Book picks similar to
Blood-Red Mist: A Jena Halpern Thriller (The Jena Halpern Mysteries Book 2) by Michael Allan Scott
mystery
social-issue-relevant
4-stars-plus
digital
Daughters of the Sea
H.R. Mason - 2021
A new town filled with old secrets. One woman is determined to uncover the truth about her past, but Everwine Manor won’t easily give up the truth.Runa Brandon is naïve and uncertain, and she has been taken advantage of more than once. After disentangling herself from an abusive relationship, Runa begins a new life in Departure Cove, Oregon. Her mother, Asta, believes Departure Cove holds too many secrets that are better left buried, including the identity of Runa’s father.When Runa arrives in Departure Cove, strange things begin to happen. She experiences frightening visions, disturbing dreams, and unexplained physical changes. Then Runa meets Chase Everwine, a wealthy, mysterious man who pursues Runa with a passion that sweeps her off her feet.Runa falls hard for Chase, in spite of Asta’s warnings that his family cannot be trusted. Secrets and puzzles follow in Chase’s wake, and when Runa sees his family’s estate, Everwine Manor, she feels drawn to it. She doesn’t understand why the house calls to her but is compelled to find out.What Runa doesn’t know is that she is part of a long line of women who are blessed with inexplicable gifts and drawn to the power of the sea. As Runa uncovers the astounding secrets of her family tree, she also comes to realize there is more to her husband than meets the eye.
The Hand of Strange Children: A nerve-shredding mystery thriller
Robert Richardson - 1993
Details trickle in: the house belongs to wealthy merchant banker Charles Stansfield; present are well-known news editor Richard Barlow and members of his family. But the victims identities are withheld. Who are they? Why has a family gathering exploded into violence and death? Through their individual voices the lives of Richard, Tim and Naomi Barlow and their mother, Florence, unfold and a shocking crime comes to light - one that has gone undetected and unpunished, culminating in a double-killing a quarter of a century later. The Hand of Strange ChildrenPraise for Robert Richardson ''With this, his first novel, Robert Richardson makes a most impressive debut as a writer of the classical English detective story… He knows how to create suspense and an atmosphere of incipient evil; he provides us with a genuine puzzle, his characters are believable people, and the motive of his murderer is psycho-logically credible.” P D James “Skilful rerouting and the taste of real tears” The Sunday Times “Eccentrics, suspects and witty writing abound” The Times “Here is a book to be missed only at your own peril” Armchair Detective “Elegantly written, beautifully characterised, suspenseful and oddly moving” Mystery Reader’s Journal “Grand entertainment, deft handling and suave wit” Publishers Weekly Robert Richardson is a journalist and editor who lives in England.
Confessions of the Assistant Extraordinaire
Lotta Smith - 2016
More than 100,000 words, humorous mystery books. Welcome to the glamorous universe of Kelly Kinki—yes, really! Working as a personal assistant of Michael Archangel—the hottest and the wackiest detective in D.C.—her day never ends without dead bodies… Ghostly Murder A murder in a locked room…The faceless ghost… Throw in a cross-dressing detective plus his assistant extraordinaire in this new mystery series! For Kelly Kinki, working as Archangel’s personal assistant was always an adventure, one that keeps her on her toes. As the resident consulting detective for the busy Washington D.C. Police Department and the FBI, Archangel took the confusing or unsolvable situations and spun a Sherlock hue over them, finding answers amongst the clues and closing cases even the most skilled law enforcement agents found confounding. Working as both his assistant and sounding board, Kelly has an intimate knowledge of the inner workings of Archangel’s deduction, and of his fabulous closet. Not only is he a detective savant, he is also a towering specimen of a man with an appetite for women’s high fashion that could put a runway model to shame – a fact that leaves his less-fashionable assistant flummoxed, and slightly jealous. It’s a classic ‘who-done-it’ with a not so classic answer. Immortal Eyes Serial murder with a sick ritual... The Dragon Lady...and the mismatched duo's race against time... Previously a socialite and a ‘real’ housewife, Kelly Kinki is now stuck with a dead-end job as a personal assistant to a private investigator. To Kelly, this translates as playing second fiddle to a guy who gets more cat-calls than she does. Michael Archangel is his name, catching killers is what he does, and he does it in...well, a short skirt and high heels. As a former FBI Special Agent turned P.I., Archangel knows his way around a crime scene as well as he does the local Agent Provocateur. His game de jour is toying with Kelly, his assistant—just like cat and mouse. However, they're a team, whether fending off rude paparazzi or manhandling the politicians, freaks, and other lowlifes roaming the streets of the nation's capital, the two are hell-bent on finding a serial killer who is holding the city hostage. Join Archangel, Kelly, and a host of oddball characters as they wind their way through a madcap crime thriller, with more twists and turns than a mind-bender roller coaster. Kelly's story is filled with raucous humor and irreverent satire, so buckle up. Who'll solve the crime, and who will take the credit? Perhaps all the investigators will get for their trouble is a full color splash on the cover of the Washington Post, "Latest Victims Discovered in Matching Frocks - One Male, One Female". Deadly Vision A murder of a sweetie pie… A newbie, pathetic agent…and the reluctant mentor… Voted #7 of DC’s Most Eligible Bachelors, now Michael Archangel—her boss—is officially the hottest PI in the neighborhood, and one of the most talented. Sought by clients and police alike for his wit and brain power, this is an American Sherlock with style – and a unique past. The college girl was last seen at Tricky Sundae, a local ice cream shop, and then she turns up dead. This time, the case seems so normal, at first. The victim, a universally-loved college student, has been strangled.
Murder In The Neighborhood
Janis Lane - 2013
Detective Fowler isn’t certain who causes him to lose the most sleep, a certain sexy reporter with bouncing curls and sparkling black eyes, or the elusive psychopath creating panic in his small-town community. Together, the detective and the reporter race to find the monster in their midst and return the town to the desirable place where people come to raise their families in peace and contentment. Can they sort through their differences to find romance even as they search for a determined stalker with murder on his mind? The clock ticks down on a man in a rage with a deadly mission.
Stormcock
Robin Roughley - 2017
For over five years Abe Mathews has been hunting the white-haired assassin. Obsession and vengeance drives him and at last he is close to bringing the man named Plymouth to justice. Though Plymouth is playing a deadlier game. One in which he is putting his life in the crosshairs in order to bring the guilty forward and he will stop at nothing to inflict his own horrific brand of retribution. However, as Mathews draws closer to his quarry he is forced to question the truth about the man with the blue eyes and savage smile. There are others who will cross any line to kill Plymouth those who have suffered beyond imagining at his hands. As the noose tightens and people start to die, Mathews must decide who he can trust before the clock stops ticking. Meanwhile, Plymouth relentlessly draws out those who want to see him dead in an electrifying game of life and death that will have a devastating impact on those unwittingly pulled into the vortex of violence.
Manhunt at Sage Creek (A Henry Biggston Thriller Book 3)
Jamie McFarlane - 2019
The small town of Wood Creek is rocked by the discovery of a serial killer’s lair found deep in the remote hills of Sage Creek National Forest. Flushed from his hiding place, the twisted hunter is pushed into the open in search of new cover and fresh prey. The fight becomes personal when the killer fixates on a ten-year-old girl Biggston considers family. Using his training as an Army Ranger, Biggs picks up the trail of the psychotic killer and tracks his trail of destruction across the rural countryside. With a child's safety on the line, Biggs will stop at nothing to bring justice to Butte County. Manhunt at Sage Creek is a modern, western-themed story about strong men and women who live in the wide-open country. If you enjoy stories about loyalty, respect, honor and the simple truths of life, then you'll enjoy Henry Biggston Thrillers. While Manhunt at Sage Creek is the third Henry Biggston Thriller, each book is a stand-alone story.
A Thin Sharp Blade: An Edwardian Mystery
Fran Smith - 2020
Angels Believe in You
Lynn Hardy - 2014
Why wouldn’t we? Life is a unique experience. It is not the destination, but the journey that truly matters.Over the last thirteen years, Kindle bestselling author Lynn Hardy has…- Heard the voice of God- Received two undeniable physical signs from God- Seen angels and demons on thirteen separate occasions- Been healed three times from serious and fully documented medical conditions Have you ever wondered…What do angels and demons look like?How can angels help us?What proof do we have that angels are among us?What power do we have over demons? Inside the pages of “Angels Believe in You” you will find some surprising answers.Make no mistake; Lynn does not claim to be an expert on angels or demons. She is neither the epitome of Christian perfection, nor a Bible scholar. However, what happened to her is both astounding and irrefutable.It is Lynn’s sincere hope that these extraordinary events that have changed her life will comfort and help you through whatever challenges you face — now or in the future.
I Believe You
Jeanne Grunert - 2016
Now he struggles to raise his three sons alone and run the financial empire founded by his outlandish father. One night, a mysterious stranger appears to be watching his home. The next day, $100,000 is missing from his bank account. As David untangles the knot of lies, deception and intrigue surrounding his wife's death, he threatens to shatter his close-knit family forever.
An Unexpected Treasure
Natalie Dean - 2018
marshal. On the way to Cypress Creek, Texas to meet her intended, Louise Settelmeyer is in for a shock when her stagecoach is attacked by bandits. When the robbery is stopped by men from the U.S. Marshals Service, Louise has no choice but to rely on the escort of a cocky and childish deputy marshal, Andy Fulton. Upon reaching town, Louise is in for yet another shock when she discovers that her intended was none other than the man robbing her stagecoach. Deputy U.S. Marshal Andy Fulton can’t leave the beautiful woman he rescued at the stagecoach station without provision. He’s a man of integrity and, therefore, must do something to help—even if the woman won’t laugh at his jokes and insists she’s got everything under control. Unfortunately, he’s seen firsthand what happens to a woman on her own in the West and decides to intervene on Louise’s behalf, helping her obtain a position at the local hotel. Things seem to be going fine until Louise becomes a target for criminals in town and finds herself in need of rescue more than once. The dangers don’t stop there, as Louise realizes that seeing her handsome rescuer every day is putting her heart in danger of growing more attached than she’d like. Will Andy be able to rescue Louise, yet again—and learn to risk his heart in the process? And will they uncover the truth behind why outlaws are tracking Louise down? Only time, a little good humor, and a dollop of boldness will tell. . . Author’s Note: An Unexpected Treasure, Marrying a Marshal Book One is a PG-rated Western Romance short story of about seventy-five pages with plenty of Old West action and romance. There will be three more stories to follow this one, each of about 150 pages long, so if you like this one, and I’m sure you will, there’ll be some longer books to follow! This is also part of the Hero Hearts series which is a larger multi-author series about men who love, honor, and protect their families, all while having faith in God! Brought to you by Annie Boone, Kate Cambridge, Terri Grace, Misty Shae, Cat McGill, Hayley Wescott, and Natalie Dean! Enjoy!
The 2nd Cycle of the Darc Murders Collection (the acclaimed series from #1 Police Procedural and Hard Boiled authors Carolyn McCray and Ben Hopkin)
Carolyn McCray - 2014
It will also include FREE the full length novel 2nd Kill and the short story Denial when they upload in late 2014. A $19.00 value for $3.99!!! **Warning, this collection includes GRAPHIC crime scenes and taut thrills. Please do not buy this collection unless you have a strong stomach and don't scare easily! Praise for the Darc Murders Collection... "I really really like this series.....not my usual reading, as I normally read paranormal romance/HEA stories... work is a refreshing break for me of my usual reading material. Definitely not for the faint of heart---gory and violence is graphically described, possibly giving you not-so-nice dreams. This is a great deal for all the books included." L.Ludwig Amazon Reviewer "This series of books really captivated me. I have always loved murder mysteries and would definitely recommend the Darc Collection to all... delivers 5 Stars in each of these books... has become one of my all time favorite authors, because no matter what book I read by her I am never disappointed!!!" Guinevere Amazon Reviewer Overview: The collection includes... Devolved - the prequel/crossover short story to the Harbinger Series and 3rd Body 3rd Body - Just try not to lose your head Detached*exclusive to the collection - the bridge short story between 3rd Body and 2nd Kill 2nd Kill*exclusive to the collection - the full-length sequel to 3rd Body (will upload late 2014) Denial *exclusive to the collection- the bridge short story between 2nd Kill and 1st Body More Praise for the Darc Murders Collections... "WOW, just WOW! I don't think I've ever come across such a gruesome series of crime scenes! Further knowing each of the scenes were booby trapped, had me cringing and then to read the full spectre of the carnage, left me in equal parts awe and queasiness of the macabre imaginings of the writers! They pulled out the big guns! There was gore galore! Luckily, I like that in a thriller, it makes the suspense that much higher and the take down of the bad guy that much more satisfying. What I didn't expect was to be so enchanted by the characters. I loved the eclectic mix, from the brilliant but emotionally challenged Detective with Aspergers to his laid back empathetic partner plus the razor sharp mind of the child psychologist consultant and the adorable and brave sole survivor, little Janey. All these nuances and traits give a rich tapestry to the book and endear you to the clever writing of... Ben." Kizzle79 Amazon Reviewer "I definitely recommend the Darc Murders Collection. The character development is phenomenal, story development is superb-- I thoroughly enjoyed reading both 9th Circle and 7th Sin; the story telling entwined with the characteristics of Darc's aspergers is incredibly entertaining. Not for the faint of heart, lots of gore and suspense, great mysteryseries." Tetch Amazon Reviewer If you are a fan of characters such as Alex Cross and Hannibal or movies like 7 and Saw, The Darc Murders Collection is sure to shock and satisfy. **If you were looking for Hopkin's latest crime thriller collection, search under The Nursery Rhyme Murders Collection. **If you were looking for The #1 Police Procedural/Hard Boiled mystery series that includes the blockbuster, Plain Jane search under The Harbinger Collection
A Wing and a Prayer
M.W. Arnold - 2020
American Doris Winter, running from a personal tragedy, yearns for a new start. Naturally shy Mary Whitworth-Baines struggles to fit in. Together though, they are a force to be reckoned with as they face the mystery that confronts them.Against the backdrop of war, when ties of friendship are exceptionally strong, they strive to unravel the puzzle's complex threads, risking their lives as they seek justice for Betty's sister.
Bound Bayou
David Canford - 2014
His adventure turns into a living nightmare when his independent spirit collides with the rules of life in the Deep South. Crossing the racial divide, Arthur Belsay sets off a chain of events he can’t control. He flees to New York and makes a life for himself in what seems like a different country, but the past catches up with him.Ultimately Arthur faces a character-defining challenge: can he find the courage to save a woman who can’t return his love, though he risks almost certain death in the attempt?
Ben's Story
Andrew M. Stafford - 2015
Ben’s body lay alongside Liz, who was unconscious and barely alive at the bottom of Mill Tut, a Bronze aged burial mound in the beautiful Badock’s Wood in Bristol. DCI Markland Garraway, who at the last moment is brought in to lead the investigation into Ben’s murder has a reputation of being a maverick detective who thinks outside the box. The mystical powers of the ancient burial mound begin to influence Garraway’s attitude towards the case and soon he is alienated by his colleagues. Mill Tut, or The Hill as Garraway refers to it, opens up a Pandora’s Box of supernatural happenings which infiltrate his waking and sleeping life, creating a host of mental demons which the Scottish detective must learn to deal with. Daniel Boyd has fled Bristol to evade capture for the crime he has committed. To those who know him, he’s vanished off the face of the earth. But can he escape the mystical powers of The Hill? The power of The Hill does not only affect Garraway. It reaches out to many, including Christopher Jameson, who was born at the precise moment Ben’s life ended. The Hill reveals to Garraway and the others who are affected by its influence, the world for what it is; a place where the impossible is real, and the dead speak with the living.
The Cactus Plot: Murder in the High Desert
Vicky Ramakka - 2019
Driving treacherous roads and avoiding rattlesnakes become the least of her worries. What Millie expects to be a peaceful summer turns into a chaotic hunt for a ruthless killer. Millie experiences the friction of working for the BLM through the characters she meets—a secretive cowboy, friendly oil and gas hand, out-spoken environmentalist, foreign tourist, and a cheeky Navajo biologist. Some of these become allies, one ends up threatening her life. When autopsies reveal the seemingly unrelated deaths involve plants, Millie draws on her knowledge of ecology as she races to investigate the murderer—before she becomes the next victim.