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Hope Ridge Mystery #1
Killer Fiction
A small-town murder mystery with big secrets.
When a phone rings in the middle of the night, it usually spells trouble.
For best-selling author, Caroline Carter this is no exception.
Before Caroline’s cell jolts her awake, her biggest issue is her current bout of writer’s block. From the second she answers the call in her California home, everything unravels.
Her half-sister, Kaitlin has been brutally murdered and the police only have one suspect, her brother, Jamie.
It forces Caroline to go back to a place she loathes, her home town, Hope Ridge.
Hope Ridge, Pennsylvania is a small town where nothing ever happens. Everyone knows your name—and your business. In Hope Ridge, everyone knows the reason why Caroline has been running away for over twenty years.
Her past is complicated. Her family is complicated . . . and her family secrets could be deadly.
PUBLISHER NOTE: A Small-Town Murder Mystery containing adult language, violence, and sexual themes. 78,000 words.
When a phone rings in the middle of the night, it usually spells trouble.
For best-selling author, Caroline Carter this is no exception.
Before Caroline’s cell jolts her awake, her biggest issue is her current bout of writer’s block. From the second she answers the call in her California home, everything unravels.
Her half-sister, Kaitlin has been brutally murdered and the police only have one suspect, her brother, Jamie.
It forces Caroline to go back to a place she loathes, her home town, Hope Ridge.
Hope Ridge, Pennsylvania is a small town where nothing ever happens. Everyone knows your name—and your business. In Hope Ridge, everyone knows the reason why Caroline has been running away for over twenty years.
Her past is complicated. Her family is complicated . . . and her family secrets could be deadly.
PUBLISHER NOTE: A Small-Town Murder Mystery containing adult language, violence, and sexual themes. 78,000 words.
293 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 3, 2021
36 people are currently reading
347 people want to read
About the author
Rosemary Willhide
19 books417 followersRosemary is an actress, turned fitness instructor, turned author of romantic suspense.
She's told stories and entertained people her entire life. Writing is her favorite because she doesn't have to leave the house or put on pants! Plus, the voices in her head do what she says, for the most part!
She lives in Las Vegas with her husband, Bill and their adopted senior pooch, Brownie. She still teaches cycling classes. She claims they keep her sane-ish!
If you pick up one of her books you're in for a ride full of suspense, humor and page turning drama. Also, there will be a rescue dog for some extra tail wagging fun.
She's told stories and entertained people her entire life. Writing is her favorite because she doesn't have to leave the house or put on pants! Plus, the voices in her head do what she says, for the most part!
She lives in Las Vegas with her husband, Bill and their adopted senior pooch, Brownie. She still teaches cycling classes. She claims they keep her sane-ish!
If you pick up one of her books you're in for a ride full of suspense, humor and page turning drama. Also, there will be a rescue dog for some extra tail wagging fun.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
March 9, 2022
I haven’t read anything by this author before and this was an enjoyable first read. It’s a good thriller, with dark twists and turns. The plot will keep you gripped from the first page all the way through to the end.
The premise was intriguing and the different and yet connected strands of the plot were cleverly woven together. It is well written and the pace is good. There are some really tense and exciting moments that mean you won’t want to put the book down once you start reading.
The premise was intriguing and the different and yet connected strands of the plot were cleverly woven together. It is well written and the pace is good. There are some really tense and exciting moments that mean you won’t want to put the book down once you start reading.
March 8, 2022
First book I have read by this author but will not be my last. Fantastic well written mystery with well developed characters in a lovely small town. triller writer Caroline comes back home after many years to help her brother who is suspected of murder. you feel like you can walk into town and be friends with many of these characters but there is a killer on the loose. Keeps you guessing until the end. Suggest you add this to your reading list.
December 9, 2021
DUDE!! Everyone seriously needs to read this book!! This one was epic. I've read a couple books by this author but right now, as it stands, this is my favorite. It started off like a rocket and each new discovery brought a whole new level of suspense. And that ending had me cursing the world lol.....who is calling?? I can hardly wait to find out.
March 7, 2022
I read this over the weekend pretty much till I fell asleep and then woke up and finished it. Nope, the killer is not who I thought it was. The author keeps you guessing till the end. Many twists and turns leaves you wondering just who is the killer and why. Page turner, edge of seat thru out the whole book. Not my normal read but so glad I took a chance as I am not hooked and waiting for the next book in the series.
Go get your copy if you have not read it as you will be glad you did.
I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review which I left and I will be buying the next book in the series.
Go get your copy if you have not read it as you will be glad you did.
I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review which I left and I will be buying the next book in the series.
February 22, 2022
"A phone ringing in the middle of the night usually spells trouble.
"I’m New York Times bestselling author, Caroline Carter, and no matter how far I run, trouble seems to follow."
And thus begins a wild ride you won't soon forget!
Willhide is a new author for me, but I'm happy to have discovered her. Good strong characters that quickly engage the reader, storylines that are uniquely intriguing, and a masterful way of weaving the tapestry of the narrative. All these elements combine to make Killer Fiction the kind of book that stays with you long after you're done turning pages. And that happens all too soon!
This is a good one, do yourself a favour and grab it, you will thank me!
[Killer Fiction was made available by the author for the 2022 Winter Games Reader Challenge, with no obligation to review. The opinions herein are given freely and are entirely my own.]
"I’m New York Times bestselling author, Caroline Carter, and no matter how far I run, trouble seems to follow."
And thus begins a wild ride you won't soon forget!
Willhide is a new author for me, but I'm happy to have discovered her. Good strong characters that quickly engage the reader, storylines that are uniquely intriguing, and a masterful way of weaving the tapestry of the narrative. All these elements combine to make Killer Fiction the kind of book that stays with you long after you're done turning pages. And that happens all too soon!
This is a good one, do yourself a favour and grab it, you will thank me!
[Killer Fiction was made available by the author for the 2022 Winter Games Reader Challenge, with no obligation to review. The opinions herein are given freely and are entirely my own.]
August 29, 2025
“Killer Fiction” by Rosemary Willhide is a suspenseful and emotional start to the Hope Ridge Mystery series. When author Caroline Carter returns home after her half-sister’s murder, she’s forced to face old wounds, secrets, and a brother accused of the crime. The small-town setting is rich with tension, the mystery is layered with twists and misdirection, and the emotional depth makes it more than just a whodunit. A fast, engaging read that I couldn’t put down!
May 29, 2022
Murder mystery author Caroline goes back home because of murders in her own family, for which her sweet, non-violent brother is accused of. Between her own history with the small town and shoddy detective work, Caroline is starting to feel the pressure of potentially being the next victim. There's some twists I did not see coming. This is a very riveting book.
February 20, 2024
A not so cosy murder mystery
Caroline is a famous author of thrillers who fled her home town as soon as possible, partly to escape an incident when she was seventeen. Now she's back following a murder, and her entire life is turned upside down.
I love a good murder story, and this is very good. Plenty of red herrings and misdirection. Great characters and a nascent romance. Onto book two!
Caroline is a famous author of thrillers who fled her home town as soon as possible, partly to escape an incident when she was seventeen. Now she's back following a murder, and her entire life is turned upside down.
I love a good murder story, and this is very good. Plenty of red herrings and misdirection. Great characters and a nascent romance. Onto book two!
December 3, 2021
Mrs. Willhide did a exceptional job on Killer Fiction A Hope Ridge Mystery. Killer Fiction was well written. The details were so well done I felt like I was apart of the story. I absolutely loved Caraline she was so sweet and funny. Mrs. Willhide did a phenomenal job writing Jamie's part. I was so impressed. Bolt the wonder dog was adorable. Jake oh he was a dream type of man. This story was brilliant and it kept me wanting more I just couldn't put it down. This should be pn Hallmark Mystery it was that well written the only difference I was shocked on who was the killer. Not once did that character cross my mind as the killer. I do hope there will be more of these because Jamie, Leigh and the sheriff deserve a story. I still can't get over who the killer was. Phenomenal read. I highly recommend this book to everyone.
December 6, 2021
Captivating story I could not put the book down, Rosemary congratulations on writing your first murder mystery book.
Caroline is world famous writer who has to return to her home town after the death of her sister to help try to prove her brother is innocent.
The book was so well written, it is the prefect mystery just when you think you know who did it something else happens to keep you guessing.
Caroline is world famous writer who has to return to her home town after the death of her sister to help try to prove her brother is innocent.
The book was so well written, it is the prefect mystery just when you think you know who did it something else happens to keep you guessing.
March 5, 2022
I really enjoyed Killer Fiction
I’m not typically a mystery reader, but I am a fan of this author, so I picked it up. So glad that I did. Well done Rosemary Willhide
I’m not typically a mystery reader, but I am a fan of this author, so I picked it up. So glad that I did. Well done Rosemary Willhide
February 15, 2022
I couldn't put it down. You get lost in the pages it makes you want to keep reading.
February 16, 2022
Easy read that kept me guessing!
March 11, 2022
Killer Fiction, a fast paced who dunit.
This book had me guessing the killer multiple time, I think that is the trait of a well written mystery.
Small town life isn't always what it appears to outsiders. Secrets, everyone thinking they know your business.
I can't recommend this book high enough .
This book had me guessing the killer multiple time, I think that is the trait of a well written mystery.
Small town life isn't always what it appears to outsiders. Secrets, everyone thinking they know your business.
I can't recommend this book high enough .
June 3, 2022
This book kept me on the edge of my seat! I read this book in an afternoon and was hooked! Don’t wait to read if
April 26, 2022
Tremendous read! This is my first Rosemary Willhide book but will most assuredly not be my last. I love a good mystery and this book "knocked it out of the park." It is wonderfully well-written. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters especially, Caroline and her brother Jamie. I like the premiss of Caroline being an author - spectacular storyline, unexpected and unique. A thrilling and all-consuming page-turner. I thought I had the killer figured out a couple of times, but no I was not even close. This mystery is deserving of your time. Thumbs way up.
January 5, 2022
Rosemary Willhide knocked it out of the park with this book. I read this in a day, because I literally could not put it down. She will keep you guessing until the very end. Caroline Carter is just a small town girl from Hope Ridge. Now, living in California as a big murder/mystery author, her life is about to become what she writes about, literally. When Caroline receives a call in the middle of the night about her half sister being brutally murdered, and her brother being the only suspect they have, Caroline heads for the home town she was so eager to escape, along with the memories that still haunt her. Will Caroline be able to help solve the mystery of who is actually responsible, or will she fall victim as well. If you have not already read this book, run and get a copy. This book was an amazing read.
January 16, 2022
I've been following this author for a little while now, have really enjoyed the books I've read so far, and heard she wanted to try something different. I'm so glad she decided to give it a try, because I loved this book. The mystery surrounding the events, and a bit of a twist that I didn't expect, kept me hooked from beginning to end, anxious to see what would happen next. This author is definitely one I will continue to follow, checking out anything she writes.
February 13, 2022
Holy cow
In my opinion this is Rosemary's best piece of work written to date. And I don't say that lightly. I love the Vegas Edge series, but because this is a different genre its a whole other world and I was captivated. I hope to see more like this because I think it could be fantastic.
In my opinion this is Rosemary's best piece of work written to date. And I don't say that lightly. I love the Vegas Edge series, but because this is a different genre its a whole other world and I was captivated. I hope to see more like this because I think it could be fantastic.
March 16, 2022
Wow, just wow. I second guessed myself all the way through this book. It was a joy to read and big loads of fun.
Rosemary did an excellent job with her plots and subplots. She twisted and turned them until like me... You were second guessing yourself. I loved this book from the start to the finish. Bravo, Rosemary Willhide... You have a hit.
Rosemary did an excellent job with her plots and subplots. She twisted and turned them until like me... You were second guessing yourself. I loved this book from the start to the finish. Bravo, Rosemary Willhide... You have a hit.
November 15, 2023
A great fast-paced mystery. I enjoyed the storyline. The characters were well developed, and the ending was shocking. The twists were sensational. Definitely recommend
November 23, 2021
Killer Fiction by Rosemary Willhide
Published: December 3, 2021
Small Town Mysteries
I received a copy of this book for free, and I leave my review voluntarily.
Rosemary Willhide is an actress, turned fitness instructor, turned author of romantic suspense. She's told stories and entertained people her entire life. Writing is her favorite because she doesn't have to leave the house or put on pants! Plus, the voices in her head do what she says, for the most part! She lives in Las Vegas with her husband, Bill, and their adopted senior pooch, Brownie. She still teaches cycling classes. She claims they keep her sane-ish! If you pick up one of her books, you're in for a ride full of suspense, humor, and page-turning drama. Also, there will be a rescue dog for some extra tail-wagging fun.
“For the first time in a long time, I had hope.”
Caroline left her small hometown behind right after high school, and she hasn’t really looked back. Twenty years later, she is a best-selling author who had one of her series turned into a Netflix show. Caroline has made quite the life for herself. Until she got a phone call in the middle of the night…
The pacing of this book was great. Things happened very quickly, but the twists were all very well played. I enjoyed getting to know these characters and their stories.
Caroline was a fantastic leading lady. She is sassy, intelligent, talented, brave, and when no one is looking- vulnerable.
Jake is the classic boy next door. And he was the perfect opposite for Caroline. He stayed in their small hometown and built a life.
The various characters throughout this book were perfect extras. Everyone added something to the story. As the plot unfolds and Caroline gets more involved with things from the past, old secrets start to service.
This was a fantastic thriller, with a splash of romance, a twist of humor, and a dash of chaos. Plus, a wonderful rescue pup! It’s a winning combination.
Published: December 3, 2021
Small Town Mysteries
I received a copy of this book for free, and I leave my review voluntarily.
Rosemary Willhide is an actress, turned fitness instructor, turned author of romantic suspense. She's told stories and entertained people her entire life. Writing is her favorite because she doesn't have to leave the house or put on pants! Plus, the voices in her head do what she says, for the most part! She lives in Las Vegas with her husband, Bill, and their adopted senior pooch, Brownie. She still teaches cycling classes. She claims they keep her sane-ish! If you pick up one of her books, you're in for a ride full of suspense, humor, and page-turning drama. Also, there will be a rescue dog for some extra tail-wagging fun.
“For the first time in a long time, I had hope.”
Caroline left her small hometown behind right after high school, and she hasn’t really looked back. Twenty years later, she is a best-selling author who had one of her series turned into a Netflix show. Caroline has made quite the life for herself. Until she got a phone call in the middle of the night…
The pacing of this book was great. Things happened very quickly, but the twists were all very well played. I enjoyed getting to know these characters and their stories.
Caroline was a fantastic leading lady. She is sassy, intelligent, talented, brave, and when no one is looking- vulnerable.
Jake is the classic boy next door. And he was the perfect opposite for Caroline. He stayed in their small hometown and built a life.
The various characters throughout this book were perfect extras. Everyone added something to the story. As the plot unfolds and Caroline gets more involved with things from the past, old secrets start to service.
This was a fantastic thriller, with a splash of romance, a twist of humor, and a dash of chaos. Plus, a wonderful rescue pup! It’s a winning combination.
July 3, 2022
I was gripped from the first line! The story is a very quick starter which I loved, and it doesn't stop until the end of the book!! I fell in love with a few characters I'm hoping they make a return in killer deception 🙏🏻 which I can't read yet as I made the mistake of letting someone buy it for my birthday ( won't be making that mistake again) also if you're wondering about the ringtone ' high hopes' I've had it verified by Rosemary herself that it's the panic at the disco version. Not the hymn version that I had stuck in my head 🤦🏼♀️😂 I don't want to say to much but if you're into thriller / mystery books you will definitely love this one 📚 ♥ it's been read by 7 people in my house in 3 weeks age ranges from 40 - 12 and everyone has said the same thing, when are you getting the second one?? 🤨 🤣 A MUST READ 📖 would highly recommend.
April 4, 2022
I am a huge fan of thrillers, since authors seem to be pumping them out left and right.
However, I’m usually disappointed in the lack of content, surprises or they are just down right predictable.
WELL LET ME TELL YOU. Nothing about this one was predictable for me. Does that make me an idiot? Maybe. Does it make this novel any less stunning and surprising? NO.
I thoroughly enjoyed this one and I haven’t seen it hyped up like some other titles by an author that shall not be named. *cough-Hoover. However if you are obsessed with CoHo- never fear, one of the properties in this title is named Hoover House so you can still get your fix!
Anyway, All I’m gonna say is give this one a chance. It was one of my favorite reads of March!
However, I’m usually disappointed in the lack of content, surprises or they are just down right predictable.
WELL LET ME TELL YOU. Nothing about this one was predictable for me. Does that make me an idiot? Maybe. Does it make this novel any less stunning and surprising? NO.
I thoroughly enjoyed this one and I haven’t seen it hyped up like some other titles by an author that shall not be named. *cough-Hoover. However if you are obsessed with CoHo- never fear, one of the properties in this title is named Hoover House so you can still get your fix!
Anyway, All I’m gonna say is give this one a chance. It was one of my favorite reads of March!
March 9, 2022
Very well written murder mystery that includes so much more.
Past and present collide in relationships, gossip, revenge and lies.
Caroline Carter is a strong protagonist. She feels somewhat of a coward to herself, but when called on to stand strong for her family, especially her special needs brother, she digs deep and does whatever it takes.
Jamie, her brother, is a very likable character. Sweet, charming, but it also feels as if he could snap at any moment. The world has not been kind to him.
Well, actually, not to anyone living in Hope Ridge, PA.
Others turn out to be not as expected or assumed. Some better, some much worse.
Even Bolt, the wonderful rescued therapy dog, is dealt a bad hand.
Dark, disturbing, yet with redeeming moments, this book is an awakening.
Past and present collide in relationships, gossip, revenge and lies.
Caroline Carter is a strong protagonist. She feels somewhat of a coward to herself, but when called on to stand strong for her family, especially her special needs brother, she digs deep and does whatever it takes.
Jamie, her brother, is a very likable character. Sweet, charming, but it also feels as if he could snap at any moment. The world has not been kind to him.
Well, actually, not to anyone living in Hope Ridge, PA.
Others turn out to be not as expected or assumed. Some better, some much worse.
Even Bolt, the wonderful rescued therapy dog, is dealt a bad hand.
Dark, disturbing, yet with redeeming moments, this book is an awakening.
February 26, 2022
My review of the book Killer Fiction.
Rating: 5, excellent.
Wonderful murder mystery. I was blown away by the whole story line. I was on the edge of my seat thruout the entire book. The end just shocked the hell out of me, I never saw it coming. Then a cliff hanger on top of it, give me the next book please.
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Rating: 5, excellent.
Wonderful murder mystery. I was blown away by the whole story line. I was on the edge of my seat thruout the entire book. The end just shocked the hell out of me, I never saw it coming. Then a cliff hanger on top of it, give me the next book please.
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January 2, 2022
First book of 2022!
I'm so happy with my first read of 2022! Killer Fiction is outside my regular genre of romance, although there is a touch of it in here. It was a nice change of pace for me. Rosemary Willhide stepped out of her comfort zone with this book and definitely did it well! She kept me on my toes and surprised me with her plot twists and turns. I hope she writes more Hope Ridge mysteries!
I'm so happy with my first read of 2022! Killer Fiction is outside my regular genre of romance, although there is a touch of it in here. It was a nice change of pace for me. Rosemary Willhide stepped out of her comfort zone with this book and definitely did it well! She kept me on my toes and surprised me with her plot twists and turns. I hope she writes more Hope Ridge mysteries!
February 21, 2022
This book is phenomenal! This is my first book by Rosemary Willhide, but it won’t be my last! It’s such a good mystery! She keeps you guessing throughout the book. The characters are relatable for those of us who grew up in a small town, add in Bolt and it just makes the story that much better. I can’t wait to read more from this author!
December 31, 2021
Killer fiction
Rosemary Willhide I have to say you kept me guessing. Let me say this about this amazing lady when she wants to write different books she gives it her all this a new adventure for Rosemary and she killed it, I felt like I was there wondering wax going to happen next you haven't read this book or any other of her books ,please do so because she will get you hooked,amazing work I can't wait for another one love this mystery book keep it going Rosemary Willhide congratulations ❤
Rosemary Willhide I have to say you kept me guessing. Let me say this about this amazing lady when she wants to write different books she gives it her all this a new adventure for Rosemary and she killed it, I felt like I was there wondering wax going to happen next you haven't read this book or any other of her books ,please do so because she will get you hooked,amazing work I can't wait for another one love this mystery book keep it going Rosemary Willhide congratulations ❤
January 2, 2022
Wowzers
This book is totally different to what she writes.
It's absolutely amazing.
This story is definitely a page turner right from the start.
I had a hard time to put it down.
The twists and turns, omg.
I definitely did not expect "who dunnit"
It's an easy read story and would highly recommend it
This book is totally different to what she writes.
It's absolutely amazing.
This story is definitely a page turner right from the start.
I had a hard time to put it down.
The twists and turns, omg.
I definitely did not expect "who dunnit"
It's an easy read story and would highly recommend it
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews