks and kills. And soon, Lynne's will be the last name on his list . . .
393 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 1, 2020
353 people are currently reading
7625 people want to read
About the author
Alexandra Ivy
139 books5,151 followersI'm not exactly sure when I fell in love with books. Probably on my mother's knee listening to her read Dr. Seuss to me. I do remember that I was barely old enough to cross the street by myself when I discovered the delights of the local library. Could anything be more wonderful than spending summer days surrounded by stacks of Nancy Drew mysteries? Over the years I fell in love with Victoria Holt, Jane Austen, Agatha Christie, and J.R.R. Tolkien just to name a few. I read poetry, essays, biographies, and plays. In fact, I read anything I could get my hands on.
Years later (no, I'm not admitting how many) I'm still an avid reader, and my tastes are still as varied as they were in my youth, which I suppose helps to explain why I enjoy writing regency historicals under the name of Deborah Raleigh, as well as my contemporary paranormals as Alexandra Ivy. For now that is enough to keep me busy, but who knows what the future might hold!
I do have a few other loves in my life besides reading and writing, the most important being my unbelievably patient husband, David, and my two sons, Chance and Alexander. Without their constant support and belief in me, I never could have been able to follow my dreams. They are truly my heroes.
--From authors website--
Years later (no, I'm not admitting how many) I'm still an avid reader, and my tastes are still as varied as they were in my youth, which I suppose helps to explain why I enjoy writing regency historicals under the name of Deborah Raleigh, as well as my contemporary paranormals as Alexandra Ivy. For now that is enough to keep me busy, but who knows what the future might hold!
I do have a few other loves in my life besides reading and writing, the most important being my unbelievably patient husband, David, and my two sons, Chance and Alexander. Without their constant support and belief in me, I never could have been able to follow my dreams. They are truly my heroes.
--From authors website--
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 282 reviews
September 9, 2021
Don’t Look by Alexandra Ivy
1st book in the Pike, Wisconsin series. Contemporary romantic suspense.
A serial killer is threatening Pike, WI and has provided a list of who will be next.
Crimson blood in the snow is the tag line of the killer. A vivid picture. Kir believes he has the list of impending victims but he will do what he can to save Lynne.
Suspense driven story that racks up the bodies while the current sheriff leaves most of the investigation to Kir and Lynne.
Tense and gripping.
🎧 The audiobook is narrated by Jim Frangione. I enjoyed the performance and believe he did a good job with voice variations and keeping the suspense tight.
1st book in the Pike, Wisconsin series. Contemporary romantic suspense.
A serial killer is threatening Pike, WI and has provided a list of who will be next.
Crimson blood in the snow is the tag line of the killer. A vivid picture. Kir believes he has the list of impending victims but he will do what he can to save Lynne.
Suspense driven story that racks up the bodies while the current sheriff leaves most of the investigation to Kir and Lynne.
Tense and gripping.
🎧 The audiobook is narrated by Jim Frangione. I enjoyed the performance and believe he did a good job with voice variations and keeping the suspense tight.
August 22, 2021
Don’t Look by Alexandra Ivy is the first book in the romantic suspense Pike, Wisconsin series. The city of Pike, Wisconsin is the common theme of this series with the main characters changing from book to book. With the characters changing in each book in this series they can be read as a standalone or in any order if choosing to do so.
Kir Jansen has just returned to Pike, Wisconsin to bury his father who was the sheriff of the small town. While Kir is back in the small town a body is discovered and Kir begins to suspect that his father may have been right and their town is being targeted by a serial killer. When it’s found that this killer is following a list for his victims Kir tracks down Dr. Lynne Gale who is on the list. Kir and Lynne has known each other in high school and he vows now that he will protect her from the killer.
Alexandra Ivy is not a new author to me, I’ve actually read several of her many books and have enjoyed them. I liked that Don’t Look opened up this series with the romance being a second chance for a couple that had known each other so it was easy to believe they fell into step with one another so easily. And do not think this was all hearts and flowers as the suspense side of the story certainly gave me a sadistic serial killer to track down right along with the characters. This first book was definitely engaging so while it’s not exactly an exotic locale I’ll definitely head back to Pike, WI for book two.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Kir Jansen has just returned to Pike, Wisconsin to bury his father who was the sheriff of the small town. While Kir is back in the small town a body is discovered and Kir begins to suspect that his father may have been right and their town is being targeted by a serial killer. When it’s found that this killer is following a list for his victims Kir tracks down Dr. Lynne Gale who is on the list. Kir and Lynne has known each other in high school and he vows now that he will protect her from the killer.
Alexandra Ivy is not a new author to me, I’ve actually read several of her many books and have enjoyed them. I liked that Don’t Look opened up this series with the romance being a second chance for a couple that had known each other so it was easy to believe they fell into step with one another so easily. And do not think this was all hearts and flowers as the suspense side of the story certainly gave me a sadistic serial killer to track down right along with the characters. This first book was definitely engaging so while it’s not exactly an exotic locale I’ll definitely head back to Pike, WI for book two.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
October 30, 2020
This is an interesting story with nice characters.
I liked the whole idea. Small town, serial killer, red ribbons around victims' necks, letters written to ex-sheriff. It all created quite a remarkable atmosphere. Though I would rather have the cops solve the mystery, or for example Sheriff Kathy Hancock and Nash Cordon. They would make such a fascinating couple!
Not that I didn't like Lynne and Kir as the main characters. They are fine and make a cute couple. There is no doubt that there is an attraction between them. But I feel like the whole serial killer case is a little too serious for two total amateurs, and their investigation is a little too professional. That's why I felt some dialogues are too forced. People are too willing to answer Lynne and Kir's questions and to give them too much information that you don't usually tell strangers.
But otherwise the story is fine. There are several suspects and any of them could be a murderer. Suspicions are appropriately distributed between the various characters. And the stakes are high, especially since the murderer acts quickly and brutally. There are also some interesting supporting characters, such as the above-mentioned Nash and the sheriff.
Even though I didn't like everything, I generally enjoyed the story. I may read another book in this series.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I liked the whole idea. Small town, serial killer, red ribbons around victims' necks, letters written to ex-sheriff. It all created quite a remarkable atmosphere. Though I would rather have the cops solve the mystery, or for example Sheriff Kathy Hancock and Nash Cordon. They would make such a fascinating couple!
Not that I didn't like Lynne and Kir as the main characters. They are fine and make a cute couple. There is no doubt that there is an attraction between them. But I feel like the whole serial killer case is a little too serious for two total amateurs, and their investigation is a little too professional. That's why I felt some dialogues are too forced. People are too willing to answer Lynne and Kir's questions and to give them too much information that you don't usually tell strangers.
But otherwise the story is fine. There are several suspects and any of them could be a murderer. Suspicions are appropriately distributed between the various characters. And the stakes are high, especially since the murderer acts quickly and brutally. There are also some interesting supporting characters, such as the above-mentioned Nash and the sheriff.
Even though I didn't like everything, I generally enjoyed the story. I may read another book in this series.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 11, 2021
"You were always restless."
"If I keep moving, the demons can't find me."
This was overall okay.
I don't have much to say because, while it was likeable enough to keep reading till the end, it was also particularly unremarkable.
The writing was nice (although I found some descriptions to have veiled fat-phobic undertones) and I appreciated that there was a killer pov, but both the characters and the romance were easily forgettable.
I also predicted the big killer reveal by a long shot. Not because I put the pieces together, but because their presence was somehow heavily highlighted.
I guess I'll give this author another try, because after all I didn't mind this book, but for now I think 3 stars will have to do.
_
It's ARC time!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this in exchange for an honest review. I know I'm late to the party, but better late than never, I guess? XD
Want to read
September 3, 2020Yay!! Just received an arc!! lets join the party bloodbath!!!
June 15, 2024
This is another one for my 2024 reading goal of “cleaning out the closet”. This one has been on my to-read list since Oct2020. The book summary pretty much just introduces the primary storyline: a serial killer is operating in Pike, WI, a small, rural town in WI where nothing ever happens – until now!
There is Kir, son of the recently deceased former Sheriff, who is back in town for his father’s funeral. The relationship between Kir and his father had been strained for several years. Many years ago, when Kir was a teenager, Kir’s father was shot in the head by a drug dealer, and while it didn’t kill him, it left him disabled. He had to retire, he became a drunk, his wife and Kir’s mother left him, and he was pretty much drinking himself to death, when a fall down a flight of stairs killed him. There is also Lynn the local veterinarian, pet rescuer and dog mommy to King, a 120lb mastiff. Lynn tends to prefer furry companions to human ones and even owns and operates an animal sanctuary on a large farm outside of town that she inherited from her grandparents. I like Lynn; she’s good people in my book.
Kir runs into Lynn at his father’s funeral, where the pastor gives Kir a strange message from his father: a list of abbreviations of people that his father believed will be soon killed by a serial killer. It’s not long before Kir’s father’s message starts to come true. Kir tells Lynn that her initials are on the list and he becomes concerned for her safety. Kir also informs the Sheriff of the message as well as the fact that his father’s safe had been broken into and his father’s gun is missing. The Sheriff, who was a deputy for Kir’s father when he was Sheriff, dismisses Kir’s concerns and basically brushes him off. The Sheriff, Kathy, is an arrogant, obnoxious, idiot who is so full of herself as well as resentful that she is not as respected by the town as Kir’s father was. She also dismisses all the of the letters that Kir’s father showed her that he had been receiving from the killer about who and when he would start killing. None of this is a spoiler since it all happened in the first 20% of the story.
The story flips back and forth between Kir, Lynn and the killer and the victims. From the moment that one particular character was introduced, I became suspicious of them. I added another character to my suspect list but never gave them much more thought and pretty much stuck with my initial suspect throughout the story. The dead bodies pile up and the victims initial all match up with the list that Kir’s father had compiled. Well into the second half, the killer finally gets to Lynn’s initials and the end comes pretty quick after that in a flurry of activity and some really intense and scary scenes for Lynn and Kir.
This was an ok read, a solid 3star read. Not the type of police procedural/crime thrillers that I typically read, but I enjoyed it enough to finish it. I tend to be kind of fussy about the genres that I enjoy reading. When I’m reading a crime thriller or suspense story, I prefer the story to focus mostly on the crime and investigation storyline without muddling it up with romance. When I’m looking for a break from all the murder and mayhem I typically read, and feel like reading a romance, I tend to prefer romantasy, especially the ones heavy on urban-fantasy and paranormal. Personally, those are some of the sexiest and steamiest stories ever!
This series debut installment did an ok job on the characterization for a couple of the characters. The pace was ok and the storyline interesting enough to finish. The writing was ok, and I really enjoyed the ending. As for the killer? I was right – sort of. While it wasn’t the one that I had pegged from the get-go and all throughout the story, it was my second guess that I just kind of threw in there for the heck of it. I have seriously read way too many of these kinds of stories. I need to take a break and read some other genre. For those that are concerned about the “Romantic Suspense” label, the soft R rated romantic tones and scenes were more often corny and comical than sexy or steamy. Suffice it to say, they provided some chuckles! Kind of like those corny Lifetime romantic suspense movies. Unfortunately, this series is going to be a one and done for me.
There is Kir, son of the recently deceased former Sheriff, who is back in town for his father’s funeral. The relationship between Kir and his father had been strained for several years. Many years ago, when Kir was a teenager, Kir’s father was shot in the head by a drug dealer, and while it didn’t kill him, it left him disabled. He had to retire, he became a drunk, his wife and Kir’s mother left him, and he was pretty much drinking himself to death, when a fall down a flight of stairs killed him. There is also Lynn the local veterinarian, pet rescuer and dog mommy to King, a 120lb mastiff. Lynn tends to prefer furry companions to human ones and even owns and operates an animal sanctuary on a large farm outside of town that she inherited from her grandparents. I like Lynn; she’s good people in my book.
Kir runs into Lynn at his father’s funeral, where the pastor gives Kir a strange message from his father: a list of abbreviations of people that his father believed will be soon killed by a serial killer. It’s not long before Kir’s father’s message starts to come true. Kir tells Lynn that her initials are on the list and he becomes concerned for her safety. Kir also informs the Sheriff of the message as well as the fact that his father’s safe had been broken into and his father’s gun is missing. The Sheriff, who was a deputy for Kir’s father when he was Sheriff, dismisses Kir’s concerns and basically brushes him off. The Sheriff, Kathy, is an arrogant, obnoxious, idiot who is so full of herself as well as resentful that she is not as respected by the town as Kir’s father was. She also dismisses all the of the letters that Kir’s father showed her that he had been receiving from the killer about who and when he would start killing. None of this is a spoiler since it all happened in the first 20% of the story.
The story flips back and forth between Kir, Lynn and the killer and the victims. From the moment that one particular character was introduced, I became suspicious of them. I added another character to my suspect list but never gave them much more thought and pretty much stuck with my initial suspect throughout the story. The dead bodies pile up and the victims initial all match up with the list that Kir’s father had compiled. Well into the second half, the killer finally gets to Lynn’s initials and the end comes pretty quick after that in a flurry of activity and some really intense and scary scenes for Lynn and Kir.
This was an ok read, a solid 3star read. Not the type of police procedural/crime thrillers that I typically read, but I enjoyed it enough to finish it. I tend to be kind of fussy about the genres that I enjoy reading. When I’m reading a crime thriller or suspense story, I prefer the story to focus mostly on the crime and investigation storyline without muddling it up with romance. When I’m looking for a break from all the murder and mayhem I typically read, and feel like reading a romance, I tend to prefer romantasy, especially the ones heavy on urban-fantasy and paranormal. Personally, those are some of the sexiest and steamiest stories ever!
This series debut installment did an ok job on the characterization for a couple of the characters. The pace was ok and the storyline interesting enough to finish. The writing was ok, and I really enjoyed the ending. As for the killer? I was right – sort of. While it wasn’t the one that I had pegged from the get-go and all throughout the story, it was my second guess that I just kind of threw in there for the heck of it. I have seriously read way too many of these kinds of stories. I need to take a break and read some other genre. For those that are concerned about the “Romantic Suspense” label, the soft R rated romantic tones and scenes were more often corny and comical than sexy or steamy. Suffice it to say, they provided some chuckles! Kind of like those corny Lifetime romantic suspense movies. Unfortunately, this series is going to be a one and done for me.
September 3, 2020
4 mysterious stars.
This is not normally a book style I would read (in the fact that it was very light romance), but it caught my eye because it is based in a small town in Wisconsin and I'm from a small town in Wisconsin. So I was so excited to get the ARC and I really enjoy the entire process from start to finish. Maybe it was because it reminded me of home (minus the serial killer).
Like I said, this is not my normal style read that I'm drawn too. I love alphas, and some serious romance in my books. Though lately my book funk has had me all over the place, and drawn to more mysteries/thrillers (but still with a strong romance side to it). And in this end while this book was not much of a romance this book worked well for my mood.
First let me start off by saying... I am a smut junkie, as long as it is trashy it doesn't have to actually be good for me to love, it just has to entertain me - which basically means most of my reviews are pure garbage and definitely mood driven.
Anyway, back to this book. This was a good mystery book, with a trace amount of romance (actually I should say trace sexy time, cuz there was lovey-dovey in it).
Also this was a "clean" book in the sense that there is not one single swear word in it.
NOT A SINGLE CUSS WORD WAS IN THIS BOOK!! It was also clean in the aspect that the one "love" scene was not explicit at all (which again is normally not my style).
At this point you are probably wondering how I ended up giving this a 4 star rating.
I started this book yesterday late afternoon and could only get to 55% before I went to bed (knowing there was no way I was finishing so I would not stay up until 4 am and not finish the damn book). I didn't even realize how enthralled I was with this book until I woke up. Why you ask? BECAUSE I DREAMED ABOUT THIS BOOK ALL NIGHT!! Not just a quick dream, I woke up at least 5 times after dreaming about the first half, trying to figure out who the damn killer was. To top it off, I thought I knew who the killer was..... GUYS!!!
Now part of that could be the constant interruptions from my damn kids. But I didn't catch the few teasers in there, until it was revealed. That never happens. I always figure it out, well unless they throw in some damn random person who wasn't even in the f'ing book.
In all this was a solid mystery read, with good hero and heroine. There was good chemistry and build between then. The writing was solid and there weren't any real gaps. If you are looking for something light in the sexy time and cussing, or just a good mystery book to give you something to figure out I would definitely recommend this book.
ARC kindly provided by NetGallery and Kensington Books in exchange for an honest review.
#DontLook #Netgallery
This is not normally a book style I would read (in the fact that it was very light romance), but it caught my eye because it is based in a small town in Wisconsin and I'm from a small town in Wisconsin. So I was so excited to get the ARC and I really enjoy the entire process from start to finish. Maybe it was because it reminded me of home (minus the serial killer).
Like I said, this is not my normal style read that I'm drawn too. I love alphas, and some serious romance in my books. Though lately my book funk has had me all over the place, and drawn to more mysteries/thrillers (but still with a strong romance side to it). And in this end while this book was not much of a romance this book worked well for my mood.
First let me start off by saying... I am a smut junkie, as long as it is trashy it doesn't have to actually be good for me to love, it just has to entertain me - which basically means most of my reviews are pure garbage and definitely mood driven.
Anyway, back to this book. This was a good mystery book, with a trace amount of romance (actually I should say trace sexy time, cuz there was lovey-dovey in it).
Also this was a "clean" book in the sense that there is not one single swear word in it.
NOT A SINGLE CUSS WORD WAS IN THIS BOOK!! It was also clean in the aspect that the one "love" scene was not explicit at all (which again is normally not my style).
At this point you are probably wondering how I ended up giving this a 4 star rating.
I started this book yesterday late afternoon and could only get to 55% before I went to bed (knowing there was no way I was finishing so I would not stay up until 4 am and not finish the damn book). I didn't even realize how enthralled I was with this book until I woke up. Why you ask? BECAUSE I DREAMED ABOUT THIS BOOK ALL NIGHT!! Not just a quick dream, I woke up at least 5 times after dreaming about the first half, trying to figure out who the damn killer was. To top it off, I thought I knew who the killer was..... GUYS!!!
Now part of that could be the constant interruptions from my damn kids. But I didn't catch the few teasers in there, until it was revealed. That never happens. I always figure it out, well unless they throw in some damn random person who wasn't even in the f'ing book.
In all this was a solid mystery read, with good hero and heroine. There was good chemistry and build between then. The writing was solid and there weren't any real gaps. If you are looking for something light in the sexy time and cussing, or just a good mystery book to give you something to figure out I would definitely recommend this book.
ARC kindly provided by NetGallery and Kensington Books in exchange for an honest review.
#DontLook #Netgallery
December 11, 2020
Don't Look was a suspenseful read with an intriguing plot and an enjoyable romance.
After a woman's body is discovered in an empty field, victims of a serial killer quickly begin to pile up in Pike, Wisconsin. Each victim wronged the killer in some way and found their way onto their list of potential victims. Kir Jansen, son of the former sheriff, thought his father's ravings about a serial killer were delusions of an old man, but as more and more people turn up dead it's clear that's not the case. And when Kir discovers Dr. Lynne Gale is the last name on the list, he's determined to keep her safe from a madman.
The use of the list by the killer was an intriguing concept that added a nice layer of tension to the plot. Throughout the book there are chapters that are letters the killer has written to Kir's father and it was interesting getting into the killer's head to see the motivation behind what they were doing. The author does a great job disguising the identity of the killer and I was surprised by who it ended up being as I didn't suspect them at all. The killings in the book happen closer together as the book goes on showing clear escalation from the killer which upped the pacing in the book leading to a suspenseful, action-packed finale. I liked how everything was wrapped up and ultimately I found the suspense plot line to be well done.
Lynne and Kir each had a crush on the other in high school that they never acted on. Upon meeting again, their attraction is instantaneous and they had great chemistry. Their romance does move fairly quickly which is typical for romantic suspense books, so that didn't bother me. The two communicate well, the steamy scenes are well done, and overall I was happy with their romance. I will say the one area I had a few issues with was their investigation to find the killer. Neither of the two have law enforcement experience and yet they're able to quickly uncover leads while getting people to answer their questions with very little prompting. Ultimately I think I would have liked it better if the two had to work a bit harder for the information they found or if one of them had a background that would make their ease of finding information more plausible.
Overall Don't Look was a great read and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series, Faceless, when it releases next year.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
After a woman's body is discovered in an empty field, victims of a serial killer quickly begin to pile up in Pike, Wisconsin. Each victim wronged the killer in some way and found their way onto their list of potential victims. Kir Jansen, son of the former sheriff, thought his father's ravings about a serial killer were delusions of an old man, but as more and more people turn up dead it's clear that's not the case. And when Kir discovers Dr. Lynne Gale is the last name on the list, he's determined to keep her safe from a madman.
The use of the list by the killer was an intriguing concept that added a nice layer of tension to the plot. Throughout the book there are chapters that are letters the killer has written to Kir's father and it was interesting getting into the killer's head to see the motivation behind what they were doing. The author does a great job disguising the identity of the killer and I was surprised by who it ended up being as I didn't suspect them at all. The killings in the book happen closer together as the book goes on showing clear escalation from the killer which upped the pacing in the book leading to a suspenseful, action-packed finale. I liked how everything was wrapped up and ultimately I found the suspense plot line to be well done.
Lynne and Kir each had a crush on the other in high school that they never acted on. Upon meeting again, their attraction is instantaneous and they had great chemistry. Their romance does move fairly quickly which is typical for romantic suspense books, so that didn't bother me. The two communicate well, the steamy scenes are well done, and overall I was happy with their romance. I will say the one area I had a few issues with was their investigation to find the killer. Neither of the two have law enforcement experience and yet they're able to quickly uncover leads while getting people to answer their questions with very little prompting. Ultimately I think I would have liked it better if the two had to work a bit harder for the information they found or if one of them had a background that would make their ease of finding information more plausible.
Overall Don't Look was a great read and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series, Faceless, when it releases next year.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
March 13, 2021
Interesting. I'm not a huge fan of romantic suspense. Don't know why. I like romance and I like thrillers but I'm not a fan of the genre mesh. It had really good pacing and the ending was satisfying. So I liked it but it wasn't great. It was fun but forgettable so 3 stars for me.
December 6, 2020
Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an fair and honest review.
I'm afraid that this book suffered by comparison to another book I'm listening to at the same time. It just so happens that they share a similar plot and snowy location. It was hard for me to keep the plots separate and I've got to say "Don't Look" came off as the weaker book. The romance in an Alexandra Ivy book is not what you would call barn-burning passionate, at least in the books I've read, and this one is no different. The plot was interesting, but not a seat of your pants suspense by any means. The best part was that you had little or no clue who the baddie was till the end.
Kir Jansen in back in Pike, Wisconsin to bury his father, settle his affairs and return to his successful business in Boston as fast as possible. Until . . . he sees Lynne Gale again and a woman turns up nude and murdered, and it seems that Kir's father may not have been delusional about a murderer living in Pike after all. The list Rudolf Jansen left his son is just initials and makes no sense, until the bodies start turning up.
When Dr. Lynne Gale sees Kir at his father's funeral, she has an instant attraction. But the vet has a full life, has just ended a relationship and isn't looking for another. When she is targeted by the killer, she is thankful that the attraction is mutual. Together, Kir and Lynne are determined to stop the killer before he makes Lynne his victim too. 3 1/2-Stars
I'm afraid that this book suffered by comparison to another book I'm listening to at the same time. It just so happens that they share a similar plot and snowy location. It was hard for me to keep the plots separate and I've got to say "Don't Look" came off as the weaker book. The romance in an Alexandra Ivy book is not what you would call barn-burning passionate, at least in the books I've read, and this one is no different. The plot was interesting, but not a seat of your pants suspense by any means. The best part was that you had little or no clue who the baddie was till the end.
Kir Jansen in back in Pike, Wisconsin to bury his father, settle his affairs and return to his successful business in Boston as fast as possible. Until . . . he sees Lynne Gale again and a woman turns up nude and murdered, and it seems that Kir's father may not have been delusional about a murderer living in Pike after all. The list Rudolf Jansen left his son is just initials and makes no sense, until the bodies start turning up.
When Dr. Lynne Gale sees Kir at his father's funeral, she has an instant attraction. But the vet has a full life, has just ended a relationship and isn't looking for another. When she is targeted by the killer, she is thankful that the attraction is mutual. Together, Kir and Lynne are determined to stop the killer before he makes Lynne his victim too. 3 1/2-Stars
February 2, 2023
Don't Look
4 Stars
***An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
Kir Jansen returns home to Pike, Wisconsin for his father's funeral. Son of the town's former sheriff, Kir always ignored his father's drunken ramblings about a serial killer sending him letters until the body count starts to rise. The local police are out of their depths, so Kir and local vet, Lynne Gale, join forces to unmask a murderer.
An exciting mystery and a solid romance although the chemistry between the leads is rather lackluster.
While Kir and Lynne are appealing as individuals, and their reasons for becoming involved in the investigation are believable considering the circumstances, their relationship is lacking. Readers are presented with the facts of their attraction, but the reality of it isn't sufficiently tangible.
The serial killer plot is much more compelling. The details of the victims and their murders are well-written without any unnecessarily gruesome detail, and the letters written from the killer's POV add to the tension. It is possible to follow the clues to sort through the numerous red-herrings, and figuring out the villain's identity and motivation is all part of the fun.
Small towns are quite common settings in this type of book, but Pike is somewhat different. Rather than being quaint with quirky locals, the atmosphere is more sad and depressing,. The residents are trying to cope with the realities of a failing economy and the disappointments in their lives, which contributes to the believability.
Overall, a well-written and entertaining read recommended for lovers of a good romance with their mystery.
4 Stars
***An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
Kir Jansen returns home to Pike, Wisconsin for his father's funeral. Son of the town's former sheriff, Kir always ignored his father's drunken ramblings about a serial killer sending him letters until the body count starts to rise. The local police are out of their depths, so Kir and local vet, Lynne Gale, join forces to unmask a murderer.
An exciting mystery and a solid romance although the chemistry between the leads is rather lackluster.
While Kir and Lynne are appealing as individuals, and their reasons for becoming involved in the investigation are believable considering the circumstances, their relationship is lacking. Readers are presented with the facts of their attraction, but the reality of it isn't sufficiently tangible.
The serial killer plot is much more compelling. The details of the victims and their murders are well-written without any unnecessarily gruesome detail, and the letters written from the killer's POV add to the tension. It is possible to follow the clues to sort through the numerous red-herrings, and figuring out the villain's identity and motivation is all part of the fun.
Small towns are quite common settings in this type of book, but Pike is somewhat different. Rather than being quaint with quirky locals, the atmosphere is more sad and depressing,. The residents are trying to cope with the realities of a failing economy and the disappointments in their lives, which contributes to the believability.
Overall, a well-written and entertaining read recommended for lovers of a good romance with their mystery.
September 24, 2020
Don’t Look is the first book in the Pike, Wisconsin series. Actually first book that I’ve read by Alexandra Ivy. The mystery was good and it did have me guessing until the end. A few parts were a little slow, but it picks up and you won’t put it down until your done.
*ARC provided by NetGalley for and honest review.
*ARC provided by NetGalley for and honest review.
February 16, 2024
I received book five in the series as an ARC and I wanted to go back to the start of the Pike, Wisconsin series. Now I decided to do a reread and I can still attest to the fact that it isn't Ms Ivy's worst but not her best either. Harsh but true.
Overall romantic suspense can be a hit or miss for me and slowly after realising the second time the book was really good at the beginning I wondered why my review was so meh. And then I suddenly remembered. If you have no law enforcement background, special-ops etc then why go on the hunt for a serial killer. It makes no sense.
After years of ignoring the rants and ravings of a drunk father Kir Jansen returns for his father's funeral only to realise his father was more lucid than everyone thought. Kir is given a list of initials by the local pastor to solve a mystery only there are also murders to solve as well.
Kir reconnects with the local vet Lynne Gale and soon realises she is a target as well. They become closer and have a solid bond. I found their chemistry not really that believable. There were times where I wanted to stop reading and give it two stars. I guessed who it was so that doesn't help either.
I'm going to give book 2 a go.
Overall romantic suspense can be a hit or miss for me and slowly after realising the second time the book was really good at the beginning I wondered why my review was so meh. And then I suddenly remembered. If you have no law enforcement background, special-ops etc then why go on the hunt for a serial killer. It makes no sense.
After years of ignoring the rants and ravings of a drunk father Kir Jansen returns for his father's funeral only to realise his father was more lucid than everyone thought. Kir is given a list of initials by the local pastor to solve a mystery only there are also murders to solve as well.
Kir reconnects with the local vet Lynne Gale and soon realises she is a target as well. They become closer and have a solid bond. I found their chemistry not really that believable. There were times where I wanted to stop reading and give it two stars. I guessed who it was so that doesn't help either.
I'm going to give book 2 a go.
December 7, 2020
A serial killer is on the prowl and there’s a list.
Who will be next????
It wasn’t until the end that I found out who the killer was.
A gripping, suspenseful story!
I really enjoyed reading Alexandra Ivy’s book “Don’t Look”. I have not read any books written by her and I hope to read more after finishing Don’t Look. The writing style was easy to follow and the build up mystery was quite intriguing. Definitely kept my interest to the point I read way too late into the night.
I loved the two main characters, Lynne and Kit. I enjoyed following their friendship to romance journey.
Thank you to NetGallery, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are completely my own.
Who will be next????
It wasn’t until the end that I found out who the killer was.
A gripping, suspenseful story!
I really enjoyed reading Alexandra Ivy’s book “Don’t Look”. I have not read any books written by her and I hope to read more after finishing Don’t Look. The writing style was easy to follow and the build up mystery was quite intriguing. Definitely kept my interest to the point I read way too late into the night.
I loved the two main characters, Lynne and Kit. I enjoyed following their friendship to romance journey.
Thank you to NetGallery, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are completely my own.
June 15, 2021
Quite frankly, I'm not sure how this book got such a high rating. There was a shit ton of grammatical errors, the characters were really dull, and the plot sucked. That's really all that I have to say and that I don't recommend this book to anyone.
January 18, 2022
I really struggled to connect and get invested in this book. Not sure if it was me or the book.
November 27, 2020
3.5 Stars
ARC provided by NetGalley for Honest Review
I’ve read Alexandra Ivy before and became a quick fan of her work. She writes a great romantic suspense and I was really looking forward to this book and some original ideas. Sadly it didn't completely wow me and kinda felt like every other Rom. Suspense out there. The story sped up quickly and even the relationship between the MC's went at warp speed. Living in the same town growing up, they knew of each other but did not actually know one other, so I was a bit taken aback by how quickly they grew closer and fell in love. The story-line however I really did enjoy. I think the idea of a serial killer writing letters to an old cop, one who they believed saved them and they have some type of allegiance to is fascinating. The death of Kir's father brings him back home but when mysterious murders begin occurring, Kir can't help but connect them to the letters his father has been receiving for years. He takes a personal stake in the case when it becomes clear Lynne, his love interest and local vet is believed to be the killers final kill. Kir takes on the amateur detective role especially when the local Sheriff is worse than useless. Assuming the series will continue on in the town but with who I have no idea.
ARC provided by NetGalley for an honest review, all thoughts and opinions are my own!
ARC provided by NetGalley for Honest Review
I’ve read Alexandra Ivy before and became a quick fan of her work. She writes a great romantic suspense and I was really looking forward to this book and some original ideas. Sadly it didn't completely wow me and kinda felt like every other Rom. Suspense out there. The story sped up quickly and even the relationship between the MC's went at warp speed. Living in the same town growing up, they knew of each other but did not actually know one other, so I was a bit taken aback by how quickly they grew closer and fell in love. The story-line however I really did enjoy. I think the idea of a serial killer writing letters to an old cop, one who they believed saved them and they have some type of allegiance to is fascinating. The death of Kir's father brings him back home but when mysterious murders begin occurring, Kir can't help but connect them to the letters his father has been receiving for years. He takes a personal stake in the case when it becomes clear Lynne, his love interest and local vet is believed to be the killers final kill. Kir takes on the amateur detective role especially when the local Sheriff is worse than useless. Assuming the series will continue on in the town but with who I have no idea.
ARC provided by NetGalley for an honest review, all thoughts and opinions are my own!
August 24, 2020
Rating: 5
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Pub Date:Dec 1 , 2020
Would I recommend it? Yes, in fact I've already started telling people about.
Would I read more of this series: Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes
First off I want to think Zebra- Kensington Books as well the author herself and NetGalley for letting me read and review it because with out them I would have never found a new series that I'm excited about like I am about this one. And I have to say that it was the cover that caught my eye when I saw it on NetGalley and then as soon as I saw who the author was I know right then and there that I was going to read it right right way and I'm so glad that I did because even though this is the second book I've read by the lovely Alexandra Ivy, the first one was You Will Suffer ( The Agency Series #3) I knew right then and there after reading just a few pages that I had found a go to author that would make me get lost in her books and I was so right about that which is what I needed right now. Just like You will Suffer i got lost in the story as well as felling for the characters themselves, other thing I loved was how you get to see though the eyes of the unknown killer himself or herself.As for the characters you can't help feeling for Lynne because she's smart, independent, witty and doesn't back away from none and of course her love for animals won me over as well, as for Kir has a possession of a great personality and comes off as someone who known's he made mistakes in the past and isn't afraid to admit it, as for the story its self its fast past and will have you hooked from the very every first page.
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Pub Date:Dec 1 , 2020
Would I recommend it? Yes, in fact I've already started telling people about.
Would I read more of this series: Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes
First off I want to think Zebra- Kensington Books as well the author herself and NetGalley for letting me read and review it because with out them I would have never found a new series that I'm excited about like I am about this one. And I have to say that it was the cover that caught my eye when I saw it on NetGalley and then as soon as I saw who the author was I know right then and there that I was going to read it right right way and I'm so glad that I did because even though this is the second book I've read by the lovely Alexandra Ivy, the first one was You Will Suffer ( The Agency Series #3) I knew right then and there after reading just a few pages that I had found a go to author that would make me get lost in her books and I was so right about that which is what I needed right now. Just like You will Suffer i got lost in the story as well as felling for the characters themselves, other thing I loved was how you get to see though the eyes of the unknown killer himself or herself.As for the characters you can't help feeling for Lynne because she's smart, independent, witty and doesn't back away from none and of course her love for animals won me over as well, as for Kir has a possession of a great personality and comes off as someone who known's he made mistakes in the past and isn't afraid to admit it, as for the story its self its fast past and will have you hooked from the very every first page.
August 12, 2023
Captivating enough to finish to figure out who the killer was, but the story line had too many holes. The main character Kir annoyed me sometimes. It was a quick read, and wasn’t able to predict the killer. Something just didn’t do it for me.
January 20, 2021
Lynne and Kir each had a crush on the other in high school that they never acted on. Upon meeting again, their attraction is instantaneous and they had great chemistry. Their romance does move fairly quickly which is typical for romantic suspense books, so that didn't bother me. The two communicate well and the steamy scenes are well done. Overall, most readers will be happy with their romance. I will say the one area I had a few issues with was their investigation to find the killer. Neither of them have any law enforcement experience but yet they're able to quickly uncover leads while getting people to answer their questions with very little prompting. I think I would have liked it better if they had had to work a bit harder for the information they found or if one of them had a background that would make their ease of finding information more plausible. I have to say that I found it to be a really good read and I'm looking forward to seeing what the next book in the series will bring.
Actual Rating 4.5 Stars
Actual Rating 4.5 Stars
November 30, 2020
Three and a half
I thoroughly enjoy this authors work whether suspense or paranormal and here she takes us to the town of Pike as Kir returns to bury his late father. Things were never exactly rosy in his family because following an accident his father hit the bottle hard but perhaps there's a lot more at stake then anyone realises !.
Lynne never doubted that she would take over from her father as the local vet and has recently broken up with her loser boyfriend. She is pleased to catch up with Kir and tries to help him as he pieces together the mystery surrounding letters his father used to receive. People start dying and whilst Kir never wanted to go into law enforcement like his father he is determined to get to the bottom of what's happening whether the sheriff wants him to or not !
Ok I enjoyed the mystery aspect here but honestly just didn't really get invested in the romance aspect here. Lynne is only apparently a few weeks out of a relationship and for me the couple whilst ok just didn't set the page on fire. Alas not my favourite by this author but nevertheless I will still keep reading her books.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
I thoroughly enjoy this authors work whether suspense or paranormal and here she takes us to the town of Pike as Kir returns to bury his late father. Things were never exactly rosy in his family because following an accident his father hit the bottle hard but perhaps there's a lot more at stake then anyone realises !.
Lynne never doubted that she would take over from her father as the local vet and has recently broken up with her loser boyfriend. She is pleased to catch up with Kir and tries to help him as he pieces together the mystery surrounding letters his father used to receive. People start dying and whilst Kir never wanted to go into law enforcement like his father he is determined to get to the bottom of what's happening whether the sheriff wants him to or not !
Ok I enjoyed the mystery aspect here but honestly just didn't really get invested in the romance aspect here. Lynne is only apparently a few weeks out of a relationship and for me the couple whilst ok just didn't set the page on fire. Alas not my favourite by this author but nevertheless I will still keep reading her books.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
July 9, 2021
This was a 3.5-3.75 so I rounded it up to 4 on here. It was a pretty good book. I liked the characters and storyline. It was my first by Alexandra Ivy, and it did leave me wanting to read more by her.
December 1, 2020
3.75 stars--DON’T LOOK is the first instalment in Alexandra Ivy’s contemporary, adult PIKE, WISCONSIN romantic, suspense, thriller series focusing on the people of Pike, Wisconsin.
Told from several third person perspectives DON’T LOOK follows businessman Kir Jansen, on his return to his hometown of Pike Wisconsin in the aftermath of his father’s death. As the former Sheriff, Rudolph Jansen was a well-respected man but a gun shot to the head left Rudolph a shadow of his former self leading to a life of heavy drinking. The possibility of serial killer in Pike Wisconsin had Rudolph struggling to get anyone to believe but a drunk with fantastic stories about threatening letters and motive, is still a drunk.
Kir Jansen knew about the mysterious letters his father received but it wasn’t until Kir returned to Pike Wisconsin did the killer begin to up his body count. Meeting local veterinarian and former school mate Dr. Lynne Gale stirred something deep within our story line hero but a list of potential victims included the woman with whom Kir would fall in love. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Kir and Lynne, as the couple begin an investigation of their own when local law enforcement failed to do what needed to be done.
DON’T LOOK is a story of betrayal and revenge; of desperation, murder, obsession and hate. Lynne and Kir began to piece together a list of possible motives, motives that would connect back a number of years. As the body count increases, our couple become suspect, as they followed the cues that the new sheriff ignored. The premise is intriguing; the romance is passionate; the $ex scenes are mostly implied; the characters are colorful, and energetic but saying that I struggled with the couple’s ability to gather information when law enforcement claimed they had no leads or ideas. The story line is edgy and dramatic but you will have to suspend reality as Kir and Lynne solve a cast that no one else was able
www.thereadingcafe.com
Told from several third person perspectives DON’T LOOK follows businessman Kir Jansen, on his return to his hometown of Pike Wisconsin in the aftermath of his father’s death. As the former Sheriff, Rudolph Jansen was a well-respected man but a gun shot to the head left Rudolph a shadow of his former self leading to a life of heavy drinking. The possibility of serial killer in Pike Wisconsin had Rudolph struggling to get anyone to believe but a drunk with fantastic stories about threatening letters and motive, is still a drunk.
Kir Jansen knew about the mysterious letters his father received but it wasn’t until Kir returned to Pike Wisconsin did the killer begin to up his body count. Meeting local veterinarian and former school mate Dr. Lynne Gale stirred something deep within our story line hero but a list of potential victims included the woman with whom Kir would fall in love. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Kir and Lynne, as the couple begin an investigation of their own when local law enforcement failed to do what needed to be done.
DON’T LOOK is a story of betrayal and revenge; of desperation, murder, obsession and hate. Lynne and Kir began to piece together a list of possible motives, motives that would connect back a number of years. As the body count increases, our couple become suspect, as they followed the cues that the new sheriff ignored. The premise is intriguing; the romance is passionate; the $ex scenes are mostly implied; the characters are colorful, and energetic but saying that I struggled with the couple’s ability to gather information when law enforcement claimed they had no leads or ideas. The story line is edgy and dramatic but you will have to suspend reality as Kir and Lynne solve a cast that no one else was able
www.thereadingcafe.com
July 20, 2021
Don't Look is book one in the Pike, Wisconsin series by Alexandra Ivy. Dr Lynne Gale, the VET of Pike, Wisconsin, was happening and content with her life. Until women started to die, and her Kir Jansen came back into her life. Kir Jansen father was the late sheriff of Pike, and he came back to investigate the allocation that his father highlighted to him about a serial killer in the community. The readers of Don't Look back will continue to follow Kir Jansen and Dr Lynne Gale to find out what happened.
I enjoy reading books by Alexandra Ivy, and "Don't Look" continue my love affair with Alexandra's books. I engage with "Don't Look" from the first page until the end. I love Alexandra Ivy portrayal of her characters and their interaction with each other throughout this book. "Don't Look" is well written and research by Alexandra Ivy. I like Alexandra Ivy description of the settings of "Don't Look", which allowed me to imagine being part of the book plot.
The readers of Don't Look back will learn about being a vet in rural communities of The USA. Also, the readers of Don't Look Back will learn about the problems encountered when running a rural animal shelter.
I recommend this book.
I enjoy reading books by Alexandra Ivy, and "Don't Look" continue my love affair with Alexandra's books. I engage with "Don't Look" from the first page until the end. I love Alexandra Ivy portrayal of her characters and their interaction with each other throughout this book. "Don't Look" is well written and research by Alexandra Ivy. I like Alexandra Ivy description of the settings of "Don't Look", which allowed me to imagine being part of the book plot.
The readers of Don't Look back will learn about being a vet in rural communities of The USA. Also, the readers of Don't Look Back will learn about the problems encountered when running a rural animal shelter.
I recommend this book.
December 1, 2020
Small Town Murder!!
Icy Pike Wisconsin has a serial killer.
Kir Jansen came home for his father’s funeral. He’s been gone for years.
Eyes aren’t the windows to the soul, funerals are. They reveal precisely how the deceased lived their lives, and how those who remain behind want them to be remembered.
Lynne is the town Vet. She is in danger when women in this small town are being murdered.
There was a vicious monster out there. Kir wasn’t going to sit around twiddling his thumbs while the killer came closer and closer to Lynne.
Action packed and fast paced. This story keeps you guessing until the end. Just when you think you know who the killer is your wrong. A slow burn love story.
He intended to enjoy the sensations that she stirred to glorious life. He hadn’t felt such a potent attraction since ...
Icy Pike Wisconsin has a serial killer.
Kir Jansen came home for his father’s funeral. He’s been gone for years.
Eyes aren’t the windows to the soul, funerals are. They reveal precisely how the deceased lived their lives, and how those who remain behind want them to be remembered.
Lynne is the town Vet. She is in danger when women in this small town are being murdered.
There was a vicious monster out there. Kir wasn’t going to sit around twiddling his thumbs while the killer came closer and closer to Lynne.
Action packed and fast paced. This story keeps you guessing until the end. Just when you think you know who the killer is your wrong. A slow burn love story.
He intended to enjoy the sensations that she stirred to glorious life. He hadn’t felt such a potent attraction since ...
November 18, 2020
Don't Look
I am a sucker for an independent intelligent woman who can stick up for herself. Dr. Gale is an interesting take on a murder mystery veterinarian. I also appreciated Kir's stories and couldn't help but be caught up in the chemistry the two spun.
Honestly, with no spoilers, I did not see that ending coming. While you could guess some characters eventual deaths, there were some that felt very doomed from the get-go. Yet, I also I dont have a problem with that because I managed to end up liking those characters also and feel anguished by the their end.
All in all, great thriller. I could not put this book down. It had me on the edge of my seat. It is a must read for any murder mystery fan that doesnt mind that touch of spicy romance.
9/10♡♡♡
I am a sucker for an independent intelligent woman who can stick up for herself. Dr. Gale is an interesting take on a murder mystery veterinarian. I also appreciated Kir's stories and couldn't help but be caught up in the chemistry the two spun.
Honestly, with no spoilers, I did not see that ending coming. While you could guess some characters eventual deaths, there were some that felt very doomed from the get-go. Yet, I also I dont have a problem with that because I managed to end up liking those characters also and feel anguished by the their end.
All in all, great thriller. I could not put this book down. It had me on the edge of my seat. It is a must read for any murder mystery fan that doesnt mind that touch of spicy romance.
9/10♡♡♡
September 1, 2020
I love these thrillers with love stories woven in to them. When Kir comes back to bury his father he has no idea what's in store for him or that he might just fall for the local vet.
But when a women is killed and the scene is set to the last words in the letters his father was receiving in the mail he knows that he has to finish what was started with his father.
Read this to find out who has been sending the letters and why. You'll guess everyone until each is killed and you move on to the next suspect.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
But when a women is killed and the scene is set to the last words in the letters his father was receiving in the mail he knows that he has to finish what was started with his father.
Read this to find out who has been sending the letters and why. You'll guess everyone until each is killed and you move on to the next suspect.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 4, 2020
Disclaimer: An eARC was provided via Publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The Thoughts, opinions & feelings expressed in the review are therefore, my own.
Alexandra Ivy delivers another solid mystery with a hint of romance between the Prodigal Son returned to town and the Vet who never left their home town.
When Kir Jansen is back into town for his father’s funeral - a man who was the beloved Sheriff, even though he had to retire due to an on the job shooting. Though he did also end up as the town drunkard after retirement, he was still loved and his successor had big shoes to fill.
What Kir doesn’t expect is that his father’s supposed drunken ramblings about a serial killer conversing with him through letters was actually the truth. When the next target is revealed as the town’s veterinarian- the lovely Dr. Lynn Gale; he knows that he can’t just leave.
Dr. Lynn Gale, on the other hand took over her father’s practice and is a life long resident of Pike. While she is focused on her practice, what she never expected was her kindness to Kir’s father would end up putting her on a serial killer’s radar.
This was a solid mystery with romance taking a back seat - the twists and turns had me intrigued but the romance is clean (by which I mean, that there no overt smexy scenes per say *sighs*) but it is definitely worth picking up because it gives a solid start to a small town romance - mystery series!
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January 2, 2021
Besides being a fan of this author. I also happen to live in Wisconsin so a book set in the rural area of this state had my attention. I don't know that there was anything typically "Wisconsin" about the book. But it is snowy and wooded and small town atmosphere. I could see it.
Suspense is not my favorite genre, but again, this author has won me over on her other series. This premise is about righting some wrongs and finishing what was started. Kir comes back home for his father's funeral only to find more mystery happening than what his dad had been going on about for years. Lynne is the town vet and also has a history with Kir. Together, they are pulled into the ongoing murders in this small town.
Kir and Lynne have the start of relationship but there isn't much emphasis on them as a couple so much as them as detectives. And that was fine with me. The weird part--- and I will defer to my suspension of disbelief in order to enjoy the book-- is why on earth these two are solving a serial murder case? I get the history with Kir's dad. But, really? Even in WI we have special investigators for this type of thing.
Whatever the reasoning, the author did leave me guessing through most of the book about who the murderer was and why. That's a win for me!
It does leave me guessing about the rest of the books in the series. How much more can happen in Pike, WI? I guess we will see what the author lays out for us next. Always great to see where her mind goes.
Suspense is not my favorite genre, but again, this author has won me over on her other series. This premise is about righting some wrongs and finishing what was started. Kir comes back home for his father's funeral only to find more mystery happening than what his dad had been going on about for years. Lynne is the town vet and also has a history with Kir. Together, they are pulled into the ongoing murders in this small town.
Kir and Lynne have the start of relationship but there isn't much emphasis on them as a couple so much as them as detectives. And that was fine with me. The weird part--- and I will defer to my suspension of disbelief in order to enjoy the book-- is why on earth these two are solving a serial murder case? I get the history with Kir's dad. But, really? Even in WI we have special investigators for this type of thing.
Whatever the reasoning, the author did leave me guessing through most of the book about who the murderer was and why. That's a win for me!
It does leave me guessing about the rest of the books in the series. How much more can happen in Pike, WI? I guess we will see what the author lays out for us next. Always great to see where her mind goes.
December 2, 2020
A well written suspense/romance. The H/h investigate the murders of several people in their small town. Lynne is the town Vet and Kir has come back home after the unexpected and sudden death of his father. He can't help but investigate after the first person is murdered. There are lots of twists and turns, mysterious letters written by the killer that disappear, a list of initials and many red herrings. When characters are murdered, the small chapter showing that is written from their POV; which was interesting. Otherwise, the main story is told in third person in alternate points of view of the H/h.
The back story was engaging and I needed to finish as quickly as possible to find out who the UNSUB was. I was still guessing at 85%, but I'm terrible at picking killers. As to the romance, I wasn't convinced, as it seemed fairly clinical and insta-love and also the author didn't really let you into the H/h's heads re their attraction to each other - it just happened - so it seemed to come from nowhere. This book was all about the murders though, so I didn't mind too much. If you are wanting a plot filled with erotic sex scenes, then this isn't it, although there are a couple of quick, steamy-ish scenes. There were lots of characters with small parts, but they were written into the story in a way that didn't make you feel overwhelmed or confused.
A good solid story for lovers of this genre. My thanks go to NetGalley and the publisher for the e-arc in return for my opinion.
The back story was engaging and I needed to finish as quickly as possible to find out who the UNSUB was. I was still guessing at 85%, but I'm terrible at picking killers. As to the romance, I wasn't convinced, as it seemed fairly clinical and insta-love and also the author didn't really let you into the H/h's heads re their attraction to each other - it just happened - so it seemed to come from nowhere. This book was all about the murders though, so I didn't mind too much. If you are wanting a plot filled with erotic sex scenes, then this isn't it, although there are a couple of quick, steamy-ish scenes. There were lots of characters with small parts, but they were written into the story in a way that didn't make you feel overwhelmed or confused.
A good solid story for lovers of this genre. My thanks go to NetGalley and the publisher for the e-arc in return for my opinion.
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