This series has a continuing story arc and I highly recommend the first two books be read before starting this one. The backstories are critical to fully understanding the main characters, appreciating from where they’ve come and who they are now.
Gwen Proctor thinks she can finally take a breath after having escaped the clutches of her serial killer husband and exposed and dismantled a dangerous group supporting his sick objectives. However, her family is still at risk from their increased notoriety spearheaded by a group comprised of the family members of Melvin Royal’s victims. And, that group is led by someone with unlimited resources and hatred of Gwen. Meanwhile, she receives a cryptic call from a Marlene Crockett, a stranger from the small town of Wolfhunter who is seeking guidance for herself and her daughter but, not long after, turns up dead with that daughter accused of her murder.
There’s so much going on in this story, especially when Gwen lands in Wolfhunter to help Marlene’s daughter, Vera (Vee) who reached out to her. It was hard to distinguish between the compromised law enforcement, those that just resented Gwen because of her history and the good guys. In the midst of all this is an abducted child and three missing young women feared dead, in addition to the relentless media assaults on Gwen and her family. There’s obviously something seriously wrong in this town and figuring that out is just as challenging. I had to pay close attention because the clues are all there.
I read the first two books and opted to listen to this one as this series is ideal to listen to because of the pace and action. I’m so glad I made the switch because the narrators masterfully handled the narratives of Gwen, her daughter Lanny, her son Connor and her lover Sam Cade. I especially liked the performance for Gwen as she adeptly captured the personality and steeliness of this fearsome woman. I highly recommend this format.
This next phase of life for Gwen and her family didn’t disappoint and it has some powerful, painful moments with some shocking betrayals. There’s nothing predictable about the story and it was beyond exciting and gnarly. At times things seemed a little convoluted but eventually made sense when I got to the outcome. It’s an intricate story and you better pay close attention to the details. It’s a worthy edition to this unique and exciting series.
Book Info
- Release Date: April 23, 2019
- Series: Stillhouse Lake #3
- Narrators: Emily Sutton-Smith, Dan John Miller, Lauren Ezzo & Will Ropp
- Audio Length: 11 hours, 10 minutes
- Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
(Thanks to Brilliance Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Blue Mood Café 
Absolutely loved this series and was sad to see it end. The author certainly kept the tension going throughout the entire series. Terrific review, Jonetta that I totally agree with. Have a wonderful Thursday! 🌸🌺🌸
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Thanks, Marialyce! It’s not over…the author announced another book, Bitter Falls, to be released in January with more to come because of reader/fan interest💜
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You made my day!
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Love your review, Jonetta! Your disclaimer made me think you were talking to me? 😂 ♥️ I definitely want to read this series someday and I promise to start from the beginning! I have a review today of the last book in a trilogy and I skipped the middle book! 😬
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Really, Jennifer? What makes you think that😏
Actually, I respect my blogger friends who don’t need to read in order and feel I owe it to you to forewarn when it’s not a good idea. I know I’m rather manic about it but when there’s a continuing story arc, you’ll not enjoy the book. At a minimum, you must read the first in this series. You could get away with skipping the second (don’t!!!).
Did you have any issues skipping the middle book?
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♥️ I really would prefer to read all series from the beginning. It’s just hard when you get offered a shiny new book. I didn’t, but this series has different MCs so it’s ok to read them out of order I think.
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Fab review! I love it when the audiobook works really well for a series you already love 😀
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Thanks, Nicki! It’s always a risk when you switch formats and this time it worked.
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Will be checking out the series. 😀
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It’s a good one, Alexandra!
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I groan every time I open up my browser to go search books, and wonder if this is an addiction? lol!
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Oh, I’m clear it’s an addiction😄
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Great review, Jonetta! I read and listened to this one! I enjoyed listening to what I did.
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Thanks, Brenda! I imagine that was interesting.
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Wonderful review, Jonetta! I have the first two books but haven’t read them yet, and I’ll get this one too to add to the collection. I really need time to read my own books…
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Thanks, Stephanie! This is one of those series where you want to collect them and read back to back.
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You’re welcome. Maybe I will do just that. I do like bingeing a good series!
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I was considering trying Audible with this one since my lubrary doesn’t have it, thanks for your thoughts on the audiobook
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You’re welcome, Denair! I’d also listen to that sample. It’s a good representation.
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Ah, i still haven’t read the first two books… but they do sound like an especially unlucky family! 😀
Great review!
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Thanks, Norrie! When you read the first book, it all becomes clear. I think you’ll like it.
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Fantastic review, Jonetta! This is one of my favorite series. 😀
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Thanks, Darinda💜 Definitely on my favorites list.
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Fantastic review! I’m enjoying this one. I’ve been reading but I do like Emily Sutton-Smith I would read these in order, and what – Gwen is the main character in every book?
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Thank you, Anne💜 Yes, Gwen is the main character in each book as there’s a continuing story arc…for now.
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Fab review! I’m glad to hear you enjoyed this one as well; I’m already looking forward to discover what the next book will have in store for us.
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Thanks, Yvo💜 I’m dying to see the synopsis for the next book.
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would have read this if i read killman creek. but definitely hope i do
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Killman Creek is one of the best freebies I’ve read. I’d have paid for that one.
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Ooo can’t wait to read it 😃
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Terrific review Jonetta. I read the first two and recently downloaded the audio version of this one. I was so happy to read your review as I had heard that this one wasn’t as good and I had been putting it off. So anxious to listen to this one now.
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Thank you, Carla! This one’s very different from the first two and the plot is intricate, which may explain why some had issues. However, it’s got the same emotional punch and tautness as the first two. I’m looking forward to what you think.
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I finished and all I can say is wow. Amazing narration, loved it.
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Yay!
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