What do you think?
Rate this book
Secrets & Photographs
How do you stop a killer you can't even see?
It's been two years since Detective Marissa Ambrose nearly lost her life working the Couple’s Killer case, but time hasn't stopped the vivid nightmares. She still carries the heavy guilt of her partner's death, and the Seattle Police Department refuses to support her theory that the suspect they arrested had an accomplice. With her ex-husband regretfully out of the picture, Marissa was supposed to be focusing on adjusting back to something resembling normalcy in her quiet tourist town. Then the letters came.
Unmarked envelopes full of photographs have been arriving at Marissa's door. Candid shots of her at home. Now, Marissa is certain the missing murderer is stalking her, tracking her every move to finish what he started. As she obsesses over the strange images, the Seattle PD unexpectedly asks for her help. A serial killer is on the loose and targeting members of the Port Townsend community. Despite a personal connection to the first victim, Marissa agrees to pin her badge on once more.
The photographs are piling up and the suspect can't be seen by surveillance cameras. Like a ghost, this killer is haunting her.
It's been two years since Detective Marissa Ambrose nearly lost her life working the Couple’s Killer case, but time hasn't stopped the vivid nightmares. She still carries the heavy guilt of her partner's death, and the Seattle Police Department refuses to support her theory that the suspect they arrested had an accomplice. With her ex-husband regretfully out of the picture, Marissa was supposed to be focusing on adjusting back to something resembling normalcy in her quiet tourist town. Then the letters came.
Unmarked envelopes full of photographs have been arriving at Marissa's door. Candid shots of her at home. Now, Marissa is certain the missing murderer is stalking her, tracking her every move to finish what he started. As she obsesses over the strange images, the Seattle PD unexpectedly asks for her help. A serial killer is on the loose and targeting members of the Port Townsend community. Despite a personal connection to the first victim, Marissa agrees to pin her badge on once more.
The photographs are piling up and the suspect can't be seen by surveillance cameras. Like a ghost, this killer is haunting her.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 15, 2022
2 people are currently reading
42 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
November 26, 2022
Secrets & Photogtaphs is the first book in the mystery series Marissa Ambrose Witness! Readers who enjoy murder mysteries full of investigation and drama will definitely enjoy this one!
The story follows a police detective who, two years before the events of the book, lost her partner and nearly her own life while working on a serial killer case. After this traumatic event, Marissa moves from Seattle back to her hometown, Port Townsend, a small tourist town not far from Seattle. Here she struggles to adjust, especially once she starts receiving photographs from a mysterious stalker, whom Marissa is convinced is the missing killer from the case she was working on. Then suddenly a series of murders begin in the quiet town, and the unprepared Port Townsend police department asks for help to unmask the culprit.
What was great was that we don’t know immediately what happened in Seattle two years ago, and we have to piece together those events. Indeed, there are multiple mystery storylines we follow: the one connected to the Couple’s Killer case, the identity of Marissa’s stalker, and the murders in Port Townsend, and while the latter is solved by the end of the book, we still don’t know who the culprit is for the bigger case.
The character relationships were also a big aspect of this story. Though the romance wasn’t the central aspect of the story, I especially enjoyed the drama with her ex-husband Jared, and the dynamic with FBI agent Special Agent Mackenzie, who is also an ex-boyfriend because there is potential for a second chance romance with both. I’m especially rooting for Mac, who hasn’t stopped caring for her after all this time and who seems to be the only one who can help her heal.
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy for review!
The story follows a police detective who, two years before the events of the book, lost her partner and nearly her own life while working on a serial killer case. After this traumatic event, Marissa moves from Seattle back to her hometown, Port Townsend, a small tourist town not far from Seattle. Here she struggles to adjust, especially once she starts receiving photographs from a mysterious stalker, whom Marissa is convinced is the missing killer from the case she was working on. Then suddenly a series of murders begin in the quiet town, and the unprepared Port Townsend police department asks for help to unmask the culprit.
What was great was that we don’t know immediately what happened in Seattle two years ago, and we have to piece together those events. Indeed, there are multiple mystery storylines we follow: the one connected to the Couple’s Killer case, the identity of Marissa’s stalker, and the murders in Port Townsend, and while the latter is solved by the end of the book, we still don’t know who the culprit is for the bigger case.
The character relationships were also a big aspect of this story. Though the romance wasn’t the central aspect of the story, I especially enjoyed the drama with her ex-husband Jared, and the dynamic with FBI agent Special Agent Mackenzie, who is also an ex-boyfriend because there is potential for a second chance romance with both. I’m especially rooting for Mac, who hasn’t stopped caring for her after all this time and who seems to be the only one who can help her heal.
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy for review!
November 20, 2022
Actual rating 4.5 stars
Murder mystery... I forget how much I like reading this genre! I love switching over from fantasy when I need to reset. This was perfect for it.
I absolutely loved the mc, Marissa was filled with all this trauma but it didn't stop her from evolving as the story progressed. She was so relatable, her empathetic side, and that good cop trait was admirable. I loved following her story but also the mystery portion of the story.
The way the author pulled us into the story had me hooked. I was obsessed with finding out what was going on and who did it. Im so intrigued, since we never find out what happens in this case. I am sure the next book will be gripping! I also think that the next book will give opportunity for Marissa and her ex to patch things up.. either go their own way or work on a second chance.
Can't wait for the second book and put my Nancy drew hat back on! Huge thanks to the author for gifting me a copy. All opinions are my own.
Murder mystery... I forget how much I like reading this genre! I love switching over from fantasy when I need to reset. This was perfect for it.
I absolutely loved the mc, Marissa was filled with all this trauma but it didn't stop her from evolving as the story progressed. She was so relatable, her empathetic side, and that good cop trait was admirable. I loved following her story but also the mystery portion of the story.
The way the author pulled us into the story had me hooked. I was obsessed with finding out what was going on and who did it. Im so intrigued, since we never find out what happens in this case. I am sure the next book will be gripping! I also think that the next book will give opportunity for Marissa and her ex to patch things up.. either go their own way or work on a second chance.
Can't wait for the second book and put my Nancy drew hat back on! Huge thanks to the author for gifting me a copy. All opinions are my own.
November 15, 2022
Did I just read this book as if my life depended on it? Yes, yes I did. Though Goodreads will say it took me two days, if I take all the hours it took me to read this book, they don’t even amount to a day. My dog literally knocked the tablet out of my hands because she got jealous of the attention I was giving this book. That’s how invested I was in the story. As I’m writing this review, I still feel like I’m coming down from an adrenaline rush. So, so good!
The author was able to pull me into the story from the very first page. Marissa is a protagonist who carries a lot of hurt and trauma. I could feel her weariness and hurt settle in my bones, and I desperately wished I had the power to fix things for her. She’s a good person, a great detective, and I was rooting for her happiness. I truly appreciated the personal relationships she has in this book—her family, her friends, the very complicated relationship she has with her ex, and the potential for hope and healing there is with someone (sort of) new. Second chance is a big theme in the book, and seeing as it’s one of my favorite tropes, I enjoyed this aspect of the story a lot!
As for the mystery, I’m obsessed. There are two mystery plots, actually, one that is rooted in Marissa’s traumatic kidnapping two years prior, and one dealing with an homicide case in Port Townsend. Both were absolutely brilliant. It’s been a while since I’ve sat down and underlined so much in an ebook. I was determined to solve the case. I developed theories, and while one proved to be true, I still don’t know if the other one is correct since the mystery surrounding Marissa’s stalker is still unsolved. I need to see this mystery to its end!
I highly recommend this to all lovers of mystery and police procedurals with complex, relatable and real characters and a subtle romance subplot (which had me weak in the knees. Special Agent James Mackenzie reminded me of how deeply in love I was with Seeley Booth from Bones.)
Thank you to the author for gifting me an eARC. Opinions are my own.
The author was able to pull me into the story from the very first page. Marissa is a protagonist who carries a lot of hurt and trauma. I could feel her weariness and hurt settle in my bones, and I desperately wished I had the power to fix things for her. She’s a good person, a great detective, and I was rooting for her happiness. I truly appreciated the personal relationships she has in this book—her family, her friends, the very complicated relationship she has with her ex, and the potential for hope and healing there is with someone (sort of) new. Second chance is a big theme in the book, and seeing as it’s one of my favorite tropes, I enjoyed this aspect of the story a lot!
As for the mystery, I’m obsessed. There are two mystery plots, actually, one that is rooted in Marissa’s traumatic kidnapping two years prior, and one dealing with an homicide case in Port Townsend. Both were absolutely brilliant. It’s been a while since I’ve sat down and underlined so much in an ebook. I was determined to solve the case. I developed theories, and while one proved to be true, I still don’t know if the other one is correct since the mystery surrounding Marissa’s stalker is still unsolved. I need to see this mystery to its end!
I highly recommend this to all lovers of mystery and police procedurals with complex, relatable and real characters and a subtle romance subplot (which had me weak in the knees. Special Agent James Mackenzie reminded me of how deeply in love I was with Seeley Booth from Bones.)
Thank you to the author for gifting me an eARC. Opinions are my own.
July 31, 2024
This book…… How do I love thee. Let me count the ways.
One: Suspects. Plenty of them. In the shadows, hovering just out of sight, or right in my face. It creates a bigger challenge to sift out the red herrings and find the right direction that leads to the villain.
About those suspects. In Secrets And Photographs, the first suspect that pinged my radar about a third of the way through the book ended up with me being right. It was something I now can’t quite put my finger on that made the character stand out. I reread that whole scene several times but never nailed it down. But, there’s more than one crime, and the second suspect that pinged my radar seemed kind of obvious. I knew better than to just assume and actually kind of forgot about that one for a while. But, the character kept popping into my head as I continued reading and is number one on my list. But, since that crime is continuing into the next book, I’ll have to wait and see if I was right.
Two: The title and cover are perfect for this book. I’ll explain. There are secrets. So many. And you won’t get to know all of them. That will come in the next book. And photographs. That’s the killer’s calling card. His signature. And a way to torment his victims. The cover perfectly compliments the title. Both beautiful and chilling.
Three: Characters. I came to care about several. Especially the main character, Detective Marissa Ambrose. She was kidnapped by a serial killer and was the only victim that had ever survived. So damaged. Emotionally and physically scarred. Medication and alcohol an important coping tool. Her panic attacks are debilitating. Leaving her vulnerable. Though she thinks she’s weak, I think she’s incredibly strong.
Four: The feels. So many. Marissa has some amazing support from long time friends and her family. The author worked her magic and made so many of them genuine. I laughed with them. Got mad with and at them. And cried. Several times. Whew….
Five: The ending. I got some answers. Was left hanging on others. I loved this book and so many of the characters. No way I won’t read more of this series.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
One: Suspects. Plenty of them. In the shadows, hovering just out of sight, or right in my face. It creates a bigger challenge to sift out the red herrings and find the right direction that leads to the villain.
About those suspects. In Secrets And Photographs, the first suspect that pinged my radar about a third of the way through the book ended up with me being right. It was something I now can’t quite put my finger on that made the character stand out. I reread that whole scene several times but never nailed it down. But, there’s more than one crime, and the second suspect that pinged my radar seemed kind of obvious. I knew better than to just assume and actually kind of forgot about that one for a while. But, the character kept popping into my head as I continued reading and is number one on my list. But, since that crime is continuing into the next book, I’ll have to wait and see if I was right.
Two: The title and cover are perfect for this book. I’ll explain. There are secrets. So many. And you won’t get to know all of them. That will come in the next book. And photographs. That’s the killer’s calling card. His signature. And a way to torment his victims. The cover perfectly compliments the title. Both beautiful and chilling.
Three: Characters. I came to care about several. Especially the main character, Detective Marissa Ambrose. She was kidnapped by a serial killer and was the only victim that had ever survived. So damaged. Emotionally and physically scarred. Medication and alcohol an important coping tool. Her panic attacks are debilitating. Leaving her vulnerable. Though she thinks she’s weak, I think she’s incredibly strong.
Four: The feels. So many. Marissa has some amazing support from long time friends and her family. The author worked her magic and made so many of them genuine. I laughed with them. Got mad with and at them. And cried. Several times. Whew….
Five: The ending. I got some answers. Was left hanging on others. I loved this book and so many of the characters. No way I won’t read more of this series.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
November 15, 2022
SECRETS & PHOTOGRAPHS is the first book in a mystery series, which isn’t my go-to genre and yet I enjoy it every time I try it! It didn’t take long for me to feel like this story would make a great screen adaptation. All the addictive qualities of a good police procedural were there: characters that felt real and that one could empathize with, complex familial and romantic relationships, and an interesting mystery plot.
Though I’m not usually a great investigator and let the mystery unfold by itself, this time I was invested, perhaps because of how personal the events were for the protagonist. I was buddy reading with my sister, so it was so fun to make theories together and exchange notes. The resolution of the murder case was satisfying, though it seems like there are still some loose threads and I’m curious to see if my theories on that regard are true!
What I enjoyed most about the book however was the human aspect of Marissa’s relationships, where the second-chance trope reigned supreme. Her friendship with Allison, that was true and steadfast. Her turbulent relationship with her sister Melanie. Her complicated past with her ex, Jared, and the hopeful relationship blooming with Special Agent James Mackenzie. As a fellow dog mom, however, the sweet bond with Ellie, her service dog, resonated with me most of all. Marissa’s messy personal life is what really kept me turning the pages. Not all the conflicts in the book are resolved, which is yet another reason I’m curious about the rest of the series.
Thank you to the author for gifting me an eARC. All opinions are my own.
Though I’m not usually a great investigator and let the mystery unfold by itself, this time I was invested, perhaps because of how personal the events were for the protagonist. I was buddy reading with my sister, so it was so fun to make theories together and exchange notes. The resolution of the murder case was satisfying, though it seems like there are still some loose threads and I’m curious to see if my theories on that regard are true!
What I enjoyed most about the book however was the human aspect of Marissa’s relationships, where the second-chance trope reigned supreme. Her friendship with Allison, that was true and steadfast. Her turbulent relationship with her sister Melanie. Her complicated past with her ex, Jared, and the hopeful relationship blooming with Special Agent James Mackenzie. As a fellow dog mom, however, the sweet bond with Ellie, her service dog, resonated with me most of all. Marissa’s messy personal life is what really kept me turning the pages. Not all the conflicts in the book are resolved, which is yet another reason I’m curious about the rest of the series.
Thank you to the author for gifting me an eARC. All opinions are my own.
November 19, 2022
Okay first of all, I started reading this one evening when I was home by myself and said, NOPE 😂 this is def a daytime, not alone read for me but I LOVED it! Thrillers are a genre I love but don’t often read, but I’m so glad I picked this one up.
I loved Detective Marissa Ambrose, the FMC. Her complexity and various relationships were two of the things that kept me flipping the pages for multiple hours earlier this week. I was so invested in watching her work through her ptsd from her traumatic kidnapping and assist the Seattle PD (who completely did her wrong) with their investigation into a serial killer. I wanted her to find happiness, and loved the introduction of a potential love interest in Special Agent James Mackenzie. Marissa deserves this sweet, blossoming romance!
While one mystery in this book wraps up, the mystery of Marissa’s stalker is left open and unresolved. It definitely has me excited to continue this series and see if my theory is proven true!
November 18, 2022
Reading this book made me question why I don't read more books of this genre. Thriller / Mystery novels are not my go to, but I could not put down this book.
What AK Ramirez does well is built up suspense, which can be hard. But this is the essence of thriller / mystery novels and I found myself reading faster and faster, just so I can see what happens.
Marissa Ambrose was also a great main character. I was rooting for her and often scared for her life. I'm excited to see where this series goes! I'm not sure my heart can take it, but i'm ready!
What AK Ramirez does well is built up suspense, which can be hard. But this is the essence of thriller / mystery novels and I found myself reading faster and faster, just so I can see what happens.
Marissa Ambrose was also a great main character. I was rooting for her and often scared for her life. I'm excited to see where this series goes! I'm not sure my heart can take it, but i'm ready!
November 1, 2023
I had the pleasure of meeting this author in Richmond at a convention.
I really enjoyed the story. The author pulls you in from the first page. Quick read
I really enjoyed the story. The author pulls you in from the first page. Quick read
November 18, 2023
We love a messy family and a plot thick with dark and winding paths. Truly enjoyed this book and read it very quickly! I am very excited to get a signed copy of the next book that was just released!! AK Ramirez is "one to watch" in the crime/thriller genre. You have a fan for life now.
June 24, 2024
All I had to do was see the title on the fantastic cover for Secrets & Photographs and I jumped right in. I was immediately drawn into Marissa’s world.
She needed her two best friends, but…one had been murdered and the other was lost to her. She thought it was easier for her to be a cop than a friend, as she stood at Allie’s graveside, staying focused and numb. Tunnel vision made her a good detective, but not so good a friend or sister.
Kudos to her, her strength in dealing with physical and mental ailments thrown at her.
I wondered who her love interest would be.
Uh oh. I have a lot of characters to sort through, as I try to find the villain. I love when they hide in the pages and I have make a mental list of can they or can’t they be who I’m looking for. I love damaged, dysfunctional characters and we have plenty of them in Secrets & Photographs by A K Ramirez. I find it hard to read them, not knowing which way they will twist and turn.
One mystery is solved, but we have an ongoing mystery that feeds my need for the next book in the Marissa Ambrose Witness Series.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Secrets & Photographs by A K Ramirez.
See more at http://www.fundinmental.com
She needed her two best friends, but…one had been murdered and the other was lost to her. She thought it was easier for her to be a cop than a friend, as she stood at Allie’s graveside, staying focused and numb. Tunnel vision made her a good detective, but not so good a friend or sister.
Kudos to her, her strength in dealing with physical and mental ailments thrown at her.
I wondered who her love interest would be.
Uh oh. I have a lot of characters to sort through, as I try to find the villain. I love when they hide in the pages and I have make a mental list of can they or can’t they be who I’m looking for. I love damaged, dysfunctional characters and we have plenty of them in Secrets & Photographs by A K Ramirez. I find it hard to read them, not knowing which way they will twist and turn.
One mystery is solved, but we have an ongoing mystery that feeds my need for the next book in the Marissa Ambrose Witness Series.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Secrets & Photographs by A K Ramirez.
See more at http://www.fundinmental.com
June 24, 2024
This is the story of Marissa Ambrose. Marissa was involved in a very harrowing case a few years ago as a detective and she is still recovering. She lives with her dog Ellie at her mom’s former house, now her house. Marissa has a slew of diagnosis from the incident, and she has a lot of medical issues. She was married to the same man twice and now divorced twice over. She is alone in her house, but it is by choice.
The story itself is engaging. We learn a lot about Marissa and why she did what she did with everyone and Jared as well. We also learn about Marissa’s family and who everyone is. There is a lot of background in this book and information on what happened after the case that Marissa did a few years ago. And then James McKenzie shows up, Mac for short😉I like the relationship between Mac and Marissa, he seems like a genuinely nice guy who cares about Marissa. There is so much that happens in the end of the book that I can’t give any hints, but WOW I just couldn’t believe that it happened that way.
The ending leaves this book open for more of Marissa’s story and I can not wait to read it! This is a definite read for any fans of mystery and thrillers with a fast paced feel to them and want a believable character who is a little broken but is working on it.
The story itself is engaging. We learn a lot about Marissa and why she did what she did with everyone and Jared as well. We also learn about Marissa’s family and who everyone is. There is a lot of background in this book and information on what happened after the case that Marissa did a few years ago. And then James McKenzie shows up, Mac for short😉I like the relationship between Mac and Marissa, he seems like a genuinely nice guy who cares about Marissa. There is so much that happens in the end of the book that I can’t give any hints, but WOW I just couldn’t believe that it happened that way.
The ending leaves this book open for more of Marissa’s story and I can not wait to read it! This is a definite read for any fans of mystery and thrillers with a fast paced feel to them and want a believable character who is a little broken but is working on it.
June 25, 2024
4.3
Candid shots. guilt, stalk…
*Thanks to Partners in Crime Tours for including me on this tour!
Two years ago Detective Marissa Ambrose and her partner were investigating the Couple’s Killer case in Seattle. Her partner was killed and she almost lost her life.
Currently Marissa is living in her hometown trying to cope with numerous physical & emotional diagnoses. She is not cleared for active duty yet but has been asked to consult by the local police chief concerning local murders.
This unsettling, chilling thriller/mystery/police procedural includes menacing events and intimidating situations. The slow build of this whodunnit / whydunnit lures you in right from the beginning!
The main character is plucky and unflinching at times, but at heart, is emotionally and physically scarred from her past experiences. She is brittle at times, but is determined to get reinstated. Through all her pain and suffering, she thinks about second chances and different life choices. How many of us haven’t wished for a redo on a decision made or wished for a second chance? Her behaviors seemed realistic and believable for someone dealing with her traumas.
The hometown murders will be solved but the Seattle case will remain a cliffhanger and partially unresolved. Stay tuned for Book #2 of the Marissa Ambrose Witness series!
COUNT ME IN!
Candid shots. guilt, stalk…
*Thanks to Partners in Crime Tours for including me on this tour!
Two years ago Detective Marissa Ambrose and her partner were investigating the Couple’s Killer case in Seattle. Her partner was killed and she almost lost her life.
Currently Marissa is living in her hometown trying to cope with numerous physical & emotional diagnoses. She is not cleared for active duty yet but has been asked to consult by the local police chief concerning local murders.
This unsettling, chilling thriller/mystery/police procedural includes menacing events and intimidating situations. The slow build of this whodunnit / whydunnit lures you in right from the beginning!
The main character is plucky and unflinching at times, but at heart, is emotionally and physically scarred from her past experiences. She is brittle at times, but is determined to get reinstated. Through all her pain and suffering, she thinks about second chances and different life choices. How many of us haven’t wished for a redo on a decision made or wished for a second chance? Her behaviors seemed realistic and believable for someone dealing with her traumas.
The hometown murders will be solved but the Seattle case will remain a cliffhanger and partially unresolved. Stay tuned for Book #2 of the Marissa Ambrose Witness series!
COUNT ME IN!
December 10, 2022
I wasn't sure how much I enjoyed this book at the beginning. It felt like it was moving very slowly. In fact, I was wondering if there was ever going to be a murder when I was about a third done. Then a couple minutes later, a murder! That's when the book sped up! I had a little trouble keeping the two investigations separate. The twist was great! And I did enjoy how the two cases crossed. I felt for Marissa that no one believed her and was thankful when the police started listening to her. She's a great detective and I'm looking forward to revisiting her and hopefully solving the big mystery soon!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 21, 2022
Why don't I read this genre more?! Seriously, this was such a treat and made me wonder why I hardly ever read these kinds of books. The writing style is super compelling, I adored the MC Marissa, and the burgeoning romance between her and James McKenzie...ultimately making this book altogether unputdownable!! Absolutely PERFECT for fans of mystery/thriller reads with a slowburn romance pervading the action of the plot.
Thank you so much to the author for sending me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts and opinions expressed above are entirely my own.
Thank you so much to the author for sending me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts and opinions expressed above are entirely my own.
April 3, 2023
This book was a very quick read for me (I'm generally a fast reader), I was sad when I finished it due to the cliffhanger and realizing that book 2 wouldn't be out until October of this year.
The book was pretty slow going until chapter 7 and then things picked up. I really enjoyed the characters and felt genuinely sorry for Marissa. Apart from her mother, her family life is a total shit show. I grew to really dislike her sister Mel through the story's progression. Ater everything that Marissa had been through, I thought that Mel's overreaction was cruel and uncalled for (maybe she will get killed off later and then I'll feel better).
I wish there was more resolution with the couple's killer by the end of the book. I was leaning toward Jack or Mac as a suspect. Jack's character is pretty irrelevant to the story as a whole so I don't know what other part he could play. The timeline he leaves town also matched up with the timeline the second couple's killer said that he was going away, but we will all have to wait and see how that plays out.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book and am looking forward to more from this author.
The book was pretty slow going until chapter 7 and then things picked up. I really enjoyed the characters and felt genuinely sorry for Marissa. Apart from her mother, her family life is a total shit show. I grew to really dislike her sister Mel through the story's progression. Ater everything that Marissa had been through, I thought that Mel's overreaction was cruel and uncalled for (maybe she will get killed off later and then I'll feel better).
I wish there was more resolution with the couple's killer by the end of the book. I was leaning toward Jack or Mac as a suspect. Jack's character is pretty irrelevant to the story as a whole so I don't know what other part he could play. The timeline he leaves town also matched up with the timeline the second couple's killer said that he was going away, but we will all have to wait and see how that plays out.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book and am looking forward to more from this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2024
Secrets and Photographs was a fantastic read! I was sucked in from the very first page! Marissa is a great main character, she has not had it easy and seeing the character's growth and determination is inspiring. The book has two mysteries. The first is figuring out what happened two years ago and the second is finding out what's really going on in the present! And I couldn't wait to see the who, what, when, where and why! This is the first book in the Marissa Ambrose Witness series and I can't wait to read the next book!
December 2, 2022
Detect Marissa was working on a case, dubbed the Couple Killer case. During the case and the capture of the suspect, she was injured. She is convinced that the suspect had an accomplice but her suspicions fall on deaf ears. After this case she decides to relax and recover, but her peace is interrupted. She receives letters and photographs that documents her every move. She has stalker. While she is dealing with this situation , she is also asked to look into another case. A case that involves a copycat serial killer. A thriller with a mysterious plot and strong characters. Its a breathtaking ride.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 25, 2023
A friend recommended this book to me as I was looking for a new mystery novel and I was so sad when it ended because I wanted more! The writing was exceptional and the story captivated me. Twists I didn’t expect had me reading this book in record time. Absolutely recommend!
November 24, 2024
This book was great. I was hooked from the beginning and was on the edge of my seat waiting to find out what would happen. I highly recommend.
January 3, 2023
Will complete review later
Had to change my rating from 4 to 5 stars when I woke up the next day still suspicious of every character and realized I 100% was going to re-read. Especially while I'm waiting for books 2-5 to come.
Had to change my rating from 4 to 5 stars when I woke up the next day still suspicious of every character and realized I 100% was going to re-read. Especially while I'm waiting for books 2-5 to come.
July 20, 2023
I’m a sucker for a good crime novel and this one kept me hooked. I also love books set in the Pacific Northwest - I might be biased since I live in the PNW but I thought the author did a good job of using the coziness of Port Townsend to contrast with the horror of the crimes. I’m looking forward to reading book 2!
March 22, 2024
This book is Amazing!! I couldn't put it down. I need book 2!!!
October 5, 2022
Really enjoyed this edge of your seat and action packed adventure filled with witty and engaging charters, heart racing twists and emotional turns. An emotionally thrilling roller coaster journey from beginning to end and so hard to put down.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 6, 2023
I can't stop thinking about it. I'll admit I was a little skeptical at first. (to be fair I guess that's my reading default with every book) but I found myself thinking about it when I wasn't reading it.
The more I read, the more questions I had and I needed answers! I eagerly devoured the last few chapters this morning before I even got out of bed. (I woke up early for this) then immediately started searching for book #2 with zero success.
Only to find out it wouldn't be released until October 26, 2023. Now what am I supposed to read???
The more I read, the more questions I had and I needed answers! I eagerly devoured the last few chapters this morning before I even got out of bed. (I woke up early for this) then immediately started searching for book #2 with zero success.
Only to find out it wouldn't be released until October 26, 2023. Now what am I supposed to read???
June 18, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you A. K. Ramirez and Partners In Crime Tours. I'm excited to be a part of this tour.
Secrets and Photographs is the first in the Marissa Ambrose Witness series. This book asks the question How do you stop a killer you can’t see?
It’s been two years since Detective Marissa Ambrose nearly lost her life working the Couple’s Killer case, but time has not stopped the vivid nightmares. She continues to carry the guilt of her partner’s death, and the Seattle Police Department refuses to support her theory that the suspect had an accomplice. With her ex-husband out of the picture, her move to a quiet tourist town is supposed to be focused on getting back to normal. Then the letters came.
Envelopes full of candid pictures begin showing up on her doorstep. Marissa is certain the missing murderer is stalking her and tracking her every move. As she obsesses over the strange images, the Seattle PD unexpectedly asks for her help. A serial killer is on the prowl and targeting members of the Port Townsend community. As the photographs pile up and the suspect remains unseen. The killer is like a ghost and is haunting her.
Living in the PNW, I am a huge fan of books that take place in this area. I also have a personal connection to Port Townsend, having visited it many times and couldn’t wait to dive into this book. This book is well written with deeply developed characters. I really like that the book is told from Marissa’s POV. This allowed the reader to get inside her head while understanding her frustrations both personally and professionally. As I read this book, I rooted for Marissa as I watched her struggle with friendships, work, and intimacy. I also identified with Marissa on multiple levels.
The book is fast paced and filled with a million different red herrings. I literally suspected all the characters at one time. The author also did an excellent job of building depth in the supporting characters. The book kept me engaged and turning pages late into the night. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a well written crime procedural full of mystery and suspense. I will be anxiously awaiting book two, I can’t wait to see how this series evolves.
Secrets and Photographs is the first in the Marissa Ambrose Witness series. This book asks the question How do you stop a killer you can’t see?
It’s been two years since Detective Marissa Ambrose nearly lost her life working the Couple’s Killer case, but time has not stopped the vivid nightmares. She continues to carry the guilt of her partner’s death, and the Seattle Police Department refuses to support her theory that the suspect had an accomplice. With her ex-husband out of the picture, her move to a quiet tourist town is supposed to be focused on getting back to normal. Then the letters came.
Envelopes full of candid pictures begin showing up on her doorstep. Marissa is certain the missing murderer is stalking her and tracking her every move. As she obsesses over the strange images, the Seattle PD unexpectedly asks for her help. A serial killer is on the prowl and targeting members of the Port Townsend community. As the photographs pile up and the suspect remains unseen. The killer is like a ghost and is haunting her.
Living in the PNW, I am a huge fan of books that take place in this area. I also have a personal connection to Port Townsend, having visited it many times and couldn’t wait to dive into this book. This book is well written with deeply developed characters. I really like that the book is told from Marissa’s POV. This allowed the reader to get inside her head while understanding her frustrations both personally and professionally. As I read this book, I rooted for Marissa as I watched her struggle with friendships, work, and intimacy. I also identified with Marissa on multiple levels.
The book is fast paced and filled with a million different red herrings. I literally suspected all the characters at one time. The author also did an excellent job of building depth in the supporting characters. The book kept me engaged and turning pages late into the night. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a well written crime procedural full of mystery and suspense. I will be anxiously awaiting book two, I can’t wait to see how this series evolves.
June 21, 2024
This is a very unsettling novel with a flawed heroine. While there are two mysteries going on, the focus of the novel by far is an exploration of Marissa, a police detective in the throes of PTSD from an experience a couple of years previously. While we get hints of her past trauma, a devastating experience in a warehouse, I felt like I was missing enough to understand what had happened and kept checking to see if I had missed an earlier novel in the series. We do ultimately find out why Marissa is acting so irresponsibly, getting drunk way too often and making so many unwise decisions. I have hope for a less flawed heroine in the future.
Marissa is asked by the local police to help with the murder of her good friend. Marissa is also being stalked but law enforcement will not take her concerns seriously. There is a twist near the end I did not see coming that solves the murder. The stalking issue is left unresolved at the end of the novel and we are set up for a sequel.
This is a good novel for readers who like one concentrating more on a character than on the mystery. I have become quite interested in Marissa so will be watching for the sequel.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Partners in Crime Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Marissa is asked by the local police to help with the murder of her good friend. Marissa is also being stalked but law enforcement will not take her concerns seriously. There is a twist near the end I did not see coming that solves the murder. The stalking issue is left unresolved at the end of the novel and we are set up for a sequel.
This is a good novel for readers who like one concentrating more on a character than on the mystery. I have become quite interested in Marissa so will be watching for the sequel.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Partners in Crime Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.
June 26, 2024
Secrets and Photographs is written by A.K. Ramirez. It is my first exposure to this author, and it will not be the last. I found myself drawn into the Marissa and her life within the first few pages. Marissa is a detective on leave with the Seattle Police Department. She experienced something harrowing and she still suffers from PTSD.
Marissa is convinced that those behind the horrible memories are still out there. She tries to tell the police, but it does not seem that they believe her. She gets photographs sent to her. The photographs capture her doing every day life. Suddenly she is called to assist with a murder investigation. Since there are the two cases going on, the author has packed in a lot of twists, turns and the potential for a romance.
I love main characters who are flawed. Marissa has some guilt from the death of her former partner. She pushed her ex husband away. She moved back into her childhood home. She does not want to open up in therapy. Her service dog, Ellie is the best.
The story is well written. The book will draw you in within the first few pages. I cannot wait until the next book in the series. I am completely invested.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Partners in Crime Book Tours for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.
Marissa is convinced that those behind the horrible memories are still out there. She tries to tell the police, but it does not seem that they believe her. She gets photographs sent to her. The photographs capture her doing every day life. Suddenly she is called to assist with a murder investigation. Since there are the two cases going on, the author has packed in a lot of twists, turns and the potential for a romance.
I love main characters who are flawed. Marissa has some guilt from the death of her former partner. She pushed her ex husband away. She moved back into her childhood home. She does not want to open up in therapy. Her service dog, Ellie is the best.
The story is well written. The book will draw you in within the first few pages. I cannot wait until the next book in the series. I am completely invested.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Partners in Crime Book Tours for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.
October 15, 2023
Secrets & Photographs, #1 - A difficult start to this book with so much redundancies about her mental instability and PTSD. But the story did finally get interesting and the pace quicken half way through the story, which made the last part seemed rushed. There was a lot going on but not in the same detail as given to her history. Good characters and the story lines were interesting. Too much vulgar language, but clean otherwise. The foundation story line continues into the next book but there are no cliffhangers. Source: The author. 4*
Memories & Scars, #2 - Started this book right after the first and I was pleasantly surprised at how much better this was compared to S&P. Picks about six weeks later with a new case, new problems in many areas and less emphasis on Rissa's mental and philosophical woes. Good pacing, interesting and immersing with both the old and new story lines. The ending may be a bit of a cliffhanger, but the old story line continues. Source: BookSprout. 4*
Memories & Scars, #2 - Started this book right after the first and I was pleasantly surprised at how much better this was compared to S&P. Picks about six weeks later with a new case, new problems in many areas and less emphasis on Rissa's mental and philosophical woes. Good pacing, interesting and immersing with both the old and new story lines. The ending may be a bit of a cliffhanger, but the old story line continues. Source: BookSprout. 4*
June 27, 2024
Secrets and Photographs by A.K. Ramirez is for all fans of murder, mystery, and suspense. Think of Mary Kubica, Heather Graham, and Sandra Brown. This writer, A.K. Ramirez, is just as talented as they are. Her words instantly bring to life the fast yet deadly scenarios and amazing cast of characters. Her main character, Detective Marissa Ambrose, stands out in a great way. She like other heroines have gone through hell and back and still is determined to catch the killer despite the risks. It gives us, readers, not only deep sympathy but also a deep liking for this female character. I definitely enjoy the dark mysterious atmosphere of loss, grief, and danger. The deadly chase has just started. I am now a huge fan, and I am amazed by the raw talent of this new writer. Crime fiction and thriller suspense readers like me will want to devour this book as much as I have. Fantastically edgy and engaging!
I have received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
I have received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
June 11, 2024
I definitely enjoyed this book. It was well written, with well-developed characters. Haunted by bad memories, it was easy to identify with Marissa's frustrations when nobody believes she is being stalked by someone tied to a case from her past. But, in fact, the plot included two separate investigations - both tied to Marissa, one from a past case, the other the murder of a close friend. The tension mounted as the story progressed, keeping the pages turning into the wee hours of the night. I didn't love that the book ends without resolving both cases. My guess is that the author plans to continue that storyline in the next book in the series.
FTC disclosure: I received an advance review copy of this book from the publisher. This has not affected my review in any way.
FTC disclosure: I received an advance review copy of this book from the publisher. This has not affected my review in any way.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews