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Who to Believe
13 hours, 45 minutes
In this twisting domestic suspense thriller from the acclaimed author of The Secrets We Share , the aftermath of a murder in a quiet New England coastal town reveals a web of dark secrets . . .
Monreith, Massachusetts, was once a small community of whalers and farmers. These days it’s a well-to-do town filled with commuters drawn to its rugged coastline and country roads. A peaceful, predictable place—until popular restaurateur Laurel Thibodeau is found brutally murdered in her own home. Suspicion naturally falls on Laurel’s husband, Simon, who had gambling debts that only her life insurance policy could fix. But there are other rumors too . . .
Among the group of six friends gathered for Alice Stone’s fortieth birthday, theories abound concerning Laurel’s death. Max Barbosa, police chief, has heard plenty of them, as has his longtime friend, Unitarian minister Georgia Fitzhugh. Local psychiatrist Farley Drake is privy to even more, gleaning snippets of gossip and information from his patients while closely guarding his own past.
But maybe everyone in Monreith has something to hide. Because before this late-summer evening has come to a close, one of these six will be dead. And as jealousy, revenge, adultery, and greed converge, the question becomes not who among these friends might be capable of such a thing, but—who isn’t?
In this twisting domestic suspense thriller from the acclaimed author of The Secrets We Share , the aftermath of a murder in a quiet New England coastal town reveals a web of dark secrets . . .
Monreith, Massachusetts, was once a small community of whalers and farmers. These days it’s a well-to-do town filled with commuters drawn to its rugged coastline and country roads. A peaceful, predictable place—until popular restaurateur Laurel Thibodeau is found brutally murdered in her own home. Suspicion naturally falls on Laurel’s husband, Simon, who had gambling debts that only her life insurance policy could fix. But there are other rumors too . . .
Among the group of six friends gathered for Alice Stone’s fortieth birthday, theories abound concerning Laurel’s death. Max Barbosa, police chief, has heard plenty of them, as has his longtime friend, Unitarian minister Georgia Fitzhugh. Local psychiatrist Farley Drake is privy to even more, gleaning snippets of gossip and information from his patients while closely guarding his own past.
But maybe everyone in Monreith has something to hide. Because before this late-summer evening has come to a close, one of these six will be dead. And as jealousy, revenge, adultery, and greed converge, the question becomes not who among these friends might be capable of such a thing, but—who isn’t?
Audible Audio
First published January 23, 2024
About the author
Edwin Hill
7 books721 followersEdwin Hill’s critically-acclaimed crime novels include the standalone thrillers Who to Believe and The Secrets We Share, and three mysteries featuring Harvard-librarian Hester Thursby Little Comfort, The Missing Ones, and Watch Her. He has been nominated for Edgar and Agatha Awards, featured in Us Magazine, received starred reviews in Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, Booklist, and Library Journal, and was recognized as one of “Six Crime Writers to Watch” in Mystery Scene magazine. He lives in Roslindale, Massachusetts with his partner Michael and his favorite reviewer, their lab Edith Ann, who likes his first drafts enough to eat them.
Visit his website for more information.
Visit his website for more information.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 317 reviews
February 1, 2024
We all know that the TRUTH lies somewhere between HIS version, and HER version.
So what about when we have SEVEN versions of the truth?
WHO DO WE BELIEVE?!
Laurel Thibodeau was found brutally murdered in her own home-asphyxiated with a plastic bag.
Foul Play is suspected so naturally the suspicion falls on Laurel’s husband, Simon, who had gambling debts that only her life insurance policy could fix.
But there are other rumors too . . .
The group of six friends gathered for Alice Stone’s fortieth birthday, all have theories-and something to hide.
And before this party draws to a close, one of these six will also be dead as motives of jealousy, revenge, adultery, and greed are all revealed.
The question becomes not who in this group might be capable of murder, but, rather, WHO ISN'T?
The Shrink, the Patient, The Cop, The Boyfriend, The Daughter, the Minister and even the DOG, will all share their version of the truth, one POV at a time.
I enjoyed listening for the subtle (and not so subtle) differences as we hear their recollections, but of course that does lead to some repetition, which some readers or listeners may not enjoy, especially when this Audible clocks in at 13 hours and 45 minutes at regular speed!
But, the FULL CAST of narrators kept me intrigued and I found my first book by Edwin Hill, quite entertaining!
3.75 stars ⭐️ rounded up!
January 24, 2024
Monreith, Massachusetts, was a quiet and peaceful town until the murder of Laurel Thibodeau rocked the town to its core. Naturally suspicion fell upon her husband, Simon, with his gambling debts. But the gossip mill is also talking about the rumors and every one of Laurel's friends has something to hide! They share their theories at Alice Stone’s fortieth birthday and before the night is over someone else will be dead!
This book is told through various POV's including a dog’s POV at the very end. Who amongst them can be believed? That is the question. The author threw in everything but the kitchen sink. There are secrets galore, deception, infidelity, greed, and bullying to name a few.
After an initial issue with the audio, which was promptly fixed, I enjoyed the narration. I also liked there each character POV had a different narrator. That was highly beneficial in helping me keep track of characters and whose POV was being given.
This book has a great mystery with several plot twists and is told in a unique way. I look forward to reading more of the author's books in the future.
Thank you to RB Media, Recorded Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
This book is told through various POV's including a dog’s POV at the very end. Who amongst them can be believed? That is the question. The author threw in everything but the kitchen sink. There are secrets galore, deception, infidelity, greed, and bullying to name a few.
After an initial issue with the audio, which was promptly fixed, I enjoyed the narration. I also liked there each character POV had a different narrator. That was highly beneficial in helping me keep track of characters and whose POV was being given.
This book has a great mystery with several plot twists and is told in a unique way. I look forward to reading more of the author's books in the future.
Thank you to RB Media, Recorded Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
January 26, 2024
In the small town of Monreith, Massachusetts, the horrifying murder of Laurel Thibodeau has recently disrupted the peace and tranquility of the coastal community. Found dead in her own home by her husband, Simon, rumors immediately start to swirl around town. It is the first murder that most residents can remember, of course, and after the revelation of Simon’s gambling debts and Laurel’s rather large insurance policy, the case against him seems like an obvious slam dunk.
As with all small towns, though, gossip isn’t limited to Simon’s guilt in the case. Plenty other rumors have been repeated at all of the usual places. Including, of course, Alice Stone’s fortieth birthday party just a week later. Over dinner and drinks, she and her friends and family—including the chief of police, the Unitarian minister, and the local psychiatrist—swap theories. After all, those three in particular have heard everything said around town and just a tad more.
Little do the others know, however, that while engaging in a little tongue wagging themselves, all of those present at the party are also hiding plenty of secrets of their own. Secrets that will lead to at least one more death that very night after hackles are raised. The real question that they’ll all find themselves asking by sunrise, however, is not who of their friends they should trust, but who could have been capable of murder.
Holy cannoli! Let me tell you, Who to Believe was so much more than the synopsis suggested. A winding tale of unending greed, dangerous secrets, and well rehearsed lies, it was riveting to be sure. Add in the perfectly crafted multiple POVs and the shifting storyline and the book was an easy hole in one to this mystery lover. Honestly, I’m utterly shocked that I haven’t discovered Edwin Hill before now, as his virtuoso-like skill was beyond crystal clear.
It was the plot itself that had me flying through the pages, of course. A combination of ingenious mystery and sublime psychological suspense, it was told through seven parts, each by a different narrator. It was an insightful and original format to read, with complex group dynamics that only added to the puzzle. What was even more perfect, however, were the deftly hidden clues scattered about and the long list of potential suspects to be had.
As for those characters, they were so very genuine and true-to-life that I found myself wrapped up from the very first word. I do have to say, however, that some were decidedly more successful than others. But as the distinct voices changed over the course of the novel, so too did my suspicions and who I was rooting for in the end. So it was apt that the last individual we heard from was none other than the omniscient all seeing dog.
The only piece that wasn’t pure perfection, though, just so happened to be how repetitive the plot seemed at times. As the final revelation inched closer, in fact, the more some rather unnecessary details were repeated. Granted, perhaps they were needed to situate the events in time and place, but reading it all in one sitting made it feel like one repetition too many at times.
Despite this, however, this was one truly addictive page-turner of a book. Rife with delicious small town gossip and plenty of disguised motivations, I never knew who was hiding what and from whom. Believe you me, this kept me on tenterhooks throughout as the doubts swirled and the suspicion crept in. All I know is that I’m now going to head directly to Hill’s backlist tout suite. After all, if this book was anything to go by, I’ve been royally missing out on one dynamite author. Rating of 4.5 stars.
Thank you to Edwin Hill and Kensington Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: January 23, 2024
Trigger warning: infidelity, controlling relationship, bullying, mild homophobia, gaslighting, mention of: fatal hit-and-run accident
As with all small towns, though, gossip isn’t limited to Simon’s guilt in the case. Plenty other rumors have been repeated at all of the usual places. Including, of course, Alice Stone’s fortieth birthday party just a week later. Over dinner and drinks, she and her friends and family—including the chief of police, the Unitarian minister, and the local psychiatrist—swap theories. After all, those three in particular have heard everything said around town and just a tad more.
Little do the others know, however, that while engaging in a little tongue wagging themselves, all of those present at the party are also hiding plenty of secrets of their own. Secrets that will lead to at least one more death that very night after hackles are raised. The real question that they’ll all find themselves asking by sunrise, however, is not who of their friends they should trust, but who could have been capable of murder.
Holy cannoli! Let me tell you, Who to Believe was so much more than the synopsis suggested. A winding tale of unending greed, dangerous secrets, and well rehearsed lies, it was riveting to be sure. Add in the perfectly crafted multiple POVs and the shifting storyline and the book was an easy hole in one to this mystery lover. Honestly, I’m utterly shocked that I haven’t discovered Edwin Hill before now, as his virtuoso-like skill was beyond crystal clear.
It was the plot itself that had me flying through the pages, of course. A combination of ingenious mystery and sublime psychological suspense, it was told through seven parts, each by a different narrator. It was an insightful and original format to read, with complex group dynamics that only added to the puzzle. What was even more perfect, however, were the deftly hidden clues scattered about and the long list of potential suspects to be had.
As for those characters, they were so very genuine and true-to-life that I found myself wrapped up from the very first word. I do have to say, however, that some were decidedly more successful than others. But as the distinct voices changed over the course of the novel, so too did my suspicions and who I was rooting for in the end. So it was apt that the last individual we heard from was none other than the omniscient all seeing dog.
The only piece that wasn’t pure perfection, though, just so happened to be how repetitive the plot seemed at times. As the final revelation inched closer, in fact, the more some rather unnecessary details were repeated. Granted, perhaps they were needed to situate the events in time and place, but reading it all in one sitting made it feel like one repetition too many at times.
Despite this, however, this was one truly addictive page-turner of a book. Rife with delicious small town gossip and plenty of disguised motivations, I never knew who was hiding what and from whom. Believe you me, this kept me on tenterhooks throughout as the doubts swirled and the suspicion crept in. All I know is that I’m now going to head directly to Hill’s backlist tout suite. After all, if this book was anything to go by, I’ve been royally missing out on one dynamite author. Rating of 4.5 stars.
Thank you to Edwin Hill and Kensington Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: January 23, 2024
Trigger warning: infidelity, controlling relationship, bullying, mild homophobia, gaslighting, mention of: fatal hit-and-run accident
January 29, 2024
3.5🌟
Perfectly titled! A question I had to continually ask myself…who am I to believe?
This book was filled with a delicious abundance of:
♦️characters
♦️backstabbing partners
♦️murders
♦️shocking twists
Told from multiple points of view. Yes, everyone got to tell their side of the story.
Even the dog Harper had a chance to tell her side of things! Loved that.
But with all those separate views, comes a bit of repetition. Hard to get around that.
I did enjoy the large cast of narrators.
Though there was one that had a cadence that distracted from the storytelling.
Also...a male narrator was used to represent Harper, even though she was a female?🤷🏻♀️
I’d been curious about this author for some time. Glad I finally had the opportunity to pick up one of his books. Well, audio in this case. I declare myself a new fan, and will definitely be reading and/or listening to more of his works!
Thank you to NetGalley and RB Media
Perfectly titled! A question I had to continually ask myself…who am I to believe?
This book was filled with a delicious abundance of:
♦️characters
♦️backstabbing partners
♦️murders
♦️shocking twists
Told from multiple points of view. Yes, everyone got to tell their side of the story.
Even the dog Harper had a chance to tell her side of things! Loved that.
But with all those separate views, comes a bit of repetition. Hard to get around that.
I did enjoy the large cast of narrators.
Though there was one that had a cadence that distracted from the storytelling.
Also...a male narrator was used to represent Harper, even though she was a female?🤷🏻♀️
I’d been curious about this author for some time. Glad I finally had the opportunity to pick up one of his books. Well, audio in this case. I declare myself a new fan, and will definitely be reading and/or listening to more of his works!
Thank you to NetGalley and RB Media
January 29, 2024
When local restaurateur Laurel Thibodeau is murdered by asphyxiation in her own home, suspicion immediately falls on her husband and business partner, Simon. He has gambling debts and recently took out a large life insurance policy on his wife – he also has a rock-solid alibi.
In a tiny coastal town like Monreith, Massachusetts, everyone has an opinion on what might have happened, and when a group of friends gathers to celebrate one of their birthdays, each of them has their own take on the story. But who will survive the night, and who will you believe?
* Farley Drake… the psychiatrist with a nasty habit of getting too close to his clients.
* Damian Stone… the documentary filmmaker with a conviction that a serial killer is stalking the region.
* Alice Stone… the financial planner with a clear-eyed view of her husband’s extra-curricular activities.
* Max Barbosa… the jaded police chief who struggles with impartiality.
* Richard Macomber… the not-as-dumb-as-you-might-assume car mechanic with a secret addiction.
* Chloe Macomber… the eighth grader obsessed with an older man.
* Georgia Fitzhugh… the Unitarian minister used to offering solace, not accepting it.
* Or a mystery guest… whose keen sense of observation reveals all.
WHO TO BELIEVE is my most personal novel yet. I'll be so happy to share it with you on January 23, 2024!
In a tiny coastal town like Monreith, Massachusetts, everyone has an opinion on what might have happened, and when a group of friends gathers to celebrate one of their birthdays, each of them has their own take on the story. But who will survive the night, and who will you believe?
* Farley Drake… the psychiatrist with a nasty habit of getting too close to his clients.
* Damian Stone… the documentary filmmaker with a conviction that a serial killer is stalking the region.
* Alice Stone… the financial planner with a clear-eyed view of her husband’s extra-curricular activities.
* Max Barbosa… the jaded police chief who struggles with impartiality.
* Richard Macomber… the not-as-dumb-as-you-might-assume car mechanic with a secret addiction.
* Chloe Macomber… the eighth grader obsessed with an older man.
* Georgia Fitzhugh… the Unitarian minister used to offering solace, not accepting it.
* Or a mystery guest… whose keen sense of observation reveals all.
WHO TO BELIEVE is my most personal novel yet. I'll be so happy to share it with you on January 23, 2024!
January 15, 2024
I have read a couple of Edwin Hill’s books before and enjoyed them, but this book was in a whole other league in its awesomeness. I loved the unique format of this book, sometimes it’s hard to find something that feels new in the murder mystery/thriller genre. The writing was excellent and once I got going into this one I could not put it down. This book is told from multiple perspectives, but unlike most books that do that each character gets one chance to tell their story before it moves to the next perspective. I think my favorite part is that when you heard one character’s perspective you dove into the next and realized they were a much more horrible person than the world saw (except Chloe and Harper, they were fabulous and the only ones I was rooting for in this book). I will also admit that there were a couple of twists I did not see coming which is always awesome. Small towns can hide big secrets and when a group gathers for one of their member’s 40th birthday events begin to unfold outing some of those tightly guarded secrets. What lengths would you go to for your secrets?
February 3, 2024
Wow -- what an amazing ride filled with murder and mayhem!
In a small town in Massachusetts, every resident pretty much knows everyone else's business. There's Damian, a documentary filmmaker and his wife Alice. Georgia, mom to Chloe and the town's beloved minister, struggling with her divorce from Richard, who is now dating Farley, the local therapist. (And Farley has a front row seat to everyone's thoughts!) Everyone is watched over by the police chief, Max. As for Max, he is busy trying to solve the recent murder of Laurel--where the main suspect is her restaurateur husband, Simon.
This dark, dynamic story is told from the POV of many of these main characters, one-by-one. What could be a repetitive device (hearing about the same event from each person, for example) turns out to be a suspenseful one, as we get new tidbits of information here and there, slowly revealing the story. Everyone has their own secrets and confessions and there's an interesting choice to reveal a killer up front. (But do not despair, there are plenty of killers and death to go around here!)
Our story revolves around a party held for Alice's 40th birthday, followed shortly by another death. It dips back a few days before via flashbacks. This is a wild ride as so many characters are dark and evil! So much drama, so many secrets, so much sneaking around in a small town! While there are plenty of messed up folks to go around here, I found some to love, especially spunky teenage Chloe and Alice's adorable dog, Harper. The book gets a little wild by the end, maybe requiring a bit too much suspension of disbelief, but overall I really enjoyed this dark web of lies and twisted narratives. If you want a dark, complex, well-written mystery that will keep you guessing, this one is for you!
I received a copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
In a small town in Massachusetts, every resident pretty much knows everyone else's business. There's Damian, a documentary filmmaker and his wife Alice. Georgia, mom to Chloe and the town's beloved minister, struggling with her divorce from Richard, who is now dating Farley, the local therapist. (And Farley has a front row seat to everyone's thoughts!) Everyone is watched over by the police chief, Max. As for Max, he is busy trying to solve the recent murder of Laurel--where the main suspect is her restaurateur husband, Simon.
This dark, dynamic story is told from the POV of many of these main characters, one-by-one. What could be a repetitive device (hearing about the same event from each person, for example) turns out to be a suspenseful one, as we get new tidbits of information here and there, slowly revealing the story. Everyone has their own secrets and confessions and there's an interesting choice to reveal a killer up front. (But do not despair, there are plenty of killers and death to go around here!)
Our story revolves around a party held for Alice's 40th birthday, followed shortly by another death. It dips back a few days before via flashbacks. This is a wild ride as so many characters are dark and evil! So much drama, so many secrets, so much sneaking around in a small town! While there are plenty of messed up folks to go around here, I found some to love, especially spunky teenage Chloe and Alice's adorable dog, Harper. The book gets a little wild by the end, maybe requiring a bit too much suspension of disbelief, but overall I really enjoyed this dark web of lies and twisted narratives. If you want a dark, complex, well-written mystery that will keep you guessing, this one is for you!
I received a copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
June 5, 2024
Fabulous!!!!
What a wonderful job by the author!! All the different characters. Each is given an in-depth character dive. Filled with plenty of dialogue from different scenes. Opposed to monologue monotony.
Some scenes are repeated. A few of them, are only brief interactions. The author is smart though. Having those moments told from another character's perspective, added even more nuance to my building intrigue. It became much more than a simple "whodunnit".
The whole truth, when all is revealed, was more enjoyable as a result. I will look forward to another read by this author.
What a wonderful job by the author!! All the different characters. Each is given an in-depth character dive. Filled with plenty of dialogue from different scenes. Opposed to monologue monotony.
Some scenes are repeated. A few of them, are only brief interactions. The author is smart though. Having those moments told from another character's perspective, added even more nuance to my building intrigue. It became much more than a simple "whodunnit".
The whole truth, when all is revealed, was more enjoyable as a result. I will look forward to another read by this author.
February 5, 2024
As another reviewer pointed out, the narrative circles back like groundhog day. However, it unfolds from different perspectives. Still, it got to be monotonous, especially after the second point of view. It was just a re-hashing of the same events from different people. Even though little secrets from each character were revealed, it just wasn't enough for me to keep circling back to the beginning with each character.
What didn't help the narrative was that all of the characters were pretty vanilla. Almost all were the same without any feature that stood out from the rest.
Needless to say, it got boring and I just couldn't see myself wading through the same story with each character. An unfortunate 1 star DNF at 34%
I received a DRC from Kensington Books through NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
What didn't help the narrative was that all of the characters were pretty vanilla. Almost all were the same without any feature that stood out from the rest.
Needless to say, it got boring and I just couldn't see myself wading through the same story with each character. An unfortunate 1 star DNF at 34%
I received a DRC from Kensington Books through NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
November 7, 2023
This is full of surprises and an incredibly unique take on a murder mystery. Multiple characters narrate this very sordid tale set in a small New England town where secrets abound. The writing is exquisite. This was my favorite Edwin Hill book yet. For fans of Allen Eskens and Joanna Schaffhausen.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Edelweiss, Kensington and Edwin Hill for my complimentary e-copy ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Edelweiss, Kensington and Edwin Hill for my complimentary e-copy ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
January 23, 2024
The story follows a circle of friends who are determined to unravel the truth behind the death of Laurel Thibodeau, a well-known restaurateur. As they begin to piece together clues and unravel the mystery, one of their own friends tragically meets the same fate. With the clock ticking, the group is now racing against time to uncover the identity of the real killer before they strike again.
I was initially thrilled to begin the book due to its many positive reviews. However, as I read on, I found myself unable to connect with the characters on a deeper level or to fully immerse myself in the story's world. Despite my initial excitement, the story failed to captivate me as I had hoped. Overall, an okay read.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Edwin Hil, and RB Media for graciously sending me the audiobook to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
I was initially thrilled to begin the book due to its many positive reviews. However, as I read on, I found myself unable to connect with the characters on a deeper level or to fully immerse myself in the story's world. Despite my initial excitement, the story failed to captivate me as I had hoped. Overall, an okay read.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Edwin Hil, and RB Media for graciously sending me the audiobook to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
February 7, 2024
TW: Language, drinking, sexual abuse (mention), cheating, suicide (mention), violence, guns, fat shaming, cheating, grief, bullying, family drama, divorce, homophobia, gambling, mourning
*****SPOILERS*****
About the book:
Monreith, Massachusetts, was once a small community of whalers and farmers. These days it’s a well-to-do town filled with commuters drawn to its rugged coastline and country roads. A peaceful, predictable place—until popular restaurateur Laurel Thibodeau is found brutally murdered in her own home. Suspicion naturally falls on Laurel’s husband, Simon, who had gambling debts that only her life insurance policy could fix. But there are other rumors too . . .
Among the group of six friends gathered for Alice Stone’s fortieth birthday, theories abound concerning Laurel’s death. Max Barbosa, police chief, has heard plenty of them, as has his longtime friend, Unitarian minister Georgia Fitzhugh. Local psychiatrist Farley Drake is privy to even more, gleaning snippets of gossip and information from his patients while closely guarding his own past.
But maybe everyone in Monreith has something to hide. Because before this late-summer evening has come to a close, one of these six will be dead. And as jealousy, revenge, adultery, and greed converge, the question becomes not who among these friends might be capable of such a thing, but—who isn’t?
Release Date: January 23rd, 2024
Genre: Thriller
Pages: 320
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
What I Liked:
1. I liked the writing style
2. The chapter breaks
3. The characters were interesting
4. Pov of Harper the dog was fun
What I Didn't Like:
1. Very slow beginning
2. Farley is poop
3. Some parts felt repetitive
Overall Thoughts:
The Therapist:
The book starts off with the murder of Laurel Thibodeau. We follow the therapist, Farley Drake. Who we find out is the someone that has already killed some of the locals;
• Steve Alabiso - was selling drugs to anyone and cheating.
• Jeanine Geller - was giving her daughter stuff to make her sick
Farley would find these terrible people through his clients and then kill them. The twist is that Farley didn't kill Laurel.
The Patient:
We then jump to the pov of Alice Stone. Alice knew that her husband, Damian. Alice found out that Damian was sleeping with Laurel. We find out that she has killed some people of her own;
• Hans - her 27 year old teacher that was sleeping with teenagers. She killed him with a syringe between his toe
• Father Jean-Marc - for taking advantage of sad and grieving women. She drugged and drowned him.
Awe Max remembering that Alice is vegetarian and getting vegan marshmallows. So nice.
Finally Alice tells Damian that she knew he was cheating and Damian dropped a bomb - he was going to leave her for Laurel. So I guess this dude just cheats and then marries the women he cheats with.
Oh the phone got a text and it's from Richard saying "Meet me at the dock." sent 10 minutes earlier. Who's phone is this? At first I was thinking it was Laurel’s but it can't be because Richard knows that she's dead.
The Cop:
We get to Max the cop that kissed Alice in her kitchen. The cop that brought her ambrosia salad with vegan marshmallows. What a choice that was... Ew though. (mentions he had vegan marshmallows on hand)
Omg I didn't see that coming. Now Farley is dead.... Omg.
The Boyfriend:
Now we can get Richard's pov. He also has a secret account where he is sending money because he's going to leave Georgia.
I don't know why Richard said he would get back to the house conversation when Farley already said that Richard bought half the house.
Richard mentions that he signed papers for the house and to be in the will for Farley's house then says he's still married to Georgia, so she'd get the property too. Hmmmm.
We end the chapter on a bombshell that Richard is being arrested for the murder of Farley and Damian - - Damian is dead????
The Daughter:
Onto Chloe's pov.
I liked being able to find out what happened to her at school with the fight. Taylor is terrible. She called her father a f*g insult. Gross.
Chloe does hate Farley despite what Farley's pov where he made out they were great together. She actually wants her family back together.
The night of the murders she snuck out to the phone back from Noah. When she comes home is when he her father is "waking" her up for the police.
The Minister:
Now we hear from Georgia. Ah so Damian asked Georgia to pick up the cake for him. Why did he not mention that? That's why she randomly showed up with the cupcakes.
Ohhhhhhhhhhh the burner phone belongs to Georgia!!!
So now Georgia is the one that approached Laurel about stolen items and seeing why she's stealing things from the old people
And then get to the reveal. Georgia killed Laurel because she didn't want Damian and the tow to know that she was tormenting him via a phone. How very random. How could they prove it was really her behind it? Why would the town turn on her after 15 years of being in the town for two people that were cheating on their spouses? She also decides to frame Farley for the murder. Seems silly because he wasn't on camera showing up and he is her therapist - easily explained that she must have picked the hair up when she was in his office at an appointment. She gets worried that Damian will turn over his phone because there is a photo of Laurel with a bag over her head on it. Why send it to him if you are worried? Again how would it be traced to her?
She also killed Damian with her car because he knows too much. She didn't kill Farley. So what happened to him?
The Dog
Interesting pov from the dog. So Alice and Max are together now. Georgia is arrested - Chloe turned her mother in.
Alice & Harper were out that night when it was raining and they passed Georgia without knowing it. Georgia had dropped the mallet but then Farley was stalking Alice because he knew he had to kill her. Alice attacked him with the mallet. She threw it in the water. The last scene we get us Harper almost bringing the mallet back to Max to play fetch with.
I kept thinking Chloe and Noah killed Laurel and Farley because they wanted their parents to stay together. Honestly it seems like everyone hated Farley. This book is keeping me guessing I seriously don't know who killed them. We know that Laurel didn't kill herself because the case is still open. She had a bag over her head and Simon, her husband found her. He has an alibi but the town insists on treating him like he did it.
I think the detective is over stepping in his investigations. Forcing him to talk to Richard's daughter is not legal. Unless you are arrested you don't have to talk to the detective.
Final Thoughts:
My biggest issue with the book is that there are two killers in this small town both killing people in the name of revenge. Not only that but the more you learn about Farley it seems so out if character for him to even care enough about people to take out vengeance in their name.
I had so much fun with this murder mystery book. The characters all passing one another without knowing it but interlinked into one another's lives was absolutely wonderful.
I kept thinking the killer must be this person and then a new character pov proved that not possible.
I would love to read other books from this author.
IG | Blog
Thanks to Netgalley,
Kensington for the ebook, and Recorded Books for the audiobook. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
*****SPOILERS*****
About the book:
Monreith, Massachusetts, was once a small community of whalers and farmers. These days it’s a well-to-do town filled with commuters drawn to its rugged coastline and country roads. A peaceful, predictable place—until popular restaurateur Laurel Thibodeau is found brutally murdered in her own home. Suspicion naturally falls on Laurel’s husband, Simon, who had gambling debts that only her life insurance policy could fix. But there are other rumors too . . .
Among the group of six friends gathered for Alice Stone’s fortieth birthday, theories abound concerning Laurel’s death. Max Barbosa, police chief, has heard plenty of them, as has his longtime friend, Unitarian minister Georgia Fitzhugh. Local psychiatrist Farley Drake is privy to even more, gleaning snippets of gossip and information from his patients while closely guarding his own past.
But maybe everyone in Monreith has something to hide. Because before this late-summer evening has come to a close, one of these six will be dead. And as jealousy, revenge, adultery, and greed converge, the question becomes not who among these friends might be capable of such a thing, but—who isn’t?
Release Date: January 23rd, 2024
Genre: Thriller
Pages: 320
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
What I Liked:
1. I liked the writing style
2. The chapter breaks
3. The characters were interesting
4. Pov of Harper the dog was fun
What I Didn't Like:
1. Very slow beginning
2. Farley is poop
3. Some parts felt repetitive
Overall Thoughts:
The Therapist:
The book starts off with the murder of Laurel Thibodeau. We follow the therapist, Farley Drake. Who we find out is the someone that has already killed some of the locals;
• Steve Alabiso - was selling drugs to anyone and cheating.
• Jeanine Geller - was giving her daughter stuff to make her sick
Farley would find these terrible people through his clients and then kill them. The twist is that Farley didn't kill Laurel.
The Patient:
We then jump to the pov of Alice Stone. Alice knew that her husband, Damian. Alice found out that Damian was sleeping with Laurel. We find out that she has killed some people of her own;
• Hans - her 27 year old teacher that was sleeping with teenagers. She killed him with a syringe between his toe
• Father Jean-Marc - for taking advantage of sad and grieving women. She drugged and drowned him.
Awe Max remembering that Alice is vegetarian and getting vegan marshmallows. So nice.
Finally Alice tells Damian that she knew he was cheating and Damian dropped a bomb - he was going to leave her for Laurel. So I guess this dude just cheats and then marries the women he cheats with.
Oh the phone got a text and it's from Richard saying "Meet me at the dock." sent 10 minutes earlier. Who's phone is this? At first I was thinking it was Laurel’s but it can't be because Richard knows that she's dead.
The Cop:
We get to Max the cop that kissed Alice in her kitchen. The cop that brought her ambrosia salad with vegan marshmallows. What a choice that was... Ew though. (mentions he had vegan marshmallows on hand)
Omg I didn't see that coming. Now Farley is dead.... Omg.
The Boyfriend:
Now we can get Richard's pov. He also has a secret account where he is sending money because he's going to leave Georgia.
I don't know why Richard said he would get back to the house conversation when Farley already said that Richard bought half the house.
Richard mentions that he signed papers for the house and to be in the will for Farley's house then says he's still married to Georgia, so she'd get the property too. Hmmmm.
We end the chapter on a bombshell that Richard is being arrested for the murder of Farley and Damian - - Damian is dead????
The Daughter:
Onto Chloe's pov.
I liked being able to find out what happened to her at school with the fight. Taylor is terrible. She called her father a f*g insult. Gross.
Chloe does hate Farley despite what Farley's pov where he made out they were great together. She actually wants her family back together.
The night of the murders she snuck out to the phone back from Noah. When she comes home is when he her father is "waking" her up for the police.
The Minister:
Now we hear from Georgia. Ah so Damian asked Georgia to pick up the cake for him. Why did he not mention that? That's why she randomly showed up with the cupcakes.
Ohhhhhhhhhhh the burner phone belongs to Georgia!!!
So now Georgia is the one that approached Laurel about stolen items and seeing why she's stealing things from the old people
And then get to the reveal. Georgia killed Laurel because she didn't want Damian and the tow to know that she was tormenting him via a phone. How very random. How could they prove it was really her behind it? Why would the town turn on her after 15 years of being in the town for two people that were cheating on their spouses? She also decides to frame Farley for the murder. Seems silly because he wasn't on camera showing up and he is her therapist - easily explained that she must have picked the hair up when she was in his office at an appointment. She gets worried that Damian will turn over his phone because there is a photo of Laurel with a bag over her head on it. Why send it to him if you are worried? Again how would it be traced to her?
She also killed Damian with her car because he knows too much. She didn't kill Farley. So what happened to him?
The Dog
Interesting pov from the dog. So Alice and Max are together now. Georgia is arrested - Chloe turned her mother in.
Alice & Harper were out that night when it was raining and they passed Georgia without knowing it. Georgia had dropped the mallet but then Farley was stalking Alice because he knew he had to kill her. Alice attacked him with the mallet. She threw it in the water. The last scene we get us Harper almost bringing the mallet back to Max to play fetch with.
I kept thinking Chloe and Noah killed Laurel and Farley because they wanted their parents to stay together. Honestly it seems like everyone hated Farley. This book is keeping me guessing I seriously don't know who killed them. We know that Laurel didn't kill herself because the case is still open. She had a bag over her head and Simon, her husband found her. He has an alibi but the town insists on treating him like he did it.
I think the detective is over stepping in his investigations. Forcing him to talk to Richard's daughter is not legal. Unless you are arrested you don't have to talk to the detective.
Final Thoughts:
My biggest issue with the book is that there are two killers in this small town both killing people in the name of revenge. Not only that but the more you learn about Farley it seems so out if character for him to even care enough about people to take out vengeance in their name.
I had so much fun with this murder mystery book. The characters all passing one another without knowing it but interlinked into one another's lives was absolutely wonderful.
I kept thinking the killer must be this person and then a new character pov proved that not possible.
I would love to read other books from this author.
IG | Blog
Thanks to Netgalley,
Kensington for the ebook, and Recorded Books for the audiobook. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 27, 2023
A true page turner a book with an intimate cast of characters a small town where this group are all connected In the opening scene Laurel wife ofSam the owner of a restaurant in town is discovered dead in her bed smothered by a plastic bag.Sam has an iron clad alibi.Slowly we are introduced to the other characters in this chilling mystery and begin to try to figure out who was involved in her murder.Affairs are revealed other criminal activities occur and there are so many secrets to be revealed.A book I hated to put down couldn’t wait to pick up and try to figure out who was innocent who was guilty.I will be reading more by Edwin Hill.Thanks to Kensington books.for my copy on sale1/23/24
January 29, 2024
I loved how this book is set up! The same murder and fallout is told from different POVs and the devil is in the details. As we discover new secrets with each person and see how it all ties into the bigger picture the evidence points to someone different. It’s incredibly creative and well done.
The story follows the murder of a woman in a small community in Massachusetts. While her husband is still the prime suspect, there are a group of six friends who know the victim and they each have something to hide. There’s the Reverend, the Therapist, the Boyfriend, the Daughter, the Friend, and the Cop. As each of their stories unravels, their secrets all come out too.
The hook of the book is the storytelling but the plot itself is pretty basic. I found that the final solution was unremarkable and the motive was weak but I enjoyed the journey so much I was willing to look past it all.
The story follows the murder of a woman in a small community in Massachusetts. While her husband is still the prime suspect, there are a group of six friends who know the victim and they each have something to hide. There’s the Reverend, the Therapist, the Boyfriend, the Daughter, the Friend, and the Cop. As each of their stories unravels, their secrets all come out too.
The hook of the book is the storytelling but the plot itself is pretty basic. I found that the final solution was unremarkable and the motive was weak but I enjoyed the journey so much I was willing to look past it all.
November 8, 2023
This is an awesome book in all respects,it just missed the mark for me to be a solid 5. It may be the way it is written or that I didn't quite feel connected to the characters. But once I made myself give it a go it turned into a big page turner for me. I read it in one sitting... I couldn't put it down,I try to savor a good book,I take baby sips if you will,to not be left frantically searching for my next great book. I do recommend this to anyone who loves a good murder mystery,but I would suggest the person be a little open minded to a newer style of murder mystery. All in all I give it a 4.75! Great read and thanks to GoodReads for the ARC of this novel!
March 16, 2024
A small idyllic town
where everyone knows your name & business.
Yet, there are many killings.
Is there a serial killer on the loose?
If so, how can no one know the killer?
This story is told by many points of view.
It’s captivating.
I love that Harper, the dog, is included in the storyline.
Kudos to Edwin Hill … Well done!
I won this thriller on a Mighty Blaze: Crime Time.
If you’re interested in watching, it’s usually on FB on Tuesdays.
Thank you for the book, Hank Phillippi Ryan!
where everyone knows your name & business.
Yet, there are many killings.
Is there a serial killer on the loose?
If so, how can no one know the killer?
This story is told by many points of view.
It’s captivating.
I love that Harper, the dog, is included in the storyline.
Kudos to Edwin Hill … Well done!
I won this thriller on a Mighty Blaze: Crime Time.
If you’re interested in watching, it’s usually on FB on Tuesdays.
Thank you for the book, Hank Phillippi Ryan!
November 28, 2023
I found this book to be slow to unfold. The writing style was sometimes difficult to follow, and I had a hard time keeping all the characters and their connections to each other straight. I read as an escape, so I don’t have to think, and this book required more effort on my part. It was a good concept but not executed well in my opinion.
It is told through multiple points of view over the course of a couple days. I found it to be repetitive and at times, boring. I do enjoy Edwin Hill’s other books and will be sure to check out his next one.
It is told through multiple points of view over the course of a couple days. I found it to be repetitive and at times, boring. I do enjoy Edwin Hill’s other books and will be sure to check out his next one.
Want to read
September 17, 2023Who to Believe
Written By Edwin Hill
Publisher Kensington Books
Release Date January 23, 2024
Genre Mystery/Thriller
Characters: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Pace: 5/5
Suspense: 5/5
Overall Enjoyment: 5/5
As a huge fan already of Edwin Hill, being able to read his new book excited me and it absolutely did not disappoint.
There are few books that truly deserve 5 stars and this is one of them. I know that not everyone will agree with me but I technically only read the mystery type genres and base my ratings on merit also. I look at the whole picture, not just the authors skill. This book has it all, and keeps you engaged until the end. The characters are well developed, believable, and adroit. This is one book you should run, not walk to purchase on its release date…….you will not be disappointed, because who knows who will die next…..
In the small town of Monreith Mass, everyone seems to know everything about each other. You know the type of people that gossip about everyone…..Laurel Thibodeau, a local restaurant owner, is found dead. In her home. Savagely beaten. Suspicion has fallen on her husband Simon. There are financial issues with his gambling problems that would lead others to believe he would kill her for her insurance money. Simon does not tell the truth at first but he has a solid alibi that no one can touch. There are others though that might have a grudge to bear when it came to Laurel.
We then go to a group of six friends that have gathered together to celebrate the 40th birthday of Alice Stone. The story and theories of Laurel’s death run rampant. Everyone seems to point finger but they have each their own secrets to keep. The Chief of Police has heard all of the theories and he is in close ties to the caring Unitarian minister as well as the town’s psychiatrist. This too may seem to have more than one secrets because before the summer is over another one of those six friends will also turn up dead. There are many of the seven deadly sins in this book and the killer may just be anyone of the towns people because they all have an ax to grind with someone.
5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley as well as the author and publisher for allowing me to read this book in exchange for my unbiased and honest review.
Written By Edwin Hill
Publisher Kensington Books
Release Date January 23, 2024
Genre Mystery/Thriller
Characters: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Pace: 5/5
Suspense: 5/5
Overall Enjoyment: 5/5
As a huge fan already of Edwin Hill, being able to read his new book excited me and it absolutely did not disappoint.
There are few books that truly deserve 5 stars and this is one of them. I know that not everyone will agree with me but I technically only read the mystery type genres and base my ratings on merit also. I look at the whole picture, not just the authors skill. This book has it all, and keeps you engaged until the end. The characters are well developed, believable, and adroit. This is one book you should run, not walk to purchase on its release date…….you will not be disappointed, because who knows who will die next…..
In the small town of Monreith Mass, everyone seems to know everything about each other. You know the type of people that gossip about everyone…..Laurel Thibodeau, a local restaurant owner, is found dead. In her home. Savagely beaten. Suspicion has fallen on her husband Simon. There are financial issues with his gambling problems that would lead others to believe he would kill her for her insurance money. Simon does not tell the truth at first but he has a solid alibi that no one can touch. There are others though that might have a grudge to bear when it came to Laurel.
We then go to a group of six friends that have gathered together to celebrate the 40th birthday of Alice Stone. The story and theories of Laurel’s death run rampant. Everyone seems to point finger but they have each their own secrets to keep. The Chief of Police has heard all of the theories and he is in close ties to the caring Unitarian minister as well as the town’s psychiatrist. This too may seem to have more than one secrets because before the summer is over another one of those six friends will also turn up dead. There are many of the seven deadly sins in this book and the killer may just be anyone of the towns people because they all have an ax to grind with someone.
5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley as well as the author and publisher for allowing me to read this book in exchange for my unbiased and honest review.
January 23, 2024
4 stars
I am updating this review upon receiving the completed audio file for this book. Previously, I received an incomplete audio file, and since that allowed me to review only about half of the book, it negatively impacted my ability to provide a fair review of the whole thing. Fortunately, that situation has been rectified. Here is my review of the whole book:
This is my second Edwin Hill book. I really enjoyed the first, and I feel that way about this one, too. There are quite a few characters, all of whom are geographically connected, and they all have secrets and motives. There are also some surprisingly experienced criminals hiding in plain sight, and that makes this a much more exciting read. If folks have been crafty enough to get away with some scandalous stuff before, couldn't they potentially do it again...? Or will this make them bigger targets, even possibly resulting in them getting blamed for crimes they have not committed (this time)?
While I enjoyed the fast pacing and the plotting, the standout feature of this one is the shady characters and the joy of viewing the world through their perspectives. There are some great structural choices that really enhance this setup. I'll add that younger characters who are featured in this genre often end up harming the overall experience for me, but so far, they have been highlights in Hill's novels.
I have really enjoyed both of the Hill books I've read so far, and I look forward to adding more to this list!
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Recorded Books for this alc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions here are my own.
I am updating this review upon receiving the completed audio file for this book. Previously, I received an incomplete audio file, and since that allowed me to review only about half of the book, it negatively impacted my ability to provide a fair review of the whole thing. Fortunately, that situation has been rectified. Here is my review of the whole book:
This is my second Edwin Hill book. I really enjoyed the first, and I feel that way about this one, too. There are quite a few characters, all of whom are geographically connected, and they all have secrets and motives. There are also some surprisingly experienced criminals hiding in plain sight, and that makes this a much more exciting read. If folks have been crafty enough to get away with some scandalous stuff before, couldn't they potentially do it again...? Or will this make them bigger targets, even possibly resulting in them getting blamed for crimes they have not committed (this time)?
While I enjoyed the fast pacing and the plotting, the standout feature of this one is the shady characters and the joy of viewing the world through their perspectives. There are some great structural choices that really enhance this setup. I'll add that younger characters who are featured in this genre often end up harming the overall experience for me, but so far, they have been highlights in Hill's novels.
I have really enjoyed both of the Hill books I've read so far, and I look forward to adding more to this list!
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Recorded Books for this alc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions here are my own.
January 31, 2024
Thanks to the (new-to-me) author, Edwin Hill, NetGalley, and the publisher for this fun, interesting, and compelling thriller on audio book. It featured a cast of narrators who portrayed the various townspeople from the shrink, chief of police, gay men couple, etc., with (7-8) POV's and each chapter dedicated to a different person. The narrators were all enjoyable, although I could've done without teenage Chloe's narration (although her POV was helpful), as well as Harper's, the beloved dog, who gave its own POV and narration....it was fine, if not silly. I'm sure dog-lovers everywhere are giggling with delight at Hill's humor.
This novel is set in a small, beautiful sounding, coastal town in Massachusetts where all the townies frequently know each other's business. You wonder how anyone could get away with having an affair or committing a murder.... dun...dun... dun....and there are many! There was also much deception within the town, group of friends, faux pas, lack of forthcoming, and many, many secrets.
I enjoyed how the author crafted the plot and various characters, intertwining their lives, twisting and turning facts and stories, until you were sure you knew who the guilty parties or murderer/s were. The only small con that took away a star was because the editing could've been tighter to make it less repetitive and ending it cleaner/sooner. Regardless, check this one out and have fun with it and feel free to leave a comment with other Edwin Hill recommendations!
This novel is set in a small, beautiful sounding, coastal town in Massachusetts where all the townies frequently know each other's business. You wonder how anyone could get away with having an affair or committing a murder.... dun...dun... dun....and there are many! There was also much deception within the town, group of friends, faux pas, lack of forthcoming, and many, many secrets.
I enjoyed how the author crafted the plot and various characters, intertwining their lives, twisting and turning facts and stories, until you were sure you knew who the guilty parties or murderer/s were. The only small con that took away a star was because the editing could've been tighter to make it less repetitive and ending it cleaner/sooner. Regardless, check this one out and have fun with it and feel free to leave a comment with other Edwin Hill recommendations!
January 17, 2024
This thriller starts with a "newspaper clipping" about the murder of a woman whose body is found in her home. The murder is the talk of the town in Monreith, Massachusetts, and the victim's husband is one of the prime suspects. The story continues from there, with several different characters whose lives are intertwined, describing various events taking place from their point-of-view. The narrators include a police chief, a psychiatrist, one of the psychiatrist's patients, a boyfriend of one of the characters, a minister, the daughter of one of the characters, and even a dog!
What is unique about the storytelling of this book is many of the same events are described by multiple characters. For example, one of the characters has a birthday party, so we see some of the same incidents through the eyes of more than one character. It's interesting to see the different insights and explanations in the retellings, however the repetition does slow the overall pace of the book. Each character reveals secrets, some of them HUGE, when telling their side of the story.
The plot twists are dizzying, which keeps you engaged in the story, but can be confusing. The interconnections between the characters and the various secrets and lies are hard to keep track of, but as a whole I found the book to be suspenseful and enjoyable to read.
I received an advance copy of this ebook at no cost from NetGalley and Kensington Books, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
What is unique about the storytelling of this book is many of the same events are described by multiple characters. For example, one of the characters has a birthday party, so we see some of the same incidents through the eyes of more than one character. It's interesting to see the different insights and explanations in the retellings, however the repetition does slow the overall pace of the book. Each character reveals secrets, some of them HUGE, when telling their side of the story.
The plot twists are dizzying, which keeps you engaged in the story, but can be confusing. The interconnections between the characters and the various secrets and lies are hard to keep track of, but as a whole I found the book to be suspenseful and enjoyable to read.
I received an advance copy of this ebook at no cost from NetGalley and Kensington Books, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
November 21, 2023
One of my biggest pet peeves as a reader is lack of clear direction from the writer, or lack of clear writing so the reader can make clear inferences as to which character is speaking. Authors take note. If you are going to write a book from multiple characters points of view, make it clear which character is speaking. The easiest way to do this, is to mark the chapter with a name. Simply diving in, while clear to you as the author, is not always clear to the reader. And that is exactly what happened to me with this book. Based on reading other reviews, there are six points of view. I am unsure how they came up with this number because I simply gave up. I read to escape, and for fun so this book was apparently not for me. One reviewer stated they needed a spreadsheet to keep track of all the characters, and honestly, I simply do not have the patience for that between everything else going on in my life. Books like this should come with a disclaimer! I am also confused how some people found this a fast-paced thriller. The half I read moved at a very slow pace, another reason I gave up, not much happened and what did happen, happened so slowly it was infuriating.
Simply put, this book and I were not a match made in heaven. Quite the opposite. I wish those luck who wish to embark on this journey.
Simply put, this book and I were not a match made in heaven. Quite the opposite. I wish those luck who wish to embark on this journey.
January 28, 2024
Wow! Edwin Hill, the Author of “Who to Believe” has written an intense, captivating, and intriguing thriller. This is a book filled with betrayals, suspicious motives, danger, secrets, gaslighting, and murder. I would love to see Edwin Hill’s “Who to Believe” in a TV series, or a movie, or perhaps a game like Clue. The genres for this novel are Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, Psychological thriller and Fiction. This story takes place in a small town in Monreith, Massachusetts.It seems like every character has something to hide, or a secret to bury. In a small town, anything can happen. The timeline is set in the present and goes to the past when it pertains to the characters or events.
In this exceptionally well-written story, Edwin Hill vividly describes the quaint town, and the complex and complicated characters. When a restauranteur’s wife is found murdered, it seems there are too many suspects. Actually, each of the quirky and dysfunctional characters could be a suspect. After all, the people living in the town are a Unitarian Woman Minister, a Psychologist, a Police Chief, some people in debt and cheating spouses. I read this book in one sitting and the twists and turns and suspense are amazing. I highly recommend this thought-provoking novel to others.
In this exceptionally well-written story, Edwin Hill vividly describes the quaint town, and the complex and complicated characters. When a restauranteur’s wife is found murdered, it seems there are too many suspects. Actually, each of the quirky and dysfunctional characters could be a suspect. After all, the people living in the town are a Unitarian Woman Minister, a Psychologist, a Police Chief, some people in debt and cheating spouses. I read this book in one sitting and the twists and turns and suspense are amazing. I highly recommend this thought-provoking novel to others.
September 23, 2023
4.5
*Gifted by the author. Thank you to Edwin Hill & Kensington Books for this entertaining read!
Rumors, whiteboard, entanglements…
Small town living - everyone knows everyone else’s business. But as psychiatrist Dr Farley Drake says “ We all have a hidden self - a shadow side we try to keep private.” And now the talk of the town is the unsolved murder of Laurel Thibodeau, who was killed a week ago. Many details are coming out in therapy sessions - “Farley hears things that the rest of the town doesn’t.”
Transgressions abound in this town, including greed, affairs, gambling, stealing, and MURDER . The truth is “usually closer than you’d ever believe!”
Available Jan 23,2024
*I’m a first time reader of this writer. I would read other books by this author!
*Lots of twists and turns slowly revealed. Suspenseful! Many possible suspects!
* Loved the idea of the last chapter by Harper the dog, who knows but hasn’t told many of the town’s secrets. Clever!
*Great ending!
*Gifted by the author. Thank you to Edwin Hill & Kensington Books for this entertaining read!
Rumors, whiteboard, entanglements…
Small town living - everyone knows everyone else’s business. But as psychiatrist Dr Farley Drake says “ We all have a hidden self - a shadow side we try to keep private.” And now the talk of the town is the unsolved murder of Laurel Thibodeau, who was killed a week ago. Many details are coming out in therapy sessions - “Farley hears things that the rest of the town doesn’t.”
Transgressions abound in this town, including greed, affairs, gambling, stealing, and MURDER . The truth is “usually closer than you’d ever believe!”
Available Jan 23,2024
*I’m a first time reader of this writer. I would read other books by this author!
*Lots of twists and turns slowly revealed. Suspenseful! Many possible suspects!
* Loved the idea of the last chapter by Harper the dog, who knows but hasn’t told many of the town’s secrets. Clever!
*Great ending!
January 7, 2024
I love the way this book is set up. It tells the same story 5 times, from 5 POVs, in very different ways.
The book highlights the trouble of living in a tight-knit community as well as the issues many detectives can face while investigating a crime. The biggest issue being that the characters all have redeeming qualities that make it hard to believe any of them could be a killer.
The only negative I found in the book was at the very beginning when all the characters were introduced in quick succession. It wasn't until chapter six that I was able to place everyone without hesitation.
I do highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys mystery/suspense or likes to let their inner sleuth shine.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The book highlights the trouble of living in a tight-knit community as well as the issues many detectives can face while investigating a crime. The biggest issue being that the characters all have redeeming qualities that make it hard to believe any of them could be a killer.
The only negative I found in the book was at the very beginning when all the characters were introduced in quick succession. It wasn't until chapter six that I was able to place everyone without hesitation.
I do highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys mystery/suspense or likes to let their inner sleuth shine.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 1, 2024
Pub day: January 23
This is my second book by Hill and will with say that if you like thrillers with twists galore, his books will be an excellent fit!
This book was written in a very unique way. There were about 10-15 chapters told from seven characters pov’s about the week leading up to and the days after a murder. I was very sucked in at the start and thought the twists were excellent. There was some repetition in the retelling of the days and events. Even thought they were told from different POV’s I found myself struggling not to skip over the things I already knew about. But Hill made sure to drop some confessions in there so attention would snap back and I was on high alert once again. This was a very fun reading experience, not quite four stars so somwhere around 3.75, with an eerie atmosphere that set the mood perfectly.
Thank you Kensington Books for the #gifted arc!
This is my second book by Hill and will with say that if you like thrillers with twists galore, his books will be an excellent fit!
This book was written in a very unique way. There were about 10-15 chapters told from seven characters pov’s about the week leading up to and the days after a murder. I was very sucked in at the start and thought the twists were excellent. There was some repetition in the retelling of the days and events. Even thought they were told from different POV’s I found myself struggling not to skip over the things I already knew about. But Hill made sure to drop some confessions in there so attention would snap back and I was on high alert once again. This was a very fun reading experience, not quite four stars so somwhere around 3.75, with an eerie atmosphere that set the mood perfectly.
Thank you Kensington Books for the #gifted arc!
January 26, 2024
4.5 rounded up
This neighborhood/domestic thriller is written in multiple points of view. The relationships in this neighborhood are messy to say the least. This story involves several couples, a daughter, a son, and 2 murders (possibly more…)
I really loved this book. I thought the character development was spot on and loved the multiple points of view, especially that last one 😉.
My only dislike was the amount of infidelity going on. It went a tad too far in that department and should’ve had at least one couple who was faithful to each other. This deducted a half star for me, but I’m rounding up to 5 stars.
The narrators in this audiobook were great and I’m so thankful that each character had their own voice. It made the storyline so much easier to understand.
Thank you NetGalley and RB Media for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This neighborhood/domestic thriller is written in multiple points of view. The relationships in this neighborhood are messy to say the least. This story involves several couples, a daughter, a son, and 2 murders (possibly more…)
I really loved this book. I thought the character development was spot on and loved the multiple points of view, especially that last one 😉.
My only dislike was the amount of infidelity going on. It went a tad too far in that department and should’ve had at least one couple who was faithful to each other. This deducted a half star for me, but I’m rounding up to 5 stars.
The narrators in this audiobook were great and I’m so thankful that each character had their own voice. It made the storyline so much easier to understand.
Thank you NetGalley and RB Media for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 10, 2024
Okay wow. Horny, indulgent, revenge seeking, adulterous neighbors who know each other and ARE FULL OF SECRETS ✅ sign me up. The plot was a classic whodunnit with a lot of layers. I will say, that I got a bit confused for like last 100 pages trying to remember each character and their unique relationships with each other. But overall, job well done.
Read
January 17, 2024For fans of multi POV books with a gossipy neighborhood feel. For me it was too many narrators and hard to know whose head I was in but I’m glad that this is finding its audience!
Thanks to the publisher for the review copy!
Thanks to the publisher for the review copy!
February 16, 2024
I loved the structure of this book, but felt the ending just wasn't as creative as the rest of the book.
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