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Veronica Lee Thriller #3
Her Winter of Darkness
A Cold-Hearted Killer Sets a Twisted TrapReporter Veronica Lee investigates the story behind a ruthless human trafficking ring after a captive woman’s desperate plea for help sets her on a dangerous quest to unmask a remorseless serial predator.
After the missing woman’s battered body is dumped in downtown Willow Bay, a federal marshal arrives with a terrifying warning for the small town's chief of a convicted murderer has resurfaced after decades on the run, and the fugitive has a disturbing connection to Veronica Lee’s troubled family history.
When another woman is abducted, Veronica knows that to save an innocent life, she must find the strength to enter the frozen darkness of the killer’s lair.
After the missing woman’s battered body is dumped in downtown Willow Bay, a federal marshal arrives with a terrifying warning for the small town's chief of a convicted murderer has resurfaced after decades on the run, and the fugitive has a disturbing connection to Veronica Lee’s troubled family history.
When another woman is abducted, Veronica knows that to save an innocent life, she must find the strength to enter the frozen darkness of the killer’s lair.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 7, 2020
363 people are currently reading
89 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
September 23, 2020
4.5 STARS
Investigative reporter, Veronica Lee, is working a series of articles concerning a human trafficking ring that reportedly has found a home in Willow Bay.
A woman posted on the 'comments' area on one of Veronica' articles online. She says she and another girl, Skylar are being held captive and she's trying to escape. Once read, Veronica sets out to find her identity... and how to find where she's being kept.
A few days later a woman's body is found sitting on a park bench .. she's no longer breathing...and it's the woman who contacted Veronica. But where is the other girl?
Than another woman is abducted. Veronica is even more motivated to stop the trafficking in her town ... but at what cost?
Although third in this series, it is easily read as a stand alone. The author has included some characters from her Mercy Harbor series. As with her other books, this is well written with deftly drawn character. It's an intricate plot with twists and turns that lead to a surprising conclusion.
Many thanks to the author / Booksirens for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Investigative reporter, Veronica Lee, is working a series of articles concerning a human trafficking ring that reportedly has found a home in Willow Bay.
A woman posted on the 'comments' area on one of Veronica' articles online. She says she and another girl, Skylar are being held captive and she's trying to escape. Once read, Veronica sets out to find her identity... and how to find where she's being kept.
A few days later a woman's body is found sitting on a park bench .. she's no longer breathing...and it's the woman who contacted Veronica. But where is the other girl?
Than another woman is abducted. Veronica is even more motivated to stop the trafficking in her town ... but at what cost?
Although third in this series, it is easily read as a stand alone. The author has included some characters from her Mercy Harbor series. As with her other books, this is well written with deftly drawn character. It's an intricate plot with twists and turns that lead to a surprising conclusion.
Many thanks to the author / Booksirens for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
November 9, 2020
Her Winter of Darkness by Melinda Woodhall
This is the 3rd book in the series and can be read as a stand alone but really you should read the others as this is a good series! Lots of action and well executed, held my attention to the end, the author does it again, I received a copy in exchange for leaving my opinion. I will be looking forward to more from Ms. Woodhall!
This is the 3rd book in the series and can be read as a stand alone but really you should read the others as this is a good series! Lots of action and well executed, held my attention to the end, the author does it again, I received a copy in exchange for leaving my opinion. I will be looking forward to more from Ms. Woodhall!
September 20, 2020
A Veronica Lee thriller
Book #3
Reading Melinda Woodhall’s thrillers are exciting and such a page turner very hard to put down. This latest continues the adventure that first started with the Mercy Harbor series and morphed into an even more thrilling read with the Veronica Lee series. I am a huge fan of hers and I am happy to be notified when one of her new book comes out. Seize the opportunity to read “Her Winter of Darkness”, the story gives us everything a thriller has to offer. No worries this third book can easily be read as a standalone but by now you know it would be far more enjoyable to read a series in sequence.
In this latest, reporter Veronica Lee investigates the story behind a human trafficking ring after receiving desperate plea for help was posted on her web site from a captive woman. The cry for help sets in motion a quest that brings out not only the hunted: the remorseless predator but also the hunters: federal marshal and small town police. But more importantly the chase opens a whole slew of questions: why as Ling Lee been hiding for decades? What is Diablo real identity? Will the authorities find the women before it is too late? How much corruption is there in the police? , will the devious mayor ever be disgraced?...I can go on and on...The answers are slowly revealed but in meantime what a thrill, so suspenseful I couldn’t help but rapidly flipping the pages I wanted so much to know the outcome. Reading this book I had a wide range of emotions: human trafficking, captivity, mental torture, murder will bring out deep feelings in everyone.
This drama covers a lot. It is a very well developed storyline. Smoothly said and packed with excellent characters...I simply love this book and I am looking forward to read more from Ms. Woodhall.
I received a free digital copy of this crime fiction. This is a voluntarily review, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Book #3
Reading Melinda Woodhall’s thrillers are exciting and such a page turner very hard to put down. This latest continues the adventure that first started with the Mercy Harbor series and morphed into an even more thrilling read with the Veronica Lee series. I am a huge fan of hers and I am happy to be notified when one of her new book comes out. Seize the opportunity to read “Her Winter of Darkness”, the story gives us everything a thriller has to offer. No worries this third book can easily be read as a standalone but by now you know it would be far more enjoyable to read a series in sequence.
In this latest, reporter Veronica Lee investigates the story behind a human trafficking ring after receiving desperate plea for help was posted on her web site from a captive woman. The cry for help sets in motion a quest that brings out not only the hunted: the remorseless predator but also the hunters: federal marshal and small town police. But more importantly the chase opens a whole slew of questions: why as Ling Lee been hiding for decades? What is Diablo real identity? Will the authorities find the women before it is too late? How much corruption is there in the police? , will the devious mayor ever be disgraced?...I can go on and on...The answers are slowly revealed but in meantime what a thrill, so suspenseful I couldn’t help but rapidly flipping the pages I wanted so much to know the outcome. Reading this book I had a wide range of emotions: human trafficking, captivity, mental torture, murder will bring out deep feelings in everyone.
This drama covers a lot. It is a very well developed storyline. Smoothly said and packed with excellent characters...I simply love this book and I am looking forward to read more from Ms. Woodhall.
I received a free digital copy of this crime fiction. This is a voluntarily review, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
October 3, 2020
Willow Bay, Florida, is definitely a place to avoid if you are of a nervous disposition!
Veronica Lee is a successful reporter focusing on a human trafficking story while her mother runs in the local elections to become mayor. Contacted by a young woman after her story airs Veronica is horrified to discover she has been murdered and left in Willow Bay.
As the FBI sets up a local joint task force and a federal marshall arrives searching for an escaped convicted serial killer police chief Nessa ... finds her small police force stretched to the max. With the situation in danger of running out of control Veronica finds herself thrust into the centre of everything both professionally and personally.
The third part of Melinda Woodhall's excellent Veronica Lee series is another fast paced, thought provoking, and exciting read. All the much loved characters are there along with some very interesting new additions.
As expected there are numerous twists and turns along the way as well as red herrings galore which only add to the experience. The various threads are all tied off and reading this book it is an all round satisfying pleasure.
I received a review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I also purchased my own copy and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys this author's work or very good thriller writing.
Veronica Lee is a successful reporter focusing on a human trafficking story while her mother runs in the local elections to become mayor. Contacted by a young woman after her story airs Veronica is horrified to discover she has been murdered and left in Willow Bay.
As the FBI sets up a local joint task force and a federal marshall arrives searching for an escaped convicted serial killer police chief Nessa ... finds her small police force stretched to the max. With the situation in danger of running out of control Veronica finds herself thrust into the centre of everything both professionally and personally.
The third part of Melinda Woodhall's excellent Veronica Lee series is another fast paced, thought provoking, and exciting read. All the much loved characters are there along with some very interesting new additions.
As expected there are numerous twists and turns along the way as well as red herrings galore which only add to the experience. The various threads are all tied off and reading this book it is an all round satisfying pleasure.
I received a review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I also purchased my own copy and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys this author's work or very good thriller writing.
October 5, 2020
Reporter Veronica Lee is working on a series of articles about human trafficking. She is contacted by a girl called Astrid who states that she and another girl called Skylar are being held captive. A few days later Astrid is found dead on a park bench in Veronica’s hometown. This will lead to an exciting mystery of two men who will do each others murders. This is part of a series and it may take you awhile to get used to familiar characters. This story kept at a great pace from the start and you will be excited to find out the unveiling of both the Professor and the trafficking leader known as Diablo.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 23, 2020
Reading the blurb, I had a hunch I'm going to love this book. I'm glad to say I wasn't mistaken. It was such an engaging read. I'll definitely read more of this author's work.
I received an ARC of the book via Book Sirens.
I received an ARC of the book via Book Sirens.
January 5, 2024
Another exciting read from Melinda Woodhall. Veronica Lee has always had questions regarding her family's past but never dreamed that the answers would come the way they do. What a thrilling story this was. Melinda Woodhall is excellent at these police procedural thrillers. The writing is clean and clear and so enjoyable to dissolve into. Can't wait to move on to the next in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 13, 2021
This series just keeps getting better and better with each book! This one started out with a bang and never lost momentum! So much pain, suffering and personal discovery. Was impossible to put down with so many twists and turns.
October 11, 2020
Thank you to BookSirens and the author for this ARC.
I quickly read the 2nd book in this trilogy before picking this one up. The first book I read by this author was the 2nd book in her other series and I didn't want to make the same mistake even though they would all work as a stand alone.
I simply love this authors writing style as it seems the words just flow. The warm fuzzy feelings along with some strong heart pounding moments made this last book hard to put down.
If you haven't read this author yet trust me when I say you won't be disappointed.
I quickly read the 2nd book in this trilogy before picking this one up. The first book I read by this author was the 2nd book in her other series and I didn't want to make the same mistake even though they would all work as a stand alone.
I simply love this authors writing style as it seems the words just flow. The warm fuzzy feelings along with some strong heart pounding moments made this last book hard to put down.
If you haven't read this author yet trust me when I say you won't be disappointed.
October 2, 2020
Her Winter of Darkness
Melinda Woodhall
**“Think only of the past as its remembrance gives you pleasure.”
She wished she could force her mind to follow that advice. If only she could stop herself from thinking of the things she’d seen and heard. Remembering her past gave her no pleasure, only pain.**
It's the third book in a series and can be read as a standalone. The writing style is perfect for any reader and for any genre reader if you want to start a mystery for the first time then this series is your cup of tea!! I loved this book because I love mysteries and this is no exception it wasn't predictable, the characters were each given a backstory and it was written from a multiple pov which I loved so much because I love getting to know the minds of the villians best and that's what I loved about it 💙
Review:
So as I told before this is the third book in the series and it didn't feel like it because the author gives the backstory of each character to make it feel like a first book and it was written so well I couldn't help falling in love with it 💙
Veronica Lee is the main character according to me but the author was sure to give importance to each and every character without it being an information overload.
Veronica is the reporter at Channel Ten and she specialises in trafficking reports her mother is running for mayor and the city supports her because of the rumour that there's a human trafficking organization in Willow Bay.
Hunter, Neesa, Tenley, Donnovan, and other characters were great characters and each character had their own quirks 💙
And the way she describes the criminals POV was intriguing so I loved it because who loves a boring villian 😂
Overall it was a 🍁🍁🍁🍁🍂/5 (4.5/5)
Thank you @booksiren for giving me the opportunity to do an ARC Review 💙
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Melinda Woodhall
**“Think only of the past as its remembrance gives you pleasure.”
She wished she could force her mind to follow that advice. If only she could stop herself from thinking of the things she’d seen and heard. Remembering her past gave her no pleasure, only pain.**
It's the third book in a series and can be read as a standalone. The writing style is perfect for any reader and for any genre reader if you want to start a mystery for the first time then this series is your cup of tea!! I loved this book because I love mysteries and this is no exception it wasn't predictable, the characters were each given a backstory and it was written from a multiple pov which I loved so much because I love getting to know the minds of the villians best and that's what I loved about it 💙
Review:
So as I told before this is the third book in the series and it didn't feel like it because the author gives the backstory of each character to make it feel like a first book and it was written so well I couldn't help falling in love with it 💙
Veronica Lee is the main character according to me but the author was sure to give importance to each and every character without it being an information overload.
Veronica is the reporter at Channel Ten and she specialises in trafficking reports her mother is running for mayor and the city supports her because of the rumour that there's a human trafficking organization in Willow Bay.
Hunter, Neesa, Tenley, Donnovan, and other characters were great characters and each character had their own quirks 💙
And the way she describes the criminals POV was intriguing so I loved it because who loves a boring villian 😂
Overall it was a 🍁🍁🍁🍁🍂/5 (4.5/5)
Thank you @booksiren for giving me the opportunity to do an ARC Review 💙
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 28, 2020
Once again we have the issue of a terrific story spoiled by poor execution. I know that some people are not bothered by typos, but for me, not only does it pull me out of the story and stop the flow, but it gives the appearance of an author who doesn't care enough about their work to be sure it's the best it can be. I don't expect any manuscript to be perfect, but when there are over 25 errors in one book, it makes me wonder if the author did any type of editing at all. And it's not like these errors require an English major or a professional editor to catch. They are simple things such as a missing word or an extraneous word. Several times it appears Ms. Woodhall's mind was working faster than her fingers could type and so things got left out. Very simple errors to catch, but a major improvement on what it is now.
Once again Ms. Woodhall has crafted a great mystery with plenty of red herrings (her favorite plot device. And since she does it so well, I'm not complaining.) I was hoping this book was going to break the formula of the first two books because we know who the "bad guy" is right from the beginning. However, Ms. Woodhall reverts to the "hiding in plain sight" when it comes to one of the killer's associates. One thing I do appreciate about these books, while they are romantic suspense there are no gratuitous or graphic sex scenes, proving they are not necessary to have a good romance.
I hope that Ms. Woodhall continues this series. I enjoyed the characters and the stories and would enjoy seeing them developed further
I received a review copy from BookSirens and this is my honest opinion. I would like to thank them and the author for the opportunity to read this book.
Once again Ms. Woodhall has crafted a great mystery with plenty of red herrings (her favorite plot device. And since she does it so well, I'm not complaining.) I was hoping this book was going to break the formula of the first two books because we know who the "bad guy" is right from the beginning. However, Ms. Woodhall reverts to the "hiding in plain sight" when it comes to one of the killer's associates. One thing I do appreciate about these books, while they are romantic suspense there are no gratuitous or graphic sex scenes, proving they are not necessary to have a good romance.
I hope that Ms. Woodhall continues this series. I enjoyed the characters and the stories and would enjoy seeing them developed further
I received a review copy from BookSirens and this is my honest opinion. I would like to thank them and the author for the opportunity to read this book.
April 5, 2021
Published: September 8, 2020
Creative Magnolia
I received a copy of this book for free, and I leave my review voluntarily.
Melinda Woodhall is the author of the new Veronica Lee Thriller series, as well as the page-turning Mercy Harbor Thriller series. In addition to writing romantic thrillers and police procedurals, Melinda also writes women’s contemporary fiction as M.M. Arvin.
“The death penalty is his only punishment for a woman who betrays him.”
We are back with Veronica as she navigates her new relationship and blossoming career. Her mother is running for mayor, and as always, secrets are lurking around every corner.
The cast of characters we’ve met previously are back, and there is a new case waiting to be solved. And, of course, Veronica finds herself in the middle of the chaos. This book focuses a lot on Nessa, which was nice.
I love the female characters in these books. They are such strong, smart, savvy women. And it is so lovely seeing women supporting women. We got to know Tenley more in this book as well. And there is more to her story than we realized.
There were several twists and shocking plot points throughout this book, and they were so well done. The build-up was fantastic, and the drama was subtle enough to be believable. The way the story unfolds slowly sucks you in until you can’t put the book down.
This was another novel filled with secrets and exploitation, and our cast of bad-ass individuals must once again come together to stop a human trafficking ring taking place right in their own backyard.
I am enjoying this series. It is so well written. The characters are so well developed, and you get a strong sense that they are very loved by Melinda. I cannot wait to dive into the next book!
Creative Magnolia
I received a copy of this book for free, and I leave my review voluntarily.
Melinda Woodhall is the author of the new Veronica Lee Thriller series, as well as the page-turning Mercy Harbor Thriller series. In addition to writing romantic thrillers and police procedurals, Melinda also writes women’s contemporary fiction as M.M. Arvin.
“The death penalty is his only punishment for a woman who betrays him.”
We are back with Veronica as she navigates her new relationship and blossoming career. Her mother is running for mayor, and as always, secrets are lurking around every corner.
The cast of characters we’ve met previously are back, and there is a new case waiting to be solved. And, of course, Veronica finds herself in the middle of the chaos. This book focuses a lot on Nessa, which was nice.
I love the female characters in these books. They are such strong, smart, savvy women. And it is so lovely seeing women supporting women. We got to know Tenley more in this book as well. And there is more to her story than we realized.
There were several twists and shocking plot points throughout this book, and they were so well done. The build-up was fantastic, and the drama was subtle enough to be believable. The way the story unfolds slowly sucks you in until you can’t put the book down.
This was another novel filled with secrets and exploitation, and our cast of bad-ass individuals must once again come together to stop a human trafficking ring taking place right in their own backyard.
I am enjoying this series. It is so well written. The characters are so well developed, and you get a strong sense that they are very loved by Melinda. I cannot wait to dive into the next book!
March 20, 2021
In Book #2 Her Final Fall, we discovered that Principal Lisa Li and her daughter Veronica were hiding from her father as he was a bad man. In Book #3 Her Winter of Darkness, the story starts with Astrid a girl who has been kidnapped by someone named "The Professor". One morning, the Professor is set off by something he reads online and Astrid manages to escape and write a comment on the news site and report written by Veronica Lee. The article talks about human trafficking. The book then jumps to Willow Bay and we meet a young girl Ruby who has managed to escape from someone who we learn is called "Diablo". Diablo is the king of drug running, gun running, etc. When Diablo heads to Willow Bay to find Ruby, he gets in contact on the dark web with "The Professor". The Professor wants to get revenge on Lisa Li - his wife who got away and took his daughter Veronica. As the story goes on, we learn about Lisa Li and her past life and why she ran away and moved to Willow Bay. What will happen though when Veronica Lee ends up being kidnapped along with Tenley Frost? We also discover the secret identity of Tenley's baby daddy in Her Winter of Darkness. I have to say I love the character of Frankie Dawson and I hope that Melinda Woodhall will write a spin-off with him as the main character as he has such a big heart. I have enjoyed reading both Melinda Woodhall's series Mercy Harbor and Veronica Lee and I look forward to seeing what she is going to bring next to the table.
September 26, 2024
I love to read series. You get to know characters, places, and interactions better. This author excels at writing series. This one in particular has lots of characters, and because of the number of books, you get to know each one very well. We have a mayor, journalists, tv station employees, FBI, police, DA, plus all the bad people that keep our characters employed.
This book is about sex trafficking. A man going by “Professor” abducts young women mostly from college campuses for his own and other’s pleasure. If they manage to escape, he kills them without a second thought and finds another to take her place. He has been doing this for decades, and has never been caught. One day, one of his prisoners escapes from the “safe “room in the basement and manages to send a message off to Veronica, a reporter that is doing a series on drug and sex trafficking.
Once Veronica and her team are involved, other abductions occur, and things spiral out of control in the little town of Willow Bay. But somehow, Veronica and her mom, attract the attention of the Professor, and the race is on to take him down. Why is he focused on them? Why are they connected. This book is a thrilling page turner that you don’t want to stop reading, but don’t want to read to quickly because the ending fast approaches. Highly recommend this author, and this series in particular. Thanks to BookSirens for a copy of this book.
This book is about sex trafficking. A man going by “Professor” abducts young women mostly from college campuses for his own and other’s pleasure. If they manage to escape, he kills them without a second thought and finds another to take her place. He has been doing this for decades, and has never been caught. One day, one of his prisoners escapes from the “safe “room in the basement and manages to send a message off to Veronica, a reporter that is doing a series on drug and sex trafficking.
Once Veronica and her team are involved, other abductions occur, and things spiral out of control in the little town of Willow Bay. But somehow, Veronica and her mom, attract the attention of the Professor, and the race is on to take him down. Why is he focused on them? Why are they connected. This book is a thrilling page turner that you don’t want to stop reading, but don’t want to read to quickly because the ending fast approaches. Highly recommend this author, and this series in particular. Thanks to BookSirens for a copy of this book.
November 4, 2020
Wow! What a book! This book was very hard to put down. I had to keep reading so I could find out who the bad guys were and what was going to happen next. I seriously don’t want to give anything away because you need to read this book yourself and have some time to absorb everything that went down in this book. Its a-lot to process and I’m just a reader. I couldn’t imagine being Skylar, Veronica, Tenley or even Ling Lee. The twists and revelations in this book were surprising and some things were easy to figure out. The story was well written and wasn’t as drawn out as the last book. Its probably the best book in the series. I’m not sure if this is the last book in the series or not, but fingers crossed there will be another book. I secretly hope there will be an update on Eden, Leo, the kids, and Duke. Every time I read the name Reggie, I think of Eden and wonder how she is doing with being a semi-newlywed and character crossovers are a favorite of mine. This book ended with some things up in the air and I’m hoping the next book will tie things up with another thrilling story for the people of Willow Bay. This book can be read as a stand alone, but I recommend you reading the other books in the series first.
I received an ARC copy of this book and I am voluntarily sharing my thoughts on it.
I received an ARC copy of this book and I am voluntarily sharing my thoughts on it.
September 18, 2020
Oh what a tangled, gripping web Melinda Woodhall has woven into her third book in the Veronica Lee series. This is a standalone book, more enjoyable if read in sequence but the author does introduce the fascinating characters from the previous books.
Why was the frozen body of a young student from Montana discovered sitting bolt upright on a bench in Willow Bay ?
What was happening to necessitate the cooperation of the FBI and the Marshal Service ?
Who was the professor, who was Diablo and what was their connection to Willow Bay ?
As the body count mounts it becomes evident that the murderer was know to the residents of Willow Bay.
Following a disturbing message on her chat line, Channel 10 journalist and frontwoman Veronica Lee was determined to investigate but her life and the life of her mother were in danger.
This story has everything, kidnapping, incarceration, corruption in the police department, a devious mayor, human trafficking, illegal narcotics and breaking of witness protection. It has nail biting suspense, clues and red herrings, plenty of unexpected surprises and gentle romance, this is a real page turner that I couldn't put down.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Why was the frozen body of a young student from Montana discovered sitting bolt upright on a bench in Willow Bay ?
What was happening to necessitate the cooperation of the FBI and the Marshal Service ?
Who was the professor, who was Diablo and what was their connection to Willow Bay ?
As the body count mounts it becomes evident that the murderer was know to the residents of Willow Bay.
Following a disturbing message on her chat line, Channel 10 journalist and frontwoman Veronica Lee was determined to investigate but her life and the life of her mother were in danger.
This story has everything, kidnapping, incarceration, corruption in the police department, a devious mayor, human trafficking, illegal narcotics and breaking of witness protection. It has nail biting suspense, clues and red herrings, plenty of unexpected surprises and gentle romance, this is a real page turner that I couldn't put down.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 18, 2021
This book is a real page turner. It is the third book in a series about investigative reporter Veronica Lee, but it works fine as a standalone. The action begins from the first chapter, where there are two girls held captive in an isolated house in the wilds of Montana by their captor known only as "The Professor". One of the girls attempts to escape and leaves a message on the site used by Veronica Lee, who is looking into a spate of human trafficking in the Florida area. The action moves to Florida, where a local underworld figure known as "Diablo" is running drugs, guns and girls in the Willow Bay area. Different crime agencies become involved: the local PD, the US Marshalls and the Feds, which can be a little confusing. The pace is relentless and builds to a thrilling climax. The characters are well drawn and the story takes on many twists and turns. I would definitely read more books by this author. A couple of minor criticisms: I found the title difficult to remember and for me, there was too much epilogue but some readers may like that. 4.5 stars, rounded up to 5. I received an ARC of the book via Book Sirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 30, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Wow! With every book I just fall more in love with Melinda Woodhall's work. Her stories have a good amount of suspense along with some light romance. Even though the series is labeled as Veronica Lee Thrillers it feels like several of the characters are main characters and they are all lovable in their own ways. The characters are multilayered with complex relationships with each other and the stories pretty much run the full spectrum of emotions. I love getting to see the stories from multiple points of view and getting to know the characters thoughts and feelings throughout. I will say I was mildly surprised by who Diablo was. I had expected it was someone close to him but did not think he would have been smart enough to be the big boss himself. I am glad things turned out the way they did though. I was also happy during the closing chapters to see several things I had been hoping for and that had been hinted at earlier in the book were confirmed. A very satisfying end to a great story. This is only my 3rd book by Melinda Woodhall but she is quickly becoming one of my all time favorite authors.
January 23, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
To sum this up in three words - WOW... wow... WOW!
Melinda Woodhall pulled out all the stops in this book. The previous books in the Mercy Harbor and Veronica Lee series have been slow burn as she builds her story and then a roller coaster edge of your seat ride to the thrilling conclusion. This book however, started with a bang and didn't stop.
This has to be my favourite out of both her series, really outdid herself. At a point I thought I knew who Diablo was, and I was so wrong, but it made so much sense when he was revealed.
The little touches here and there of budding romances were so sweetly incorporated into this book that they actually added to my enjoyment, instead of frustrating me... they actually belonged.
The characters, as always - likeable and well developed. Great plot with many unexpected twists and turns.
Highly recommended!
To sum this up in three words - WOW... wow... WOW!
Melinda Woodhall pulled out all the stops in this book. The previous books in the Mercy Harbor and Veronica Lee series have been slow burn as she builds her story and then a roller coaster edge of your seat ride to the thrilling conclusion. This book however, started with a bang and didn't stop.
This has to be my favourite out of both her series, really outdid herself. At a point I thought I knew who Diablo was, and I was so wrong, but it made so much sense when he was revealed.
The little touches here and there of budding romances were so sweetly incorporated into this book that they actually added to my enjoyment, instead of frustrating me... they actually belonged.
The characters, as always - likeable and well developed. Great plot with many unexpected twists and turns.
Highly recommended!
January 26, 2022
In book 3 of Melinda Woodhall's "Veronica Lee" series, we continue with reporter Veronica's seemingly endless adventures in Willow Bay some six months after we left her in "Her Final Fall". I have to admit I am getting addicted to this series - the characters and story flow well between each instalment, and while they can be read independently, there is a definite benefit from reading the series in order. In "Her Winter of Darkness", Veronica is contacted over the internet by a girl who is being held captive, after she sees Veronica's investigation into an illegal human trafficking ring operating in the area. A fantastic story evolves which keeps you hooked right to the final page, further entwining many of the characters which we had originally met previously in this series. I can't wait to find out what happens in the next instalment in this series.
Many thanks to BookSirens for a complimentary copy of this book for my voluntary review.
Many thanks to BookSirens for a complimentary copy of this book for my voluntary review.
September 26, 2020
Reporter Veronica Lee is investigating a people trafficking ring that is really too close to home. She has been left a desperate plea for help, but has no way of finding them. Add to that her mother’s running for mayor and a startling revelation and you’ve got a really breath taking, fast paced thriller.
I really enjoy this authors writing, and the Veronica Lee series gets better with each book, as you get to know the characters in more detail. I’ve read the previous books, again thoroughly enjoyed, but you can still dip in and out of this series. There are enough realistic characters to keep your interest all the way to the end. It covers topics that aren’t always easy to read about but unfortunately really do happen in real life all too often. I look forward to reading the next instalment.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really enjoy this authors writing, and the Veronica Lee series gets better with each book, as you get to know the characters in more detail. I’ve read the previous books, again thoroughly enjoyed, but you can still dip in and out of this series. There are enough realistic characters to keep your interest all the way to the end. It covers topics that aren’t always easy to read about but unfortunately really do happen in real life all too often. I look forward to reading the next instalment.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 25, 2021
As Veronica Lee is reporting about trafficking a girl comments on her post seeking help. She and Skylar are being held by the Professor.
Ruby has been arrested for shoplifting. She's trying to convince the police that she ran away from Diablo who deals in drugs and girls. The police don't believe her. She is taken to Hope House to detox and counseling.
As the story unfolds Ling Li's true identity is revealed putting her and her daughter in danger. U S Marshall and the small town police are working diligently together to unravel the identity of the Professor and Diablo before more killings and young college girls are taken.
A thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Thank you Booksirens and the author for a digital copy. Read and reviewed voluntarily and the opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own
Ruby has been arrested for shoplifting. She's trying to convince the police that she ran away from Diablo who deals in drugs and girls. The police don't believe her. She is taken to Hope House to detox and counseling.
As the story unfolds Ling Li's true identity is revealed putting her and her daughter in danger. U S Marshall and the small town police are working diligently together to unravel the identity of the Professor and Diablo before more killings and young college girls are taken.
A thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Thank you Booksirens and the author for a digital copy. Read and reviewed voluntarily and the opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own
Read
December 24, 2021This is by far my favorite book from this author… so far. From the first chapter when the new characters were introduced all the way to the very end, I was captivated and couldn't wait to return to my e-reader. The story itself tells of a trafficking ring, but more specifically of innocent victims who were taken by some very evil characters. The identity of these real 'bad asses' was hidden until close to the end of the story, yet there were hints along the way that only a real good sleuth could detect (present company excluded). I love how the characters are developed from book to book and how their lives are revealed just a tad more every time. It does make me wonder what the next in the series will uncover.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 24, 2021
This is the third book in this series and it's another great read. A captive manages to contact Veronica about being help captive with another woman. Shortly afterwards, a dead body of a woman is found on a bench in Willow Bay. It turns out to be Astrid, the woman who had contacted Veronica.
Add to ths an ongoing FBI task force investigation and Willow Bay has it's hands full.
This is another terrific story. It just flows and you feel so invested in the characters of Veronica, Hadley, Nessa, Frankie and now Peyton, that you just want to keep reading. I can't wait to get my hands on the next one in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Add to ths an ongoing FBI task force investigation and Willow Bay has it's hands full.
This is another terrific story. It just flows and you feel so invested in the characters of Veronica, Hadley, Nessa, Frankie and now Peyton, that you just want to keep reading. I can't wait to get my hands on the next one in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 23, 2021
Her Winter of Darkness is Book 3 in the Veronica Lee Thriller by Melinda Woodhall. This thriller tackles a serious subject, human trafficking. The “Professor” abducted Astrid Peterson and has held her in an underground bunker for 2 years. When the Professor leaves the door unlocked, Astrid is able to escape the bunker and send a web message to Veronica Lee. Police Chief Nessa joins a FBI task force on human trafficking. Melinda Woodhall writes fast paced thrillers with wonderful characters. There are many layers to this story. Her Winter of Darkness has abduction, murder, drugs, a Mayoral race, and an unknown sibling appears. So much excitement. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
September 21, 2020
Excellent continuation of the Veronica Lee series. The characters are multifaceted and the storyline filled with plenty of suspense. A page turner right from the beginning this is a mystery that is hard to put down and ends before the reader is ready for it to be finished.
As the mayoral race heats up, Ling Lees past surfaces putting her and daughter Veronica in danger. At the same time Veronica is trying to find out the truth about Diablo a legend in the town of Willow Bay but can't determine if he is a myth or a real life villain. As bodies pile up the past and present collide.
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
As the mayoral race heats up, Ling Lees past surfaces putting her and daughter Veronica in danger. At the same time Veronica is trying to find out the truth about Diablo a legend in the town of Willow Bay but can't determine if he is a myth or a real life villain. As bodies pile up the past and present collide.
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
October 5, 2020
This is the 3rd book in the series and whilst it can be read on its own, is best read as part of the Mercy Harbour and Veronica Lee series to understand the character arcs and long term back ground story lines that thread throughout the series. This was a good story in its own right, but for fans of the series we were given good conclusions on some outstanding storylines. If you enjoy a good suspense and crime fiction then give this series a go.
I voluntarily reviewed a free digital copy and all opinions are unbiased and my own. Thank you to the Author, Publisher and BookSirens for the copy of the ARC.
I voluntarily reviewed a free digital copy and all opinions are unbiased and my own. Thank you to the Author, Publisher and BookSirens for the copy of the ARC.
October 22, 2020
Her Winter of Darkness has Veronica Lee and her mother Ling Lee coming to terms with Veronica's father. Decades of secrets are revealed with Ling Lee runs for Mayor of Willow Bay which puts them both in grave danger. There is also a corrupt police officer on the force which hinders the investigation, along with a news reporter who thinks she has the story that will shoot her into national stardom. The FBI has arrived, there are lots of things going on in this book that will keep you reading well into the night. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 25, 2020
Another great book from this author. It is the third in a series and while it could be read as a stand alone, it is much better when you know the full background for all the characters. It's back to small town Willow Bay with more 'hold on to your seat' page turning events. The cover gives a good description of the book so I won't bore you with details. It will hold your interest and keep you turning pages. I was fortunate to be provided and Advanced Reader Copy and was under no obligation to write a review. The opinions expressed are my own. Many thanks to the author, publisher and Book Sirens for allowing me to read this book.
November 4, 2020
Although this is the third book in the series, it may be read as a standalone however as always you get more from it knowing the back ground and I do feel that this was the best one in the series. We get murders, drugs, people trafficking and the main character Veronica finally finds out why her mother has evaded her questions in regards to her who her father was. It had a good pace and plenty to keep you turning the pages. I really enjoyed reading it and would recommend it along with the other books of Melinda's.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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