Killer in the Dark

Jett Thacker #2

by Dan Alatorre

A young woman dies in a brutal nighttime attack, and all signs indicate her killer was a Florida panther – an endangered species that hasn’t killed a human in more than 70 years.

When a second attack occurs in the same manner, the locals go into an uproar.

News of the killer panther will ruin the tourist season and devastate their businesses. Parents won’t let their kids play in the backyard.

But only 150 of the elusive panthers exist in the entire state, so they probably can't really be responsible for the deaths…

So what is?

The teeth and claw marks on the bodies are irrefutable.

A third attack puts police authorities at odds with conservationists. The deaths occurred on national park territory, so it falls to Ranger Mara Teery to run the complex investigation. Together with brash investigative TV reporter Jett Thacker and a wily game hunter, the unlikely trio is determined to stop the series of gruesome killings.

Is it actually a rogue Florida panther on a bloodthirsty rampage, a setup by a radical conservationist, a blackmail scheme against a local big cat zoo – or something far darker?

"Dan Alatorre is a master of suspense and intrigue and crafts each page to build to a startling conclusion." - J Young Reviews, GoodReads

FANS OF LESLIE WOLF, VICTOR METHOS, JAMES PATTERSON AND ROBERT DUGONI WILL LOVE THIS FAST PACED THRILLER FROM USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR DAN ALATORRE! FANS SAY "DAN ALATORRE'S BOOKS ARE RIGHT UP THERE WITH ROBERT DUGONI, JOHN LESCROAT AND JOHN GRISHAM." Reviewers say fans of Lee Childs, David Baldacci, Dan Ames, David Archer and James Patterson will LOVE his intense thrillers!

Get it now.

Genres: Mystery

382 pages, Paperback

First published April 27, 2022

About the author

USA Today bestselling author Dan Alatorre has published more than 50 titles and is read in over a dozen languages around the world.

His fast-paced thrillers have gripped readers all over the globe, notably his USA Today bestseller The Gamma Sequence, a medical thriller series, his successful murder mystery Double Blind series, and more. Readers can't put his books down.

Dan resides in the Tampa area with his wife and daughter.

Check out his Readers Club at DanAlatorre.com and find out about new releases before anyone else!

Double Blind, a murder mystery thriller series
- Double Blind
- Primary Target
- Third Degree
- Fourth Estate
- Five Sparrows
- Six Sisters
- Seventh Avenue, coming soon

The Gamma Sequence, a medical thriller series
- The Gamma Sequence
- Rogue Elements
- Terminal Sequence
- The Keepers
- Dark Hour

Jett Thacker mysteries, a murder mystery series
- Tiffany Lynn Is Missing
- Killer In The Dark
- Definition Of A Murder, coming soon

Horror Anthology series:
- Dark Passages
- Dark Voodoo
- Dark Intent
- Dark Thoughts
- Shadowland
- Wings & Fire
- Spellbound
- Nightmareland
- Dark Visions
- The Box Under The Bed

Paranormal Thriller/Horror:
- A Place Of Shadows

Sci Fi Time Travel Adventure:
- The Navigators

Comedy Romance:
- The Italian Assistant

And many more!

Reviews

[Drew · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn’t able to put this book down! Between the writing style and the story, I felt like I was part of the story. I was glad to read about Jett again and her exploits. I can’t wait for more Jett Thacker!

[Frank · Rating 4 out of 5]

When ace investigative reporter for a TV station that she owns, travels to interview a large cat sanctuary owner, she finds a mystery that piques her interest. Jett Thacker arrives in town just after a young girl has been apparently attacked and killed by a large predatory feline. All indications point to a panther that may have escaped from the "Wild Aussie Animal Preserve and Sanctuary." Jett finds the local populace less than friendly and the sheriff less than helpful. She joins forces with the Ranger Mara Teery who believes that there is more to the attack than meets the eye. The two women find a conspiracy that draws them deep into a tale of abuse and deception. The tale ends with a thrilling finish that keeps the reader engrossed in the conclusion. This story is very readable while bringing complex characters to the forefront and highlighting many twists and turns in the plot.

[Philip Van · Rating 5 out of 5]

People are dying outside an animal sanctuary but the how and why are the mystery - 5 stars

It is easy to dismiss a glamorous TV newswoman trying to get a story about a young woman's death outside a wild animal sanctuary in Florida. Somehow the obvious clues about a big cat being the likely killer don't quite align to the facts.

Jett Thacker is a TV News anchor with a background in law. Her personal background comes out in dribs and drabs making it possible to understand her respect for guns and commitment to her wealthy boyfriend who owns the Miami TV station where she works.

Being fearful of big cats at least three times as big as you, not to speak of fast and strong, seems to be a reasonable position when the zoo's bars seem to quiver when a big cat roars and tries to swipe its claws through the bars as people pass by.

I found it easy to share the fear of being attacked in the dark wooded area close to the locations where people had been killed in the past two days. I found the townspeople's concern was credible because their town was losing its livelihood because tourists decided that the risk of big cat attack was imminent.

There is no doubt that mystery fans will find the story captivating, more so when there is a bit of sexual tension and mistrust of the law enforcement officials.

You may decide to bring a portable light for your evening walks after reading this book. Killer in the Dark is a memorable mystery.

[Aurora · Rating 5 out of 5]

This second book in the Jett Thacker series just might be Dan Alatorre's best yet.
Having headed to a down on its luck Florida small town to interview the owner of a big cat sanctuary, Jett gets pulled into investigating a series of animal attacks on the local residents.
It's a very well written, fast paced story that kept me on the edge of my seat and guessing about the breed of the cat and the complicity of a host of townspeople, right through to the last few pages.
We met Jett in the last story where she established herself as an ace reporter willing to do whatever it took to get her story. That determination and willingness to put her own safety on the line is maintained through this story which reveals a good deal more about our heroine. Everything we learn makes her even more likable.
Killer in the Dark is a great "investigator' story that will appeal to murder mystery fans everywhere.

[Cyndi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness this book is a rush of adrenaline! I was able to put my kindle down for a break until I got done chapter 8. Then it was impossible! I was sitting right forward in my chair like I was trying to get right inside the story myself, lol but I definitely would not have wanted too! Jett has put herself right into the middle of the action when she decides to go to Ashton City to interview Bronson Keenan. Bronson runs a wildlife sanctuary taking care of his big cats that he has a special relationship with. Protesters are outside his door demanding he close down. As we get to know the people of Ashton City, I wondered if I would even want to visit! It seems like the people either hate you or love you, there is no middle ground. The action and suspense in this book keeps you right on your toes, with twists you won't see coming! Another great book from author Dan Alatorre!
I received a free download of this book from the publisher. This review is my own honest opinion.

[ClaireN · Rating 5 out of 5]

I truly loved the first Jett Thacker mystery, "Tiffany Lynn Is Missing", but "Killer In The Dark" has taken its place as my favorite. Of course, each Dan Alatorre book I read, ends up being my favorite judging from past reviews.
The plot, the suspense, the twists, kept me reading until I finished, just after midnight, and while on this adventure, my emotions were all over the place. There was one character who made me so mad I was wishing he was real, just so I could beat him senseless, and another saddened me to the point of tears. You won't find any spoilers here, so let's just say that the trip was thrilling from beginning to end and that ending was quite satisfying.
Now the really hard part comes... waiting for the next!

[Jolie Castilla · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is AWESOME!!! The way Dan writes you will feel like you are watching a movie. The characters are outstanding the writing makes you fell the emotions you were ment to feel. You will be up late in the night trying to " just until I finish this chapter " and next thing you know you've finished the book and it is morning. There is no stopping once you start this book. I absolutely love every book I've picked up written by Dan. The emotions that you fell just grip you and don't let go even long after you finish the book. But beware you will be on the edge of your seat throughout the book. So what are you waiting for get this book and experience the thrill.
I received this book free and this is a honest and voluntary review

[Shirley · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book you will have a hard time putting down, a page turner. Dan's books never disappoint. His writing style develops stories that keeps suspense building and twists you never see coming. Jett goes to small town Florida to do an interview with a renown and controversial hunter and wildlife zoo keeper but stumbles onto a story that could put her TV station back on top. Danger seems to lurk everywhere as townsfolk are murdered or mauled. Who to trust? Is the sheriff corrupt? What or who is attacking these people? The twist will astound you. Although this is the 2nd book in this series, can definitely be read as a standalone book. Will be waiting for the next book in this series. Recommend. Received an ARC and this is my honest voluntary review.

[Sofe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ebook Review: KILLER IN THE DARK by Dan Alatorre

(K) eep
( I ) nvestigating
(L) ost
(L) ives...
(E) specially
(R) esearch

( I ) ndividuals...
(N) eed

(T) o
(H) unt...
(E) xpose...

(D) aily
(A) activites...
(R) edefine
(K) iller

KILLER IN THE DARK...
defies known parameters.

Assumptions are definitely made...
based on clues.

Must make a decision...
path to follow.

Plus who to trust...
work closely with.

Where this story goes...
I didn't foresee.

Wonder if it will...
surprise you too.

***************************
I received a free copy of this book
and voluntarily left a review.
***************************

[Dwayne Keller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story. Jett is covering a story where a teenage girl was attacked by a huge cat in Florida. The sheriff thinks it is an escaped animal from the local animal preserve. The ranger isn't so sure. The local animal preserve owner used to be a big game hunter. Before they get too far, another person is attacked. The action is nonstop and the suspense is high. Will Jett be able to figure out what is going on before she is attacked? Will her panic attacks get to her? Is it a wild animal? Is it the sheriff and drug running? Is it something else? Be prepared to stay up late to finish this thrill ride.

[Agna · Rating 5 out of 5]

When a teenage girl is found dead after an apparent panther attack, investigative TV-reporter Jett Thacker wants to check out a local big cat sanctuary and interview the owner. But new attacks follow in rapid succession, the local sheriff seems very reluctant to cooperate and there are good reasons for Jett to believe the killer is human.
This is yet another well-crafted crime novel by Dan Alatorre, with great characters, non-stop action, real 'edge of your seat' suspense and surprising twists and turns.
If you consider yourself an enthusiast of fast-paced thrillers, this book is a must-read.
I received a preview copy of this book which I am voluntarily reviewing.

[J Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mesmerizing psycho-thriller!

A teenager's body is discovered and the injuries point to a big cat. With a wildlife preserve nearby this should be a slam dunk case and the sheriff wants a quick solution. Jessica “Jett” Thacker happens to be in town to interview the preserve owner and sees too many contradictions in the way the investigation is proceeding. As victims mount and suspicions increase Jett is determined to find the truth.

Dan Alatorre never fails to deliver! I could feel the hot breath on my neck as Jett walked through the forest. I received a free copy but my review is honest and voluntary. I couldn’t put it down and read it in one day.

[Claudete Takahashi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Killer in the Dark is a story about madness and revenge in which Jett gets involved and almost gets killed. The more she researches where is the predator that is killing people, the more endangered she feels. The town doesn't want her there, the sheriff is ambiguous in his demeanor, the more information she gets, the more in doubt she feels. For those readers who enjoy fast-paced stories full of action, this is a must-read and it has a very unexpected ending! Great entertainment!
I received an ARC copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.

[Roger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Killer In The Dark: a psychological thriller (A JETT THACKER MYSTERY Book 2), my eleventh read from prolific author Dan Alatorre. In this, the second book in Alatorre's new Jett Thacker mysteries, a page-turning thriller that takes off in the opening pages & never lets up! A pedal-to-the-metal, hair-raising, spine-tingling thriller! Alatorre has really found his groove. “I received a free Kindle copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).

[Doreen Fernandes]

Dark predator

Jett is intrigued by Keenan who was a big game hunter but who is now a protector of the big cats. When a teenage girl is killed by a big cat, Keenan is under fire. Keenan does not believe his cats would harm or kill human beings. When Jett probes into the killing what she discovers is bizarre. I enjoyed reading this fast paced thriller which was very well written by the author. It was unpredictable with surprising twists and the characters were well defined. I also like the cover.

[Sammi · Rating 4 out of 5]

When he says you won’t be able to put it down he’s not lying.

At 2 am I’m fighting off my sleep medication trying to figure out the ending to the book because I need the answers! Also I need to know because I live in Florida and officially unlocked a new fear of walking near bushes.

Jett is a strong fmc and I love how she runs towards the danger. We have Aaron who is book boyfriend number we have lost count. Does he have red flags most likely but in books most of us seem to overlook them. Should we… no!!

Officially can’t wait for book 3!!!

[Tiffany Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Dan Alatorre's "Killer in the Dark" is a gripping mystery that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish! Sky Stafford's narration brings every twist and turn to life, making it impossible to put down—perfect for those on-the-go moments when you just need to dive into a thrilling whodunit. Alatorre masterfully weaves suspense with clever clues, ensuring you’ll be guessing until the last moment. If I could give a million stars, I would! A must-listen for any mystery lover!

[Margret · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here's a book I can unequivocally recommend. It's beautifully paced, held my interest from beginning to end, and had none of those distressing errors that so often pull me out of my enjoyment and bring on the "editor" in me. Here's an author (bless him!) who can write both descriptive passages and dialog and in addition can spell and punctuate; how rare and how very much appreciated. Having read Killer in the Dark, I'll be following this author and anticipating his further releases.

[Patty Mele · Rating 5 out of 5]

A truly scary, exciting story. People are being attacked and killed by what appears to be a huge panther in a Florida forest. A forest ranger, a animal reserve owner and a radio personality try to track the killer down. I am very willing to pass this on as a recommended book to anyone who loves a terrific story. I read tis book from the very beginning to the very end. I received this book for free thru an Advanced Review Copy, ARC, with an honest review freely given.

[Jessica Ledford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great read by Dan Alatorre. I don't know how he does it, but it is just amazing. The way he can make you like a character and then want to throw them off a cliff at the same time.
In this book, we get to know Jett a little bit more. Like ya, she has some issues, but who doesn't.
Psycho Terry, as I like to call her. Is just bat shit crazy. I've heard of daddy issues, but come on now.
This book had it claws in me. I laughed when the killer got it in the end.

[vanicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jett is back at it and is solving more mysteries and this one doesn’t disappoint! Jett has to be one of my favorite MFCs! She don’t take no crap from anyone and in this book she stood ten toes down! The twists and turns in the book had me gripped, it was a rollercoaster ride but I love rollercoasters! The way I was grasping at some of the events in this book! 10/10 for me! My favorite thrill author does it again! Can’t wait for book 3!

[Divya · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an interesting and fast paced mystery set in the Florida wilderness. The story follows Jett as she tries to solve the murder of a young girl, supposedly killed by a panther. However, as Jett continues her investigation, a lot of suspects pop up! It was an interesting mystery with some killer twists. I received a free copy of the ebook and this is my voluntary and honest review.

[Tonya Cheton · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite was Jett and Mara shared an moment,sharing their experiences, memories of their family, coworkers. I couldn’t believe that The killer was truly Manipulative, in seeing how sheriff Maxim didn’t like how Keenan was handling his sanctuary around the reserve. I gave this book 5-stars because this person was angry of how they were growing up and and to face Reality.

[Chelsea Pena · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book I couldn't put down/stop listening to on Audible. If you love psychological mysteries and thrillers this is a must-read! This is the second book in the Jett Thacker mystery series. I love Jett and her friends, and this book has all the twists and turns that you dont expect. I did not expect that ending and it was great.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely outstanding and gripping book that will be impossible to put down. The characters are so realistic, going about their jobs. I never expected that ending, so fantastic that you’re going to want to read it again. Don’t miss out once it’s released.

[Tara Stapledon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kept me up way past bedtime! A suspenseful and twisty story full of interesting characters that will keep you guessing until the end.  I can't wait to read Jett's next adventure.

Thank you for having me as one of your ARC readers.

[Kandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the first book in this series. It may be hard to believe, but this book was even better. I love the character Jett and the people that she meets in this small town. The story line is amazing and was responsible for me staying up way too late into the night reading.

[Barbara Williams · Rating 3 out of 5]

Just okay

Did it keep interested. Yes. Did I want to keep reading. Yes. Knowing how it turned out I would say the perpetrator got their just due. But there were many issues I had from human perspective that turned me off.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Great Murder Mystery by Dan Alatorre

His books always have me guessing who is behind the murder. This one did not disappoint. Was it an animal attacking or was someone else behind it?

[Lela Preston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cats and More

Trying to make a TV Segment was supposed to be a little time at a Preserve,, but turned into a very learning experience.