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Sheriff Elven Hallie #6
Vendetta in the Valley
A high-profile funeral. An arsonist at large. A stranger with too many questions.
And a devastating betrayal.
Reeling from the news dropped on his desk days earlier, Sheriff Elven Hallie is left questioning everyone and everything in his life. But when a former deputy is burned to death, Elven must push aside the turmoil in his personal life to catch the killer.
As if that wasn’t enough, new faces from the Starcher clan enter his county with vengeance in their eyes for Corbin’s death.
Paranoid, angry, and directionless, Elven must lean on those closest to him to bring a ruthless murderer to justice. But that’s easier said than done when it’s those closest to him who he trusts the least…
And a devastating betrayal.
Reeling from the news dropped on his desk days earlier, Sheriff Elven Hallie is left questioning everyone and everything in his life. But when a former deputy is burned to death, Elven must push aside the turmoil in his personal life to catch the killer.
As if that wasn’t enough, new faces from the Starcher clan enter his county with vengeance in their eyes for Corbin’s death.
Paranoid, angry, and directionless, Elven must lean on those closest to him to bring a ruthless murderer to justice. But that’s easier said than done when it’s those closest to him who he trusts the least…
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 31, 2023
1123 people are currently reading
247 people want to read
About the author
Drew Strickland
48 books170 followersDrew Strickland is an Amazon #1 bestselling author of the Sheriff Elven Hallie Mysteries along with other twisted crime and psychological thrillers.
He resides in Arizona with his wife and kids. When he’s not writing, he can be found reading, exploring new cities, spending time with his family, and of course, cuddling with his many cats (for real, cats just love him and he loves them).
Connect with Drew:
➜ WEBSITE: drewstricklandbooks.com
➜ FACEBOOK: facebook.com/drewstricklandbooks
➜ INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/drewstricklandbooks
He resides in Arizona with his wife and kids. When he’s not writing, he can be found reading, exploring new cities, spending time with his family, and of course, cuddling with his many cats (for real, cats just love him and he loves them).
Connect with Drew:
➜ WEBSITE: drewstricklandbooks.com
➜ FACEBOOK: facebook.com/drewstricklandbooks
➜ INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/drewstricklandbooks
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
November 13, 2023
Drew Strickland keeps writing better novels the deeper I delve into this series. Working with a strong foundation in small-town West Virginia, Strickland has brought Sheriff Elven Hallie to life with numerous twists throughout the collection. In this piece, Sheriff Hallie is trying to recover from a bombshell revelation about one of his deputies with whom he has become close. While nursing those wounds, someone has been killing people across the county by lighting them on fire in their homes. Struggling with the chaos that has descended once more on Dupray, Sheriff Hallie will certainly have his hands full. With a climatic end that reveals a great deal that has been building throughout the series, this is one book series fans will not want to miss. Another stealer piece by Drew Strickland in a series that keeps getting better.
While he cannot comprehend the news that has recently come into his possession about his own deputy, Maddison ‘Madds’ Cook, Sheriff Elven Hallie wants nothing to do with anyone. However, serving and protecting the people of Dupray County, West Virginia has to come first, even if it is a sore spot. When news comes that a former deputy has been killed in a fire, things take a dark turn, as arson is all but a certainty.
This is not the first body found in a burnt-out house. In fact it is part of a string of them, though nothing appears to make sense. Recent memories of a young man asking questions around Dupray help the pieces fall into place. A long-ago deal saw a baby go into foster care. Now, someone wants answers and retribution.
If this were not enough, Hollis Starcher has questions for the sheriff in relation to his son’s killing. While the Starchers have been running the county and bringing in cartel drugs for decades, they must fall in line. Sheriff Hallie took bold action to save one of his own a few months back, in hopes of preserving order. Vengeance is sought and Sheriff Elven Hallie is in the crosshairs, though the Starchers want it to be felt to the core. At a time when he can trust no one, Elven Hallie must put all his trust on those around him, for protection, if not his own sanity. A gripping piece that had me turning pages until I reached the final reveal!
Once more, the novel flows well from the past books in the series and connects more dots. Continuing the strong story arcs and adding depth to characters, Drew Strickland does a great job at keeping the reader hooked. There remains a strong narrative foundation in the story and things keep flowing from there. The small-town nature of the series keeps things somewhat cozy but still completely out of control, an added bonus. The grittiness of the delivery keeps the reader pushing onwards, if only to learn more about everything that is taking place.
Elven Hallie is the obvious protagonist in this piece, forced to face demons and a past he has wanted to keep level. His struggles with trust are not new, nor is his trying to one-up the Starchers, but when it comes to how Deputy Madds Cook kept him out of the loop and betrayed him, the struggle is real and the pain still throbbing. There is more development on the connection and strain between the two of them, though the larger reveal about the Starchers adds a depth and flavouring that Strickland has been holding onto for the past five novels in the series. With strong supporting characters, many of whom advance their own development well, Strickland has set the stage for what is sure to be an explosive book when next he publishes.
This is perhaps the most plot development in a single novel. While there has been a great deal brewing since Madds Cook arrives in Dupray, what comes from this book all but blows the lid off things. Those alarming story arcs and the accompanying twists are plentiful, though it is also the advancements within the story that keep the reader keenly wondering how things will develop. I was on the edge of my seat and am happy to have reached this climactic event, but also sorry that I will now have to wait almost a year for more news from Dupray County. A wonderful collection that keeps getting better its Drew Strickland at the helm.
Kudos, Mr. Strickland, for finally letting everything come to a boil and leaving the reader on edge with a cliffhanger!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Be sure to check for my review, first posted on Mystery and Suspense, as well as a number of other insightful comments by other reviewers.
https://www.mysteryandsuspense.com/ve...
While he cannot comprehend the news that has recently come into his possession about his own deputy, Maddison ‘Madds’ Cook, Sheriff Elven Hallie wants nothing to do with anyone. However, serving and protecting the people of Dupray County, West Virginia has to come first, even if it is a sore spot. When news comes that a former deputy has been killed in a fire, things take a dark turn, as arson is all but a certainty.
This is not the first body found in a burnt-out house. In fact it is part of a string of them, though nothing appears to make sense. Recent memories of a young man asking questions around Dupray help the pieces fall into place. A long-ago deal saw a baby go into foster care. Now, someone wants answers and retribution.
If this were not enough, Hollis Starcher has questions for the sheriff in relation to his son’s killing. While the Starchers have been running the county and bringing in cartel drugs for decades, they must fall in line. Sheriff Hallie took bold action to save one of his own a few months back, in hopes of preserving order. Vengeance is sought and Sheriff Elven Hallie is in the crosshairs, though the Starchers want it to be felt to the core. At a time when he can trust no one, Elven Hallie must put all his trust on those around him, for protection, if not his own sanity. A gripping piece that had me turning pages until I reached the final reveal!
Once more, the novel flows well from the past books in the series and connects more dots. Continuing the strong story arcs and adding depth to characters, Drew Strickland does a great job at keeping the reader hooked. There remains a strong narrative foundation in the story and things keep flowing from there. The small-town nature of the series keeps things somewhat cozy but still completely out of control, an added bonus. The grittiness of the delivery keeps the reader pushing onwards, if only to learn more about everything that is taking place.
Elven Hallie is the obvious protagonist in this piece, forced to face demons and a past he has wanted to keep level. His struggles with trust are not new, nor is his trying to one-up the Starchers, but when it comes to how Deputy Madds Cook kept him out of the loop and betrayed him, the struggle is real and the pain still throbbing. There is more development on the connection and strain between the two of them, though the larger reveal about the Starchers adds a depth and flavouring that Strickland has been holding onto for the past five novels in the series. With strong supporting characters, many of whom advance their own development well, Strickland has set the stage for what is sure to be an explosive book when next he publishes.
This is perhaps the most plot development in a single novel. While there has been a great deal brewing since Madds Cook arrives in Dupray, what comes from this book all but blows the lid off things. Those alarming story arcs and the accompanying twists are plentiful, though it is also the advancements within the story that keep the reader keenly wondering how things will develop. I was on the edge of my seat and am happy to have reached this climactic event, but also sorry that I will now have to wait almost a year for more news from Dupray County. A wonderful collection that keeps getting better its Drew Strickland at the helm.
Kudos, Mr. Strickland, for finally letting everything come to a boil and leaving the reader on edge with a cliffhanger!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Be sure to check for my review, first posted on Mystery and Suspense, as well as a number of other insightful comments by other reviewers.
https://www.mysteryandsuspense.com/ve...
February 10, 2025
4.5 This title really puts the series on a different trajectory. I am not a Mads fan so I enjoyed that Elven was at odds with her. I think the author killed off the wrong female character. Hollis is such an interesting antagonist. The relationships he has are really complex. I’d enjoy reading a prequel to the series of a younger Hollis. This ends on a major cliffhanger so have the next title on the ready. I assumed it would be on my Hoopla app like all the other titles- but it is not on it or Libby. Also, my regional library does not have the title either.
February 8, 2025
The writing in this book, and in the entire series for that matter, is so simplistic that it almost feels as though a child had written them. It bothers me so much that the author thinks that the constant use of the word "ain't" makes these characters seems like country folk but to me, they just seem stupid. Well, maybe some of the characters are kind of on the simple side since one in particular was unable to discern the secret of the female deputy while solving one mystery after another. I have read four of these books so far and decided that this one is the last, they may be easy reads but the stories have so many holes in them that I was happy when they were over.
June 30, 2025
This was my favorite book in this series. I had a hard time putting it down at the end. I’m soooo happy Elden finally found out what “Madds” (hated that name) was up to. Hoping she’s gone for good. Did not like that character at all!!! SPOILER ALERT: was upset Mr. Strickland offed Penny. Was hoping she and Elven would reconcile.
The book is well written (although sometimes too much detail, which becomes tedious), characters are well developed, the ending is very suspenseful. On to book 7. I’ll be sad when this series ends.
The book is well written (although sometimes too much detail, which becomes tedious), characters are well developed, the ending is very suspenseful. On to book 7. I’ll be sad when this series ends.
February 17, 2024
Vendetta in the Valley
I can't begin to tell you how wonderful this book is. So much death, though. I actually cried reading this one. But it's such a good read. Wonderfully written. I'm about to read book 7. I'll be sad if that's the last one in the series. All of this series had me glued to the pages, wondering what was going to happen next. You did a wonderful job in writing these, Drew.
I can't begin to tell you how wonderful this book is. So much death, though. I actually cried reading this one. But it's such a good read. Wonderfully written. I'm about to read book 7. I'll be sad if that's the last one in the series. All of this series had me glued to the pages, wondering what was going to happen next. You did a wonderful job in writing these, Drew.
June 16, 2024
Vendetta in the Valley
A man searching for his birth parents left a trail of beaten and burned bodies in his wake. But was he the killer? Where is his biological family and why did they abandon him? It was an okay story that looped together with the ongoing Starcher family saga, but the gratuitous violence was a bit much. I was also distracted by the supposedly professional people saying “ain’t” and “Jesus tits” over and over.
A man searching for his birth parents left a trail of beaten and burned bodies in his wake. But was he the killer? Where is his biological family and why did they abandon him? It was an okay story that looped together with the ongoing Starcher family saga, but the gratuitous violence was a bit much. I was also distracted by the supposedly professional people saying “ain’t” and “Jesus tits” over and over.
May 16, 2024
Excellent
Drew Strickland has written a sensational series. Fast moving while giving a clear profile of all the characters involved. There is some violence but its not graphic . some sex but also not graphic which is good to this old lady. I just finished Vendetta in the Valley and have preordered the next book in the series!
Thank you Drew Strickland
Drew Strickland has written a sensational series. Fast moving while giving a clear profile of all the characters involved. There is some violence but its not graphic . some sex but also not graphic which is good to this old lady. I just finished Vendetta in the Valley and have preordered the next book in the series!
Thank you Drew Strickland
July 11, 2024
If you think you know how this book ends…you don’t!
Sheriff Elven’s life is falling apart when a young man comes to town in search of his birth Mother. Things are heating up in Elven’s pursuit of bringing Hollis to justice. Bring all factors together and now we have the perfect storm. This was an excellent read!
Sheriff Elven’s life is falling apart when a young man comes to town in search of his birth Mother. Things are heating up in Elven’s pursuit of bringing Hollis to justice. Bring all factors together and now we have the perfect storm. This was an excellent read!
November 14, 2024
Lot of dead people in a small town!
Great read again. You will not be able to put this one down. Wonderful new characters in this read. Well developed and introduced at the right point in time. A lot going on in this story. Ellen's house is set on fire, as well as others . A due to adopted brothers looking for their mom.
Great read again. You will not be able to put this one down. Wonderful new characters in this read. Well developed and introduced at the right point in time. A lot going on in this story. Ellen's house is set on fire, as well as others . A due to adopted brothers looking for their mom.
January 29, 2025
Uses F word and other profanity. Narrator voice is on the softer side (softer pitch) so I needed to turn the volume higher. Held my interest. At times there were people who were crude. There is also violence for those who shy away from that. I ended up listening to the whole series up to book 7. Waiting for it to be released on audio. 2.0 audio
November 20, 2025
this series keeps high standards with quality writing and interesting characters. None of the characters are perfect and their flaws add to the plotline and keep you interest up. It is hard to put one of these books down, once you start. There is always an open thread at the end to encourage you to go to the next book.
September 2, 2023
Vendetta in the Valley
This is a great thriller. I could not put this book down. This book is full of suspense and intrigue. This is one book you will not be able to put down. I highly recommend this book. I can't wait for the next book to come out .
This is a great thriller. I could not put this book down. This book is full of suspense and intrigue. This is one book you will not be able to put down. I highly recommend this book. I can't wait for the next book to come out .
October 24, 2023
Great book
This one you won't believe the ending. I now have to wait till next year to see what happens. This book is very suspenseful, all the twist and turns. I can't wait for next in series.
This one you won't believe the ending. I now have to wait till next year to see what happens. This book is very suspenseful, all the twist and turns. I can't wait for next in series.
Read
April 16, 2024Really grew to love this series and the characters with each book. Could have had a little more development and follow through on some of the plot. Just finished Brndetta in the Valley. Glad it’s not the last of the series, it hate having to wait until August for the next book,
January 21, 2025
You just got to read these books
I could not put this down. I finished it the same day I started it. It has so many twists and turns, nothing happens the way you think it will . I need to start the next one now! This series has been so addictive!
I could not put this down. I finished it the same day I started it. It has so many twists and turns, nothing happens the way you think it will . I need to start the next one now! This series has been so addictive!
March 24, 2025
4.5⭐️ Sheriff Elvin Hallie books are always fascinating to me and this one is so good! The feud with the Starchers, the death of Corbin, the betrayal, the fires, and everything in between had me captivated from start to finish!
September 13, 2023
Loved this series! Drew Strickland is a great author and I can't wait to read more from him. This series has so many twists and kept me on the edge of my seat.
September 25, 2023
Love this series
If you like humor with suspense this series will satisfy your craving! Unable to put it down at times. I have enjoyed each of the books.
If you like humor with suspense this series will satisfy your craving! Unable to put it down at times. I have enjoyed each of the books.
September 27, 2023
Aaaaah! I have to wait a year for the next book!... That should be all you need to know that Strickland knows how to craft characters and a gripping plot to keep you coming back for more.
October 23, 2023
Loved the book, can’t wait until the next series come out!!
December 3, 2023
This series was and continued to be a page turner. I can't believe I have to wit so long for #7
January 19, 2024
Great Stories
I have absolutely been enjoying this series and I still think it would make a great television series. Love it!!
I have absolutely been enjoying this series and I still think it would make a great television series. Love it!!
May 23, 2024
Couldn't put it down
Great characters, lots of twists and turns and well written. Only complaint is it wasn't longer. Also a good plot that grew with the story.
Great characters, lots of twists and turns and well written. Only complaint is it wasn't longer. Also a good plot that grew with the story.
June 9, 2024
Strickland did it again
I would recommend these books to everyone. The writing is stellar as are the twists and turns of the story. A must read series
I would recommend these books to everyone. The writing is stellar as are the twists and turns of the story. A must read series
June 13, 2024
This series is AMAZING! It’s an action packed, suspenseful, easy to read series. I’m sad that I have to wait till August for the next one, hopefully not the last!!
June 19, 2024
Great story line
July 13, 2024
GR-EAT, Sooooo
Can you this 'em? What wii duh Sheriff havta ”cope wit” to top you elicited "EVER" emotion we readers could feel &/or imagine. You are a GR-EAT story teller!!!
Can you this 'em? What wii duh Sheriff havta ”cope wit” to top you elicited "EVER" emotion we readers could feel &/or imagine. You are a GR-EAT story teller!!!
July 27, 2024
Wow
This book was something else. Surprise, shock, tears. I can't imagine what the next book will have in store for us. This is a great series.
This book was something else. Surprise, shock, tears. I can't imagine what the next book will have in store for us. This is a great series.
August 5, 2024
Outstanding
Elven is such a wonderful sheriff in a very screwed up rural town. One bad thing after another... and then more.
Elven is such a wonderful sheriff in a very screwed up rural town. One bad thing after another... and then more.
December 10, 2024
Wow
Wasn't expecting the end of this book. Look forward to reading the rest of this series of books. Great author
Wasn't expecting the end of this book. Look forward to reading the rest of this series of books. Great author
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews