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A Shade Darker #1
A Killer Strikes
The perfect family… The perfect murders…
A family massacred. A village in mourning. Can anyone sleep safely while a killer is on the loose?
Laura Percival, owner of The Stables, notices something wrong at her friend’s house when out on her morning ride. Further investigation reveals scenes she’ll never forget.
While the police are quick to accuse, Laura is less so, defending those around her as she struggles to make sense of the deaths. And all the time she wonders if she really knew her friends at all.
A chance encounter opens up a line of investigation that uncovers a secret life. One that Laura is much closer to than she ever realised.
A Killer Strikes is a gripping domestic thriller. If you like character-driven action, suspenseful storytelling and dark revelations then you’ll love this exciting novel.
A family massacred. A village in mourning. Can anyone sleep safely while a killer is on the loose?
Laura Percival, owner of The Stables, notices something wrong at her friend’s house when out on her morning ride. Further investigation reveals scenes she’ll never forget.
While the police are quick to accuse, Laura is less so, defending those around her as she struggles to make sense of the deaths. And all the time she wonders if she really knew her friends at all.
A chance encounter opens up a line of investigation that uncovers a secret life. One that Laura is much closer to than she ever realised.
A Killer Strikes is a gripping domestic thriller. If you like character-driven action, suspenseful storytelling and dark revelations then you’ll love this exciting novel.
224 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 7, 2022
726 people are currently reading
851 people want to read
About the author
Georgia Rose
13 books271 followersGeorgia Rose is a writer of suspense. Both romantic and psychological. First came the romantic and suspenseful Grayson Trilogy books: A Single Step, Before the Dawn and Thicker than Water. Following completion of the trilogy she was asked for more and so wrote a short story, The Joker, which is based on a favourite character from the series and the eBook is available to download for free at the retailer of your choice.
Her fourth novel, Parallel Lies, encompasses crime along with Georgia’s usual blending of genre and its sequel, Loving Vengeance, completed The Ross Duology.
Georgia is now writing psychological suspense for her third series – A Shade Darker. The first four books are A Killer Strikes, Shape of Revenge, Hard to Forgive and A Stolen Future. The fifth in the series, Driven by Deception, will follow in 2026.
Georgia’s background in countryside living, riding, instructing and working with horses has provided the knowledge needed for some of her storylines; the others are a product of her passion for people watching and her overactive imagination.
She has also recently started running workshops and providing one-to-one support for those wishing to learn how to independently publish and you can find her, under her real name, at www.threeshirespublishing.com.
Following a long stint working in the law Georgia set up her own business providing administration services for other companies which she does to this day entwining that work along with her writing.
Her busy life is set in a tranquil part of rural Cambridgeshire in the UK where she lives with her much neglected husband.
Her fourth novel, Parallel Lies, encompasses crime along with Georgia’s usual blending of genre and its sequel, Loving Vengeance, completed The Ross Duology.
Georgia is now writing psychological suspense for her third series – A Shade Darker. The first four books are A Killer Strikes, Shape of Revenge, Hard to Forgive and A Stolen Future. The fifth in the series, Driven by Deception, will follow in 2026.
Georgia’s background in countryside living, riding, instructing and working with horses has provided the knowledge needed for some of her storylines; the others are a product of her passion for people watching and her overactive imagination.
She has also recently started running workshops and providing one-to-one support for those wishing to learn how to independently publish and you can find her, under her real name, at www.threeshirespublishing.com.
Following a long stint working in the law Georgia set up her own business providing administration services for other companies which she does to this day entwining that work along with her writing.
Her busy life is set in a tranquil part of rural Cambridgeshire in the UK where she lives with her much neglected husband.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
September 16, 2022
Once I started reading A Killer Strikes, I found it difficult to stop. I loved it!
I've long admired Georgia Rose's writing and really enjoyed her stories ( here's my review for one of her earlier books: (Parallel Lives: https://bit.ly/3qmQqdg ).
A Killer Strikes is a true thriller and, as I expected, it's written in this author's usual evenly paced writing style, with great characters and a riveting plot.
Told in first person point of view by the protagonist, Laura Percival, we are immediately thrown into her life as it begins to be revealed that all is not as she thinks, even if she doesn't always understand the implications. We get an insight both to the way the plot is progressing and also to the subtle, inevitable changes in the protagonist.
Each character is brought too life, by the depictions of them, and by their dialogue. There are those I instantly loved, those I instantly disliked - those I wasn't sure of; who gave me an uneasy feeling. I love character led stories, if the book also has an intriguing plot it's a great bonus. And A Killer Strikes certainly gives both elements.
As with all of Georgia Roses' books the descriptions of the settings give a good sense of place. In the stables I could almost hear the activity there: the snuffle of the horses - smell their coats, the straw. I could see the vaguely threatening adult club Laura finds herself in, surrounded by strangers. And I wandered through her home with her. The portrayal of the rooms shows the comfort the protagonist lives in, the place she feels most safe - (yet is she ?)
A Killer Strikes is a most satisfying read that had me emphasising with the protagonist every step of the way, with a plot that kept me guessing the whole time. This is a book I thoroughly recommend.
I've long admired Georgia Rose's writing and really enjoyed her stories ( here's my review for one of her earlier books: (Parallel Lives: https://bit.ly/3qmQqdg ).
A Killer Strikes is a true thriller and, as I expected, it's written in this author's usual evenly paced writing style, with great characters and a riveting plot.
Told in first person point of view by the protagonist, Laura Percival, we are immediately thrown into her life as it begins to be revealed that all is not as she thinks, even if she doesn't always understand the implications. We get an insight both to the way the plot is progressing and also to the subtle, inevitable changes in the protagonist.
Each character is brought too life, by the depictions of them, and by their dialogue. There are those I instantly loved, those I instantly disliked - those I wasn't sure of; who gave me an uneasy feeling. I love character led stories, if the book also has an intriguing plot it's a great bonus. And A Killer Strikes certainly gives both elements.
As with all of Georgia Roses' books the descriptions of the settings give a good sense of place. In the stables I could almost hear the activity there: the snuffle of the horses - smell their coats, the straw. I could see the vaguely threatening adult club Laura finds herself in, surrounded by strangers. And I wandered through her home with her. The portrayal of the rooms shows the comfort the protagonist lives in, the place she feels most safe - (yet is she ?)
A Killer Strikes is a most satisfying read that had me emphasising with the protagonist every step of the way, with a plot that kept me guessing the whole time. This is a book I thoroughly recommend.
September 8, 2022
Book 1 in the new Shade Darker Series
Well! What a read that was! Amazing! A truly different psychological thriller.
The story at first gently guides us through the quiet life of a young, remarried owner of an equestrian facility.
Now happily married for a second time after the horrific death of her first husband in a motoring accident a couple of years earlier, Laura is running a successful stable and riding school and is a respected member of the rural community of the village in which she was born and raised.
The sudden shocking and unexplainable, murder of her neighbour and friend, and the entire family, throws this previously quiet community into turmoil. Everyone is a suspect and suspicions are rife.
The unexpected events and sudden twist at the end were totally shocking and unexpected.
A brilliantly constructed, first psychological thriller in this new series, is in complete contrast to this talented author’s previous more romantic mysteries. A thoroughly absorbing read.
Highly recommended.
Well! What a read that was! Amazing! A truly different psychological thriller.
The story at first gently guides us through the quiet life of a young, remarried owner of an equestrian facility.
Now happily married for a second time after the horrific death of her first husband in a motoring accident a couple of years earlier, Laura is running a successful stable and riding school and is a respected member of the rural community of the village in which she was born and raised.
The sudden shocking and unexplainable, murder of her neighbour and friend, and the entire family, throws this previously quiet community into turmoil. Everyone is a suspect and suspicions are rife.
The unexpected events and sudden twist at the end were totally shocking and unexpected.
A brilliantly constructed, first psychological thriller in this new series, is in complete contrast to this talented author’s previous more romantic mysteries. A thoroughly absorbing read.
Highly recommended.
November 26, 2022
I received an advanced copy of this book and really enjoyed it.
It was a well written thriller, easy to read and keep reading. The characters were believable and quick to get invested in, based in a rural setting around a stables. A slightly different kind of plot, not just a whodunnit, with a great twist at the end. Would recommend this book .
It was a well written thriller, easy to read and keep reading. The characters were believable and quick to get invested in, based in a rural setting around a stables. A slightly different kind of plot, not just a whodunnit, with a great twist at the end. Would recommend this book .
October 9, 2022
Georgia Rose is back, but this time a shade darker!
Rose’s lovely rural English country setting continues, and for many avid readers of her previous books a warm feeling will engulf them as soon as they open this book. It entails everything that sets the scene for a typical Georgia Rose novel: horses, stables, the smell of hay, a small dog, and even a little mention of the heroine of the Grayson Trilogy that made me smile instantly. While the surface might look similar to previous works, “A Killer Strikes” is different… it’s truly a shade darker. For this time, quiet country life is deceptive and harbours an abundance of sombre secrets. Together with protagonist Laura Percival we peel back the layers of a seemingly perfect neighbourhood only to find that nothing is as it seems when a ghastly murder shocks the entire village.
As usual, Rose’s writing style is impeccable with beautifully constructed sentences and a full vocabulary, enabling the reader to accurately depict not only the surroundings but every scene and interaction. While I felt some of the characters to have a bit less depth than I was used to from previous novels, it’s still a character driven storyline that will keep you interested until the very end. Rose sets herself up perfectly for the series to continue and leaves the reader with just enough open questions to make them look forward to the next book without feeling dissatisfied.
If you’re looking for a gripping whodunit that will keep you on your toes and guessing about the culprit until the end, “A Killer Strikes” is not that. It is a domestic suspense novel which enables you to look over Laura’s shoulder, and experience everything that happens alongside her, while feeling the change and evolution in her character as the story progresses. Whether or not you will be surprised by the resolving last chapters, “A Killer Strikes” will keep you interested and turning page after page, as you uncover dark secrets and well-hidden truths in the quiet town of Melton.
“A Killer Strikes” is the opener for a series of novels with a different taste than Rose’s previous works and sets the stage for more dark twists and turns in a seemingly perfect world.
Rose’s lovely rural English country setting continues, and for many avid readers of her previous books a warm feeling will engulf them as soon as they open this book. It entails everything that sets the scene for a typical Georgia Rose novel: horses, stables, the smell of hay, a small dog, and even a little mention of the heroine of the Grayson Trilogy that made me smile instantly. While the surface might look similar to previous works, “A Killer Strikes” is different… it’s truly a shade darker. For this time, quiet country life is deceptive and harbours an abundance of sombre secrets. Together with protagonist Laura Percival we peel back the layers of a seemingly perfect neighbourhood only to find that nothing is as it seems when a ghastly murder shocks the entire village.
As usual, Rose’s writing style is impeccable with beautifully constructed sentences and a full vocabulary, enabling the reader to accurately depict not only the surroundings but every scene and interaction. While I felt some of the characters to have a bit less depth than I was used to from previous novels, it’s still a character driven storyline that will keep you interested until the very end. Rose sets herself up perfectly for the series to continue and leaves the reader with just enough open questions to make them look forward to the next book without feeling dissatisfied.
If you’re looking for a gripping whodunit that will keep you on your toes and guessing about the culprit until the end, “A Killer Strikes” is not that. It is a domestic suspense novel which enables you to look over Laura’s shoulder, and experience everything that happens alongside her, while feeling the change and evolution in her character as the story progresses. Whether or not you will be surprised by the resolving last chapters, “A Killer Strikes” will keep you interested and turning page after page, as you uncover dark secrets and well-hidden truths in the quiet town of Melton.
“A Killer Strikes” is the opener for a series of novels with a different taste than Rose’s previous works and sets the stage for more dark twists and turns in a seemingly perfect world.
October 3, 2022
I received an advance copy of A Killer Strikes from the author. I soon became aware of two facts that might cause a problem when it came to writing my review. Laura, the main character, is telling the story, and she is very much involved with horses! I have nothing against horses, but I am not a rider, and it is Laura who tells us everything. It is how she sees others, reacts to them, and of course as the owner of the stables, gives me a great deal of information about caring for horses and ponies, and to some extent, their owners. Will it all be too much?
But wait, there is a problem at Number 9, the washing has been out on the line for several days. Is something wrong, or is it simply that the New Year celebrations have been a bit much, or the occupants have gone away and forgotten to inform Laura who would normally look after the cats in their absence? She has a key to the house and finally goes to see how the cats are.
Melton is a small village, and everyone knows everybody and all about them, and what Laura discovers shocks the whole community, Rumours abound. Now I am hooked.
Georgia Rose has written a very carefully plotted novel. Life in a small community is well described, characters realistic, even the village gossip is like someone we know, but the mystery is still a mystery.
Despite my first impressions, I really enjoyed A Killer Strikes.
But wait, there is a problem at Number 9, the washing has been out on the line for several days. Is something wrong, or is it simply that the New Year celebrations have been a bit much, or the occupants have gone away and forgotten to inform Laura who would normally look after the cats in their absence? She has a key to the house and finally goes to see how the cats are.
Melton is a small village, and everyone knows everybody and all about them, and what Laura discovers shocks the whole community, Rumours abound. Now I am hooked.
Georgia Rose has written a very carefully plotted novel. Life in a small community is well described, characters realistic, even the village gossip is like someone we know, but the mystery is still a mystery.
Despite my first impressions, I really enjoyed A Killer Strikes.
October 20, 2022
Thank you to the publisher for providing an ARC of this book. I have read several books by Georgia Rose previously and have always enjoyed them. But A Killer Strikes has a different tone to it. Still full of believable characters, both lovable and otherwise. But, as the series title says: a shade darker.
Laura realises there is a problem at the home of her friends and neighbours. What she discovers is shocking and sets the mood for the whole story. And as the investigation progresses, she finds herself at odds with the police and even under suspicion herself. A gripping story that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Laura realises there is a problem at the home of her friends and neighbours. What she discovers is shocking and sets the mood for the whole story. And as the investigation progresses, she finds herself at odds with the police and even under suspicion herself. A gripping story that I thoroughly enjoyed.
October 5, 2022
Something seems amiss at the neighbors house next door. Laura, the neighbor next door is concerned after the wash next door has been hanging out for several days. After debating if she should check on her neighbors, Laura makes a horrific discovery.
This book drew me in right from the start. Full of suspects and plenty of twists, I couldn’t put this down. I highly recommend this book.
This book drew me in right from the start. Full of suspects and plenty of twists, I couldn’t put this down. I highly recommend this book.
January 1, 2023
An intense mystery that will have you gripped until the end. Murder, a killer is on the loose, how will this all turn out. Danger everywhere. Don’t miss out.
May 13, 2023
As expected in a small community where everyone knows everyone’s business, it is challenging to maintain your privacy and also to keep secrets. In this village however there is an undercurrent of evil that surfaces over the Christmas and New Year that will devastate the residents and open up their pasts to public scrutiny.
The main character Laura Percival has already suffered a personal tragedy that had deeply impacted the way she views others and herself. She loves the close knit community she is part of, with some exceptions, and is particularly concerned about one family’s whereabouts. She has been a part of their lives as their children have grown and as the events unfold she becomes more and more invested in finding out how and why they have been targeted.
She becomes central to the investigation by the police as she digs into the various rumours and secrets that are revealed from others close to her.
The author has done a masterful job in keeping the reader on the hook as the story unfolds. Characters are carefully crafted as they shapeshift between their public persona and their real identities, and she keeps the momentum going right to the end of the book. Be prepared for some surprises and twists and turns that make this a very compelling read.
I am looking forward to book two in this series.
The main character Laura Percival has already suffered a personal tragedy that had deeply impacted the way she views others and herself. She loves the close knit community she is part of, with some exceptions, and is particularly concerned about one family’s whereabouts. She has been a part of their lives as their children have grown and as the events unfold she becomes more and more invested in finding out how and why they have been targeted.
She becomes central to the investigation by the police as she digs into the various rumours and secrets that are revealed from others close to her.
The author has done a masterful job in keeping the reader on the hook as the story unfolds. Characters are carefully crafted as they shapeshift between their public persona and their real identities, and she keeps the momentum going right to the end of the book. Be prepared for some surprises and twists and turns that make this a very compelling read.
I am looking forward to book two in this series.
December 29, 2022
I was so excited to see that Georgia Rose was publishing again after having enjoyed all of her previous works. I read ‘A Killer Strikes’ roughly two weeks after giving birth to my second child, so I must’ve enjoyed it to read rather than sleep!
This work is maybe slightly darker than previous books but I loved the more thriller based plot with various twists, turns and red herrings to keep you guessing - my seriously sleep deprived brain certainly didn’t see the ending coming but I’m fairly sure it was so excellently woven that most people won’t have done! There’s not much better than a story genuinely catching you off guard!
I’m thrilled to see that Georgia is releasing further titles in this series and I look forward to learning more about the characters and their ‘adventures’ as soon as I am able!
This work is maybe slightly darker than previous books but I loved the more thriller based plot with various twists, turns and red herrings to keep you guessing - my seriously sleep deprived brain certainly didn’t see the ending coming but I’m fairly sure it was so excellently woven that most people won’t have done! There’s not much better than a story genuinely catching you off guard!
I’m thrilled to see that Georgia is releasing further titles in this series and I look forward to learning more about the characters and their ‘adventures’ as soon as I am able!
January 24, 2023
A gripping domestic thriller
A Killer Strikes was a thoroughly engrossing read. I started it this morning and only stopped for lunch. I couldn't put it down until I found out who the killer was and his motives. The story flows seamlessly, gripping the reader to the very end. Especially for lovers of domestic
thrillers. Set in a rural English village.
A Killer Strikes was a thoroughly engrossing read. I started it this morning and only stopped for lunch. I couldn't put it down until I found out who the killer was and his motives. The story flows seamlessly, gripping the reader to the very end. Especially for lovers of domestic
thrillers. Set in a rural English village.
November 10, 2022
I couldn't put this book down, the map gave me an idea where the stables were in relation to the house the killer was, I just didnt expect the ending, great book I hope the rest of the series are just as exciting to read.
February 3, 2023
I really enjoyed reading A killer strikes. Set in rural England, it’s a well written crime book, easy and fun to read. I loved the beginning and the little map of the village. Will definitely read the second in the series.
June 19, 2024
Been in a bit of a reading slump and this didn’t really get me out of it as I’d hoped. I did enjoy the plot however there were aspects I found a little far fetched and would have enjoyed a different direction. As far as murder novels go it was very average and can’t say I’ll continue the series.
January 13, 2023
Wow, this was great! Fluid writing, loved the English country village setting. I definitely want to read more by this author!
January 1, 2023
A neighbor, Laura, does not see any activity at her neighbor's house. They find the family murdered. A killer on the loose. An intriguing novel with an unexpected conclusion. A psychological thriller that keeps your interest.
July 24, 2024
A brilliant mystery that will have you guessing all the way through until you’re hit with a shock reveal! I couldn’t get enough of this book. The characters were brilliant, I loved the setting in the stables and loved how I was constantly changing my mind on who I thought did it!
November 5, 2023
Books 1 & 2 of Georgia Rose's A Shade Darker series. Although these can be read as standalone books I recommend reading them in order. Not that you need the back story, it just gives you a sense of the village and people who live here.
In A Killer Strikes, Laura discovers her friend's family murdered. There are a couple suspects the police seem to be focused on but Laura doesn't believe they would do this horrible crime. This book is fast paced and told from Laura's perspective. There's many characters introduced in this book so you get a nice picture of those involved.
Personally I favored the second book, A Shape of Revenge. What a great read. Sharon Beesley is the owner of a local store. She was introduced in the first book so I had a feeling I would not like this character. After reading the book, my feelings didn't change. From the blurb, she's a woman wronged. Her husband is a cheat. Once she begins her revenge, she finds she cannot stop. I don't want to say much about this one and spoil it for anyone else. I just couldn't find it in me to like this woman even though she was the one wronged. You read it and you will see what I mean. The ending! Didn't see it coming. I was just about done with the book, I think the next to last chapter and I am thinking, no , no, no! I didn't like where the ending was going. Then wham, last chapter! Yes! Georgia Rose you really did it, great ending! I loved it.
In A Killer Strikes, Laura discovers her friend's family murdered. There are a couple suspects the police seem to be focused on but Laura doesn't believe they would do this horrible crime. This book is fast paced and told from Laura's perspective. There's many characters introduced in this book so you get a nice picture of those involved.
Personally I favored the second book, A Shape of Revenge. What a great read. Sharon Beesley is the owner of a local store. She was introduced in the first book so I had a feeling I would not like this character. After reading the book, my feelings didn't change. From the blurb, she's a woman wronged. Her husband is a cheat. Once she begins her revenge, she finds she cannot stop. I don't want to say much about this one and spoil it for anyone else. I just couldn't find it in me to like this woman even though she was the one wronged. You read it and you will see what I mean. The ending! Didn't see it coming. I was just about done with the book, I think the next to last chapter and I am thinking, no , no, no! I didn't like where the ending was going. Then wham, last chapter! Yes! Georgia Rose you really did it, great ending! I loved it.
July 24, 2025
Enjoyable book
I did like the book but didn't love it. It started out well but by a few chapters in, I could predict who the killer was. I prefer to be surprised!
I did like the book but didn't love it. It started out well but by a few chapters in, I could predict who the killer was. I prefer to be surprised!
January 1, 2023
I received an advanced copy of this book and I really enjoyed reading it. I signed up to be an arc reader because I enjoyed Georgia Rose’s 2 previous series “Grayson Trilogy” and the Ross Duology so much. All her heroines have had major life crises and I love how Georgia shows the overcome their issues and slowly learning how to cope with life. As in her other books it is told from a first-person point of view, but each woman is unique in her past and present. A Killer Strikes is a psychological thriller and although I did suspect who the killer was, I wasn’t 100% sure until the revealment at the end. I loved how she handled the various suspects and lead us through various twists in the plot with Laura doing her best to find out who the true killer is. It was very cleverly done. I also loved the background of the horse boarding and riding facility and the secondary characters, especially potential suspects and their families. It is a great story and I really recommend it. Thank you, Georgia Rose, for your great books.
September 17, 2024
Book: A killer strikes
Author: Georgia Rose
Rating: 2.5 stars 🌟
OK, this book took me 10000 years! It put me in a slump and took forever to get through
I really wasn't a fan, I feel the story was all over the place. It's meant to be a murder mystery, and we spend 2/3rds of the story on the ranch with horses 🐎 and it was so repetitive. We went through the same cycle on all chapters, which was super boring 😴
I also guessed the killer in the first couple of chapters. The characters were actually really great, and the plot would have been good! But I just didn't like the execution
I feel bad to give a bad review, but I really disliked this book. The only reason it was 2.5 is because the characters were good and the writing was good. But the rest was meh 😕
Author: Georgia Rose
Rating: 2.5 stars 🌟
OK, this book took me 10000 years! It put me in a slump and took forever to get through
I really wasn't a fan, I feel the story was all over the place. It's meant to be a murder mystery, and we spend 2/3rds of the story on the ranch with horses 🐎 and it was so repetitive. We went through the same cycle on all chapters, which was super boring 😴
I also guessed the killer in the first couple of chapters. The characters were actually really great, and the plot would have been good! But I just didn't like the execution
I feel bad to give a bad review, but I really disliked this book. The only reason it was 2.5 is because the characters were good and the writing was good. But the rest was meh 😕
January 4, 2023
Wow! Didn’t see that ending coming!
Georgia Rose is the only author I will read for murder mysteries. I generally avoid this genre and only read romances with HEA (happily ever after) endings. But there is something about Georgia’s writing that draws me in and I can’t put them down. I always enjoy reading them and never miss one of her books. I highly recommend her previous books and can’t wait for the next release February 1.
Georgia Rose is the only author I will read for murder mysteries. I generally avoid this genre and only read romances with HEA (happily ever after) endings. But there is something about Georgia’s writing that draws me in and I can’t put them down. I always enjoy reading them and never miss one of her books. I highly recommend her previous books and can’t wait for the next release February 1.
Read
January 15, 2023Well, it was not easy to let go of this book!
Written in first person, it captivates you right till the end where the culprit is revealed.
The horses and the rutine with them make up for the scary parts of the book.
If you like Nora Roberts or S.J. Bolton, Georgia Rose is a valid alternative.
Georgias fluent writing is intoxicating and very rare thus makes her writing more valuable.
I like nothing more than to loose myself in beautifully formulated sentences.
Written in first person, it captivates you right till the end where the culprit is revealed.
The horses and the rutine with them make up for the scary parts of the book.
If you like Nora Roberts or S.J. Bolton, Georgia Rose is a valid alternative.
Georgias fluent writing is intoxicating and very rare thus makes her writing more valuable.
I like nothing more than to loose myself in beautifully formulated sentences.
January 2, 2023
Half way through the book I thought I had it all figured out, and I wondered how on earth author was going to pad out the rest of the book with any great interest. Georgia Rose did not disappoint (as usual). Big, unexpected plot twist just as I thought it was all sewn up. Can't beat a good whodunit. Can't wait for the next installment!
January 4, 2023
Absolutely brill!
As a first step into a different genre, I was expecting some mishaps along the way as the author becomes comfortable with the space they're writing in, but this is absolutely great and I would absolutely recommend :)
As a first step into a different genre, I was expecting some mishaps along the way as the author becomes comfortable with the space they're writing in, but this is absolutely great and I would absolutely recommend :)
June 18, 2023
Hoopla bonus borrow - super good!! I found a new author who's style I really like thanks to bonus borrows! While I kind of predicted the who done it -- there were a TON of other facts I didn't see coming!
January 3, 2023
An unexpected thriller that is deceptively demure until it’s not. Looking forward to the next in series.
December 29, 2022
There are a lot of things stable owner Laura Percival doesn’t fully comprehend. Cities. Her responsibility for the death of her husband Matt, which she relives every night unless she takes her sleeping pill. Her new husband Sebastian’s London job, “Something to do with high yield investments and hedge funds. Stuff which I don’t fully understand, even though he’s explained it to me.” Why her old friends and neighbors have left their washing out on the line since Christmas, despite days of rain.
That last one, at least, she can answer because she has a key to their house. But nothing could have prepared her for the horrific scene that awaits her when she lets herself into the too-quiet house.
QUOTE: "With an unsteady hand, I take out my phone, dial 999, and try to explain what’s happened as coherently as I can. Even as I do so, I feel myself crumble. The words said out loud, making it real. I rock in place. Ragged desperation edges my voice as I plead for help to come. I end the call as tears flood down my face and I let them fall, needing to get them out, to feel their release as I wrap my arms around my body." —Georgia Rose. A Killer Strikes (Kindle Locations 235-238). Three Shires Publishing. Kindle Edition.
Laura’s world is profoundly shaken. But that’s happened before, first when her domineering mother dies suddenly, and then when she loses her adored husband Matt. She now knows that she actually has the inner strength to build a successful life and then, when she’s swept off her feet by Sebastian, find a way to love again, and even plan for the family they both want.
So despite her horror at the seemingly senseless deaths of her friends, Laura knows it’s up to her to clear the names of the two people suspected of the murders: the young boyfriend of one of the murdered girls, and her own lifelong friend and current assistant, Henry.
Author Georgia Rose presents a letter-perfect murder mystery, playing fair with her audience as Laura takes us along for every clue and revelation. Together with Laura, we lift the lid on the picturesque village of Melton to reveal both the small town where everyone has a role and a place, and another world where people Laura has know all her life play roles she could never have imagined.
One of the most fun elements for me is that I’ve been to Melton before. At least, I’ve been a virtual visitor to the village created for one of Georgia Rose’s earlier series, The Grayson Trilogy, giving me hope that I’ll hear how my old bookfriends are doing. But if A Killer Strikes is any indication, this new series is edgier, a faster-paced exploration of the clues that Laura soon realizes are going to point to more danger, false accusations, and ultimately, the guilt of someone she cares about.
I particularly love the way Laura’s character changes and grows. Told in the first person present tense, we hear her own disparaging opinion of the compliant girl she’d been, her guilt over her husband’s death, but most of all the matter-of-fact steel backbone of the woman she’s had to become. She accepts her new husband’s care with a kind of amazed gratitude, and wonders what it might be like to be another kind of woman— the kind who might sleep past dawn and take a leisurely shower. But the woman she’s become lives by two fundamental rules. First and foremost, you take care of the horses. Every day, from before dawn until falling into bed exhausted. Second, you take care of those you care about the same way.
It was a pure joy to read a book by a writer at the top of her game, with a sure grasp of her craft. A Killer Strikes has a fully-realized setting, and is perfectly paced to sweep us along with Laura as she determinedly protects those she cares for by solving the mystery, even when the police are sure they’ve found their killer. If you like your murder mysteries full of flawed characters who grow and develop, with a supporting cast of eccentric, often funny fellow villagers, then I completely recommend this new series.
That last one, at least, she can answer because she has a key to their house. But nothing could have prepared her for the horrific scene that awaits her when she lets herself into the too-quiet house.
QUOTE: "With an unsteady hand, I take out my phone, dial 999, and try to explain what’s happened as coherently as I can. Even as I do so, I feel myself crumble. The words said out loud, making it real. I rock in place. Ragged desperation edges my voice as I plead for help to come. I end the call as tears flood down my face and I let them fall, needing to get them out, to feel their release as I wrap my arms around my body." —Georgia Rose. A Killer Strikes (Kindle Locations 235-238). Three Shires Publishing. Kindle Edition.
Laura’s world is profoundly shaken. But that’s happened before, first when her domineering mother dies suddenly, and then when she loses her adored husband Matt. She now knows that she actually has the inner strength to build a successful life and then, when she’s swept off her feet by Sebastian, find a way to love again, and even plan for the family they both want.
So despite her horror at the seemingly senseless deaths of her friends, Laura knows it’s up to her to clear the names of the two people suspected of the murders: the young boyfriend of one of the murdered girls, and her own lifelong friend and current assistant, Henry.
Author Georgia Rose presents a letter-perfect murder mystery, playing fair with her audience as Laura takes us along for every clue and revelation. Together with Laura, we lift the lid on the picturesque village of Melton to reveal both the small town where everyone has a role and a place, and another world where people Laura has know all her life play roles she could never have imagined.
One of the most fun elements for me is that I’ve been to Melton before. At least, I’ve been a virtual visitor to the village created for one of Georgia Rose’s earlier series, The Grayson Trilogy, giving me hope that I’ll hear how my old bookfriends are doing. But if A Killer Strikes is any indication, this new series is edgier, a faster-paced exploration of the clues that Laura soon realizes are going to point to more danger, false accusations, and ultimately, the guilt of someone she cares about.
I particularly love the way Laura’s character changes and grows. Told in the first person present tense, we hear her own disparaging opinion of the compliant girl she’d been, her guilt over her husband’s death, but most of all the matter-of-fact steel backbone of the woman she’s had to become. She accepts her new husband’s care with a kind of amazed gratitude, and wonders what it might be like to be another kind of woman— the kind who might sleep past dawn and take a leisurely shower. But the woman she’s become lives by two fundamental rules. First and foremost, you take care of the horses. Every day, from before dawn until falling into bed exhausted. Second, you take care of those you care about the same way.
It was a pure joy to read a book by a writer at the top of her game, with a sure grasp of her craft. A Killer Strikes has a fully-realized setting, and is perfectly paced to sweep us along with Laura as she determinedly protects those she cares for by solving the mystery, even when the police are sure they’ve found their killer. If you like your murder mysteries full of flawed characters who grow and develop, with a supporting cast of eccentric, often funny fellow villagers, then I completely recommend this new series.
February 17, 2023
‘Death is no stranger. I have known it. Tasted it. Seen its violent colours. Its abrupt finality. Yet still, I didn’t see it coming.’
These are the opening lines that drew me straight into this story. Laura Percival owned a successful livery stable and ran it with the help of her good friends, Harry and Pip. Her life was back on an even keel even if she did need medication to help her sleep. She still blamed herself for the death of her beloved husband, Matt, in a car accident, but had found love again with Sebastian.
As Laura rode past the house of her good friends and neighbours, the Jacksons, she couldn’t understand why the washing was still hanging, sodden, on the line after three days. She knew they hadn’t gone away, the cars were on the drive and she was certain they would have let her know because she looked after their cats when they were away. When she voiced her thoughts to Sebastian, he didn’t share her concerns.
Were they just recovering from the celebrations? Laura couldn’t imagine that being the case, even more so when her text went unanswered. She was determined to make sure all was well, using her key when there was no answer to the ringing of the bell. She was totally unprepared for the horror she discovered.
A Killer Strikes is a tense, character driven story, told from Laura’s perspective in the present tense, which puts the reader right there with her. She’s struggling to process what’s happened. The fact her friends are under suspicion gives her the impetus to do a little digging herself, putting her at odds with the police. The situation isn’t helped by the malicious gossip from the proprietress of the local shop, which adds to the tension in the community and the resulting circulating rumours.
The characters, most likeable, others not so much, are realistic and believable in the small village setting. It was very good to see Laura’s development as the story unfolds. She has a lot to deal with.
A well written and thought through story in a very atmospheric setting with a shocking twist at the end. A great start to a new series.
These are the opening lines that drew me straight into this story. Laura Percival owned a successful livery stable and ran it with the help of her good friends, Harry and Pip. Her life was back on an even keel even if she did need medication to help her sleep. She still blamed herself for the death of her beloved husband, Matt, in a car accident, but had found love again with Sebastian.
As Laura rode past the house of her good friends and neighbours, the Jacksons, she couldn’t understand why the washing was still hanging, sodden, on the line after three days. She knew they hadn’t gone away, the cars were on the drive and she was certain they would have let her know because she looked after their cats when they were away. When she voiced her thoughts to Sebastian, he didn’t share her concerns.
Were they just recovering from the celebrations? Laura couldn’t imagine that being the case, even more so when her text went unanswered. She was determined to make sure all was well, using her key when there was no answer to the ringing of the bell. She was totally unprepared for the horror she discovered.
A Killer Strikes is a tense, character driven story, told from Laura’s perspective in the present tense, which puts the reader right there with her. She’s struggling to process what’s happened. The fact her friends are under suspicion gives her the impetus to do a little digging herself, putting her at odds with the police. The situation isn’t helped by the malicious gossip from the proprietress of the local shop, which adds to the tension in the community and the resulting circulating rumours.
The characters, most likeable, others not so much, are realistic and believable in the small village setting. It was very good to see Laura’s development as the story unfolds. She has a lot to deal with.
A well written and thought through story in a very atmospheric setting with a shocking twist at the end. A great start to a new series.
November 12, 2022
Laura, a woman with a past, is the successful owner of a livery yard, assisted by friends, Harry and Pip. She doesn’t have to worry about domestic duties, as supportive husband, Seb, works short hours, mainly at home. Soon after the New Year holiday, Laura’s fulfilling life is turned upside down when she discovers that her friends and near neighbours have been brutally murdered.
As the police question her friends, she decides to investigate a lead herself. While her husband is in London on business, she visits a suspicious private club. Gossip and accusations spread round the village point the finger at the wrong targets and neither Laura nor the police can pinpoint the murderer.
Heroines in Georgia Rose’s novels, speaking to us in the first person, become our trusted friends, so we share Laura’s anger and confusion and admire her bravery. Her life at the stables is a realistic, engaging account and as the tension builds up, we feel her anger and fear. A thrilling page-turner.
As the police question her friends, she decides to investigate a lead herself. While her husband is in London on business, she visits a suspicious private club. Gossip and accusations spread round the village point the finger at the wrong targets and neither Laura nor the police can pinpoint the murderer.
Heroines in Georgia Rose’s novels, speaking to us in the first person, become our trusted friends, so we share Laura’s anger and confusion and admire her bravery. Her life at the stables is a realistic, engaging account and as the tension builds up, we feel her anger and fear. A thrilling page-turner.
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