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Berry Springs #1
The Woods
A year after her sister’s death, Archeologist and part-time neurotic, Dr. Katie Somers returns to the sleepy, southern town of Berry Springs to sell her childhood home. She’d planned to be in and out in less than a week, but a chance meeting with a handsome stranger turns her perfectly crafted world upside down.
Army Ranger Jake Thomas only has one shot at a position with the FBI, even if that means concealing his true identity from those closest to him. As he tries to focus on the mission at hand, Berry Springs is rocked by two gruesome murders and it isn’t long before he and Katie become entangled in the killer’s web, while becoming suspects themselves by the prickly Chief of Police, David McCord.
As their attraction begins to sizzle, so does the danger when Katie stumbles onto new details about her sister’s death, leading her down a dangerous path.
A path she should’ve never stepped onto…
Army Ranger Jake Thomas only has one shot at a position with the FBI, even if that means concealing his true identity from those closest to him. As he tries to focus on the mission at hand, Berry Springs is rocked by two gruesome murders and it isn’t long before he and Katie become entangled in the killer’s web, while becoming suspects themselves by the prickly Chief of Police, David McCord.
As their attraction begins to sizzle, so does the danger when Katie stumbles onto new details about her sister’s death, leading her down a dangerous path.
A path she should’ve never stepped onto…
Kindle Edition
First published May 30, 2017
804 people are currently reading
1355 people want to read
About the author
Amanda McKinney
37 books1,007 followersAmanda McKinney is the Amazon Charts bestselling and multi-award-winning author of more than thirty romance and thriller novels. Her books have received over fifteen literary awards and nominations, including the prestigious Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence, and have been included in lists such as POPSUGAR's 12 Best Romance Books, and featured on the Today Show.
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www.amandamckinneyauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
August 28, 2019
2 Sluggish Stars
A year after her sister’s death, Dr. Katie Somers returns to the sleepy, southern town of Berry Springs to sell her childhood home. She intended to be in and out as quickly as possible, but you guessed it - things don’t work out like she expected them to. As she and Army Ranger Jake Thomas become entangled in a killer’s web, they find themselves in trouble with the law and in grave danger.
The romance didn’t manifest well for me and felt a bit like an afterthought, plus there were certain inconsistencies that once noticed I couldn’t ignore.
The characters and plot didn’t entice me at all, the tension that should have existed didn’t manifest and I failed to connect with the characters, for that reason I skim read towards the end. Part of me wishes I had DNF this. Overall, I have to say this book was a big disappointment, it’s my first read by the author and it hasn’t fostered a desire to read more by the author.
Acquired via KU.
A year after her sister’s death, Dr. Katie Somers returns to the sleepy, southern town of Berry Springs to sell her childhood home. She intended to be in and out as quickly as possible, but you guessed it - things don’t work out like she expected them to. As she and Army Ranger Jake Thomas become entangled in a killer’s web, they find themselves in trouble with the law and in grave danger.
The romance didn’t manifest well for me and felt a bit like an afterthought, plus there were certain inconsistencies that once noticed I couldn’t ignore.
The characters and plot didn’t entice me at all, the tension that should have existed didn’t manifest and I failed to connect with the characters, for that reason I skim read towards the end. Part of me wishes I had DNF this. Overall, I have to say this book was a big disappointment, it’s my first read by the author and it hasn’t fostered a desire to read more by the author.
Acquired via KU.
August 2, 2018
Four and a half stars from me for this lively, action-packed, at times riveting thriller.
I like that the heroine is an archaeologist, used to working hard outdoors, studying, following clues, trusting intuition. We meet Katie as she mourns her sister Jenna, having to return to the small town where they grew up in order to sell their home. Katie has doubted for the whole year that her sister's fall off a cliff was accidental, but nothing has been done to treat it as a crime once the obvious men in Jenna's life were eliminated from enquiries. Berry Springs is small and quiet, if rugged around the wooded edges.
Katie meets a stranger who has an ulterior motive for being here. Life becomes dangerous.
Since Katie is not in a relationship, and has a career, how come she has sex and doesn't ask the guy to wear a condom? If she is on the pill or has taken other precautions, we should have been told. How come the guy didn't offer to wear one? We're told all the other intimacies.
A few issues that annoyed me and would stop me giving five stars. If the lady who had died was separated, the police would be entitled to think she might have met someone new and would check her phone records and computer records as a matter of course. The police can get these records legally and in fact pay telcoms firms for them in America. But the town cops did no such thing... the author does leave hints that the main officer leaves something to be desired, but his staff or her family would surely think of checking mails, texts and social sites, phone number records.
I have ridden horses at night away from city lights. I would not ask a horse to jump a field fence at night. Maybe Katie would, but not many horses would see the fence well enough to clear it. How did Katie even read the compass? Did it have a fluorescent needle, not mentioned?
Writing details - I dislike that when we meet a main character, we get the author's lengthy potted biography of them. This looks artificial and breaks the flow. Far better would be to give just a few lines, let the story naturally generate the details in conversation or with a change of location.
Reins for riding are not spelt reigns, as they are several times in this tale. A bridle is not spelt bridal. A hay bale is not spelt bail. This is why we don't trust spill chuckers. My copy is an e-ARC and the spellings I spotted may since have been corrected.
Other oddities include: "Being a beautiful and mysterious archeological site, Katie jumped at the opportunity to head up the excavation." Katie is a beautiful archaeological site? This kind of mixed up sentence occurs a few times. But maybe they speak that way in Arkansas, I don't know.
While we're told of some computer hacking, all we see of it is guessing a password, so the majority of the action depends on guns, knives, bombs and cliffs. With adult romance and strong language too, this is a suspense story for mature readers. I'll be interested to see how the author develops in later books. Her strength is in characterisation - of people and places - and creating a looming tension.
I was sent an e-ARC by the author. I chose to review because I enjoyed the read. This is an unbiased review.
I like that the heroine is an archaeologist, used to working hard outdoors, studying, following clues, trusting intuition. We meet Katie as she mourns her sister Jenna, having to return to the small town where they grew up in order to sell their home. Katie has doubted for the whole year that her sister's fall off a cliff was accidental, but nothing has been done to treat it as a crime once the obvious men in Jenna's life were eliminated from enquiries. Berry Springs is small and quiet, if rugged around the wooded edges.
Katie meets a stranger who has an ulterior motive for being here. Life becomes dangerous.
Since Katie is not in a relationship, and has a career, how come she has sex and doesn't ask the guy to wear a condom? If she is on the pill or has taken other precautions, we should have been told. How come the guy didn't offer to wear one? We're told all the other intimacies.
A few issues that annoyed me and would stop me giving five stars. If the lady who had died was separated, the police would be entitled to think she might have met someone new and would check her phone records and computer records as a matter of course. The police can get these records legally and in fact pay telcoms firms for them in America. But the town cops did no such thing... the author does leave hints that the main officer leaves something to be desired, but his staff or her family would surely think of checking mails, texts and social sites, phone number records.
I have ridden horses at night away from city lights. I would not ask a horse to jump a field fence at night. Maybe Katie would, but not many horses would see the fence well enough to clear it. How did Katie even read the compass? Did it have a fluorescent needle, not mentioned?
Writing details - I dislike that when we meet a main character, we get the author's lengthy potted biography of them. This looks artificial and breaks the flow. Far better would be to give just a few lines, let the story naturally generate the details in conversation or with a change of location.
Reins for riding are not spelt reigns, as they are several times in this tale. A bridle is not spelt bridal. A hay bale is not spelt bail. This is why we don't trust spill chuckers. My copy is an e-ARC and the spellings I spotted may since have been corrected.
Other oddities include: "Being a beautiful and mysterious archeological site, Katie jumped at the opportunity to head up the excavation." Katie is a beautiful archaeological site? This kind of mixed up sentence occurs a few times. But maybe they speak that way in Arkansas, I don't know.
While we're told of some computer hacking, all we see of it is guessing a password, so the majority of the action depends on guns, knives, bombs and cliffs. With adult romance and strong language too, this is a suspense story for mature readers. I'll be interested to see how the author develops in later books. Her strength is in characterisation - of people and places - and creating a looming tension.
I was sent an e-ARC by the author. I chose to review because I enjoyed the read. This is an unbiased review.
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August 24, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (8/24/2019)! 🎁
September 19, 2019
Puedes encontrar esta reseña en español al final.
So I'm going to dnf at 26% because although the suspense was totally uninteresting and the same old thing (and I could have put up with it), the romace was as bad. And that was too much.
Imagine meeting a guy near the ravine where your sister was killed (or so you think) about to get dark and you go and do nothing but get busy getting butterflies and goosebumps because he is so hot and tall and... well, you know the drill...
Not for me.
*sigh*
***
Lo voy a dejar al 26% porque aunque el suspense es aburrido y "más de lo mismo" (y podría haberlo tolerado), el romance es igual de malo. Y eso ya es demasiado.
Imagina encontrarte a un tipo cerca del barranco donde tu hermana fue asesinada (o al menos esa es tu sospecha) casi al anochecer y vas y lo único que se te ocurre es tener mariposas en el estómago y la piel de gallina porque, tú sabes, el tipo es alto y guapo y todo eso...
Total, que esto no es para mí.
So I'm going to dnf at 26% because although the suspense was totally uninteresting and the same old thing (and I could have put up with it), the romace was as bad. And that was too much.
Imagine meeting a guy near the ravine where your sister was killed (or so you think) about to get dark and you go and do nothing but get busy getting butterflies and goosebumps because he is so hot and tall and... well, you know the drill...
Not for me.
*sigh*
***
Lo voy a dejar al 26% porque aunque el suspense es aburrido y "más de lo mismo" (y podría haberlo tolerado), el romance es igual de malo. Y eso ya es demasiado.
Imagina encontrarte a un tipo cerca del barranco donde tu hermana fue asesinada (o al menos esa es tu sospecha) casi al anochecer y vas y lo único que se te ocurre es tener mariposas en el estómago y la piel de gallina porque, tú sabes, el tipo es alto y guapo y todo eso...
Total, que esto no es para mí.
February 24, 2019
2.5 stars rounded up
There were numerous elements about this book that drove me nuts. The bombing terrorist plot felt woefully underdeveloped and the FBI team working it seemed way understaffed. Which made the whole thing feel fake and not very believable. Jake as a trainee who had to prove himself before being offered a job as an FBI agent felt off. If he made it through Quantico and was given his badge, he was already an agent. Why put the world's best shooter undercover? Sounds more like swat. There were just so many instances that pulled me out of the book with either an eye roll or a shake of my head.
The romance also felt underdeveloped like it was an outline. Katie waiting a year to follow up on her sister's death seemed odd. If McCord thought it was iffy, he would have already looked into the computer. Katie breaking into McCord's home earned her the TSTL award.
Basically, unimpressive effort, but shows potential.
There were numerous elements about this book that drove me nuts. The bombing terrorist plot felt woefully underdeveloped and the FBI team working it seemed way understaffed. Which made the whole thing feel fake and not very believable. Jake as a trainee who had to prove himself before being offered a job as an FBI agent felt off. If he made it through Quantico and was given his badge, he was already an agent. Why put the world's best shooter undercover? Sounds more like swat. There were just so many instances that pulled me out of the book with either an eye roll or a shake of my head.
The romance also felt underdeveloped like it was an outline. Katie waiting a year to follow up on her sister's death seemed odd. If McCord thought it was iffy, he would have already looked into the computer. Katie breaking into McCord's home earned her the TSTL award.
Basically, unimpressive effort, but shows potential.
August 21, 2017
Despite of my love for New Adult genre nowadays, I still couldn't let go of my fascination with murder/thriller mysteries. When I read the blurb for The Woods, I hoped to read it one day soon, and that one day happened last week. I can't believe I wasn't able to read this immediately. I should have met Army Ranger turned FBI Agent Jake Thomas earlier because now I'm swooning head over heels about him!
It's been ten long years since Archaeologist Dr. Katie Somers left Berry Springs, and soon she came back to help her sister Jenny who was recently divorced to her cheating husband. But their reunion was cut short when she mysteriously fell down to her death on a cliff. A year later, Katie was back to sell their childhood home but was surprised when this sleepy town of Arkansas was awaken by two gruesome murders and terrorist suspicions.
And then there's the inexplicable appearance of ruggedly good-looking Army ranger who not only held guns but also discovered two dead bodies within a week. He definitely wasn't the kind of man Katie expected to meet when she returned to Berry Springs.
Not to go into any great detail, this book was quite easy to read and follow. The pacing is slow but rewarding in the end, the plot thickens by the minute and the characters were a motley crew of personalities. Amanda McKinney wrote a dark, ominous thrilling tale spiked with a dash of romance and mystery that captivated me from start to finish. A preview of the next book in the series (The Lake) is quite promising and exciting and just made my night! Definitely fascinating!
It's been ten long years since Archaeologist Dr. Katie Somers left Berry Springs, and soon she came back to help her sister Jenny who was recently divorced to her cheating husband. But their reunion was cut short when she mysteriously fell down to her death on a cliff. A year later, Katie was back to sell their childhood home but was surprised when this sleepy town of Arkansas was awaken by two gruesome murders and terrorist suspicions.
And then there's the inexplicable appearance of ruggedly good-looking Army ranger who not only held guns but also discovered two dead bodies within a week. He definitely wasn't the kind of man Katie expected to meet when she returned to Berry Springs.
Not to go into any great detail, this book was quite easy to read and follow. The pacing is slow but rewarding in the end, the plot thickens by the minute and the characters were a motley crew of personalities. Amanda McKinney wrote a dark, ominous thrilling tale spiked with a dash of romance and mystery that captivated me from start to finish. A preview of the next book in the series (The Lake) is quite promising and exciting and just made my night! Definitely fascinating!
June 14, 2017
A sexy, small town murder mystery that’s guaranteed to resonate with fans of Nora Roberts and Karin Slaughter.
The rustic charm of Berry Spring, Arkansas’s dense forests, mountains and small town living is a powerful draw. But like all tiny Ozark towns, it can also be suffocating and secretive, and that’s precisely what makes it a perfect setting for Amanda McKinney’s debut erotic thriller.
Check out the rest of my review at BestThrillers.com.
The rustic charm of Berry Spring, Arkansas’s dense forests, mountains and small town living is a powerful draw. But like all tiny Ozark towns, it can also be suffocating and secretive, and that’s precisely what makes it a perfect setting for Amanda McKinney’s debut erotic thriller.
Check out the rest of my review at BestThrillers.com.
July 1, 2023
<><>
Story Overview
<><>
The book blurb explains it well (although I wouldn’t call Katie neurotic).
<><> Characters <><>
Hero: Jake Thomas; Age: mid to late 30s, I think; Occupation: FBI agent (in training)
* The following words/phrases were used to describe Hero: raised in Montana, comes from a wealthy family, hard-working, close relationship with his mom, dad has passed away, former army, ranger, sniper, served in Iraq and Afghanistan,was injured by an IED, perseveres, strong confidence in his abilities,
Heroine: Katie Somers; Age: 36; Occupation: archaeologist
* The following words/phrases were used to describe Heroine: dad left. When she was four, sister was murdered, grew up outdoors (hiking, fishing, camping, shooting BB guns), overachiever, prepares for everything, uptight, high-strung, graduated college Magna Cum Laude with a double major in Anthropology and History, has a doctorate, has traveled the world, has received national recognition for her publications on Native American culture, often a featured guest speaker at various events, is making a name for herself
<><> A Few Thoughts <><>
^^ ~ the book was pretty short and I flew through it. I remember looking down and I was at 55% and was shocked that I was even that far along. So it’s a quick read.
^^ ~ I felt chemistry was a bit lacking
^^ ~ one minute Katie and Jake were talking about her sister’s death and the next they’re kissing each other and then making love. It was just an odd transition from the conversation they were having to ending up in the bedroom.
^^ ~ never really addressed how Jake and Katie would navigate a long distance relationship
^^ ~ I felt like it ended a bit abruptly. The story must continue in another book.
^^ ~ the reason for the sister’s death didn’t seem to fit with the revenge plot. So, he killed her just because?? If so, there was no reason to get rid of the sister.
^^ ~ what about the branding? Was she able to get it removed or covered up with a tattoo?
<><> The Basics <><>
- Content Warning: someone is killing people, a woman is taken from her vehicle, a woman gets branded with a hot iron
- Setting: Arkansas
- POV: Dual POV
- Tropes: romantic suspense
- Hero likable? yes
- heroine likable? yes
- h virgin? No
- First time they kiss: 72%
- First time they sleep together: 73%
- Safe sex? No condoms used
- First time they say I Love You: Not said
- steamy? Yes. Descriptive bedroom scene
- Chemistry? meh
- OW/OM drama? No
- H/h cheat? No
- Time apart? A few weeks
- Did I skip pages? No
- Big secrets? No
- Did I cry? No
- Did I laugh? No
- Did I swoon🥰? No
- Cliffhanger? Not exactly, but there were a few open questions. Where is Jolene? (apparently she is in the next book). And I needed a better idea of Jake and Katie’s future relationship
- HEA? I guess they will be dating
- Epilogue? No
- Recommend?
<><> Quotes <><>
“ Are you done?”
“Was she done? Oh, hell no. Didn’t he know that was one of the many things you never say to a woman?”
The book blurb explains it well (although I wouldn’t call Katie neurotic).
<><> Characters <><>
Hero: Jake Thomas; Age: mid to late 30s, I think; Occupation: FBI agent (in training)
* The following words/phrases were used to describe Hero: raised in Montana, comes from a wealthy family, hard-working, close relationship with his mom, dad has passed away, former army, ranger, sniper, served in Iraq and Afghanistan,was injured by an IED, perseveres, strong confidence in his abilities,
Heroine: Katie Somers; Age: 36; Occupation: archaeologist
* The following words/phrases were used to describe Heroine: dad left. When she was four, sister was murdered, grew up outdoors (hiking, fishing, camping, shooting BB guns), overachiever, prepares for everything, uptight, high-strung, graduated college Magna Cum Laude with a double major in Anthropology and History, has a doctorate, has traveled the world, has received national recognition for her publications on Native American culture, often a featured guest speaker at various events, is making a name for herself
<><> A Few Thoughts <><>
^^ ~ the book was pretty short and I flew through it. I remember looking down and I was at 55% and was shocked that I was even that far along. So it’s a quick read.
^^ ~ I felt chemistry was a bit lacking
^^ ~ one minute Katie and Jake were talking about her sister’s death and the next they’re kissing each other and then making love. It was just an odd transition from the conversation they were having to ending up in the bedroom.
^^ ~ never really addressed how Jake and Katie would navigate a long distance relationship
^^ ~ I felt like it ended a bit abruptly. The story must continue in another book.
^^ ~ the reason for the sister’s death didn’t seem to fit with the revenge plot. So, he killed her just because?? If so, there was no reason to get rid of the sister.
^^ ~ what about the branding? Was she able to get it removed or covered up with a tattoo?
<><> The Basics <><>
- Content Warning: someone is killing people, a woman is taken from her vehicle, a woman gets branded with a hot iron
- Setting: Arkansas
- POV: Dual POV
- Tropes: romantic suspense
- Hero likable? yes
- heroine likable? yes
- h virgin? No
- First time they kiss: 72%
- First time they sleep together: 73%
- Safe sex? No condoms used
- First time they say I Love You: Not said
- steamy? Yes. Descriptive bedroom scene
- Chemistry? meh
- OW/OM drama? No
- H/h cheat? No
- Time apart? A few weeks
- Did I skip pages? No
- Big secrets? No
- Did I cry? No
- Did I laugh? No
- Did I swoon🥰? No
- Cliffhanger? Not exactly, but there were a few open questions. Where is Jolene? (apparently she is in the next book). And I needed a better idea of Jake and Katie’s future relationship
- HEA? I guess they will be dating
- Epilogue? No
- Recommend?
<><> Quotes <><>
“ Are you done?”
“Was she done? Oh, hell no. Didn’t he know that was one of the many things you never say to a woman?”
September 4, 2017
http://fallenoverbookreviews.blogspot...
I received this book to give an honest review.
Katie left Berry Springs 10 years ago so when her sister is going through a divorce and needs her Katie comes back. When her sister dies Katie has always felt that she was murdered yet the police ruled it an accident. Now a year later Katie is back to sell the home she once grew up in. Her plan is to get it done, leave, and never return well that plan ends up getting thrown up in the air. When bodies show up and a mysterious stranger named Jake comes into her life, Katie's world is just a bit upside down. It seems that just maybe someone is watching Katie and not in a good way. Katie seems kind of weary of this new stranger yet not weary enough to let him not in her bed!
Not only are bodies showing up but there seems to be a possible terrorist threat hitting the state, and this is where Jake will come into play. He has to find out what is going on before tragedy hits and he doesn't get the job.
Characters were fully developed. I really liked the mystery of Jake and how well he can keep a secret. I think he would make a fine good agent!
As far as plot goes I felt it was steady! I was able to finish this in one setting because I really wanted to see if we would find out who was behind the murders.
So I give this book a 4 rating because I wasn't sure on some information in the book.
We have a man who hits his head and yet he is still alive. It says in the book "he fell backwards, his head bouncing off of the rocks." To me this sounds like the dude is going to have some huge brain damage yet he gets put into custody and no mention of hospital.
Also the ending I re-read it twice it didn't make sense to me. Jolene knew what Chase was going to do and never trusted him? What was that whole scene about? I can only hope that maybe there will be another book in the works so we can find out. It seems that Jolene plays a part in Berry Springs but what exactly.
I received this book to give an honest review.
Katie left Berry Springs 10 years ago so when her sister is going through a divorce and needs her Katie comes back. When her sister dies Katie has always felt that she was murdered yet the police ruled it an accident. Now a year later Katie is back to sell the home she once grew up in. Her plan is to get it done, leave, and never return well that plan ends up getting thrown up in the air. When bodies show up and a mysterious stranger named Jake comes into her life, Katie's world is just a bit upside down. It seems that just maybe someone is watching Katie and not in a good way. Katie seems kind of weary of this new stranger yet not weary enough to let him not in her bed!
Not only are bodies showing up but there seems to be a possible terrorist threat hitting the state, and this is where Jake will come into play. He has to find out what is going on before tragedy hits and he doesn't get the job.
Characters were fully developed. I really liked the mystery of Jake and how well he can keep a secret. I think he would make a fine good agent!
As far as plot goes I felt it was steady! I was able to finish this in one setting because I really wanted to see if we would find out who was behind the murders.
So I give this book a 4 rating because I wasn't sure on some information in the book.
We have a man who hits his head and yet he is still alive. It says in the book "he fell backwards, his head bouncing off of the rocks." To me this sounds like the dude is going to have some huge brain damage yet he gets put into custody and no mention of hospital.
Also the ending I re-read it twice it didn't make sense to me. Jolene knew what Chase was going to do and never trusted him? What was that whole scene about? I can only hope that maybe there will be another book in the works so we can find out. It seems that Jolene plays a part in Berry Springs but what exactly.
September 24, 2020
I enjoyed The Woods, bk #2 in Amanda McKinney’s Romantic Suspense Berry Springs series. My attention was grabbed from the beginning, pulling me in until the final page. Jake and Katie were both strong characters, yet appealing. I cared what happened to them. A couple times I caught myself thinking, “Don’t be a stupid heroine,” but not frequently enough to deter from my overall enjoyment. The Woods conclusion wasn’t a clear HEA, perhaps a HFN, but I still found the story satisfying and I intend to read the others in the series.
Jake Thomas/MMC, a recently retired Army Ranger sniper, has come to Berry Springs to assist his mother in her recent relocation from Montana to the Ozarks. While he’s in town the FBI has placed Jake undercover temporarily, collecting data on suspects for a case. Dr Katie Somers/FMC is a successful and somewhat renown archeologist. Currently between assignments, she is in Berry Springs upon her mother’s request to pack up and sell their vacant family home. By chance, Jake and Katie meet the day a mauled dead body is discovered in Berry Springs. And then another is found.
Each title in the Berry Springs Romantic Suspense series stands alone with minimal overlapping of characters throughout the series, and these can be read in any order. I recommend The Woods/#2 to readers who enjoy: Contemporary Romance Suspense that isn’t terribly dark or angst-filled; Military/FBI/LE characters or/and characters with unique careers based in lush/wild settings; and stories w HEAs. The Woods, #2 was the 4th title I’ve read and enjoyed in this series.
Reader Cautions -
Violence - This is a FBI/police investigative suspense novel involving several murders. Descriptions are present, yet not the focus of the story.
Profanity - Yes. Not for the faint-hearted.
Sexual situations - Yes. Several scenes may offend some readers.
Jake Thomas/MMC, a recently retired Army Ranger sniper, has come to Berry Springs to assist his mother in her recent relocation from Montana to the Ozarks. While he’s in town the FBI has placed Jake undercover temporarily, collecting data on suspects for a case. Dr Katie Somers/FMC is a successful and somewhat renown archeologist. Currently between assignments, she is in Berry Springs upon her mother’s request to pack up and sell their vacant family home. By chance, Jake and Katie meet the day a mauled dead body is discovered in Berry Springs. And then another is found.
Each title in the Berry Springs Romantic Suspense series stands alone with minimal overlapping of characters throughout the series, and these can be read in any order. I recommend The Woods/#2 to readers who enjoy: Contemporary Romance Suspense that isn’t terribly dark or angst-filled; Military/FBI/LE characters or/and characters with unique careers based in lush/wild settings; and stories w HEAs. The Woods, #2 was the 4th title I’ve read and enjoyed in this series.
Reader Cautions -
Violence - This is a FBI/police investigative suspense novel involving several murders. Descriptions are present, yet not the focus of the story.
Profanity - Yes. Not for the faint-hearted.
Sexual situations - Yes. Several scenes may offend some readers.
December 29, 2021
I enjoyed this suspense romance and read it in a couple of sittings, as it was longer than a novella, but not much. The story was interesting and kept me entertained. The romance was slow burn, but also insta-attraction, as the whole plot only took place over a few days. There were a couple of nicely written steamy romance scenes, but this book is all about the back-story. There seemed to be every suspense trope imaginable. LOL. No detailed spoilers. There was drama, dead bodies, chases, adventure, bad guys, a bomb, kidnapping, FBI, cops, spooky woods, red herrings, a (slightly older) heroine in danger and a (slightly older), handsome, hunky ex-army ranger undercover FBI sharpshooting hero. 😀 So, lots going on...
I checked the publication date and this book appears to be one of this author's early novels. Having read most of her newer books, which are really good, I'm now starting on her back list. This story, whilst well written, was peppered with unfortunate errors. Past/present narration mixed up a couple of times and 3rd and 1st person POV mistakes. Not many, but enough to be annoying when you add in a few typos. Once again, not major problems, but cringe worthy. I'm probably being a bit picky; it just needed another go-over by the editor. Another thing, the Capital Building is 45 minutes away? 🤔
I'm going to read the next book in the series, as they can only get better. It is a standalone and all the books are set in Berry Springs, so I assume there will be a few cross over side characters.
I checked the publication date and this book appears to be one of this author's early novels. Having read most of her newer books, which are really good, I'm now starting on her back list. This story, whilst well written, was peppered with unfortunate errors. Past/present narration mixed up a couple of times and 3rd and 1st person POV mistakes. Not many, but enough to be annoying when you add in a few typos. Once again, not major problems, but cringe worthy. I'm probably being a bit picky; it just needed another go-over by the editor. Another thing, the Capital Building is 45 minutes away? 🤔
I'm going to read the next book in the series, as they can only get better. It is a standalone and all the books are set in Berry Springs, so I assume there will be a few cross over side characters.
March 11, 2018
This series takes place in Berry Springs, Arkansas which used to be a small quaint little town. But with unsolved murder racking up along with other nefarious things its become the focus of the FBI.
Jake Thomas lived most of his adult life as a Army Ranger sniper. Now he is on a trial undercover op with the FBI to see if he qualifies to become part of their team. Jake is there for a mission we as the reader are not fully aware of for most of the book but he winds up getting himself in the middle of the current murders happening in Berry Springs which isn't helping his cover of laying low and making his boss antsy.
Katie Somers left Berry Springs 10 years ago to follow her dream of becoming a Doctor of Archaeology. After many years of school she finally achieved that and has been all over the world living her dream. At the request of her sister who is going through a divorce Katie comes home only to be devastated when she falls off a cliff to her death. Katie never believed it was an accident but returns to her life in NY for a year before returning to get the family house ready to sell. She too ends up embroiled in the murders and doesn't know what to think about the sexy man who has made himself her protector but is also surrounded by mystery on who he really is.
As with all small town suspense there is a large cast of characters – some who are the main characters in the other books. This was an enjoyable romantic suspense and I look forward to the next book.
Jake Thomas lived most of his adult life as a Army Ranger sniper. Now he is on a trial undercover op with the FBI to see if he qualifies to become part of their team. Jake is there for a mission we as the reader are not fully aware of for most of the book but he winds up getting himself in the middle of the current murders happening in Berry Springs which isn't helping his cover of laying low and making his boss antsy.
Katie Somers left Berry Springs 10 years ago to follow her dream of becoming a Doctor of Archaeology. After many years of school she finally achieved that and has been all over the world living her dream. At the request of her sister who is going through a divorce Katie comes home only to be devastated when she falls off a cliff to her death. Katie never believed it was an accident but returns to her life in NY for a year before returning to get the family house ready to sell. She too ends up embroiled in the murders and doesn't know what to think about the sexy man who has made himself her protector but is also surrounded by mystery on who he really is.
As with all small town suspense there is a large cast of characters – some who are the main characters in the other books. This was an enjoyable romantic suspense and I look forward to the next book.
September 14, 2017
I was lucky to win this in the First Reads competitions.
The book starts with Katie Somers returning to her childhood home a year after her sisters untimely death, Katie was sure her sister would not have fallen from the cliff and convinced someone pushed her but was that just the guilt she felt for wandering off that day and leaving her sister on her own. When she bumps into a stranger at the very cliff she is suspicious and when he then 'finds' a body close by she finds herself torn. The stranger is Army Ranger Jake Thomas and he cannot help but find Katie intriguing so he keeps keeps her close. Who is Jake and why is he there? I really enjoyed this book and while there is a hint of romance is doesn't distract from the real reason they are there. There are some hold your breath moments and I found myself racing to the end to see the outcome. I was not disappointed and look forward to reading the next Berry Springs book.
The book starts with Katie Somers returning to her childhood home a year after her sisters untimely death, Katie was sure her sister would not have fallen from the cliff and convinced someone pushed her but was that just the guilt she felt for wandering off that day and leaving her sister on her own. When she bumps into a stranger at the very cliff she is suspicious and when he then 'finds' a body close by she finds herself torn. The stranger is Army Ranger Jake Thomas and he cannot help but find Katie intriguing so he keeps keeps her close. Who is Jake and why is he there? I really enjoyed this book and while there is a hint of romance is doesn't distract from the real reason they are there. There are some hold your breath moments and I found myself racing to the end to see the outcome. I was not disappointed and look forward to reading the next Berry Springs book.
August 27, 2019
I absolutely loved this gripping book! It was quite easy to read and to follow. The author's plot builds beautifully and will have readers wondering just what will happen next. The pacing is slow but rewarding. Five stars and highly recommended.
January 3, 2019
**3.5**
November 7, 2018
Horrible
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I won’t be reading any more. No suspense, no character development, no worthy dialogue.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I won’t be reading any more. No suspense, no character development, no worthy dialogue.
July 30, 2022
2.5??
I've sat here for the last bit trying to figure out how I want to rate this book. lol
This story as been on my TBR for awhile. I like a good romantic suspense from time to time and thought the premise of this novel sounded pretty good. We have Katie who is an archaeologist returning to her hometown to sell her family house after her sister dies. Also visiting the town is FBI agent Jake who is investigating some radicals looking to bomb the state's capitol building. They meet, there are murders to solve, and feelings to work out.
I will say that there were parts of this that were interesting to me. I liked that Katie was an archaeologist. I haven't read too many romances featuring someone in that profession. I also liked that there were moments where the suspense in the book really kept me hooked on the story. I also liked the moments where Katie and Jake connected and had good interactions.
Now, that being said there were also a lot of missed opportunities here. First, tell me more about Katie and her job and her life. We get some snippets but I wanted more. Same for Jake too. And, while there were great moments between the pair as a romantic couple, there were also times that their romance seemed very disjointed. I'm not sure if that was because Jake was undercover or Kate wasn't divulging enough about herself and what she was dealing with being home.
Okay, as mentioned there were moments the suspense was good and I wanted more, but the author held back a bit for me. I feel a lot of it was the way the book was set up.
The book does a lot of jumping all around in it's narration and as a reader I was trying to keep up on when these events occurred. I also felt like it would have been interesting to get more POV's from other characters. Additionally, I kinda thought the bad guy was too convenient? And, the motive? I don't know.
Oh! I almost forgot! lol So there is a part in the book where Katie's home is possibly broken into and she feels the heebie jeebies. But, then Jake comes over and they have sex on the porch. Like, hello? The burglar/bad guy murder could be out there watching you!! I mean I know being scared can be a turn on for some, but the author didn't give that impression about Katie! It just seemed weird to me.
With all that, I still gave this 2 stars because it did keep my interest and there were a few decent moments. There are several more books in this series. This is the lowest rated one so I'm curious as to if the books get better...I think I have the next book and possibly another already on my kindle. So, maybe I'll give the next a try to see if it improves? There's potential here the execution just wasn't the greatest.
I've sat here for the last bit trying to figure out how I want to rate this book. lol
This story as been on my TBR for awhile. I like a good romantic suspense from time to time and thought the premise of this novel sounded pretty good. We have Katie who is an archaeologist returning to her hometown to sell her family house after her sister dies. Also visiting the town is FBI agent Jake who is investigating some radicals looking to bomb the state's capitol building. They meet, there are murders to solve, and feelings to work out.
I will say that there were parts of this that were interesting to me. I liked that Katie was an archaeologist. I haven't read too many romances featuring someone in that profession. I also liked that there were moments where the suspense in the book really kept me hooked on the story. I also liked the moments where Katie and Jake connected and had good interactions.
Now, that being said there were also a lot of missed opportunities here. First, tell me more about Katie and her job and her life. We get some snippets but I wanted more. Same for Jake too. And, while there were great moments between the pair as a romantic couple, there were also times that their romance seemed very disjointed. I'm not sure if that was because Jake was undercover or Kate wasn't divulging enough about herself and what she was dealing with being home.
Okay, as mentioned there were moments the suspense was good and I wanted more, but the author held back a bit for me. I feel a lot of it was the way the book was set up.
The book does a lot of jumping all around in it's narration and as a reader I was trying to keep up on when these events occurred. I also felt like it would have been interesting to get more POV's from other characters. Additionally, I kinda thought the bad guy was too convenient? And, the motive? I don't know.
Oh! I almost forgot! lol So there is a part in the book where Katie's home is possibly broken into and she feels the heebie jeebies. But, then Jake comes over and they have sex on the porch. Like, hello? The burglar/bad guy murder could be out there watching you!! I mean I know being scared can be a turn on for some, but the author didn't give that impression about Katie! It just seemed weird to me.
With all that, I still gave this 2 stars because it did keep my interest and there were a few decent moments. There are several more books in this series. This is the lowest rated one so I'm curious as to if the books get better...I think I have the next book and possibly another already on my kindle. So, maybe I'll give the next a try to see if it improves? There's potential here the execution just wasn't the greatest.
July 31, 2022
Archeologist Dr. Katie Somers’ in her hometown for the final time, she’s getting rid of her sister’s things and arranging to sell the family home. Fresh out of the FBI academy, ex-ranger Jake Thomas gets his first case, undercover, that coincides when and where he happens to be helping his mother settle into her new home in Berry Springs.
Katie and Jake are attracted to each other when they happen to meet while they’re bot h out getting fresh air and exercising their horses. As they begin to flirt, Jake’s agitated dog leads them to a dead body. The police answer the call and the chief immediately suspects Jake. The next day Jake and Katie leave a town barbeque after overhearing the chief respond to a shots fired call on Jake’s mom’s property where Jake and Katie stumble onto a dead body. Jake’s arrested!
As Katie ponders Jake’s situation and his reluctance to answer her questions, she’ also plagued by questions of her sister’s death and investigates on her own but doesn’t think she’s making much progress. Meanwhile, things are heating up on Jake’s case as the plot fruition date is upon them.
While this reader enjoyed the mysteries in this foundation tale from a new to me author, a quicker pace would’ve been appreciated. To my taste, the romance and multiple threads had great overlap but the pacing made it feel like filler.
Rating: 4stars
Katie and Jake are attracted to each other when they happen to meet while they’re bot h out getting fresh air and exercising their horses. As they begin to flirt, Jake’s agitated dog leads them to a dead body. The police answer the call and the chief immediately suspects Jake. The next day Jake and Katie leave a town barbeque after overhearing the chief respond to a shots fired call on Jake’s mom’s property where Jake and Katie stumble onto a dead body. Jake’s arrested!
As Katie ponders Jake’s situation and his reluctance to answer her questions, she’ also plagued by questions of her sister’s death and investigates on her own but doesn’t think she’s making much progress. Meanwhile, things are heating up on Jake’s case as the plot fruition date is upon them.
While this reader enjoyed the mysteries in this foundation tale from a new to me author, a quicker pace would’ve been appreciated. To my taste, the romance and multiple threads had great overlap but the pacing made it feel like filler.
Rating: 4stars
May 30, 2018
I received this signed copy in exchange for an honest review.
Archaeologist Katie Somers is visiting her mom and sister, Jenna, back in her hometown of Berry Springs, Arkansas. One day, while there, she discovers Jenna's lifeless body at the bottom of Summit Mountain.
The death is ruled an accident. Katie doesn't think so.
A year later she's back in Berry Springs to pack-up and sell her family's home.
She meets Jake Thomas, an ex-Army Ranger and undercover FBI trainee, ostensibly in town to help his Mom move into her new home. He's there to surveil an ant-government group.
Within 30 minutes of meeting, Katie and Jake stumble across a corpse in the woods.
Two days later they come across another dead body on his mother's property!
Now they are both suspects and as Katie encounters additional clues concerning Jenna's death and with Jake's undercover work, they're headed down dangerous paths.
Fast paced, with nicely fleshed-out characters, "The Woods" races to a doubly action-packed and hair-raising finale.
An engaging, sexy mystery/thriller.
Archaeologist Katie Somers is visiting her mom and sister, Jenna, back in her hometown of Berry Springs, Arkansas. One day, while there, she discovers Jenna's lifeless body at the bottom of Summit Mountain.
The death is ruled an accident. Katie doesn't think so.
A year later she's back in Berry Springs to pack-up and sell her family's home.
She meets Jake Thomas, an ex-Army Ranger and undercover FBI trainee, ostensibly in town to help his Mom move into her new home. He's there to surveil an ant-government group.
Within 30 minutes of meeting, Katie and Jake stumble across a corpse in the woods.
Two days later they come across another dead body on his mother's property!
Now they are both suspects and as Katie encounters additional clues concerning Jenna's death and with Jake's undercover work, they're headed down dangerous paths.
Fast paced, with nicely fleshed-out characters, "The Woods" races to a doubly action-packed and hair-raising finale.
An engaging, sexy mystery/thriller.
February 20, 2019
A year after her sister’s death, Archeologist and part-time neurotic, Dr. Katie Somers returns to the sleepy, southern town of Berry Springs to sell her childhood home. She’d planned to be in and out in less than a week, but a chance meeting with a handsome stranger turns her perfectly crafted world upside down.
This series takes place in Berry Springs, Arkansas which used to be a small quaint little town. But with unsolved murder racking up along with other nefarious things its become the focus of the FBI.
I found this to be a great mystery/romance. Again the mystery is the dominating factor which I love. The plot develops steadily and there are loads of characters to add to the development of the story. Perfect descriptive scenery that makes you feel as if you are there yourself.
"The Woods" is similar in style to a cozy mystery, but with more edge, grit, and danger.
Lots of twists and turns in this to find out who the killer actually is.
Really enjoyed this one!!
I received this free cop from the author and AXP books and this is my honest voluntary review.
This series takes place in Berry Springs, Arkansas which used to be a small quaint little town. But with unsolved murder racking up along with other nefarious things its become the focus of the FBI.
I found this to be a great mystery/romance. Again the mystery is the dominating factor which I love. The plot develops steadily and there are loads of characters to add to the development of the story. Perfect descriptive scenery that makes you feel as if you are there yourself.
"The Woods" is similar in style to a cozy mystery, but with more edge, grit, and danger.
Lots of twists and turns in this to find out who the killer actually is.
Really enjoyed this one!!
I received this free cop from the author and AXP books and this is my honest voluntary review.
March 1, 2020
Buried Secrets!
Archaeologist Dr Katie Summers never thought she would return to Berry Springs after the tragic death of her Sister the previous year but that's what happens when her Mother wants to sell the family home. Former Army Ranger Jake Thomas wants nothing more then to make the FBI his home. All he has to do is convince his boss that he can complete a simple surveillance job and keep off the radar. Neither Katie or Jake expect to find a dead body together the first time they meet. Nor do they expect the overwhelming attraction they feel. With a murderer on the loose, a possible terrorist attack and the job he loves at risk it's hardly the time to fall in love. Pity his heart hasn't got the message. I read a later book in the series and enjoyed it so much that I have gone back to the beginning. I love the way the author rounds out all the characters not just Jake and Katie. I recommend reading this excellent romantic mystery, which is available to read for Free with Kindle Unlimited.
Archaeologist Dr Katie Summers never thought she would return to Berry Springs after the tragic death of her Sister the previous year but that's what happens when her Mother wants to sell the family home. Former Army Ranger Jake Thomas wants nothing more then to make the FBI his home. All he has to do is convince his boss that he can complete a simple surveillance job and keep off the radar. Neither Katie or Jake expect to find a dead body together the first time they meet. Nor do they expect the overwhelming attraction they feel. With a murderer on the loose, a possible terrorist attack and the job he loves at risk it's hardly the time to fall in love. Pity his heart hasn't got the message. I read a later book in the series and enjoyed it so much that I have gone back to the beginning. I love the way the author rounds out all the characters not just Jake and Katie. I recommend reading this excellent romantic mystery, which is available to read for Free with Kindle Unlimited.
March 3, 2019
This book had me furiously turning the pages — the best mystery I’ve read in months! Archaeologist Kate Somers and Jake Thomas, a former Army Ranger sniper on an FBI “audition” mission, are each in Berry Springs on family business. They first meet on horseback, roaming the woods between their family homes. Minutes after they meet, they stumble across a gruesome murder. A few days later, the same thing happens. Being first on the scene of two murders puts them first on the suspect list. Also in the woods, a secret terrorist group is making bombs and issuing threats. Anne and Jake rush to solve the murders, prove their innocence, find and stop the bad guys — to say nothing about trying to fight the budding romance between them — all done with fast action and heart-pounding suspense. The stakes get even higher when the terrorists snatch, imprison and torture Anne. Can Jake possibly prevail against far-reaching terrors? My advice: don’t miss this book!
October 20, 2020
Katie is an academic and archaeologist. The complete opposite of her sunny, out-going little sister. Her world crasher when her sister dies in a tragic accident. When she finally works up the courage to return to Berry Springs to sell her sister's house, she never expected to mee the sexy stranger who seems to light fires under the libido she thought was long dead!
Jake had to leave the army after a serious spinal injury. But his new career in the FBI may be over before it starts. He's only supposed to be carrying out surveillance, not getting involved with a smart and sexy archaeologist, and investigating a possible murder disguised as an accident.
I enjoyed seeing this couple get together. Both have their reasons not to get involved but when the chemistry is this hot, there is not much they can do but go with it! I turned off my law enforcement brain and just went with the story, artistic licence is allowed! Loved it!
Jake had to leave the army after a serious spinal injury. But his new career in the FBI may be over before it starts. He's only supposed to be carrying out surveillance, not getting involved with a smart and sexy archaeologist, and investigating a possible murder disguised as an accident.
I enjoyed seeing this couple get together. Both have their reasons not to get involved but when the chemistry is this hot, there is not much they can do but go with it! I turned off my law enforcement brain and just went with the story, artistic licence is allowed! Loved it!
March 3, 2023
Dr Katie Somers is going back home to Berry Springs. Her mother has left that town and went to England, she has been asked to go back there and close the house down to make ready for sale.
It is a trip that Katie is dreading as almost to the year, her sister lost her life. The police ruled it an accident, but Katie has never been sure about that.
Going back home she runs into Jake Thomas who has moved from Montana and is in Berry Springs because his mother bought a home there and he is helping her. He was discharged from the Army Rangers and taking a break. But, what everyone doesn't know, he is also in Berry Springs as a future FBI candidate, uncover to investigate some terrorist threats that are happening.
When Katie and Jake meet accident in the woods that day, they stumbled on a body. But know, after that body was found and the police are investigating, at another meeting, they come on another body. Are they involved? The police think so..
Interesting read!
It is a trip that Katie is dreading as almost to the year, her sister lost her life. The police ruled it an accident, but Katie has never been sure about that.
Going back home she runs into Jake Thomas who has moved from Montana and is in Berry Springs because his mother bought a home there and he is helping her. He was discharged from the Army Rangers and taking a break. But, what everyone doesn't know, he is also in Berry Springs as a future FBI candidate, uncover to investigate some terrorist threats that are happening.
When Katie and Jake meet accident in the woods that day, they stumbled on a body. But know, after that body was found and the police are investigating, at another meeting, they come on another body. Are they involved? The police think so..
Interesting read!
September 4, 2017
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway and was delightfully surprised by how much I enjoyed this book.
"The Woods" is similar in style to a cozy mystery, but with more edge, grit, and danger.
Dr. Katie Somers returns to her hometown to sell her childhood home after a devastating loss. While still grieving, she finds herself in the midst of murder investigations and attempting to find the link from these murders to the loss in her family.
This book is well written, and is hard to put down. I read it in two sittings! At times, some of the chapters seem a bit misplaced and you're wondering who exactly it is about, but this mystery keeps you intrigued as you want to read more to find out the place this chapter has in the novel.
With a touch of a love story, this book makes for an excellent beach read or a curl up with a cup of tea read!
"The Woods" is similar in style to a cozy mystery, but with more edge, grit, and danger.
Dr. Katie Somers returns to her hometown to sell her childhood home after a devastating loss. While still grieving, she finds herself in the midst of murder investigations and attempting to find the link from these murders to the loss in her family.
This book is well written, and is hard to put down. I read it in two sittings! At times, some of the chapters seem a bit misplaced and you're wondering who exactly it is about, but this mystery keeps you intrigued as you want to read more to find out the place this chapter has in the novel.
With a touch of a love story, this book makes for an excellent beach read or a curl up with a cup of tea read!
October 4, 2017
Wow!! I want to start by saying, I read a LOT of books.. between 100 and 200 a year, and some authors pull me into the story and I get totally involved in the story, and some authors I end up speed reading the book to at least finish it. I won this book on Goodreads and I am glad I got the opportunity to read this book!! This book TOTALLY pulled me in from the beginning. This was one of the stories that got me guessing, questioning, predicting, and I could not put it down till I finished it.
I loved the character development, and the interactions between the stranger in town and the town folk. As well as the story with Katie returning to a town she grew up in. This is an amazing book and one I would highly recommend!! What are you doing, go get this book now!!!
And, I am going to go check out the other books by this author!
I loved the character development, and the interactions between the stranger in town and the town folk. As well as the story with Katie returning to a town she grew up in. This is an amazing book and one I would highly recommend!! What are you doing, go get this book now!!!
And, I am going to go check out the other books by this author!
February 24, 2019
I received this book as an ARC from the author. Jenna and her sister Katie grew up in a small town in Arkansas. They rode horses and hiked in the woods surrounding their home. Jenna grew up and got married. Katie grew up and became a famous archeologist. The story is interesting and exciting. The action is fast paced and hard hitting. Jenna finds out her husband has been cheating on her. She leaves him to return home. Katie receives a call from Jenna asking her if she could come home to be her support. Instead Jenna dies when she falls off the cliff where she and Katie grew up. Katie doesn’t believe it’s a fall. She is sure someone killed her. The balance of the story is about solving the mystery surrounding Jenna death. I totally think anyone who enjoys crime stories will enjoy this book as much as I did. I’m anxious to read more.
April 28, 2018
Dr. Kate Somers returns to Berry Springs to sell her childhood home. It's been one year after her sister's death and hopefully this won't take very long as Kate doesn't want to stay. Then she meets Jake Thomas. He is trying to join the FBI only has one shot. While he and Kate are in town, two murders happen and the hometown Chief of Police thinks that one of them or both might be the killer. While trying to keep themselves out of jail and arrested for murder, Kate finds some interesting information on her sister's death. Was she also murdered? If so by whom? Why? Somethings are better left undiscovered as Kate and Jake are now finding out. Can they prove who the real killer is and why? You will have to read the book to find out.
August 24, 2020
The Woods is a fantastic romantic suspense by Amanda McKinney. Ms. McKinney is quite a pro at fitting the pieces of the puzzles that are her books together in a way that will keep you guessing until the reveal. This book is well-written and the characters are perfect for this story. Katie returns to Berry Springs to sell her childhood home a year after her sister's death. Jake is a former Army Ranger and is on a probationary mission for the FBI. Jake and Katie's story is packed with drama, bits of humor, spice, action and suspense. Once started I couldn't put this book down. You've been warned. The Woods is part of the Berry Springs Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.
November 4, 2017
I'm not one to write spoilers so I will instead review the writing and the plot. I enjoyed "The Woods" very, very much. I found the characters, especially the lead female, Katie, likable and believable. There is a touch of romance, a whole lot of mystery, and even a good share of suspense. Add a few well written red herrings and the book had me guessing until the end as to 'who done it.' The writing is excellent - just enough description so you get a good idea of the setting and the characters and nothing excessive or awkward. The little teaser for Amanda McKinney's next book has left me very eager to return to the town of Berry Springs and continue in their story!
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