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Ryan Strickland #2
The Rose Reaper
A serial killer on the hunt opens the door to a woman's terrifying past in a pulse-pounding thriller by the author of The Lost Victim . Three years ago, Kate Doyle escaped a serial killer who died at the hands of her rescuers. FBI consultant and psychologist Ryan Strickland helped Kate rebuild her life, and the case was closed on the Rose Reaper's seven victims--the six who were killed and Kate, the one who got away. Today, Kate has a good man in her life, a secure job, and hope. But her dreams for the future become a nightmare when a copycat killer starts hunting. One by one, with each new body, comes a gift for a single red rose. And then the See you soon. If clues to his identity are buried in Kate's memories, Ryan can unearth them. As they dig into Kate's traumatic past, they'd better work fast. Because someone is finishing what the Rose Reaper started--and he's hell-bent on making sure that this time, the seventh victim doesn't get away.
315 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 5, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
February 29, 2024
My thanks to Thomas and Mercer, Jennifer Hunter and Netgalley.
Short review. I loved this and ms. Hunter has found a new reader.
Short review. I loved this and ms. Hunter has found a new reader.
November 22, 2023
*Content Warning: Rape, described in full, from the rapist's point of view.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC.
I could say I don't know what it is about this book that rubs me the wrong way, but that would be a lie. And it all starts with that content warning.
As a woman, maybe that makes me a little more sensitive to how the issue of rape is depicted and described. Maybe it makes me a lot more sensitive. Regardless, the way that sexual assault was depicted in this book gave me a very icky feeling inside.
Rape is obviously a very sensitive topic and should be approached as such, and I don't at all enjoy the way that the very first rape in the book was graphically described from the perpetrator's point of view. I have no doubt that the author thought this would be a creative way to go. I personally found it gross, and it made it difficult for me to get motivated to read past the first chapter.
Beyond this issue, the writing style is very utilitarian, very straightforward, and very much like a typical crime novel. I guess this just didn't do much for me, since I think a story that focuses on rape should focus more on the victim's emotions rather than just the male policeman and how the victim loves her new boyfriend. There is more to women than the men they know!
If the author was a man, maybe I would understand this odd approach to the story, but as a fellow woman, I'm a little disappointed. Sadly, this was just not the book for me.
My Blog | My YA Thrillers | Linktree | Instagram
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC.
I could say I don't know what it is about this book that rubs me the wrong way, but that would be a lie. And it all starts with that content warning.
As a woman, maybe that makes me a little more sensitive to how the issue of rape is depicted and described. Maybe it makes me a lot more sensitive. Regardless, the way that sexual assault was depicted in this book gave me a very icky feeling inside.
Rape is obviously a very sensitive topic and should be approached as such, and I don't at all enjoy the way that the very first rape in the book was graphically described from the perpetrator's point of view. I have no doubt that the author thought this would be a creative way to go. I personally found it gross, and it made it difficult for me to get motivated to read past the first chapter.
Beyond this issue, the writing style is very utilitarian, very straightforward, and very much like a typical crime novel. I guess this just didn't do much for me, since I think a story that focuses on rape should focus more on the victim's emotions rather than just the male policeman and how the victim loves her new boyfriend. There is more to women than the men they know!
If the author was a man, maybe I would understand this odd approach to the story, but as a fellow woman, I'm a little disappointed. Sadly, this was just not the book for me.
My Blog | My YA Thrillers | Linktree | Instagram
October 29, 2023
The Rose Reaper by Jennifer Hunter is the second book in the Ryan Strickland series. While this book can be read as a standalone there are references to the first book and case which can intrigue you - It was a good case so I'd recommend starting there. While this book had great plot & characters inconsistencies in how the case was investigated the first time around irked me a bit. Just because an alleged perp is dead, one witness'/victim statement is not reasons to stop digging deep into the investigation & go your own way for an organization like the FBI. However lacking in research, the plot is intense. While the characters were good there could have been more characters because I could tell who the Rose Reaper#2 was just by process of elimination. The characters also lacked depth in terms of history. Few characters from the first case were interviewed and there was no history there. It felt like they were being interviewed and talked to by the FBI for the first time. That is just plain absurd! Given such inconsistencies were a bit off-putting for me since details are very important to me. The story of Kate is the most compelling for me & I enjoyed her chapters. I really loved the first book in the series but this one felt a bit off!
Thank you NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer, Jennifer Hunter for the arc!
Thank you NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer, Jennifer Hunter for the arc!
November 5, 2023
I enjoy the dark and twisted but maybe this one should come with a disclaimer? There is no gentle start to The Rose Reaper, you are thrown into the murderers macabre and twisted world and you hit the ground running.
I really enjoyed the authors writing style and found that any free moment I had I turned page after page, a train could have been going past and I'd have not noticed.
I'm not sure I have come across a plot similar to this in a while and having the different perspectives gave the storyline an edge. In the end my guess of the murderer was correct but it didn't make my reading journey any less enjoyable and I thought the chase was fantastic.
Seeing things from the murderers point of view gave a different insight and made the read more enjoyable.
I look forward to more from this author.
I really enjoyed the authors writing style and found that any free moment I had I turned page after page, a train could have been going past and I'd have not noticed.
I'm not sure I have come across a plot similar to this in a while and having the different perspectives gave the storyline an edge. In the end my guess of the murderer was correct but it didn't make my reading journey any less enjoyable and I thought the chase was fantastic.
Seeing things from the murderers point of view gave a different insight and made the read more enjoyable.
I look forward to more from this author.
March 23, 2024
This is the 2nd book in the Ryan Strickland series, and I loved it! This was a quick and thrilling read. I've been enjoying the twist on the typical crime thriller with Ryan being a psychologist.
This story was dark and twisty with an unpredictable plot. Jennifer Hunter writes in a way that invokes so many emotions in me. There was great suspense building throughout, and the ending was totally not what I expected.
This can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading the 1st book because it's amazing!
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This story was dark and twisty with an unpredictable plot. Jennifer Hunter writes in a way that invokes so many emotions in me. There was great suspense building throughout, and the ending was totally not what I expected.
This can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading the 1st book because it's amazing!
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
February 17, 2024
Rating - 5/5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Date Read - February 9, 2024
Publication Date - March 5, 2024
*I received an E-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review* - Thank you @amazonpublishing and @netgalley!
The Rose Reaper is the second book in the series but can be read as a standalone without any problems, which is what I did. There was action right away and it was quite fast-paced throughout the book. I found the perspective of the serial killer interesting because of my criminology interests but going through the reviews, I can understand why it wouldn’t be for everyone. So, that’s something to take into consideration before reading this book if that is a trigger for you. The author does a great job of making you question who you think is the serial killer because they keep throwing you off and it goes back and forth a lot.
If you want a fast-paced, serial killer book with a hint of romance, The Rose Reaper is for you!
Get excited to read The Rose Reaper, available March 5, 2024! 🎉
*Please check trigger warnings*
Date Read - February 9, 2024
Publication Date - March 5, 2024
*I received an E-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review* - Thank you @amazonpublishing and @netgalley!
The Rose Reaper is the second book in the series but can be read as a standalone without any problems, which is what I did. There was action right away and it was quite fast-paced throughout the book. I found the perspective of the serial killer interesting because of my criminology interests but going through the reviews, I can understand why it wouldn’t be for everyone. So, that’s something to take into consideration before reading this book if that is a trigger for you. The author does a great job of making you question who you think is the serial killer because they keep throwing you off and it goes back and forth a lot.
If you want a fast-paced, serial killer book with a hint of romance, The Rose Reaper is for you!
Get excited to read The Rose Reaper, available March 5, 2024! 🎉
*Please check trigger warnings*
March 25, 2024
It is a good read, I even didn't realize that it is the second book in the series, I found out when people and cases were referenced in the story and I got intrigued. I was gripped by the story even tho I have to warn the readers about graphic details of rape from the rapist's point of view. The writing style is good and I look forward to reading other books by this author.
February 25, 2024
I thought The Lost Victim was a wild ride. This beat that by a long shot.
I love the writing style Jennifer uses in her thrillers. Adding in the multiple POV helps give a deeper layer of twists and turns and keep you guessing.
I thought for sure the killer was one person only to find out it was someone else.
I can’t wait to read more about Ryan and the many cases he’s helping with.
I love the writing style Jennifer uses in her thrillers. Adding in the multiple POV helps give a deeper layer of twists and turns and keep you guessing.
I thought for sure the killer was one person only to find out it was someone else.
I can’t wait to read more about Ryan and the many cases he’s helping with.
April 25, 2024
The Rose Reaper is a fast paced suspenseful thriller by Jennifer Hunter. The book is told from two narrators. One is Kate and the other is the Copy cat killer
The Rose Reaper begins with Kate being tied to a bed and brutalized by a serial killer that has been hunting young single women. The beginning is violent and disturbing. When her abductor, Freddy Poole, walks onto the porch to smoke a cigarette, she finally sees her chance to escape, knowing she is running out of time. After she unties herself from the bed, she takes off into the woods, running for her life, although with no sense of direction. When she reaches the highway, a car with a couple stop, waiting for the police, she’s scared, when a truck pulls up and a man starts to approach her. It’s none other than her abductor and she begins to fear that her escape was short lived.
Three years later, Kate is starting to finally live again. She is dating a handsome man named Reed who takes good care of her, and is always looking out for her health and happiness. But suddenly her nightmares start coming back when she receives a rose, coinciding with the abduction of a young woman.
Who is the new killer? And why does he or she have the journals from Freddy Poole. You see inside their dark and depraved mind as they obsess over the Rose Reaper and their ultimate goal of out killing the original.
“Roses are red, Violets are blue. If you see me . . . It’s too late for you.”
As each victim is chosen and disposed of, the killer sends Kate the number of roses coinciding with the number victim. She receives these before the women’s bodies have even been discovered.
“I want to feel her anticipating me, afraid of me, under me, bleeding for me. Dying for me. Tonight.”
At first he is in no hurry, not following the time line of the original killer, but creating his own, finding victims that resemble the original victims. But the killer has no empathy or remorse, and as his game of cat and mouse continues, he devolves.
“He hummed the tune as he worked. He couldn’t get it out of his head. Not since the first time he’d read the rhyme and an awakening came over him. All those twisted thoughts in his mind, the urges he held on lockdown, the need clawing at him . . . he wasn’t losing his mind. He wasn’t deranged or psychotic. He was born this way.”
Kate is trying to be happy. Her life is on track, and her new boyfriend is everything a woman could dream of. She has finally opened up to someone and stopped living in fear, looking over her shoulder
“She’d been doing so well. And then she’d gotten that first rose. It began the slow erosion of her new life.”
Once she receives the rose, she contacts the police, who at first treat her like she is overreacting. As the case continues, she reconnects with the FBI psychologist, Ryan that initially helped her through the rape and abduction.
The author takes you on a thrilling journey, suspecting everyone. Will Kate be able to live a normal life? Will she survive? And will finding out who is responsible emotionally crippled her for the rest of her life?
I definitely enjoyed the book and will check out more books by her.
I would recommend a trigger warning as the book starts with a violent rape scene, even though the rest of the book doesn’t center around it. It does contain violence and graphic imagery.
The Rose Reaper begins with Kate being tied to a bed and brutalized by a serial killer that has been hunting young single women. The beginning is violent and disturbing. When her abductor, Freddy Poole, walks onto the porch to smoke a cigarette, she finally sees her chance to escape, knowing she is running out of time. After she unties herself from the bed, she takes off into the woods, running for her life, although with no sense of direction. When she reaches the highway, a car with a couple stop, waiting for the police, she’s scared, when a truck pulls up and a man starts to approach her. It’s none other than her abductor and she begins to fear that her escape was short lived.
Three years later, Kate is starting to finally live again. She is dating a handsome man named Reed who takes good care of her, and is always looking out for her health and happiness. But suddenly her nightmares start coming back when she receives a rose, coinciding with the abduction of a young woman.
Who is the new killer? And why does he or she have the journals from Freddy Poole. You see inside their dark and depraved mind as they obsess over the Rose Reaper and their ultimate goal of out killing the original.
“Roses are red, Violets are blue. If you see me . . . It’s too late for you.”
As each victim is chosen and disposed of, the killer sends Kate the number of roses coinciding with the number victim. She receives these before the women’s bodies have even been discovered.
“I want to feel her anticipating me, afraid of me, under me, bleeding for me. Dying for me. Tonight.”
At first he is in no hurry, not following the time line of the original killer, but creating his own, finding victims that resemble the original victims. But the killer has no empathy or remorse, and as his game of cat and mouse continues, he devolves.
“He hummed the tune as he worked. He couldn’t get it out of his head. Not since the first time he’d read the rhyme and an awakening came over him. All those twisted thoughts in his mind, the urges he held on lockdown, the need clawing at him . . . he wasn’t losing his mind. He wasn’t deranged or psychotic. He was born this way.”
Kate is trying to be happy. Her life is on track, and her new boyfriend is everything a woman could dream of. She has finally opened up to someone and stopped living in fear, looking over her shoulder
“She’d been doing so well. And then she’d gotten that first rose. It began the slow erosion of her new life.”
Once she receives the rose, she contacts the police, who at first treat her like she is overreacting. As the case continues, she reconnects with the FBI psychologist, Ryan that initially helped her through the rape and abduction.
The author takes you on a thrilling journey, suspecting everyone. Will Kate be able to live a normal life? Will she survive? And will finding out who is responsible emotionally crippled her for the rest of her life?
I definitely enjoyed the book and will check out more books by her.
I would recommend a trigger warning as the book starts with a violent rape scene, even though the rest of the book doesn’t center around it. It does contain violence and graphic imagery.
March 4, 2024
One Was Made A Monster; The Other Chose To Be One
Three years earlier, Kate Doyle was abducted and assaulted. One evening, she frees herself and escapes while her abductor is outside. The cabin she flees in the middle of a forest. As she runs, she hears a voice. She does not know if it was her abductor because he never talked in her presence. The voice says that he does not have to do this. Doyle keeps running as hard as she can until she runs onto a road. She waves it down an approaching car. A husband and wife step out. The wife assists Doyle. The husband calls 911. Soon, a truck drives up between the husband and Doyle. The driver gets out. He is the abductor and calls Doyle by name. He tells her to get in, as the police and FBI show up. The abductor has his hand behind his back. He tells them that Doyle belongs to him. He quickly moves his hand out from behind his back and is shot twice in the chest. The Rose Reaper, who previously had abducted, assaulted, and killed six women, is dead. Three years later, Doyle finds a red rose on her driveway, just like the one the Rose Reaper left when she was abducted. From this start, her nightmare starts again.
The main storyline consists of four threads. Ryan Strickland narrates a thread through which the reader learns what is happening in the investigation. He is a psychologist and an FBI consultant. He was there three years earlier to help Doyle start reestablishing her life. Doyle narrates another thread that provides the tension in the novel as the new killer intends that she will be his seventh victim. The new Rose Reaper narrates a thread so the reader will see his view of events. The last thread is several pages from the original Rose Reaper’s diary. The author weaves the four threads together so skillfully that I had no difficulty following the novel's storyline. The flow of the novel is fast but not too fast. It keeps the suspense high as soon as Doyle’s number seven quickly approaches. Additionally, there are many twists and turns in trying to identify the identity of the new Rose Reaper. Achieving this goal requires much knowledge about the original Rose Reaper’s and his brother’s childhood. Unfortunately, both are dead. My interest was swiftly captured.
As this novel depends much on what happened years earlier, the background provides much insight, primarily centered on Doyle and the original Rose Reaper. These two background threads are also critical to the main storyline. They also offer much insight into these characters and why they act and respond the way they do. Two B-storylines provide more background. They are the relationship between Strickland and Doyle and Strickland’s long-distance relationship with his new love interest. This rich background enhanced my reading enjoyment.
Some aspects that can cause some readers to stop reading are solidly present in this novel, with the prologue being the worst. There are intimate scenes. There are crimes against women and children. There are vulgar and rude language. Violence is described more in the more edgy manner as it occurs. The level of these potential issues earns the warning — let the reader beware. The last category in this group is anything required from the previous novel. This is the second novel in the series. I have the first novel in the series but have not read it. I did not feel that there were any unexplained references.
What I enjoyed in this novel was the complexity of the investigation of both Rose Reapers and the background provided on the main characters. I enjoyed that this novel made me think. The issue that bothered me the most was that I felt the investigation had a severe flaw. As for the ending, there were not any loose ends, and I was pleased with the ending for the Rose Reaper. As for the author, this novel was the first that I have read by this author. As such, she is in my Pending Category. I recommend reading it if the teaser interests you, but with the abovementioned caveat. If you can read past the prologue, you should be able to complete the novel. I look forward to reading the first novel in the series I own. I rate this novel with four stars.
I received this novel's free prepublication e-book version through NetGalley from Thomas & Mercer. My review is based solely on my own reading experience of this book. Thank you, Thomas & Mercer, for the opportunity to read and review this novel early.
Three years earlier, Kate Doyle was abducted and assaulted. One evening, she frees herself and escapes while her abductor is outside. The cabin she flees in the middle of a forest. As she runs, she hears a voice. She does not know if it was her abductor because he never talked in her presence. The voice says that he does not have to do this. Doyle keeps running as hard as she can until she runs onto a road. She waves it down an approaching car. A husband and wife step out. The wife assists Doyle. The husband calls 911. Soon, a truck drives up between the husband and Doyle. The driver gets out. He is the abductor and calls Doyle by name. He tells her to get in, as the police and FBI show up. The abductor has his hand behind his back. He tells them that Doyle belongs to him. He quickly moves his hand out from behind his back and is shot twice in the chest. The Rose Reaper, who previously had abducted, assaulted, and killed six women, is dead. Three years later, Doyle finds a red rose on her driveway, just like the one the Rose Reaper left when she was abducted. From this start, her nightmare starts again.
The main storyline consists of four threads. Ryan Strickland narrates a thread through which the reader learns what is happening in the investigation. He is a psychologist and an FBI consultant. He was there three years earlier to help Doyle start reestablishing her life. Doyle narrates another thread that provides the tension in the novel as the new killer intends that she will be his seventh victim. The new Rose Reaper narrates a thread so the reader will see his view of events. The last thread is several pages from the original Rose Reaper’s diary. The author weaves the four threads together so skillfully that I had no difficulty following the novel's storyline. The flow of the novel is fast but not too fast. It keeps the suspense high as soon as Doyle’s number seven quickly approaches. Additionally, there are many twists and turns in trying to identify the identity of the new Rose Reaper. Achieving this goal requires much knowledge about the original Rose Reaper’s and his brother’s childhood. Unfortunately, both are dead. My interest was swiftly captured.
As this novel depends much on what happened years earlier, the background provides much insight, primarily centered on Doyle and the original Rose Reaper. These two background threads are also critical to the main storyline. They also offer much insight into these characters and why they act and respond the way they do. Two B-storylines provide more background. They are the relationship between Strickland and Doyle and Strickland’s long-distance relationship with his new love interest. This rich background enhanced my reading enjoyment.
Some aspects that can cause some readers to stop reading are solidly present in this novel, with the prologue being the worst. There are intimate scenes. There are crimes against women and children. There are vulgar and rude language. Violence is described more in the more edgy manner as it occurs. The level of these potential issues earns the warning — let the reader beware. The last category in this group is anything required from the previous novel. This is the second novel in the series. I have the first novel in the series but have not read it. I did not feel that there were any unexplained references.
What I enjoyed in this novel was the complexity of the investigation of both Rose Reapers and the background provided on the main characters. I enjoyed that this novel made me think. The issue that bothered me the most was that I felt the investigation had a severe flaw. As for the ending, there were not any loose ends, and I was pleased with the ending for the Rose Reaper. As for the author, this novel was the first that I have read by this author. As such, she is in my Pending Category. I recommend reading it if the teaser interests you, but with the abovementioned caveat. If you can read past the prologue, you should be able to complete the novel. I look forward to reading the first novel in the series I own. I rate this novel with four stars.
I received this novel's free prepublication e-book version through NetGalley from Thomas & Mercer. My review is based solely on my own reading experience of this book. Thank you, Thomas & Mercer, for the opportunity to read and review this novel early.
November 15, 2023
Can you see that extra pep in my step?
I have a pocketful of sunshine and my feet have yet to hit the floor since concluding the Rose Reaper.
My little black soul has been filled to the brim and i'm exploding with satisfaction.
I was completely stunned and caught off guard by the unforeseen twist in the plot.
During the books climax, my heart was racing, my pulse was pounding, and I found myself reeling, attempting to recollect any potential hints that could have led to that moment. I was genuinely impressed by the author's execution and have become an instant fan of Jennifer Hunter.
PS : I do want to give you a heads up, this is book 2 in the Ryan Strickland series. You can read this book as a standalone but why would you want to. Make sure to order yourself a copy of The Lost Victim.
Check out this banger of a teaser :
A serial killer on the hunt opens the door to a woman’s terrifying past in a pulse-pounding thriller by the author of The Lost Victim.
Three years ago, Kate Doyle escaped a serial killer who died at the hands of her rescuers. FBI consultant and psychologist Ryan Strickland helped Kate rebuild her life, and the case was closed on the Rose Reaper’s seven victims—the six who were killed and Kate, the one who got away.
Today, Kate has a good man in her life, a secure job, and hope. But her dreams for the future become a nightmare when a copycat killer starts hunting. One by one, with each new body, comes a gift for Kate: a single red rose. And then the warning: See you soon.
If clues to his identity are buried in Kate’s memories, Ryan can unearth them. As they dig into Kate’s traumatic past, they’d better work fast. Because someone is finishing what the Rose Reaper started—and he’s hell-bent on making sure that this time, the seventh victim doesn’t get away.
I have a pocketful of sunshine and my feet have yet to hit the floor since concluding the Rose Reaper.
My little black soul has been filled to the brim and i'm exploding with satisfaction.
I was completely stunned and caught off guard by the unforeseen twist in the plot.
During the books climax, my heart was racing, my pulse was pounding, and I found myself reeling, attempting to recollect any potential hints that could have led to that moment. I was genuinely impressed by the author's execution and have become an instant fan of Jennifer Hunter.
PS : I do want to give you a heads up, this is book 2 in the Ryan Strickland series. You can read this book as a standalone but why would you want to. Make sure to order yourself a copy of The Lost Victim.
Check out this banger of a teaser :
A serial killer on the hunt opens the door to a woman’s terrifying past in a pulse-pounding thriller by the author of The Lost Victim.
Three years ago, Kate Doyle escaped a serial killer who died at the hands of her rescuers. FBI consultant and psychologist Ryan Strickland helped Kate rebuild her life, and the case was closed on the Rose Reaper’s seven victims—the six who were killed and Kate, the one who got away.
Today, Kate has a good man in her life, a secure job, and hope. But her dreams for the future become a nightmare when a copycat killer starts hunting. One by one, with each new body, comes a gift for Kate: a single red rose. And then the warning: See you soon.
If clues to his identity are buried in Kate’s memories, Ryan can unearth them. As they dig into Kate’s traumatic past, they’d better work fast. Because someone is finishing what the Rose Reaper started—and he’s hell-bent on making sure that this time, the seventh victim doesn’t get away.
December 10, 2023
This is the 2nd book in the Ryan Strickland series.
I read the first book before this in order to properly review the books.
I really enjoyed this book. I always enjoy a good series with a new crime to solve, and some ongoing story to keep me sucked in.
4 stars for me
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this ARC
I read the first book before this in order to properly review the books.
I really enjoyed this book. I always enjoy a good series with a new crime to solve, and some ongoing story to keep me sucked in.
4 stars for me
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this ARC
February 5, 2024
I didn't realise the book was the second in a serie and I have NOT read the first book. That being said, I didn't find it difficult to get into the book. It was a very interesting read if you have no triggers (I have none).
Thanks to Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for access to this arc in exchange for my honest review.
Thanks to Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for access to this arc in exchange for my honest review.
March 26, 2024
Dark but so good
This book is dark and explores things you only see on the news or the ID channel. It dives into serial killers and their victims but it's a different perspective which makes it a very good read. I am definitely recommending this book and am looking forward to another Ryan Strickland book. (I hope there's another one)
This book is dark and explores things you only see on the news or the ID channel. It dives into serial killers and their victims but it's a different perspective which makes it a very good read. I am definitely recommending this book and am looking forward to another Ryan Strickland book. (I hope there's another one)
March 11, 2024
3.5 stars
I haven't read the first book in this series but after reading this one, I may just do so since this one was so good, keeping me on the edge of my seat throughout. I do love a serial killer storyline and this one ticked all the boxes for me. I will be keeping all fingers crossed for another book in this series.
I haven't read the first book in this series but after reading this one, I may just do so since this one was so good, keeping me on the edge of my seat throughout. I do love a serial killer storyline and this one ticked all the boxes for me. I will be keeping all fingers crossed for another book in this series.
March 27, 2024
Really well written and brings us back to Ryan. The fact that this is an entirely new killer that they’re going after makes it a really intriguing read. Loved the twist as to who it was!
December 24, 2023
I hate starting a series in the middle, even if they “can be stand read as a stand alone story.” When I found this book, I didn't realize it was the second in a series (though the first one was on KU so I lucked out and read both). I am so glad i did. I wasn’t quite sure how I felt about the first one, but toward the end I was so ready for this one!
For me, the Rose Reaper was a very quick read and I am so ready for the next one (hopefully)! I think the outcome could be called slightly predictable, but I will say there were a few “clues” that threw me off track and kept me guessing. The 2 main suspects were, in my opinion, the obvious ones, HOWEVER there were very slight things that kept me bouncing between who I thought was the killer.
For me, the Rose Reaper was a very quick read and I am so ready for the next one (hopefully)! I think the outcome could be called slightly predictable, but I will say there were a few “clues” that threw me off track and kept me guessing. The 2 main suspects were, in my opinion, the obvious ones, HOWEVER there were very slight things that kept me bouncing between who I thought was the killer.
November 14, 2024
3.5 stars.
December 29, 2023
In the beginning I must admit I didn’t vibe with this book. There was nothing wrong with it but I had just finished reading something that was so similar and I felt it was an inferior copy. That said, I put it down and only picked it back up again on the 28th of December. Managed to finish 90% of the book in 1 day. Although it had similarities to a book I had read it very much went on a different tangent and I began to really enjoy this thriller. I loved the character of Kate, although at times I did find her somewhat contradictory. And I really enjoyed the character of Ryan the psychologist. I did not realise this was the second book in the series so at one stage I had him pegged as the killer, suffice to say he is not and that is not a spoiler. I would recommend this book and I will probably seek out the first in this series as the writing flowed well, was easy to read and follow and the character development was mostly done well. I gave this book a solid 4 stars, although somewhat predictable it was still an enjoyable read.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC copy of this book in exchange for this honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC copy of this book in exchange for this honest review.
March 7, 2024
Right off the bat some readers may find the first chapter to be triggering as it does talk about the original rose reaper and the things that he did to his victims, more specifically sexual assault as told from the point of view of the killer himself. However, that part is easily skipped, and once you get past that, the focus is then moved onto the new killings which are not described in a such a graphic manner. In fact, the new killings are never told from the perspective of the copy-cat killer. We are simply told that a woman has gone missing, Kate has received another rose outside of her home, and then the woman's body eventually washes up in the river.
I found that while this story did have some elements that stuck out, for the most part it managed to stick to the typical thriller trope. On one hand we have Ryan working alongside Agent Chapman as one tries to help Kate unlock her memories of that traumatic time while the other works to uncover just who this copy-cat killer is. These two as a dynamic duo were very interesting, Agent Chapman was your typical FBI agent. Determined to get his mind, but sometimes a little too .... focused on things that if he had taken a small step back would have realized were just a little bit too cut and dry. Ryan on the other hand was more interesting to me since I never really got a feel for what he was supposed to be doing. We are told he often consults with the FBI and he is very good and helping victims process their trauma. Which he does. But he also at times seems to be almost profiling the killer even though we are not given any reason to believe he has the sort of background to do so. I also enjoyed the way the killed included Molly as his sort of long-distance girlfriend. It gave him a softer side that I felt made him feel more human.
On the opposite side of the field we have Kate who thought she was building a new life for herself only to be forced back into the past with all of her trauma resurfacing and having to come to terms with the fact that the man she thought she was building a life with may not be the man she thought he was after all. I loved how this character was presented. She had the moments of weakness that were to be expected. You watched her face her trauma head on, and then you watched as she grew as a character and went from "the one who got away" to the "one who will never live in fear again." It sent a powerful message I think about the ability to reclaim your own life after a traumatic event.
There were a couple of instances where I thought I knew who the copycat killer was, and then some moments when I thought I was wrong (even if it seemed a little too convenient), but even when my suspicions were proven right I enjoyed the way the characters finally got there. There was a lot of build-up that I thought was executed very well.
All things considered, I think I am going to go back and give the first novel in this series a read, and if I see anything in the future from this series, if the synopsis appeals to me I'll probably give them a read as well.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this that review are 100% my own.
I found that while this story did have some elements that stuck out, for the most part it managed to stick to the typical thriller trope. On one hand we have Ryan working alongside Agent Chapman as one tries to help Kate unlock her memories of that traumatic time while the other works to uncover just who this copy-cat killer is. These two as a dynamic duo were very interesting, Agent Chapman was your typical FBI agent. Determined to get his mind, but sometimes a little too .... focused on things that if he had taken a small step back would have realized were just a little bit too cut and dry. Ryan on the other hand was more interesting to me since I never really got a feel for what he was supposed to be doing. We are told he often consults with the FBI and he is very good and helping victims process their trauma. Which he does. But he also at times seems to be almost profiling the killer even though we are not given any reason to believe he has the sort of background to do so. I also enjoyed the way the killed included Molly as his sort of long-distance girlfriend. It gave him a softer side that I felt made him feel more human.
On the opposite side of the field we have Kate who thought she was building a new life for herself only to be forced back into the past with all of her trauma resurfacing and having to come to terms with the fact that the man she thought she was building a life with may not be the man she thought he was after all. I loved how this character was presented. She had the moments of weakness that were to be expected. You watched her face her trauma head on, and then you watched as she grew as a character and went from "the one who got away" to the "one who will never live in fear again." It sent a powerful message I think about the ability to reclaim your own life after a traumatic event.
There were a couple of instances where I thought I knew who the copycat killer was, and then some moments when I thought I was wrong (even if it seemed a little too convenient), but even when my suspicions were proven right I enjoyed the way the characters finally got there. There was a lot of build-up that I thought was executed very well.
All things considered, I think I am going to go back and give the first novel in this series a read, and if I see anything in the future from this series, if the synopsis appeals to me I'll probably give them a read as well.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this that review are 100% my own.
April 15, 2024
What is The Rose Reaper about?
Kate Doyle is brutally assaulted by a serial killer but manages to escape when her abductor, Freddy Poole, goes on the porch to smoke a cigarette.
Three years later, Kate is finally living her life, though scarred by what happened to her. She has a handsome boyfriend named Reed who is caring and attentive. But when she receives a rose out of nowhere and learns another young woman has been abducted, her nightmares return. Who is copying Freddy Poole’s crimes?
As the killer continues to abduct and murder, he sends Kate roses corresponding with the number of victims. Often, the roses come before the victims have been discovered, leading the police to conclude they must be from the real killer. They bring in psychologist Ryan Strickland to speak with her, the person who originally helped her process the events three years earlier.
Will Kate be able to help them find out who the killer is before he takes her as his next victim?
What did I think?
The opening scene is violent and portrays a graphic sexual assault. I want to say that here because I think readers need to be warned. I’m able to take a lot in my books, but I skimmed past this chapter. In my opinion, it wasn’t necessary to the plot other than to understand the extreme trauma Kate endured. Let’s move on from that…
The bulk of the story outside of that first chapter focuses on the new killer. In this case, the reader doesn’t have to endure things from his perspective which went a long way toward steering away from the gruesome opening scene. The terror for me was psychologically seeing Kate receiving the roses each time the killer took a new victim. It’s clear that whoever the copy cat is, he’s obsessed with Kate and Freddy Poole.
While Ryan works with Kate to unlock more of her memories—any detail that might help—Agent Chapman is working to uncover who the copycat killer is. I enjoyed watching Ryan and Agent Chapman work together on the case. Kate’s story is one of resilience in many ways. Her boyfriend Reed may not be the supportive life partner she thought he was, and that’s something she has to process as the events unfold. Throughout the story she transforms to the victim who got away to a woman who won’t let fear control her life.
The ending had a strange vibe to it—after the reveal and capture of the person responsible for the killings, Kate is laughing about it in the hospital with another victim. I guess everyone processes grief in a different way, but it just was strange given what they went through. The book has such a dark tone, so Kate’s transformation—while lovely—is not entirely authentic to me.
Overall this is a quick, entertaining read. You don’t have to read the first book to enjoy this one. I recommend skipping the first chapter if violent sexual assault is a trigger (or even just an unpleasant topic) for you.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer for my copy. Opinions are my own.
Kate Doyle is brutally assaulted by a serial killer but manages to escape when her abductor, Freddy Poole, goes on the porch to smoke a cigarette.
Three years later, Kate is finally living her life, though scarred by what happened to her. She has a handsome boyfriend named Reed who is caring and attentive. But when she receives a rose out of nowhere and learns another young woman has been abducted, her nightmares return. Who is copying Freddy Poole’s crimes?
As the killer continues to abduct and murder, he sends Kate roses corresponding with the number of victims. Often, the roses come before the victims have been discovered, leading the police to conclude they must be from the real killer. They bring in psychologist Ryan Strickland to speak with her, the person who originally helped her process the events three years earlier.
Will Kate be able to help them find out who the killer is before he takes her as his next victim?
What did I think?
The opening scene is violent and portrays a graphic sexual assault. I want to say that here because I think readers need to be warned. I’m able to take a lot in my books, but I skimmed past this chapter. In my opinion, it wasn’t necessary to the plot other than to understand the extreme trauma Kate endured. Let’s move on from that…
The bulk of the story outside of that first chapter focuses on the new killer. In this case, the reader doesn’t have to endure things from his perspective which went a long way toward steering away from the gruesome opening scene. The terror for me was psychologically seeing Kate receiving the roses each time the killer took a new victim. It’s clear that whoever the copy cat is, he’s obsessed with Kate and Freddy Poole.
While Ryan works with Kate to unlock more of her memories—any detail that might help—Agent Chapman is working to uncover who the copycat killer is. I enjoyed watching Ryan and Agent Chapman work together on the case. Kate’s story is one of resilience in many ways. Her boyfriend Reed may not be the supportive life partner she thought he was, and that’s something she has to process as the events unfold. Throughout the story she transforms to the victim who got away to a woman who won’t let fear control her life.
The ending had a strange vibe to it—after the reveal and capture of the person responsible for the killings, Kate is laughing about it in the hospital with another victim. I guess everyone processes grief in a different way, but it just was strange given what they went through. The book has such a dark tone, so Kate’s transformation—while lovely—is not entirely authentic to me.
Overall this is a quick, entertaining read. You don’t have to read the first book to enjoy this one. I recommend skipping the first chapter if violent sexual assault is a trigger (or even just an unpleasant topic) for you.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer for my copy. Opinions are my own.
January 15, 2025
The Rose Reaper by Jennifer Hunter is a psychological thriller that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat, blending suspense, tension, and intriguing character dynamics. This second installment in the Rose Reaper series picks up with Kate Doyle, a woman who survived a horrific abduction and assault three years ago, only to find herself once again caught in a terrifying game with a new killer who’s following in the footsteps of the infamous Rose Reaper.
The narrative unfolds through four key threads: Kate's perspective, the investigation led by FBI consultant Ryan Strickland, the new Rose Reaper’s point of view, and entries from the original Rose Reaper’s diary. Hunter expertly weaves these perspectives together, creating a fast-paced, suspenseful plot that constantly builds in intensity. The multiple POVs provide a well-rounded view of the story, keeping the reader engaged as the mystery unfolds. The complexity of the investigation, particularly as it delves into the past of both the original and new Rose Reapers, adds depth and intrigue to the narrative.
The background provided on the characters, especially Kate and the original Rose Reaper, is key to understanding the actions and motivations driving the story. The development of Ryan Strickland’s character also adds an emotional layer, as we see his evolving relationship with Kate and his long-distance relationship with his new love interest. These personal threads enrich the storyline, giving the characters more depth and making the investigation feel even more urgent.
That being said, The Rose Reaper contains some darker themes that may not be for everyone. The prologue, which sets the tone for the novel, is intense, containing graphic violence and disturbing scenes. There are also intimate scenes and moments of vulgar language, which can be off-putting for some readers. The violence is described in an edgy, raw manner, adding to the gritty atmosphere but also contributing to the darker nature of the novel.
One element that didn’t sit well with me was the investigation itself. While it was complex and interesting, I felt that the process of uncovering the identity of the new Rose Reaper had a significant flaw in its execution, which detracted slightly from the overall tension. Still, this didn’t significantly impact my enjoyment of the book, especially with the well-crafted character backstories and emotional stakes.
The ending of the book ties up all loose ends, providing a satisfying resolution to the Rose Reaper’s story. As someone new to Jennifer Hunter’s work, I found this novel to be a solid introduction to her writing style and storytelling. While it may be intense for some readers, particularly with its violent and graphic content, it is a gripping psychological thriller with a lot to offer for those who enjoy suspense and complex character dynamics.
**Thank you to the author and publisher for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
The narrative unfolds through four key threads: Kate's perspective, the investigation led by FBI consultant Ryan Strickland, the new Rose Reaper’s point of view, and entries from the original Rose Reaper’s diary. Hunter expertly weaves these perspectives together, creating a fast-paced, suspenseful plot that constantly builds in intensity. The multiple POVs provide a well-rounded view of the story, keeping the reader engaged as the mystery unfolds. The complexity of the investigation, particularly as it delves into the past of both the original and new Rose Reapers, adds depth and intrigue to the narrative.
The background provided on the characters, especially Kate and the original Rose Reaper, is key to understanding the actions and motivations driving the story. The development of Ryan Strickland’s character also adds an emotional layer, as we see his evolving relationship with Kate and his long-distance relationship with his new love interest. These personal threads enrich the storyline, giving the characters more depth and making the investigation feel even more urgent.
That being said, The Rose Reaper contains some darker themes that may not be for everyone. The prologue, which sets the tone for the novel, is intense, containing graphic violence and disturbing scenes. There are also intimate scenes and moments of vulgar language, which can be off-putting for some readers. The violence is described in an edgy, raw manner, adding to the gritty atmosphere but also contributing to the darker nature of the novel.
One element that didn’t sit well with me was the investigation itself. While it was complex and interesting, I felt that the process of uncovering the identity of the new Rose Reaper had a significant flaw in its execution, which detracted slightly from the overall tension. Still, this didn’t significantly impact my enjoyment of the book, especially with the well-crafted character backstories and emotional stakes.
The ending of the book ties up all loose ends, providing a satisfying resolution to the Rose Reaper’s story. As someone new to Jennifer Hunter’s work, I found this novel to be a solid introduction to her writing style and storytelling. While it may be intense for some readers, particularly with its violent and graphic content, it is a gripping psychological thriller with a lot to offer for those who enjoy suspense and complex character dynamics.
**Thank you to the author and publisher for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
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September 19, 2024For those who enjoy serial killer thrillers, this book is definitely one that will not only appeal to you, but keep you riveted to every single word. Book two of the Ryan Strickland series, shows that Jennifer Hunter knows how to take a character and expand on it, providing even more tension and thrills than in book one.
Ryan is a psychologist and consultant to the FBI. He is helping Kate Doyle take back her life and her independence. Three years ago she nearly died at the hands of a brutal serial killer. He had killed six women before this, with Kate to be the seventh and final victim. But she escaped the madman’s clutches. She found the opportunity to escape and had to live with her memories and horror of the events she experienced. The man was eventually killed.
But now the past has raised its ugly head, because a copycat killer inspired by the earlier deaths of women, has set his sights on Kate. He is in the process of working his way through six women, and like before, is ready to make Kate the seventh and final victim. Kate’s life is on the positive side, finding love, and thinking the world is safer than before. That is until the copycat killer begins his kill spree, sending Kate a rose for every victim that he has killed. The number of roses correspond with the number of the victim. He is as evil and demented as the first killer, and with the help of Ryan and other members of the crime team, they hope to discover clues that will lead them to this new killer. He is as diabolical as the other killer he is emulating, and Kate knows she is the end game.
Ryan must do his utmost to protect her and stop the madman from succeeding. Throughout the book we get an intimate look at Kate and her survival instincts, as she faces this new menace. By unlocking the past totally, may help her and Ryan figure out who the man is, and why he has chosen to emulate the other serial killer.
The last quarter of the book really revs up the tension, as Ryan becomes a victim, with Kate possibly his only hope, even though she is also marked for death. Can she outwit the killer and not become the final victim?
This is a great series, and we anticipate other books to come featuring Ryan Strickland, and his methods of dealing with the criminal element.
Ryan is a psychologist and consultant to the FBI. He is helping Kate Doyle take back her life and her independence. Three years ago she nearly died at the hands of a brutal serial killer. He had killed six women before this, with Kate to be the seventh and final victim. But she escaped the madman’s clutches. She found the opportunity to escape and had to live with her memories and horror of the events she experienced. The man was eventually killed.
But now the past has raised its ugly head, because a copycat killer inspired by the earlier deaths of women, has set his sights on Kate. He is in the process of working his way through six women, and like before, is ready to make Kate the seventh and final victim. Kate’s life is on the positive side, finding love, and thinking the world is safer than before. That is until the copycat killer begins his kill spree, sending Kate a rose for every victim that he has killed. The number of roses correspond with the number of the victim. He is as evil and demented as the first killer, and with the help of Ryan and other members of the crime team, they hope to discover clues that will lead them to this new killer. He is as diabolical as the other killer he is emulating, and Kate knows she is the end game.
Ryan must do his utmost to protect her and stop the madman from succeeding. Throughout the book we get an intimate look at Kate and her survival instincts, as she faces this new menace. By unlocking the past totally, may help her and Ryan figure out who the man is, and why he has chosen to emulate the other serial killer.
The last quarter of the book really revs up the tension, as Ryan becomes a victim, with Kate possibly his only hope, even though she is also marked for death. Can she outwit the killer and not become the final victim?
This is a great series, and we anticipate other books to come featuring Ryan Strickland, and his methods of dealing with the criminal element.
November 20, 2023
Book Title: The Rose Reaper
Series: Ryan Strickland #2
Author: Jennifer Hunter
Publisher: Thomas & Mercer
Genre: Mystery Thriller
Pub Date: March 5, 2023
My Rating: 3 Stars!
Pages: 317
In The Lost Victim which was Book #1 in the Ryan Strickland series.
Psychologist Ryan Strickland is an, FBI consultant and has spent years looking for answers to his sister’s disappearance. He has built a reputation for getting reluctant victims to speak. A witness has been found who can identify an elusive serial killer whose crimes reach back decades. However, Olivia, the silent and scarred young woman Olivia is indeed reluctant to tell all.
In this story begins three years ago when Strickland helped Kate Doyle rebuilt her life after escaping being the seventh victim of a serial killer known as ‘the Rose Reaper’.
However, a copycat killer has emerged, targeting victims and leaves a single red rose as a warning which is the same as what serial killer the Rose Reaper did.
It was an okay thriller for me but not an enjoyable read. Actually choosing to read this after a story that featured an evil child abuser - wasn’t good timing on my part.
The age old question of - are bad-people born or made; might be an interesting book club discussion. In this case it was decided that one of the bad guys was made a monster and the other chose it.
I was curious about the author.
It appears Jennifer Hunter likes to explore the darker side of life.
She also has a softer side and writes suspenseful contemporary romances and women’s fiction as Jennifer Ryan.
Want to thank NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this early eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for March 5, 2024.
Series: Ryan Strickland #2
Author: Jennifer Hunter
Publisher: Thomas & Mercer
Genre: Mystery Thriller
Pub Date: March 5, 2023
My Rating: 3 Stars!
Pages: 317
In The Lost Victim which was Book #1 in the Ryan Strickland series.
Psychologist Ryan Strickland is an, FBI consultant and has spent years looking for answers to his sister’s disappearance. He has built a reputation for getting reluctant victims to speak. A witness has been found who can identify an elusive serial killer whose crimes reach back decades. However, Olivia, the silent and scarred young woman Olivia is indeed reluctant to tell all.
In this story begins three years ago when Strickland helped Kate Doyle rebuilt her life after escaping being the seventh victim of a serial killer known as ‘the Rose Reaper’.
However, a copycat killer has emerged, targeting victims and leaves a single red rose as a warning which is the same as what serial killer the Rose Reaper did.
It was an okay thriller for me but not an enjoyable read. Actually choosing to read this after a story that featured an evil child abuser - wasn’t good timing on my part.
The age old question of - are bad-people born or made; might be an interesting book club discussion. In this case it was decided that one of the bad guys was made a monster and the other chose it.
I was curious about the author.
It appears Jennifer Hunter likes to explore the darker side of life.
She also has a softer side and writes suspenseful contemporary romances and women’s fiction as Jennifer Ryan.
Want to thank NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this early eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for March 5, 2024.
March 12, 2024
My rating isn’t because I disliked being in the killer’s head and reading about graphic rape. I definitely wasn’t a fan of that stuff because it was very dark and seemed unnecessarily evil. No, my rating is because the whole thing felt off. I can’t easily pinpoint the reason, but it could be the unnecessary dialogue and emphasis on random unimportant things. Like why did we need to know what Ryan was always eating back in his hotel room? Okay, he was working hard and needed to decompress in the evenings. Couldn’t it have been written differently? Some things just felt so random. But I now know that soup is a comfort food of his, so there’s that.
Mild Spoiler alert…
Also, the second scene at the end with Kate “getting her revenge” in the hospital was weird. We just read about it happening and then a little later Ryan walks in to her laughing abut it with some other people and the whole thing is retold to him. Like in detail again. That didn’t seem necessary… to retell it all again like that. And if it was necessary to have Ryan learn that it happened, the author could have written it differently, not spelling it out all over again. I felt like similarly odd things kept happening throughout the whole book.
And I jokingly wish there was some sort of little book reader award or medal I could get for figuring out the killer from the very beginning. Like when the character was first introduced, I was like yep, it has to be him. It was way too obvious. Maybe Pizza Hut could do a Book It program for adult mystery readers who guess “whodunit” right away? I think there would be lots of winners figuring out the killer early on in this book!
Overall, I guess it was entertaining enough, but definitely a book that I put down way more than usual and was happy to finish.
Mild Spoiler alert…
Also, the second scene at the end with Kate “getting her revenge” in the hospital was weird. We just read about it happening and then a little later Ryan walks in to her laughing abut it with some other people and the whole thing is retold to him. Like in detail again. That didn’t seem necessary… to retell it all again like that. And if it was necessary to have Ryan learn that it happened, the author could have written it differently, not spelling it out all over again. I felt like similarly odd things kept happening throughout the whole book.
And I jokingly wish there was some sort of little book reader award or medal I could get for figuring out the killer from the very beginning. Like when the character was first introduced, I was like yep, it has to be him. It was way too obvious. Maybe Pizza Hut could do a Book It program for adult mystery readers who guess “whodunit” right away? I think there would be lots of winners figuring out the killer early on in this book!
Overall, I guess it was entertaining enough, but definitely a book that I put down way more than usual and was happy to finish.
December 4, 2023
Thank you to the fantastic author and NetGalley for allowing me the privilege to read this book I really appreciate it. I'd like to get the little bad out of the way first which honestly isn't much. A few trigger warnings would be warranted in my opinion. My only other issues is there are quite a few grammatical errors and sentences with words missing, there aren't many chapters that don't have at least one or the other in them, and it's enough to make you stop and distract you from the reading. However if you're a fan of criminal minds you will love this book! It would make the perfect episode! Apart from the issues noted above, the story does flow, it doesn't drag, it doesn't lag and it's definately not boring! I could not put this down! The author also does a really good job of setting up other characters and makes you question everything which is usually something common that is missing from a lot of thrillers now a days and i love it! I loved all the little twists, I love that you're not left with any plot holes like you commonly see in most books, it's nice to finally have a complete book and I've already recommended it to a friend who loves books like this! Ps what happens at the end I'd love if the author turned them into a team working together somehow because I need that (no spoilers) they're wayy to good at figuring things out together that others completely failed to do! Once again thank you so much for this amazing book! I can't wait to see what else this author does!
December 14, 2023
Please note: This book contains sexual assault and describes it explicitly. I received ARC of this book and a warning was not provided but hopefully it is added when released.
I have many thoughts about this book, book 2 in the Ryan Strickland series, after having read book 1. I will start off by saying I liked that there was multiple point of views in comparison to book 1. Having said that I had a lot of difficulties getting through this book. There was a lot of character, time frame, and police procedural inconsistencies. These issues made me snap out of the story a lot and take many pauses. There was not enough research in professions and law enforcement investigations that if there had been would have made for a more plausible plot.
This being book 2 in a series I expected to get to know the MC a lot better. After finishing the book I left with more questions than answers about who the MC is. There is a lot of inconsistencies in who this MC is and what he actually does. For example he is brought in and is known for making victims/witnesses talk but then he profiles suspects? With no law enforcement background or even military background he can scope out vantage points that the FBI hadn't thought of ? He is a consulted but goes out in the field alone?
I thought book one had a good start to a series but found this book lacking in a lot of ways.
I have many thoughts about this book, book 2 in the Ryan Strickland series, after having read book 1. I will start off by saying I liked that there was multiple point of views in comparison to book 1. Having said that I had a lot of difficulties getting through this book. There was a lot of character, time frame, and police procedural inconsistencies. These issues made me snap out of the story a lot and take many pauses. There was not enough research in professions and law enforcement investigations that if there had been would have made for a more plausible plot.
This being book 2 in a series I expected to get to know the MC a lot better. After finishing the book I left with more questions than answers about who the MC is. There is a lot of inconsistencies in who this MC is and what he actually does. For example he is brought in and is known for making victims/witnesses talk but then he profiles suspects? With no law enforcement background or even military background he can scope out vantage points that the FBI hadn't thought of ? He is a consulted but goes out in the field alone?
I thought book one had a good start to a series but found this book lacking in a lot of ways.
March 15, 2024
Trigger Warning: Rape described in detail.
Not going to lie, the start of the book was a little jarring as we immediately begin with a rape scene which can be triggering for a lot of readers. The description of the book doesn't give any indication of its content and the lack of a trigger warning might be harmful to readers sensitive to it.
Other than that, this book was quite a read and kept me flipping pages, wanting to know what was going to happen next. It's been a while since I have read a mystery thriller that would have me reading for hours. The writing style was simple yet engaging. The book gives an interesting take on serial killers by showing both the victim's and the killer's perspectives. Not something I had read in any other books before.
Although I guessed who the culprit was later on, the author did a good job of keeping the real culprit hidden till the very last part of the book. It was a little confusing in the beginning to tell who the main character was because even though the series is called ‘Ryan Strickland’ the main focus of the book for the majority of the part was on Kate, the victim. I haven't read the first book in the series so this might be the author's writing style but either way, it didn't bother me enough to reduce a star. It was a good read and I will definitely check out other works in this series.
Not going to lie, the start of the book was a little jarring as we immediately begin with a rape scene which can be triggering for a lot of readers. The description of the book doesn't give any indication of its content and the lack of a trigger warning might be harmful to readers sensitive to it.
Other than that, this book was quite a read and kept me flipping pages, wanting to know what was going to happen next. It's been a while since I have read a mystery thriller that would have me reading for hours. The writing style was simple yet engaging. The book gives an interesting take on serial killers by showing both the victim's and the killer's perspectives. Not something I had read in any other books before.
Although I guessed who the culprit was later on, the author did a good job of keeping the real culprit hidden till the very last part of the book. It was a little confusing in the beginning to tell who the main character was because even though the series is called ‘Ryan Strickland’ the main focus of the book for the majority of the part was on Kate, the victim. I haven't read the first book in the series so this might be the author's writing style but either way, it didn't bother me enough to reduce a star. It was a good read and I will definitely check out other works in this series.
September 21, 2023
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you, NetGalley for this ARC.
This book is the 2nd in a series and although I enjoyed the book, I would have liked reading the first book first. I love psychological thrillers. Not only because I love the tension, but as a former behavioural analyst and psychotherapist I like to dive into the brains of criminals, especially serial offenders. What I liked about this book is that you dive into Kate her brains. Kate is the surviving victim of a serial killer but when a copycat drops bodies, Kate has to dig into her memories to unravel any clues that might lead to this new “serial killer”, with the help of criminal psychologist Ryan. The suspense, tension and mystery was making me turn the pages. I liked the characters, especially Ryan as it was easy for me to connect with him on a professional interest. Jennifer her writing style grabbed me and gosh, I enjoyed unraveling the clues and finding the killer. I will definitely read the first book as I'm intrigued what happened before. I suggest reading the first book before this one, but recommend this series to everyone who likes psychological thrillers.
This book is the 2nd in a series and although I enjoyed the book, I would have liked reading the first book first. I love psychological thrillers. Not only because I love the tension, but as a former behavioural analyst and psychotherapist I like to dive into the brains of criminals, especially serial offenders. What I liked about this book is that you dive into Kate her brains. Kate is the surviving victim of a serial killer but when a copycat drops bodies, Kate has to dig into her memories to unravel any clues that might lead to this new “serial killer”, with the help of criminal psychologist Ryan. The suspense, tension and mystery was making me turn the pages. I liked the characters, especially Ryan as it was easy for me to connect with him on a professional interest. Jennifer her writing style grabbed me and gosh, I enjoyed unraveling the clues and finding the killer. I will definitely read the first book as I'm intrigued what happened before. I suggest reading the first book before this one, but recommend this series to everyone who likes psychological thrillers.
October 21, 2023
The Rose Reaper by Jennifer Hunter is a dark and twisted ride. A serial killer on the hunt opens the door to a woman’s terrifying past in a pulse-pounding thriller. Three years ago, Kate Doyle escaped a serial killer who died at the hands of her rescuers. FBI consultant and psychologist Ryan Strickland helped Kate rebuild her life, and the case was closed on the Rose Reaper’s seven victims—the six who were killed and Kate, the one who got away.
Today, Kate has a good man in her life, a secure job, and hope. But her dreams for the future become a nightmare when a copycat killer starts hunting. One by one, with each new body, comes a gift for Kate: a single red rose. And then the warning: See you soon.
Content and trigger warning: the book does depict rape and has crude language.
The story is told from varying timelines. The story is compelling at the beginning and toward the end. The middle seemed to drag a bit for me, and I found myself skimming some of the content. I did like Kate and the stalking and story were scary. There were many suspects to choose from, and the characters were developed well and had good psychological twists to keep me guessing.
I would recommend this book.
#TheRoseReaper #NetGalley @AmazonPub
Today, Kate has a good man in her life, a secure job, and hope. But her dreams for the future become a nightmare when a copycat killer starts hunting. One by one, with each new body, comes a gift for Kate: a single red rose. And then the warning: See you soon.
Content and trigger warning: the book does depict rape and has crude language.
The story is told from varying timelines. The story is compelling at the beginning and toward the end. The middle seemed to drag a bit for me, and I found myself skimming some of the content. I did like Kate and the stalking and story were scary. There were many suspects to choose from, and the characters were developed well and had good psychological twists to keep me guessing.
I would recommend this book.
#TheRoseReaper #NetGalley @AmazonPub
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