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Everything She Feared
When a teen falls off a cliff while taking a selfie, the last thing she sees before plummeting to her death is Katie Harmon, the nine-year-old girl she was babysitting, looking down at her. Investigators gather at the scene, and Katie’s mother, Sara, rushes to comfort her daughter, yet there’s a small, secret ping of alarm in Sara’s heart that she cannot share—though rookie detective Kim Pierce senses it. For years, others have tried to unravel this secret, from true-crime podcasters to a haunted journalist searching for a killer who vanished after being released from prison. And now, with detectives tightening the focus of their investigation, Sara is consumed by her darkest fear—that the babysitter’s death was not accidental.
12 pages, Audiobook
First published April 11, 2023
252 people are currently reading
24346 people want to read
About the author
Rick Mofina
66 books1,328 followersRick Mofina is a former journalist who has interviewed murderers on death row in Montana and Texas, flown over L.A. with the LAPD and patrolled with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police near the Arctic. He's also reported from the Caribbean, Africa and Kuwait's border with Iraq. His true-crime freelance work has appeared in The New York Times, The Telegraph (London, U.K.), Reader’s Digest, Penthouse, Marie Claire and The South China Morning Post, (Hong Kong). He has written more than 20 crime fiction thrillers that have been published in nearly 30 countries.
His work has been praised by James Patterson, Dean Koontz, Michael Connelly, Lee Child, Tess Gerritsen, Jeffery Deaver, Louise Penny, Sandra Brown, James Rollins, Lisa Unger, Brad Thor, Nick Stone, David Morrell, Allison Brennan, Heather Graham, Linwood Barclay, Peter Robinson, Håkan Nesser and Kay Hooper.
The Crime Writers of Canada, The International Thriller Writers and The Private Eye Writers of America have listed his titles among the best in crime fiction. As a two-time winner of Canada's Arthur Ellis Award, a four-time Thriller Award finalist and a two-time Shamus Award finalist, the Library Journal calls him, “One of the best thriller writers in the business.”
Series:
* Tom Reed and Walt Sydowski
* Jason Wade
* Jack Gannon
Awards:
Arthur Ellis Award
◊ Best Novel (2003): Blood of Others
His work has been praised by James Patterson, Dean Koontz, Michael Connelly, Lee Child, Tess Gerritsen, Jeffery Deaver, Louise Penny, Sandra Brown, James Rollins, Lisa Unger, Brad Thor, Nick Stone, David Morrell, Allison Brennan, Heather Graham, Linwood Barclay, Peter Robinson, Håkan Nesser and Kay Hooper.
The Crime Writers of Canada, The International Thriller Writers and The Private Eye Writers of America have listed his titles among the best in crime fiction. As a two-time winner of Canada's Arthur Ellis Award, a four-time Thriller Award finalist and a two-time Shamus Award finalist, the Library Journal calls him, “One of the best thriller writers in the business.”
Series:
* Tom Reed and Walt Sydowski
* Jason Wade
* Jack Gannon
Awards:
Arthur Ellis Award
◊ Best Novel (2003): Blood of Others
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 597 reviews
March 1, 2023
Careful where you step…that last one is a doozy!
While seeking the perfect selfie, teen-age age Anna tumbles over a cliff-side. Turning a fun afternoon outing into a horrid tragedy. The only witness was nine year old Katie, the young girl Anna babysat for.
Here’s a disturbing question...is Katie a witness or did something more sinister occur on that cliffside??
Katie’s mother Sara has always had the gut feeling that there was something a bit off with Katie. After all...there is evil that dwells in their genes! Now Sara is petrified.
Is Katie exhibiting the behaviors that Sara feared?
This was a fun suspenseful thriller that kept me wondering why poor Anna went tumbling over that cliff!
I always enjoy Rick Mofina’s books. Whether a stand-alone or part of a series, he never disappoints!. I feel like I’ve been binging a lot of his books lately! And still have one more on my shelf. Lucky me!😁
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing
While seeking the perfect selfie, teen-age age Anna tumbles over a cliff-side. Turning a fun afternoon outing into a horrid tragedy. The only witness was nine year old Katie, the young girl Anna babysat for.
Here’s a disturbing question...is Katie a witness or did something more sinister occur on that cliffside??
Katie’s mother Sara has always had the gut feeling that there was something a bit off with Katie. After all...there is evil that dwells in their genes! Now Sara is petrified.
Is Katie exhibiting the behaviors that Sara feared?
This was a fun suspenseful thriller that kept me wondering why poor Anna went tumbling over that cliff!
I always enjoy Rick Mofina’s books. Whether a stand-alone or part of a series, he never disappoints!. I feel like I’ve been binging a lot of his books lately! And still have one more on my shelf. Lucky me!😁
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing
April 6, 2023
3.5 stars, rounded up. Another intriguing mystery from Rick Mofina.
Anna, a teen, falls over the side of a cliff while taking a selfie. The only witness is Katie, the nine-year-old girls she is supervising as a part of a field trip with their school. Anna clings precariously to a branch while Katie runs for help, but when others arrive, Anna has fallen to her death. Katie's mother Sara knows that there is something sinister in their past. She begins to wonder if Anna's death is a tragic accident, or could Katie possibly be involved?
This story has a lot of moving parts--many characters, points of view, and motivations. It takes a while for all of the different parts to come together in a cohesive whole, but when it does it's a race to get to the truth. This book kept me guessing until the end, I appreciated that the reader learns everything right along with the police and others, it made the story more suspenseful.
The one thing I didn't love was the portrayal of Katie. Sometimes she seemed much younger than nine, sometimes much older. Her dialogue was awkward and the interactions between Sara and Katie kept going around and around in circles. When taken as a whole, this didn't detract too much from the reading experience for me, but at certain times it tended to slow or halt the pacing.
Rick Mofina is very creative and I always look forward to his books, his plots are creative mysteries that never fail to keep my interest.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
Anna, a teen, falls over the side of a cliff while taking a selfie. The only witness is Katie, the nine-year-old girls she is supervising as a part of a field trip with their school. Anna clings precariously to a branch while Katie runs for help, but when others arrive, Anna has fallen to her death. Katie's mother Sara knows that there is something sinister in their past. She begins to wonder if Anna's death is a tragic accident, or could Katie possibly be involved?
This story has a lot of moving parts--many characters, points of view, and motivations. It takes a while for all of the different parts to come together in a cohesive whole, but when it does it's a race to get to the truth. This book kept me guessing until the end, I appreciated that the reader learns everything right along with the police and others, it made the story more suspenseful.
The one thing I didn't love was the portrayal of Katie. Sometimes she seemed much younger than nine, sometimes much older. Her dialogue was awkward and the interactions between Sara and Katie kept going around and around in circles. When taken as a whole, this didn't detract too much from the reading experience for me, but at certain times it tended to slow or halt the pacing.
Rick Mofina is very creative and I always look forward to his books, his plots are creative mysteries that never fail to keep my interest.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
April 17, 2023
Everything She Feared by Rick Mofina is a thriller novel. The story in Everything She Feared is one that is told by changing the point of view between several characters and also with some flashing back to the past. This one also has some interviews, news articles etc to help tell the story.
The story begins with a teenager, Anna Shaw, hanging off the side of a cliff and hoping for help. Anna’s only hope is nine year old Katie Harmon who was with Anna when she fell. Katie takes off running to get help from the rest of their group who had gone on ahead of them.
The adults on the trip quickly gather rope and race to rescue Anna as soon as Katie arrives. When they make their way back to the cliff though it’s already too late, Anna has fallen and it’s obvious she didn’t survive. Investigators arrive and begin to determine was this just an accident or was Anna murdered with young Katie the only witness.
Everything She Feared by Rick Mofina is certainly a story that begins with a bang and immediately grabbed my attention. How could I not want to know just what happened to Anna and was Katie involved?? The book really was thought provoking as all I kept thinking about while the story progressed is the old question of nature versus nurture and of course kept turning pages as quickly as I could to find out how it would all turn out. After finishing I learned this was an author I’d definitely have to come back to again.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
The story begins with a teenager, Anna Shaw, hanging off the side of a cliff and hoping for help. Anna’s only hope is nine year old Katie Harmon who was with Anna when she fell. Katie takes off running to get help from the rest of their group who had gone on ahead of them.
The adults on the trip quickly gather rope and race to rescue Anna as soon as Katie arrives. When they make their way back to the cliff though it’s already too late, Anna has fallen and it’s obvious she didn’t survive. Investigators arrive and begin to determine was this just an accident or was Anna murdered with young Katie the only witness.
Everything She Feared by Rick Mofina is certainly a story that begins with a bang and immediately grabbed my attention. How could I not want to know just what happened to Anna and was Katie involved?? The book really was thought provoking as all I kept thinking about while the story progressed is the old question of nature versus nurture and of course kept turning pages as quickly as I could to find out how it would all turn out. After finishing I learned this was an author I’d definitely have to come back to again.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
April 21, 2024
4.5⭐
Genre ~ crime thriller
Setting ~ Washington
Publication date ~ April 11, 2023
Est page Count ~ 446 (87 chapters +e)
Audio length ~ 11 hours 35 minutes
Narrator ~ Jennifer Jill Araya
POV ~ multiple 3rd
Featuring ~ teenage death, multiple timelines, old secrets
9 year old Katie has witnessed her babysitter, Anna's, death.
Sara is Katie's mom. A mom who will go to great lengths to protect her daughter, as most mother's would do. But perhaps there is a secret from the past that will make her question what really happened the day Anna died.
Detective Kim Pierce's investigative skills were top notch. I wouldn't mind if this was turned into the beginning of a series staring her and her partner, Carl.
Ryan's sister, Carrie, was killed back in the 90's and her body was never found. He's determined to get the bottom of things, so he and his parents can finally lay her to rest.
There's a lot going on with this one. Twisty and turny with multiple timelines and a popular crime podcast thrown in to bring this one to the heart pounding conclusion.
I quite enjoyed my first experience with this author and I'll for sure read him again and again.
*Thanks to the author, Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
I was able to listen to an audio copy as well.
Narration notes:
In case you didn't know I hate when there is only one narrator when there are multiple POV's, but I actually quite enjoyed Jennifer's narration. She gave each character their own distinct voice and was properly frantic when necessary. A job well done!
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
Genre ~ crime thriller
Setting ~ Washington
Publication date ~ April 11, 2023
Est page Count ~ 446 (87 chapters +e)
Audio length ~ 11 hours 35 minutes
Narrator ~ Jennifer Jill Araya
POV ~ multiple 3rd
Featuring ~ teenage death, multiple timelines, old secrets
9 year old Katie has witnessed her babysitter, Anna's, death.
Sara is Katie's mom. A mom who will go to great lengths to protect her daughter, as most mother's would do. But perhaps there is a secret from the past that will make her question what really happened the day Anna died.
Detective Kim Pierce's investigative skills were top notch. I wouldn't mind if this was turned into the beginning of a series staring her and her partner, Carl.
Ryan's sister, Carrie, was killed back in the 90's and her body was never found. He's determined to get the bottom of things, so he and his parents can finally lay her to rest.
There's a lot going on with this one. Twisty and turny with multiple timelines and a popular crime podcast thrown in to bring this one to the heart pounding conclusion.
I quite enjoyed my first experience with this author and I'll for sure read him again and again.
*Thanks to the author, Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
I was able to listen to an audio copy as well.
Narration notes:
In case you didn't know I hate when there is only one narrator when there are multiple POV's, but I actually quite enjoyed Jennifer's narration. She gave each character their own distinct voice and was properly frantic when necessary. A job well done!
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
February 25, 2023
17 year old babysitter Anna Shaw falls to her death while on a trip with 9 year old Katie Harmon. Is Katie as innocent as she says she is?
Her mother fears the past is repeating itself.
This book was full of twists and turns and kept me guessing till the very end.
Thanks NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for this ARC that will be released April 11, 2023!
Her mother fears the past is repeating itself.
This book was full of twists and turns and kept me guessing till the very end.
Thanks NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for this ARC that will be released April 11, 2023!
April 20, 2023
A stand-alone suspense/thriller that is in every way a page-turner keeping the reader on the edge of a cliff. (Pun intended).
Nine year old Katie is the only one at the scene when her teenage babysitter falls off a cliff while taking a selfie. (Note: Careful where you take selfies!)
Katie is later found to have a necklace belonging to the babysitter which she says the babysitter gave to her. Hum, how did Katie really get the babysitters necklace?? We know that Katie and her mother have some secrets that must be kept at all costs. You’ll have to keep turning pages to get to the bottom of this one.
Ryan’s sister was murdered years ago, but her body was never found and Ryan has devoted his life to finding her body to bring her home. Problem: One of the persons responsible for his sister’s murder made a deal with law enforcement and will get out of prison with a change of name and no strings so she is free as a bird. (Pun intended). (Note: Law enforcement should reconsider deal making with criminals).
But, no one is completely untraceable if you are determined enough. And Ryan is determined enough.
Katie and her mother’s background is what forms the substance of this book and begs the question: can truly evil genes be passed on from generation to generation; can it skip a generation and catch up to the next one? Is there something to be said for nurture vs nature?
There are no definitive answers to the whole gene question but this was one heck of a sharp read.
Nine year old Katie is the only one at the scene when her teenage babysitter falls off a cliff while taking a selfie. (Note: Careful where you take selfies!)
Katie is later found to have a necklace belonging to the babysitter which she says the babysitter gave to her. Hum, how did Katie really get the babysitters necklace?? We know that Katie and her mother have some secrets that must be kept at all costs. You’ll have to keep turning pages to get to the bottom of this one.
Ryan’s sister was murdered years ago, but her body was never found and Ryan has devoted his life to finding her body to bring her home. Problem: One of the persons responsible for his sister’s murder made a deal with law enforcement and will get out of prison with a change of name and no strings so she is free as a bird. (Pun intended). (Note: Law enforcement should reconsider deal making with criminals).
But, no one is completely untraceable if you are determined enough. And Ryan is determined enough.
Katie and her mother’s background is what forms the substance of this book and begs the question: can truly evil genes be passed on from generation to generation; can it skip a generation and catch up to the next one? Is there something to be said for nurture vs nature?
There are no definitive answers to the whole gene question but this was one heck of a sharp read.
April 1, 2024
Former journalist, crime writer, and bestselling author Rick Monifa's latest highly anticipated novel, EVERYTHING SHE FEARED, is a complex, multi-layered intelligent, and riveting suspense crime thriller— that starts with a bang—when a teen babysitter falls to her death with only one witness.
What comes next is a desperate search for the killer. In this propulsive, well-written, unputdownable domestic thriller, cop procedural, and crime thriller —Monifa intricately interweaves the past and present, keeping you on the edge of your seat, flipping the pages to learn how the stories connect.
Set in Washington State/Seattle area with flashbacks to Montana, Arizona, and Idaho years earlier, Anna Shaw is a 17-year-old girl helping out Sunny Days Youth Center for a day trip outing at Sparrow Song Park with twenty-four kids, four adult supervisors, and three teen assistants.
As she often does, Anna is a babysitter for nine-year-old Katie Harmon. Katie spent the previous night with her for their early morning trip. They are the last off the bus, lagging behind the others on the trail.
When Anna backs up on the edge of the trail on the mountain to take a selfie, she falls off the cliff, hanging on a tree branch. Katie runs for help; however, they cannot save her. Katie is the only WITNESS.
What comes next is an extensive and INTENSE investigation. Was this an accident, pushed, or something more sinister? Was there criminal intent? Could this be a child murderer?
Sara Harmon, Katie's mother, is a hard-working waitress at Jet Town Diner and considering getting her real estate license. She is financially responsible for her adoptive mother's care. She is also very protective of her daughter.
Her husband, Nathaniel, died in a motorcycle accident years earlier. She is a single mom trying to overcome her traumatic past. She never wanted to have children due to her past; however, her loving, kind-hearted husband desperately wanted a child, so Katie was born. She never told him about her history.
Sara has tried to raise Katie like her adoptive parents raised her with good morals and reinforced right and wrong. However, something happened in Canada when Katie was younger, and a boy died. Sara's biological parents were also monsters, which we learn more about later. Is there evil in their DNA?
When the investigation looks like foul play is involved, Katie winds up with Anna's necklace, and her therapist is concerned with her disturbing drawings— Sara is worried that the evil/bad has passed down to her daughter. Is Katie innocent or guilty?
Adopted by a loving couple, George and Marjorie Cole, Sara's adopted dad has passed. Sara and Katie live in her mom's house, and her adopted mom resides at the Silverbrook Hills Senior Living Home.
As a reader, we do not know what happened with Sara's bio parents until later; however, we know it was terrible, and she wants no one to connect her and her daughter to her past. They have changed their names and carefully concealed their horrible past.
Between the ongoing INTENSE and complex investigation led by Detectives Pierce and Benton, the cameras, the ex-boyfriend, the rock, the sex offender, and suspects —there is an alternating story in the nineties regarding crimes in multiple states: Montana, Arizona, Idaho, and others.
A crime podcast, Tell-Tale Hearts, discusses these crimes that involved brutal murders by a husband and wife serial killer team.
Ryan, a journalist and brother of one of the victims, is determined to find his sister or her body and bring closure to the case.
The tension and suspense build with many red herrings and twists you do not see coming as the two parallel stories connect for an explosive, satisfying conclusion.
ENGROSSING! Dark and chilling, and emotionally complex— WOW! What a book. Superb writing! Dark secrets of the past flow into the present in this emotionally resonant, profoundly insightful tale of family bonds, violence, and mystery.
The author dives deep into the dark spaces of intimate family relationships as they are passed down from generation. Riveting suspense with an intense family drama at its core—from horrific murders and mysteries resurrected from the past, a storyline packed with tension, suspense, and vivid characters brings it all to life.
I cannot believe this is my first book by this talented author with an impressive bio. I read in one sitting. I must get his backlist!
What I enjoyed about EVERYTHING SHE FEARED was the highly creative and impressive investigation and how deep they had to go to come up with clues, whereas most would write this off as an accident.
I enjoyed the forensics, cop procedurals, and crime aspects, mixed with past and present mysteries. I also was highly impressed with the author's writing. He has been added to my favorite author list, and I cannot wait to see what comes next.
Fans of authors Karin Slaughter, Lisa Gardner, Michael Robotham, Fiona Barton, and Michael Connelly will enjoy this well-written thriller, both character and plot-driven, which explores genetic and environmental influences on criminal behavior. I find the topics fascinating—an ideal book club pick for further discussions.
Criminal behavior has always been a focus for psychologists due to the age-old debate between nature and nurture. Is it the responsibility of an individual's genetic makeup that makes them a criminal, or does the environment in which they are raised determine their outcome?
Great examples in the novel. While genes and environment play roles in the criminality of an individual, having a genetic predisposition for criminal behavior does not determine the actions of an individual. Still, if they are exposed to the right environment, their chances are more significant for engaging in criminal or anti-social behavior.
Thank you to #MIRA for an ARC via #NetGalley for review purposes.
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars
Pub Date: April 11, 2023
April 2023 Must-Read Books
What comes next is a desperate search for the killer. In this propulsive, well-written, unputdownable domestic thriller, cop procedural, and crime thriller —Monifa intricately interweaves the past and present, keeping you on the edge of your seat, flipping the pages to learn how the stories connect.
Set in Washington State/Seattle area with flashbacks to Montana, Arizona, and Idaho years earlier, Anna Shaw is a 17-year-old girl helping out Sunny Days Youth Center for a day trip outing at Sparrow Song Park with twenty-four kids, four adult supervisors, and three teen assistants.
As she often does, Anna is a babysitter for nine-year-old Katie Harmon. Katie spent the previous night with her for their early morning trip. They are the last off the bus, lagging behind the others on the trail.
When Anna backs up on the edge of the trail on the mountain to take a selfie, she falls off the cliff, hanging on a tree branch. Katie runs for help; however, they cannot save her. Katie is the only WITNESS.
What comes next is an extensive and INTENSE investigation. Was this an accident, pushed, or something more sinister? Was there criminal intent? Could this be a child murderer?
Sara Harmon, Katie's mother, is a hard-working waitress at Jet Town Diner and considering getting her real estate license. She is financially responsible for her adoptive mother's care. She is also very protective of her daughter.
Her husband, Nathaniel, died in a motorcycle accident years earlier. She is a single mom trying to overcome her traumatic past. She never wanted to have children due to her past; however, her loving, kind-hearted husband desperately wanted a child, so Katie was born. She never told him about her history.
Sara has tried to raise Katie like her adoptive parents raised her with good morals and reinforced right and wrong. However, something happened in Canada when Katie was younger, and a boy died. Sara's biological parents were also monsters, which we learn more about later. Is there evil in their DNA?
When the investigation looks like foul play is involved, Katie winds up with Anna's necklace, and her therapist is concerned with her disturbing drawings— Sara is worried that the evil/bad has passed down to her daughter. Is Katie innocent or guilty?
Adopted by a loving couple, George and Marjorie Cole, Sara's adopted dad has passed. Sara and Katie live in her mom's house, and her adopted mom resides at the Silverbrook Hills Senior Living Home.
As a reader, we do not know what happened with Sara's bio parents until later; however, we know it was terrible, and she wants no one to connect her and her daughter to her past. They have changed their names and carefully concealed their horrible past.
Between the ongoing INTENSE and complex investigation led by Detectives Pierce and Benton, the cameras, the ex-boyfriend, the rock, the sex offender, and suspects —there is an alternating story in the nineties regarding crimes in multiple states: Montana, Arizona, Idaho, and others.
A crime podcast, Tell-Tale Hearts, discusses these crimes that involved brutal murders by a husband and wife serial killer team.
Ryan, a journalist and brother of one of the victims, is determined to find his sister or her body and bring closure to the case.
The tension and suspense build with many red herrings and twists you do not see coming as the two parallel stories connect for an explosive, satisfying conclusion.
ENGROSSING! Dark and chilling, and emotionally complex— WOW! What a book. Superb writing! Dark secrets of the past flow into the present in this emotionally resonant, profoundly insightful tale of family bonds, violence, and mystery.
The author dives deep into the dark spaces of intimate family relationships as they are passed down from generation. Riveting suspense with an intense family drama at its core—from horrific murders and mysteries resurrected from the past, a storyline packed with tension, suspense, and vivid characters brings it all to life.
I cannot believe this is my first book by this talented author with an impressive bio. I read in one sitting. I must get his backlist!
What I enjoyed about EVERYTHING SHE FEARED was the highly creative and impressive investigation and how deep they had to go to come up with clues, whereas most would write this off as an accident.
I enjoyed the forensics, cop procedurals, and crime aspects, mixed with past and present mysteries. I also was highly impressed with the author's writing. He has been added to my favorite author list, and I cannot wait to see what comes next.
Fans of authors Karin Slaughter, Lisa Gardner, Michael Robotham, Fiona Barton, and Michael Connelly will enjoy this well-written thriller, both character and plot-driven, which explores genetic and environmental influences on criminal behavior. I find the topics fascinating—an ideal book club pick for further discussions.
Criminal behavior has always been a focus for psychologists due to the age-old debate between nature and nurture. Is it the responsibility of an individual's genetic makeup that makes them a criminal, or does the environment in which they are raised determine their outcome?
Great examples in the novel. While genes and environment play roles in the criminality of an individual, having a genetic predisposition for criminal behavior does not determine the actions of an individual. Still, if they are exposed to the right environment, their chances are more significant for engaging in criminal or anti-social behavior.
Thank you to #MIRA for an ARC via #NetGalley for review purposes.
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars
Pub Date: April 11, 2023
April 2023 Must-Read Books
June 21, 2023
This book was an essay in how to make giant leaps in jumping to conclusions.
First a journalist obsessed with his murdered sister spends a fortune and all his time trying to track down the adult daughter of a serial killer so that that adult, who was a toddler at the time his sister was killed can tell him where the bodies are? Does he think the information is stored in her DNA?
Also, can anybody run anybody’s DNA against anybody else’s? That doesn’t seem right, but it’s America so nothing really surprises me. So let’s assume you can. 10,687 people are born every day in the US, and 7% are adopted so this guys plan is to DNA test over 700 people across all 50 states in order to find the missing serial killers kid.
Assuming the kid is still alive, still lives in the US, and that none of the details on the sealed records have a typo on the DOB. Sounds like a solid plan. The irony of this dickhead insisting on maintaining his personal privacy while wantonly invading everybody else’s.
I don’t believe the cops would have investigated Anna’s death as a homicide and I definitely don’t believe they’d go after a 9 year old with no motive. Did they think that the 9 year old pushed her off the cliff, then climbed down, snatched the necklace, climbed back up, dusted off the dirt, threw a rock at her to make her fall the rest of the way and then went to get help all in 4 minutes? If Anna gave her the necklace on the bus, then why’d she need to kill her?
And then theres the psychologist. Talk about jumping to conclusions. Far out. She should have lost her license. A mother asking a question about whether violence is hereditary and a child being present when somebody died is not enough grounds to break confidentiality.
But meanwhile the serial killer manages to track down the daughter despite the records being sealed, gets a job in aged care where the adoptive mother lives, despite a background check being mandatory and what… quietly kills people who mess with her granddaughter?
But my favourite part was the magical appearance of the map with the locations of all the bodies, because of course a serial killer who refused to give the locations and got off on the fact that nobody had closure would write all that stuff down.
First a journalist obsessed with his murdered sister spends a fortune and all his time trying to track down the adult daughter of a serial killer so that that adult, who was a toddler at the time his sister was killed can tell him where the bodies are? Does he think the information is stored in her DNA?
Also, can anybody run anybody’s DNA against anybody else’s? That doesn’t seem right, but it’s America so nothing really surprises me. So let’s assume you can. 10,687 people are born every day in the US, and 7% are adopted so this guys plan is to DNA test over 700 people across all 50 states in order to find the missing serial killers kid.
Assuming the kid is still alive, still lives in the US, and that none of the details on the sealed records have a typo on the DOB. Sounds like a solid plan. The irony of this dickhead insisting on maintaining his personal privacy while wantonly invading everybody else’s.
I don’t believe the cops would have investigated Anna’s death as a homicide and I definitely don’t believe they’d go after a 9 year old with no motive. Did they think that the 9 year old pushed her off the cliff, then climbed down, snatched the necklace, climbed back up, dusted off the dirt, threw a rock at her to make her fall the rest of the way and then went to get help all in 4 minutes? If Anna gave her the necklace on the bus, then why’d she need to kill her?
And then theres the psychologist. Talk about jumping to conclusions. Far out. She should have lost her license. A mother asking a question about whether violence is hereditary and a child being present when somebody died is not enough grounds to break confidentiality.
But meanwhile the serial killer manages to track down the daughter despite the records being sealed, gets a job in aged care where the adoptive mother lives, despite a background check being mandatory and what… quietly kills people who mess with her granddaughter?
But my favourite part was the magical appearance of the map with the locations of all the bodies, because of course a serial killer who refused to give the locations and got off on the fact that nobody had closure would write all that stuff down.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2023
4 Stars
Told as a true crime novel, this was a good, suspenseful story.
Anna falls off a cliff after taking a selfie with no witnesses other than an 8'yr old girl.
She fell while on a field trip for children.
The story is in parts. A past serial killer couple, the brother of a victim, and a young detective on her first assignment.
All these stories relate to Kara. The young girl who witnesses her camp counselor fall.
A very gripping page turning mystery.
Told as a true crime novel, this was a good, suspenseful story.
Anna falls off a cliff after taking a selfie with no witnesses other than an 8'yr old girl.
She fell while on a field trip for children.
The story is in parts. A past serial killer couple, the brother of a victim, and a young detective on her first assignment.
All these stories relate to Kara. The young girl who witnesses her camp counselor fall.
A very gripping page turning mystery.
August 3, 2023
This wasn't my favorite. I liked the way it started but that tapered off real quick.
There was a lot of repetition which made this one drag a bit. There was also a certain amount of devastation aimed at a (whiny) 9 year old girl, that seemed more like a "shock and awe" campaign than something I could take seriously. It all hinged on the "one thing" so that was a bit of a one note. A subplot or two would have added a nice ebb and flow (which I missed in this one).
Overall, I didn't really enjoy this one. I added a star for the start so that brings this to 2 stars for me.
There was a lot of repetition which made this one drag a bit. There was also a certain amount of devastation aimed at a (whiny) 9 year old girl, that seemed more like a "shock and awe" campaign than something I could take seriously. It all hinged on the "one thing" so that was a bit of a one note. A subplot or two would have added a nice ebb and flow (which I missed in this one).
Overall, I didn't really enjoy this one. I added a star for the start so that brings this to 2 stars for me.
June 13, 2023
Now that I’m enjoying audio books while I walk, it took me 25 minutes to find this gem on audio at my library. Anna was taking a selfie on a cliff while 9 year old Katie was watching. I went into this not reading any other reviews and wow, this kept me on the edge of my seat from the very first page. So many twists and turns and had me guessing till the end. Loved all the characters, the narratives in the audio were excellent!
June 11, 2023
3.5 stars
This was my first book by this author and I was extremely pleased.
I read it in one sitting.
I did not know what to expect.
It was gripping.
I loved the structure of the storyline. It was ingenious.
A very fast read and quite entertaining.
If the little girl was more believable, personality wise, and if that conclusion (at 97%) wasn’t over the top, I would have rated it 5 stars.
I listened to the audiobook at the same time as I read. The narration was good, but depending on the characters, it was too slow.
e-book (Kobo): 307 pages (default), 95k words, divided into 88 chapters (too many, in my opinion, for such small book)
Audiobook narrated by Jennifer Jill Araya: 11.6 hours (normal speed)
This was my first book by this author and I was extremely pleased.
I read it in one sitting.
I did not know what to expect.
It was gripping.
I loved the structure of the storyline. It was ingenious.
A very fast read and quite entertaining.
If the little girl was more believable, personality wise, and if that conclusion (at 97%) wasn’t over the top, I would have rated it 5 stars.
I listened to the audiobook at the same time as I read. The narration was good, but depending on the characters, it was too slow.
e-book (Kobo): 307 pages (default), 95k words, divided into 88 chapters (too many, in my opinion, for such small book)
Audiobook narrated by Jennifer Jill Araya: 11.6 hours (normal speed)
April 30, 2023
I highly recommend this suspenseful mystery by Rick Mofina. He never disappoints!
Multi-layered with riveting suspense makes this novel unputdownable!
Can violence and evil be inherited?
Nine year old Katie watches as Anna, her teenage babysitter, falls over a cliff while trying to take a selfie. Could Katie be to blame?
The author keeps us guessing until the very end.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing/MIRA for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
Multi-layered with riveting suspense makes this novel unputdownable!
Can violence and evil be inherited?
Nine year old Katie watches as Anna, her teenage babysitter, falls over a cliff while trying to take a selfie. Could Katie be to blame?
The author keeps us guessing until the very end.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing/MIRA for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
March 19, 2023
Everything She Feared by Rick Mofina. Thanks to HTP and Netgalley for the gifted Arc ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Nine year old Katie Harmon is with her babysitter when she falls off a cliff to her death. Katie’s mother, Sara, will do anything she can to help her but Sara knows of her dark history and wonders if there was more to the fall.
I love thrillers and suspenses with evil children! This one is more of a mystery because the whole time you’re not sure if the child is evil or not; don’t worry you’ll find out! It’s a pretty good mystery you will HAVE to know the ending because there’s so much mystery within. I loved how you got hints into some past crime, but it won’t be tied together until the end.
“Always assume criminal intent until proven otherwise. A wilderness death can be a perfect murder.”
Everything She Feared comes out 4/11.
Nine year old Katie Harmon is with her babysitter when she falls off a cliff to her death. Katie’s mother, Sara, will do anything she can to help her but Sara knows of her dark history and wonders if there was more to the fall.
I love thrillers and suspenses with evil children! This one is more of a mystery because the whole time you’re not sure if the child is evil or not; don’t worry you’ll find out! It’s a pretty good mystery you will HAVE to know the ending because there’s so much mystery within. I loved how you got hints into some past crime, but it won’t be tied together until the end.
“Always assume criminal intent until proven otherwise. A wilderness death can be a perfect murder.”
Everything She Feared comes out 4/11.
April 20, 2023
This started out strong but just over halfway, I found myself thinking, “come on, get to it already!”. The ending was good but the author really dragged it out to get to it, I felt like I knew most of what was going to happen way before it was over.
April 9, 2023
4.5 stars
This book is another excellent standalone thriller by Mofina that tackles the question of whether or not evil and violence can be inherited. When a teenage babysitter falls over a cliff trying to take a selfie, a nine-year-old girl is the only witness and is actually considered to be a suspect in Anna's death. What makes this book so tense is that Katie's mother is keeping secrets and at times thinks her young daughter might really be guilty!
The book also includes descriptions of crimes from years ago as part of a podcast discussing murders committed by a husband and wife serial killer team. The brother of one of these victims also plays an important role in the story. At first, it's hard to see how these chapters fit in with the investigation into Anna's death, but it becomes apparent as the story continues.
This book is an engaging domestic thriller that is entertaining from beginning to end. It also has some elements of a procedural since some chapters are told from the point-of-view of Detective Kim Pierce who is leading the investigation into Anna's death. I really like Kim's character and would love to see another book with her as the lead investigator. I recommend this book and the author to thriller fans.
I received an advance copy of this ebook at no cost from NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and Mira Books. However, my review is voluntary and unbiased.
This book is another excellent standalone thriller by Mofina that tackles the question of whether or not evil and violence can be inherited. When a teenage babysitter falls over a cliff trying to take a selfie, a nine-year-old girl is the only witness and is actually considered to be a suspect in Anna's death. What makes this book so tense is that Katie's mother is keeping secrets and at times thinks her young daughter might really be guilty!
The book also includes descriptions of crimes from years ago as part of a podcast discussing murders committed by a husband and wife serial killer team. The brother of one of these victims also plays an important role in the story. At first, it's hard to see how these chapters fit in with the investigation into Anna's death, but it becomes apparent as the story continues.
This book is an engaging domestic thriller that is entertaining from beginning to end. It also has some elements of a procedural since some chapters are told from the point-of-view of Detective Kim Pierce who is leading the investigation into Anna's death. I really like Kim's character and would love to see another book with her as the lead investigator. I recommend this book and the author to thriller fans.
I received an advance copy of this ebook at no cost from NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and Mira Books. However, my review is voluntary and unbiased.
November 17, 2025
being creepy kids my
favorite domestic thriller
trope, I was captivated from
the start: procedural, but also
a deeply compelling story. ♡
favorite domestic thriller
trope, I was captivated from
the start: procedural, but also
a deeply compelling story. ♡
April 12, 2023
My mind is blown away at the talent of this author whom I had never read before now! (How did I miss this one?!?) The plot is so intricately woven, the suspense so intense and the message so powerful that I literally had difficulty putting this book down. Sara Harmon has a secret past, one that terrifies her and keeps her awake at night. Her one goal in life is to protect her young daughter Katie from the truth about the past and how it could affect her future. Unfortunately, when Katie’s babysitter Anna dies in a freak fall at a local park, the protection starts to unravel as does Sara and her hiding from the truth. There are so many facets to this multi-layered story, but I think my favorite was the one about Ryan Gardner, an investigative reported determined to find out what happened to his older sister Carrie. His queries take him into a dark world of serial killers, secrets, lies and manipulation and is totally intriguing. I enjoyed meeting the characters and felt as though I were reading a true crime novel, so detailed were the descriptions of the police procedures and the settings. This book is part thriller, part suspense, part police procedural and all entertainment rolled up into one propulsive story that has depth and head-spinning twists. I cannot recommend this book highly enough and plan to look for other books by this author since I know that I can count on him for crackling tension and a brilliantly woven plot.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
January 3, 2023
I do love me a creepy kid story... I found this one particularly weird since I also have a nine-year-old daughter - although no serial killers anywhere in our background that any of us are aware of, thank goodness!
Seriously though, this was an entertaining construct, and if I think it played out a little ridiculously, it was no less entertaining for that. I felt that the parental anxiety, demonstrated by both Marjorie and Sara, resonated very realistically and really kept the tension levels taut throughout the story. I did not find the 9-year-old's voice or actions to feel terribly realistic, but I often don't in these kinds of books. I live with one every day and while I am more than happy to agree that they do vacillate at this age between acting very young and very old for their ages, a lot of Katie's words and actions felt like an adult trying to write as a child to me, which gave her a slightly off-kilter feel. While it worked alright on the end for this type of story, it felt disjointed at times and did occasionally result in an eye roll or cringe.
Still, suspension of disbelief is key in a lot of thrillers, especially domestic ones in my opinion, and I was more than happy to suspend disbelief here because Mofina did an excellent job telling a fast-paced, entertaining, just plausible enough to freak you out tale that I found engaging from the first pages. I read this one in a day and found it a delightful way to break from the reality of post-holiday stress and blizzard-induced anxiety!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my obligation-free review copy.
Seriously though, this was an entertaining construct, and if I think it played out a little ridiculously, it was no less entertaining for that. I felt that the parental anxiety, demonstrated by both Marjorie and Sara, resonated very realistically and really kept the tension levels taut throughout the story. I did not find the 9-year-old's voice or actions to feel terribly realistic, but I often don't in these kinds of books. I live with one every day and while I am more than happy to agree that they do vacillate at this age between acting very young and very old for their ages, a lot of Katie's words and actions felt like an adult trying to write as a child to me, which gave her a slightly off-kilter feel. While it worked alright on the end for this type of story, it felt disjointed at times and did occasionally result in an eye roll or cringe.
Still, suspension of disbelief is key in a lot of thrillers, especially domestic ones in my opinion, and I was more than happy to suspend disbelief here because Mofina did an excellent job telling a fast-paced, entertaining, just plausible enough to freak you out tale that I found engaging from the first pages. I read this one in a day and found it a delightful way to break from the reality of post-holiday stress and blizzard-induced anxiety!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my obligation-free review copy.
July 31, 2024
I had high hopes for this through the first few chapters, but they were dashed far sooner than I would have liked. I had a difficult time believing that a mother would so deeply question her nine year old daughter’s very nature. The whole premise just didn’t sit well. I kept with it, however, waiting for some twist/insight/unexpected revelation/solar eclipse/apocalypse…..SOMETHING. I was left woefully disappointed, and turned the final pages feeling as if I was dragged through a predictable and poorly executed finale.
Not a fan.
Not a fan.
August 1, 2023
The plot was okay. I hated the writing style. It switched between teen descriptive and pseudo documentary. I tried to like it but it had me cringeing, sorry. Please note: 'internment' means incarceration, as in imprisonment; 'interment' is burial of a corpse in a grave or tomb (although it usually means the cremated remains rather than the actual body, which is generally referred to as a burial). These are not interchangeable terms and it irks me when they are misused.
February 7, 2023
Does anyone remember the first book that sent chills up their spine ? Mine was Local Woman Missing, by Mary Kubica. If anyone has read it they know Kubica set the bar for disturbing. Since, I have been chasing that feeling . I was in search of that up all night, can’t sleep, cant breathe, can’t think, kind of feeling and I found it …..
Everything She Feared
I think i made a subconscious decision to try everything in my power to give myself nightmares for the rest of my life . I can also tell you, I have achieved such goal without evening knowing I set it .
I’m officially terrified .
If you want to know what can scare the crap out of this thrill chasing, suspense lover than roll the dice and preorder yourself a copy of Everything She Feared. You won’t regret it ….. or will you? 😏
Teaser :
Every mother worries about their child. But Sara Harmon fears hers… When a teen falls while taking a selfie at the edge of a cliff, the last thing she sees before plummeting to her death is Katie Harmon, the nine-year-old girl she was babysitting, looking down at her. Investigators gather at the scene, and Katie’s mother, Sara, rushes to comfort her daughter. Yet there’s a small, secret ping of alarm in Sara’s heart that she cannot share—though rookie detective Kim Pierce senses it. For years, others have tried to unravel this secret. From true-crime podcasters to a haunted journalist searching for a killer who vanished after being released from prison several years ago. And now, with detectives tightening the focus of their investigation, Sara is consumed by her darkest fear—that the babysitter’s death was not an accident.
Everything She Feared
I think i made a subconscious decision to try everything in my power to give myself nightmares for the rest of my life . I can also tell you, I have achieved such goal without evening knowing I set it .
I’m officially terrified .
If you want to know what can scare the crap out of this thrill chasing, suspense lover than roll the dice and preorder yourself a copy of Everything She Feared. You won’t regret it ….. or will you? 😏
Teaser :
Every mother worries about their child. But Sara Harmon fears hers… When a teen falls while taking a selfie at the edge of a cliff, the last thing she sees before plummeting to her death is Katie Harmon, the nine-year-old girl she was babysitting, looking down at her. Investigators gather at the scene, and Katie’s mother, Sara, rushes to comfort her daughter. Yet there’s a small, secret ping of alarm in Sara’s heart that she cannot share—though rookie detective Kim Pierce senses it. For years, others have tried to unravel this secret. From true-crime podcasters to a haunted journalist searching for a killer who vanished after being released from prison several years ago. And now, with detectives tightening the focus of their investigation, Sara is consumed by her darkest fear—that the babysitter’s death was not an accident.
April 29, 2023
So repetitive, super boring, anti climactic and way too many irrelevant characters popping up throughout the book. Absolutely hated it. Waste of my time
April 23, 2023
This book could have been a lot better but it was extremely predictable. I kept waiting for something twisty or thrillery (obviously not a real word) but it never came…..especially with Katie. Maybe it would have been interesting if she actually was evil. Could have done without the suggested racism towards the woman detective (I don’t even remember her name and I literally finished the book 5 minutes ago) because it added nothing to the story. Why can’t authors just write about female characters as being strong and intelligent and not adding all the supposed struggles for acceptance because of her gender? She got the job didn’t she? She’s the lead detective on the case. That should speak to her qualifications.
April 21, 2023
This was a very different and interesting story. But, there was just so much going on within the story with so many characters that it was a bit hard getting through. That’s not saying I didn’t like the book. I just feel the book dragged on a bit longer than necessary. I also got confused about certain things that happened.
Overall, a ok read for me.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Overall, a ok read for me.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 13, 2022
Everything She Feared by Rick Mofina Slow start with alternating POVs and timelines which were confusing and did not make for an easy progression of the story. The last part of the book did ratchet up the tension and quickly summed up all the loose ends although it was a bit of a let down. Not a favorite from Mr. Morina.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the opportunity to preview the book
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the opportunity to preview the book
March 28, 2023
Nine-year-old Katie was out with her day camp and her and the team instructor Anna was holding the rear when Anna decided to take a selfie it would be the last decision Anna would make because the next thing the group knew Katie was running towards them screaming help because Anna fell off the cliff and they would soon learn she was dead at the bottom. Katie is beside herself with grief or at least that’s the way it looks but for her mom Sarah this is something she not only feared but was almost certain it was destined to happen Katie is only nine years old but long before this day on the cliff Sarah worried about her daughter due to family secrets in DNA Sarah had something to worry about but while raising Katie she prepared for the worst but hope for the best. This is one crazy book I didn’t know what to put and what not to put because I didn’t want to ruin it for anyone and OMG is this good and it’s not that it had lots of twists but when you have such great writing talent twist are not something you have to depend on this was a great book and one I totally enjoyed I will definitely be reading more from this author in the future kudos to her for a great thriller read! I received this book from NetGalley and a publisher but I am leaving this review voluntarily please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review..
September 26, 2023
4.5 stars because when I wasn't quickly turning the pages of Everything She Feared I was thinking about the next chapter.
Nine year old Katie is present when Anna Shaw falls off a cliff on a day trip.
Speculation arises and questions are asked how could she have fallen.
Katie was the last person to see her.
Little known to Katie her Mom has a troubled past that has been kept secret for years.
Rick Mofina knows how to tell a story that draws you in from the first to the last page and Everything She Feared is no exception.
The tension mounts with each page as you race to the end.
Rick Mofina is a go to author for me when I want a good thriller that holds my attention and heaven help anyone that interrupts me.
Thanks to NetGalley and Harelquin Trade Publishing, MIRA for a nail biting read.
Nine year old Katie is present when Anna Shaw falls off a cliff on a day trip.
Speculation arises and questions are asked how could she have fallen.
Katie was the last person to see her.
Little known to Katie her Mom has a troubled past that has been kept secret for years.
Rick Mofina knows how to tell a story that draws you in from the first to the last page and Everything She Feared is no exception.
The tension mounts with each page as you race to the end.
Rick Mofina is a go to author for me when I want a good thriller that holds my attention and heaven help anyone that interrupts me.
Thanks to NetGalley and Harelquin Trade Publishing, MIRA for a nail biting read.
May 19, 2023
Can evil be inherited? How much of a person’s moral compass nurture or nature? When Katie is the only one there when her babysitter falls off a cliff, everyone thought it was just a horrible accident. But as time goes on, suspicions fly about Katie and what really happened. But Katie is only 9. Surely she isn’t capable of killing anyone at her age. Or is she? Her mother Sara has a secret. A secret that she’s been keeping that maybe makes it possible for Katie to have killed Anna.
This book was fantastic. Anyone looking for a book that they literally can’t put down and need to devour, this is it. There were some predictable parts for me but it didn’t take anything away from the enjoyment of the book. This is a solid five star read for me.
This book was fantastic. Anyone looking for a book that they literally can’t put down and need to devour, this is it. There were some predictable parts for me but it didn’t take anything away from the enjoyment of the book. This is a solid five star read for me.
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