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Breaking News Mystery #1

Anonymous Source

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What if someone knew everything about you? Where you live. Who you trust. Your worst memories. Every dark secret.

And what if that someone was a murderer?

For three years, journalist Jennifer Gibbs has been following a brutal serial killer who leaves his victims’ mutilated bodies scattered across her Ohio hometown.

Or maybe he’s following her.

With each murder, he sends her an elaborately staged photo of his victim, along with a clue that hints at his identity and shows off how well he knows her: A cocktail napkin from her favorite restaurant. An engagement ring that’s no longer hers. Even fingerprints of people she cares about.

As the violence escalates, Jennifer races against a ticking clock to learn the killer’s identity—an identity she must uncover not only to stop the murders, but to save herself from the same fate.

Kindle Edition

Published January 1, 2023

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About the author

Krysten Bennett

2 books41 followers

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5 stars
37 (59%)
4 stars
20 (32%)
3 stars
3 (4%)
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2 (3%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
Profile Image for Barbie.
55 reviews
January 16, 2022
A crime reporter becomes the muse of a serial killer who is terrorizing and murdering women around her. With each murder, she receives clues that only have meaning to her, but why?

I was hooked from the very beginning of this story. I was moments away from creating a murder board on my bedroom wall to solve this mystery, but I wasn’t willing to put the book down long enough to do so.

This book was impossible to put down and I will be very anxiously waiting for what comesnext from Krysten Bennett.
523 reviews18 followers
March 24, 2022
This is a mystery and a real thriller. Investigative journalist Jennifer Gibbs is being taunted by a vicious serial killer who knows too much about her to be a stranger and who is certain to be torturing and possibly murdering her if she cannot identify him and have him stopped ASAP..

I thought in retrospect that I should've figured out the killer's identity. But I didn't.

When the exciting (terrifying?) conclusion was approaching, I couldn't put the book down. Now, I'm just hoping that my wait for a sequel is not too long.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
421 reviews1 follower
December 18, 2021
This review is of Anonymous Source by Krysten Bennett.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received this book on Monday and finished it in the early hours of Tuesday. Why then, you may ask, has it taken you until Friday to write your review? Easy answer: I didn’t know what to say. Saying it was a really good book and it kept me on the edge of my seat didn’t seem to do it justice. Saying that I understood the main character sounded trite. Saying that it was a roller coaster of emotions sounded too shallow.
It was so much more than these things. I had not planned on reading the book straight through. But every time I put it down, I was back at within 30 minutes reading another chapter. Jennifer Gibbs is a reporter in Ohio and is tracking what she knows to be a serial killer and rapist. How does she know? He’s been sending her pictures of his crimes, pictures that are different than the ones the police have. And he’s been doing it for years.
Sounds like other crime stores, right? Well it isn’t because this one is personal. In all of the pictures that Jennifer receives there is a clue. A clue that possibly only she will catch and understand. But it’s not helping. And this is part of the difference in this story. It’s Jennifer that is doing the murder board, trying to figure out how the women in different areas of Ohio are tied together. And you won’t believe what she finally figures out!
Another thing that sets this book apart is the time frame that it covers. Although the murders are happening in the present, they all hing on a chance meeting seven years earlier. Do you remember what happened seven years ago or who you met? It’s how the author ties those stories to the present and what they reveal about the characters that leads the reader to an “Aha” moment of their own.
So yes, it is a really good book, it kept me on the edge of my chair, and I couldn’t put it down. The characters were drawn out so you understood them and the author explained the whys if she thought you wouldn’t get it. Yes, it takes you on a roller coaster ride of emotions. I still can’t stop thinking about it.
And Krysten, there had darn well better be a book 2!
I’m not going to tell you I enjoyed it, but dang! It was good!
Profile Image for Katy The Sleepy Reader.
379 reviews33 followers
November 30, 2021
I was hooked from the first chapter of this book. A flashback chapter at the beginning clenched it for me. I read 60% of the book the first night, staying up way too late but I just had to see what was going to happen.

There's a serial killer on the loose. Once loose in Chicago, he's now shown up in Colsboro, Ohio. Jennifer Gibbs, an investigative journalist, has been tracking him for years. Or, has he actually been tracking her? The murders are elaborate and brutal. The killer takes a photo of the victim, staged, with clues only Jennifer should be able to decipher. Clues that should help her to identify him. Years go by and much to her and the killers disappointment, she is unable to figure out who he is. The murders start to come closer and closer to Jennifer, with her most likely being the final victim. Can Jennifer uncover who he is and save herself from being the final victim?

Like I said, I was literally hooked from the very first lines of this book. I love a good mystery and I really like serial killer stories, whether real or fictional. The last few chapters is where the action really pick up as we see who the killer is and how the story is coming to a close. I had an inkling as to who the killer might be, but was still surprised to actually read who it was. This is book one and this one ends on a "to be continued". I felt the flash back chapters were a great addition. It gave background to certain areas of the story that were important and enriched the characters so much more. The pacing I felt was very nice, even at 400 pages, it was a quick read. I am definitely looking forward to the sequel and anymore books that are in this series. It has great potential.

Profile Image for Denise Weiershaus.
Author 3 books19 followers
December 1, 2021
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced review copy of this outstanding debut novel. And I'm so glad I read it. Anonymous Source is such a fast, intense and shocking read, it'll keep you up at night and make you think about what the MC is going through during the day. I wanted to lend Jennifer a hand in finding a killer who had a more than unhealthy attraction to her. I'd given her my shoulder to cry on when she found herself in the worst imaginable situation you can think of. But most of all, I wanted to share a glass of wine with her because that lady isn't just a creative journalist, a witty self-declared detective but also a funny bad-ass powerwoman. Thanks to the outstanding writing skills of the author, her characters come to life like I have rarely read before - especially for a debut author. She has captured me with her intimate and emotional style of writing that carries through the whole book. If you haven't, grab a copy now, you won't regret it. I surely can't wait to read more from Krysten Bennett.
Profile Image for Linda.
1,337 reviews12 followers
January 1, 2022
I read this story in one sitting. I couldn't put it down. This is an exciting, gritty story. Jennifer Gibbs is an investigative reporter who is being tormented by a serial killer. At each kill, he leaves clues for Jennifer that shows her he knows her well. The twists kept me reading and the great storyline had my heart pounding as I cheered Jennifer on. I was shocked when the killer was revealed. If you love stories that will keep you on the edge of your seat, Anonymous Source is the book for you. I received a free advance copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving my review.
8 reviews
January 1, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Anonymous Source. It was filled with many twists and turns and suspense. While I did figure out who was guilty early on, the book still held many surprises. The jumps between past and present were done effectively. The story itself is 5-star worthy, but there were few edits missed and a couple phrases that were overused. Overall, this is a well written story. I can’t wait to see what happens next!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Mary.
73 reviews
Read
December 14, 2021
REVIEW by Mary Pfeiffer: ANONYMOUS SOURCE

The key to pulling off a good mystery is to plant clues and miscues that move you toward solving the crime while keeping you wondering. Spend too much time with one suspect and you may decide you’ve figured it out and give up turning pages. I did not stop turning pages in my free advance copy of this debut novel.

Anonymous Source has no shortage of suspects for the murders being committed around Colsboro, Ohio, home of crime writer Jennifer Gibbs. At each crime scene police find a single fingerprint—each belonging to a different friend of Jennifer’s, including her current boyfriend, Detective Mike Demarco, and the former fiancé who left her heartbroken three years ago, Gavin Baratti. Jennifer is sure the prints were planted. Unknown to the police, Jennifer receives photos of each victim showing clues that disappear before the murder is discovered. The clues she tracks and analyzes seem unconnected but lead her to suspect a serial killer who began his heinous crimes in Chicago when she was a reporter there.

The reader knows from the prologue that the psychotic killer is out to make Jennifer his next victim (You will be mentally yelling at her to remember him and share her evidence with to the police). But Jennifer is distracted by Mike’s suspicious female partner and Gavin’s showing up so often it makes Mike jealous.

This riveting mystery is certain to leave you wondering if finding the killer will end the story. If Jennifer’s relationship with Detective Mike can withstand Gavin Baratti’s reappearance in her life. If because of their suspicious behaviors, she can ever be with either of them. Surely neither Mike nor Gavin can possibly be the killer. Or can he?
Profile Image for Ingrid Vermeulen-Quakernaat.
1,230 reviews10 followers
December 8, 2021
A story so believable, so realistic that it's scary for that reason alone. But what a beautiful book, a strong story, a masterful plot and a terribly open ending!

Throughout the story, you are taken on a 7-year journey where Jennifer, unknowingly, has caught the attention of a serial killer.

A killer who sends her photos of his victims that look different from the police photos after the victim is found. Each photo should give her a clue as to his identity, but she can't get the picture complete until it's almost too late.

I loved the character Jennifer. Intuitively, doesn't mince her mouth, she tells it as she sees it. As a journalist, she fights the crimes committed by others until she realizes she could be a victim.

Her friend the detective tries to protect her but Jen wants to find out the truth and bring the truth.

The writing style of the author is captivating and I could empathize well with the characters. A story that makes you want to know how it ends…..and then it ends with an open ending! How frustrating is that!! But that makes me definitely want to read the sequel. I can't leave it unfinished.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for David (on hiatus).
119 reviews22 followers
November 30, 2021
Great book!

Years ago, Jennifer Gibbs gets into a cab unknown to her driven by a serial killer. Events happen that not only prevents her from getting killed but puts in place a chain of events where a anonymous source (ahem…..) sends her pictures of all his kills. (not a spoiler…. chapter one)

Jennifer spends years trying to track down this person while he continues to kill and send her pictures of each one. The book is very well written and paced with a ton of interesting characters including her ex, a boyfriend who is also a cop, her cousin which she lives with and various other family members all who may or may not be in danger.

The book starts with a bang and keeps your interest through out…… I would give it five stars but the middle starts to really slow down although there is a great payoff as the last 100 pages are a adrenaline rush! Just a warning there is a rape at the end (not graphic)

All in all, a well written serial killer thriller. It does set up the stage for further stories.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
341 reviews10 followers
May 31, 2022
Unfortunately, I figured it out well before the end, so I cannot give it 5 stars. It is book #1, but I am interested in a prequel as there was a lot of the book based on the main characters life prior to the book starting and while there were tidbits of information given, I would have liked more of the background.

This book ends in a cliffhanger of cliffhangers, which means that book #2 will be added to my want to read list because I have to know what happens, but also because I got attached to the main character and want to know more about her life.

Good characters, good situations, good romantic tensions underneath everything, an interesting look into being a journalist, and just enough suspense (until I figured it out) to keep me on edge.

I did like this book enough to want to read the next book.

Profile Image for Carol Ball.
131 reviews3 followers
November 30, 2021
Brilliant book, story is engaging and gripping throughout. I loved the characters and all the details given about each was pertinent to the story. No needless info to bulk out the story. No wishy washy bits where your not really sure what’s going on.

Well written with lots of twist & turns. I didn’t guess who the perpetrator was - which is unusual for me. There is some quite graphic details but I felt they were appropriate for the storyline. I couldn’t put the book down - it was a believable story with no loose ends yet!!

Well written, easy to read !

Absolutely loved it and I can’t wait to read the follow up.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Delphia  Von Heeder .
1,608 reviews45 followers
November 30, 2021
Anonymous Source is A Jennifer Gibbs Mystery by Kristen Bennett. If you enjoy reading exciting, intense, forget to breathe page turn as fast as you can read, Anonymous Source is the novel to read. This mystery thriller is so well written. The characters are believable. I liked how Kristen Bennett goes to the past seven years and then the present. She then takes the reader six years in the past and then present time, ect. This style was perfect for this book. I can't spoil the book by giving to much detail, but, Jennifer Gibbs has her life in danger and her whole world is turned upside down! The ending is intense and totally perfect. I hope Kristen Bennett writes book 2 quickly because I can't wait to see what happens next. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Mary.
339 reviews13 followers
November 30, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This book started with a bang, raced breakneck speed, and then just peetered out - which is why it is getting 4 stars and not 5 stars. Perhaps because it is to be continued, some of the burning questions will be answered.

This was a real suspenseful pschological thrill a minute ride. Although I did figure it out before the big reveal, which was a tad disappointing for me.

Good character development, good story telling, good build-up of suspense. If this is your thing, then this book is worthwhile reading.
1,349 reviews24 followers
December 21, 2021
This is a great riveting read. It's full of twists and red herrings and everytime you think you've a grasp of who is the killer, you begin to second guess youself.

I like the character of Jennifer, who finds herself in deep with the investigation as the killer is sending her photos of the crimes as they happen. Everyone seems to be hiding some secret and this adds to the intrigue throughout the story.

I would have given it 5 stars but the ending was a bit disappointing and it felt a bit rushed. Still, it's a great start to a series and bodes well for the next one.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Colleen Baldwin-Hayter.
108 reviews6 followers
June 3, 2022
Krysten Bennett knows how to capture the readers attention from the first line and keeps it. I couldn’t put the book down. You are drawn into the lives of each character as they are introduced and how the are enter twined with the main character.

Your are taken through each twist in the story, each chapter building on the next. You are drawn into the mystery with the unexpected twists. I loved that the book keeps you guessing right to the end.

The writer takes you on a thrilling, suspenseful ride keeping you guessing with a surprise ending. I would recommend this book.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
300 reviews5 followers
December 1, 2021
Anonymous Source is a thoroughly satisfying read. The plot is well executed, with well developed characters.

The plot is so rich, filled with twists and turns that you don't see coming. The diligence that Jennifer does her work with is impeccable. She turns every rock in search of the truth, drawing her closer and closer to the truth as well as danger. Betrayal by people she never thought of this read is so much satisfying. It doesn't leave you hanging.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily..
Profile Image for Rochelle.
30 reviews
November 30, 2021
Anonymous Source by Krysten Bennett brings us along as investigative reporter Jennifer Gibbs and her homicide detective boyfriend track a serial killer. I loved the action of the story as Jennifer deciphered clues and made connections. Her character is well written, brave and sarcastically funny which all make her someone you want to follow and root for.
Along the lines of Tami Hoag and Tana French this one kept me reading right until the bitter end.
Profile Image for Billie.
5,778 reviews71 followers
November 30, 2021

This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had continuously.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.

I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
Profile Image for pawsreadrepeat.
612 reviews30 followers
January 15, 2022
This is my first book by Krysten but will not be my last. I loved every minute of this book. The characters are well developed and believable. The plot is full of twists and turns that will keep you wanting to know more.

I was highly engaged with this book and am looking forward to learning how this series unfolds.

Thank you, Booksirens I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
1,952 reviews74 followers
July 16, 2022
Mysteries are my favorite reading genre and this book is a really good one. It had me from the first page and kept me to the head-scratching last one. I have to say that I had figured out the villain fairly early on but it still made an interesting and fast paced read that I enjoyed. Wonder what's in store in the next book of this series?
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway for this honest review.
1 review
December 1, 2021
This book hits the ground running and doesn't let up. A truly compelling story full of intrigue and action. Krysten does a masterful job of keeping the suspense ever present and the mystery ever afoot.
Profile Image for Sammye.
4,033 reviews25 followers
January 1, 2022
This is an intense, fast paced, intriguing, emotional storyline. It kept my attention all the way to the conclusion. It’s a very suspenseful thriller. A real page-turner. I enjoyed it. *this honest review is based on a complimentary copy from BookSirens*
267 reviews5 followers
August 29, 2022
I enjoyed reading this book. It was very confusing and kept you wondering who the murderer was. I like not being able to predict the outcome. I do not like that the book will be continued. Otherwise, I would recommend this book if you like surprises.

I won this book in a Goodreads book giveaway!
74 reviews1 follower
December 10, 2021
I enjoyed this book for the most part but sometimes was confusing and I felt it needed more humour. Character development and setting was on point though. Will read more by this author.
Profile Image for Jessica.
207 reviews4 followers
April 17, 2022
Wow

This was a stunning novel. I was kept on edge to figure out who the killer was, but did guess right.

No clue. Can't wait to read the next.
Profile Image for Debbie Wakefield.
281 reviews7 followers
July 16, 2022
unique murder thriller novel

What a ride! I’d recommend this book to any murder mystery thriller fans out there. It’s such an exciting read.
45 reviews
April 7, 2024
Quick paced and twisted

If you’re already wanting to read this book, then you already know the synopsis (no reason to retype it here).

Pros:
I liked the characters, their development, the plot, and twists. I enjoyed the pace of the story, not fast but not too slow, so that it allowed you to think about who the killer might be (I’m not a fan of books that just “tell” you who it is). I thought the story was smooth and the past-to-present style flowed well.

Cons:
While I did figure out who the killer was before the end - there were enough times where I second guessed myself and not a straight giveaway. Book ends on a cliffhanger, which is a hit-or-miss with me when it comes to the sophomore book but I am interested enough to want to read the next one. Use of the phrase “arms akimbo” is grossly overused- try arms crossed, relaxed, at his side, in the air, something to mix it up vs repeating in what seemed to be every other paragraph.

Overall, the book was enjoyable, quickly paced for an easy read, and I look forward to the next.

#goodreadsgiveaway
89 reviews3 followers
July 26, 2023
Years ago Jennifer unknowingly slips away from a budding serial killer and he vows to find her again. The killer begins sending photos of his kills to her and fingerprints at each scene are from someone related to her. This was such a unique storyline and I was hooked from the beginning. Trying to figure out who the killer was was really fun and the author kept throwing in twists so I was unsure till the end. Looking forward to reading more stories in this series. I received an ARC copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews

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