DI Kim Stone and her team race to Heathcrest Academy, an elite boarding school, thinking they will be intervening in a student’s suicide attempt. When they arrive, they discover she’s already jumped from the building rooftop. As Kim examines the scene more closely, she suspects that 13-year old Sadie Winter’s death may not be what it first appears, even more so when a second student is killed.
This was one of the more perplexing cases to date because we are given the “what”and some parts of the “why,” but the underlying reasons for Sadie’s murder were elusive and the identity of the killer was equally challenging. They quickly discover that the school has a secret society comprised of four groups, two for each gender, and their power runs deep and strong. The idea that there might be children killing other children was difficult to imagine but it was always in the background as so many presented themselves as potential suspects, which was distressing in itself.
The case was compelling enough but the dramatic conclusion shocked me to my core. I never saw it coming and I’m still reeling from the aftermath. I’ve said it before but I’ll keep repeating that this series continues to best itself with each new book. Yes, the cases are complex and interesting but the true brilliance is in the character development, both with the recurring ones and those secondary who resurrect themselves from time to time. I’ve come to care strongly for these men and women and feel like I have a stake in their continued progress. What happens to them matter to me and it can sometimes be an emotionally wrecking experience as it is here. Thank goodness I’m listening to the stories because the narrator does a fantastic job in controlling these emotions as her storytelling skills are outstanding.
Book Info
- Release Date: May 11, 2018
- Series: DI Kim Stone #8
- Audio Length: 9 hours, 11 minutes
- Publisher: Bookouture
Listen to a Sample!
Blue Mood Café 
Wow, this sounds excellent, Jo. From the beginning of your quick summary I was unsure with the content, but your thoughts make me want to give it a try. You know it’s good when it stays with you! Excellent review. 🧡
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Thank you, Mischenko💜 This series has me obsessed! I’m still working things out in my head and heart.
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This sounds like such an engrossing series especially since it keeps you thinking about it. I will add it to Mt. TBR and look for some of her stories in the library.
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I’ve had to use my credits for the series since the audiobooks are only available at Audible. This book is really best to be read in series order to understand its magnitude.
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This is a series I always keep an eye out for when I get my book sale emails. #8 sounds like another wonderful one. Great review! ❤️
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Thank you, Tessa💜 You’re smart to collect them!
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We all love shock endings especially when we don’t see them coming. I really do need to restart reading this series.
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I never saw it coming. Still reeling…
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That’s the best! 😀
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I’m slowly collecting these and can’t wait to start reading them.
Anne – Books of My Heart
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Anne, you’re in for a great reading experience!
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Wonderful review Jo. I have 5 to 8 on audible, I also used my credits. I can’t wait to start listening to them. I hope to listen to a couple of them this week. I agree, every one I read is better than the last one.
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You remind me of this often- I need to tackle these series with audio. I really loved the first one and definitely want to read more. Terrific review, Jonetta!
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Thank you, Jennifer💜 I know you don’t listen to a lot on audio but this is one where I’d choose this format.
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Hi Jonetta, Wonderful review. Looks like a very interesting story. I’m not familiar with this author, but sounds like something I would enjoy. Thanks for sharing.
Melanie @ Books of My Heart
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Thank you, Melanie💜 I think you’d love this series!
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I’m glad to hear the series is consistently good! I’m starting book three soon so you’re still way ahead though. 😉 Fab review! xx
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Thanks, Yvo💜 Take your time and savor!
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Oh trust me, I will! I’m hoping to catch up before the end of the year though. 😉
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