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The Haunted House of Hillman:
Maddie Dehler demonstrated one of the most remarkable survival escapes in history. Still horror returns again and again to the same county in rural Minnesota, and eventually to the home Julia Adams built. The cases go cold until BCA Investigator, Jon Frederick, is called in to find a common thread to a series of crimes that appear unrelated. Jon's relationship with Serena is put to the test by an old "friend." Serena makes a mistake with profound costs. Jon, despite his aversion to hauntings, and strains on his personal life, finds his way through the fog to solve the case. Based on a true case that eluded resolution for years.
426 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2023
18 people are currently reading
191 people want to read
About the author
Frank F. Weber
10 books174 followersFrank Weber is a forensic psychologist who has completed assessments for homicide, sexual assault, and domestic abuse cases. His work has ranged from assessing murderers chained to the cement floor in the basement of a prison and assessing psychopaths to providing therapy for wealthy professionals who’ve engaged in multiple affairs. He has testified as an expert witness in numerous sexual assault and homicide cases, written seven different treatment workbooks, and in 2015 published a training series for psychologists which has been accredited by the MN Board of Psychology. He has received the President’s Award from the Minnesota Correctional Association for his forensic work, and recently received an award for excellence in his clinical work. Frank Weber has used his unique understanding of how predator’s think, victim trauma, and actual court cases to create a thrilling mystery.
Raised in Pierz, Minnesota, Frank is one of ten children. Frank has been blessed to share his life with his wife, Brenda. His debut novel, Murder Book (North Star Press), will be available in May, 2017.
Raised in Pierz, Minnesota, Frank is one of ten children. Frank has been blessed to share his life with his wife, Brenda. His debut novel, Murder Book (North Star Press), will be available in May, 2017.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
June 22, 2023
✨B O O K • T O U R✨
The Haunted House of Hillman (H2OH)
5/5⭐️ // Released: June 14, 2023
#ad I received a gifted copy of this book and leave this review of my own accord. Many thanks for the author and Blue Cottage Agency #partner
Have I got a 💎 gem of a book for all of the crime lovers. Based off a true horror story that went cold for decades, this book hits every marker for what makes a great crime book so great.
In a small town in Minnesota someone has been causing havoc while managing to elude police. One girl survived, managed to get to help and survived being shot. Another girl wasn’t as lucky. Now nothing will stop Adams from figuring out who killed his wife — while dealing with his own demons and their fractured relationship.
This is a fast-paced character driven book that has all the menacing and diabolical aspects of a crime and the effects on a town. With an abundance of characters (there’s a character cheat-sheet) the story is told through their perspectives. The book, as a whole, is the perfect layout of a crime from start to finish.
You’ll be gripped from the start and entertained throughout, with the authors knowledge of crime and criminals, this book will not disappoint. A true edge-of-your-seat thriller.
There’s always something a little extra creepy when a story is based off true events. It makes it that much more real to us readers. I recommend!
The Haunted House of Hillman (H2OH)
5/5⭐️ // Released: June 14, 2023
#ad I received a gifted copy of this book and leave this review of my own accord. Many thanks for the author and Blue Cottage Agency #partner
Have I got a 💎 gem of a book for all of the crime lovers. Based off a true horror story that went cold for decades, this book hits every marker for what makes a great crime book so great.
In a small town in Minnesota someone has been causing havoc while managing to elude police. One girl survived, managed to get to help and survived being shot. Another girl wasn’t as lucky. Now nothing will stop Adams from figuring out who killed his wife — while dealing with his own demons and their fractured relationship.
This is a fast-paced character driven book that has all the menacing and diabolical aspects of a crime and the effects on a town. With an abundance of characters (there’s a character cheat-sheet) the story is told through their perspectives. The book, as a whole, is the perfect layout of a crime from start to finish.
You’ll be gripped from the start and entertained throughout, with the authors knowledge of crime and criminals, this book will not disappoint. A true edge-of-your-seat thriller.
There’s always something a little extra creepy when a story is based off true events. It makes it that much more real to us readers. I recommend!
May 17, 2023
From the moment you open the book we see one of the most incredible survival escapes! The story doesn’t stop with Maddie’s attack, we see it over and over again in the same area. The killer is targeting certain types of women. These are based on true cases. Pick up a copy of this book, you will not be disappointed! Reviewed by Tina M
#H2OH #frankweberbooks #truecrimebooks
#H2OH #frankweberbooks #truecrimebooks
July 4, 2024
Great local thriller! Definitely needed a little edit work with some typos and such, otherwise a solid read.
Despite the daunting character list, it was pretty easy to follow and built suspense right to the end.
Definitely due some credit, would recommend.
Despite the daunting character list, it was pretty easy to follow and built suspense right to the end.
Definitely due some credit, would recommend.
May 30, 2023
Frank Weber has produced another outstanding true crime thriller with The Haunted House of Hillman (H2OH). This is the third book I've read by this author and each one is excellent. I especially like that each chapter is told from the point of view of that character. It makes the characters three dimensional and helps the story come to life. Weber's background as a forensic psychologist also adds to the drama of the story. I could not put this book down!
May 27, 2023
His books just keep getting better
July 23, 2023
I've heard for the longest time that Frank Weber's books are incredible, but I have always actively avoided any sort of crime books that I come across. Not because I don't like them, but more so because I scare easily. But, when the opportunity came up to finally read one of Weber's books, I simply couldn't refuse. And so, I've finally gotten to experience his talent for writing myself with his latest book, The Haunted House of Hillman: (H2 OH).
There are so many things I want to say about this book. It was phenomenal, it was gripping, it was puzzling, it was enlightening, it was fantastic, it was everything I hoped and expected it to be and more. I started reading it when I was leaving on a flight to Seattle, WA for vacation with some friends. And while I wasn't eager to get back home, I spent my entire vacation constantly thinking about and looking forward to the flight back home so I could delve back into the book.
With Weber's background in forensic psychology, the fact that his story is based on a true case, and the added terrifying and yet incredibly cool fact that the story is set around, and at times in, my hometown (Little Falls), made the story all the more real and engaging for me. It was engaging to know the setting personally and be able to envision it in perfect clarity. It was thrilling (in the terrified-out-of-my-wits-sense) to know that this story was based on a true one. And yet it was so informative with Weber's knowledge of cases, how a criminal's mind works, and with his understanding of the law.
One of my favorite details that had me on the edge of my seat was how each chapter would lead with the name of the character whose point of view readers were going to get as well as the time, date, and location of the character. I would be flipping back and forth between chapters to see which characters were close to one another and who was in danger of falling victim next.
I was so tense throughout this entire book. It was like watching a horror movie and waiting for the jump scare. I never knew what the killer was going to do, who his next victim would be, and whether or not victims would escape. I devoured this book because I had to know. I couldn't handle not knowing the fate of the characters and without knowing who the killer was. They all mattered to me, and I wanted to know how the story would end.
This book exceeded all expectations. I highly recommend it and hope to read more of Weber's books in the future.
There are so many things I want to say about this book. It was phenomenal, it was gripping, it was puzzling, it was enlightening, it was fantastic, it was everything I hoped and expected it to be and more. I started reading it when I was leaving on a flight to Seattle, WA for vacation with some friends. And while I wasn't eager to get back home, I spent my entire vacation constantly thinking about and looking forward to the flight back home so I could delve back into the book.
With Weber's background in forensic psychology, the fact that his story is based on a true case, and the added terrifying and yet incredibly cool fact that the story is set around, and at times in, my hometown (Little Falls), made the story all the more real and engaging for me. It was engaging to know the setting personally and be able to envision it in perfect clarity. It was thrilling (in the terrified-out-of-my-wits-sense) to know that this story was based on a true one. And yet it was so informative with Weber's knowledge of cases, how a criminal's mind works, and with his understanding of the law.
One of my favorite details that had me on the edge of my seat was how each chapter would lead with the name of the character whose point of view readers were going to get as well as the time, date, and location of the character. I would be flipping back and forth between chapters to see which characters were close to one another and who was in danger of falling victim next.
I was so tense throughout this entire book. It was like watching a horror movie and waiting for the jump scare. I never knew what the killer was going to do, who his next victim would be, and whether or not victims would escape. I devoured this book because I had to know. I couldn't handle not knowing the fate of the characters and without knowing who the killer was. They all mattered to me, and I wanted to know how the story would end.
This book exceeded all expectations. I highly recommend it and hope to read more of Weber's books in the future.
June 5, 2023
In THE HAUNTED HOUSE OF HILLMAN, the reader gets a cast of characters that amuse, entertain, and often repulse the reader, even more so than in his other novels – and those novels are already filled with gripping action and excellent explanations of criminology methods.
Weber has continued with his characters from past books – John Frederick is the flawed, sensitive, and yet efficient investigator. His wife Serena still brings mystery to her marriage to John. The reader discovers that John’s brother Vic has a deeper story than has been revealed. Clay Roberts, John’s sometime friend and sometime adversary, carries a chip on his shoulder made of machismo and just a little too much experience. Tony Shileto, too, shows up with a bit more attitude, despite his limitations.
And there are new characters, best described by family names. There’s Marshall Adams and his family; broken, yet entwined. The Dietz family finds unexpected tragedy. The Merkle family, while providing a bit of comic relief, have their own secrets. There are individuals, too, that inhabit the Hillman area, but to avoid spoilers, let’s leave out names for now – but they have their own personalities that add to the ensemble cast of THE HAUNTED HOUSE OF HILLMAN.
The story itself finds John Frederick attempting to solve a cold case that happened in a small home outside of Hillman. This home has developed its own character as a place kids would go to scare themselves as they think about the crime that took place in the not-so-recent past. John follows leads and clues and various information gathered during interviews that may (or may not) lead to a conclusion and an arrest. Again, let us avoid spoilers.
Grab a copy of THE HAUNTED HOUSE OF HILLMAN to find more of Frank Weber’s skillful writing of investigating crimes; but you’ll also find that the author has developed his skill in writing his characters with more focus and depth.
Weber has continued with his characters from past books – John Frederick is the flawed, sensitive, and yet efficient investigator. His wife Serena still brings mystery to her marriage to John. The reader discovers that John’s brother Vic has a deeper story than has been revealed. Clay Roberts, John’s sometime friend and sometime adversary, carries a chip on his shoulder made of machismo and just a little too much experience. Tony Shileto, too, shows up with a bit more attitude, despite his limitations.
And there are new characters, best described by family names. There’s Marshall Adams and his family; broken, yet entwined. The Dietz family finds unexpected tragedy. The Merkle family, while providing a bit of comic relief, have their own secrets. There are individuals, too, that inhabit the Hillman area, but to avoid spoilers, let’s leave out names for now – but they have their own personalities that add to the ensemble cast of THE HAUNTED HOUSE OF HILLMAN.
The story itself finds John Frederick attempting to solve a cold case that happened in a small home outside of Hillman. This home has developed its own character as a place kids would go to scare themselves as they think about the crime that took place in the not-so-recent past. John follows leads and clues and various information gathered during interviews that may (or may not) lead to a conclusion and an arrest. Again, let us avoid spoilers.
Grab a copy of THE HAUNTED HOUSE OF HILLMAN to find more of Frank Weber’s skillful writing of investigating crimes; but you’ll also find that the author has developed his skill in writing his characters with more focus and depth.
July 29, 2023
Title: The Haunted House of Hillman
Author: Frank F. Weber
Genre: Crime Mystery, Crime Thriller
Trigger Warnings: Sex and Violence
Sweet Scale: Sweet!
TL:DR - Engaging crime story with interesting characters that kept me drawn in and not wanting to put it down. Some small twists and turns, but no big WOW twists. Needs one more run through by an editor/proofreader. I’d definitely read another book by Weber, especially with Serena and Jon as lead characters.
Review: This is my first read from Frank F. Weber, and, with a couple small nitpicks aside, I really enjoyed it. This book follows Jon and Serena Frederick, an investigator and his apprentice-ish wife who is helping him as he hunts down a serial rapist and killer who has been terrorizing the Pierz & Hillman areas of rural Minnesota. They are joined in the hunt by a former detective and his assistant/quasi-adopted daughter. Additionally, we meet a few other characters that each have their own quirks, personalities, and connections to the victims.
Nitpicks: There were a couple spots where character names/POV were swapped mid-chapter for a paragraph or two; I’m not sure if this was intentional and I just found it jarring, or if it was accidental, but it did pull me out of the story for a minute while I tried to clarify what I was reading. Second, there were many places in the book where it felt like the author pulled out a thesaurus just for the sake of using different words; this made great sense for the “trivia-knowledge” character, but not so much in dialogue from other characters or in non-dialogue paragraphs.
Recommended? Yes. I read this book over a couple days, and found myself reaching for it instead of social media whenever I had even just a few minutes free, which is a definite sign that I was into the story. I would definitely recommend it as an easy crime thriller read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Author: Frank F. Weber
Genre: Crime Mystery, Crime Thriller
Trigger Warnings: Sex and Violence
Sweet Scale: Sweet!
TL:DR - Engaging crime story with interesting characters that kept me drawn in and not wanting to put it down. Some small twists and turns, but no big WOW twists. Needs one more run through by an editor/proofreader. I’d definitely read another book by Weber, especially with Serena and Jon as lead characters.
Review: This is my first read from Frank F. Weber, and, with a couple small nitpicks aside, I really enjoyed it. This book follows Jon and Serena Frederick, an investigator and his apprentice-ish wife who is helping him as he hunts down a serial rapist and killer who has been terrorizing the Pierz & Hillman areas of rural Minnesota. They are joined in the hunt by a former detective and his assistant/quasi-adopted daughter. Additionally, we meet a few other characters that each have their own quirks, personalities, and connections to the victims.
Nitpicks: There were a couple spots where character names/POV were swapped mid-chapter for a paragraph or two; I’m not sure if this was intentional and I just found it jarring, or if it was accidental, but it did pull me out of the story for a minute while I tried to clarify what I was reading. Second, there were many places in the book where it felt like the author pulled out a thesaurus just for the sake of using different words; this made great sense for the “trivia-knowledge” character, but not so much in dialogue from other characters or in non-dialogue paragraphs.
Recommended? Yes. I read this book over a couple days, and found myself reaching for it instead of social media whenever I had even just a few minutes free, which is a definite sign that I was into the story. I would definitely recommend it as an easy crime thriller read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 25, 2024
"The Haunted House of Hillman" by Frank F. Weber is a thrilling exploration of the supernatural, blending elements of horror and mystery. The book stands out for its atmospheric storytelling and the author's ability to build suspense as the characters navigate the eerie happenings within the haunted house.
One commendable aspect of the novel is Frank F. Weber's skill in creating a palpable sense of suspense and tension. The author effectively utilizes atmospheric descriptions and eerie occurrences to immerse readers in the haunted setting. The pacing of the narrative keeps the tension taut, making it an engaging read for those who enjoy a good haunted house story.
Weber's writing style is evocative and lends itself well to the genre, capturing the chilling atmosphere of the haunted house. The characters are well-drawn, and their interactions with the supernatural elements contribute to the overall sense of unease. The author's ability to blend elements of horror and mystery adds depth to the narrative, making it suitable for readers who appreciate a combination of genres.
However, some readers may find certain horror elements to be intense, and the book's success may depend on individual preferences for the level of fright in a supernatural tale. Those seeking a more lighthearted or straightforward mystery might find the supernatural elements to be particularly impactful.
In conclusion, "The Haunted House of Hillman" is a compelling novel that successfully merges horror and mystery within the haunted house genre. Frank F. Weber's atmospheric storytelling and effective use of suspense contribute to the overall success of the book. While the intensity of the horror elements may vary for readers, the novel's ability to create a chilling and mysterious atmosphere makes it a worthwhile read for enthusiasts of the supernatural genre.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
One commendable aspect of the novel is Frank F. Weber's skill in creating a palpable sense of suspense and tension. The author effectively utilizes atmospheric descriptions and eerie occurrences to immerse readers in the haunted setting. The pacing of the narrative keeps the tension taut, making it an engaging read for those who enjoy a good haunted house story.
Weber's writing style is evocative and lends itself well to the genre, capturing the chilling atmosphere of the haunted house. The characters are well-drawn, and their interactions with the supernatural elements contribute to the overall sense of unease. The author's ability to blend elements of horror and mystery adds depth to the narrative, making it suitable for readers who appreciate a combination of genres.
However, some readers may find certain horror elements to be intense, and the book's success may depend on individual preferences for the level of fright in a supernatural tale. Those seeking a more lighthearted or straightforward mystery might find the supernatural elements to be particularly impactful.
In conclusion, "The Haunted House of Hillman" is a compelling novel that successfully merges horror and mystery within the haunted house genre. Frank F. Weber's atmospheric storytelling and effective use of suspense contribute to the overall success of the book. While the intensity of the horror elements may vary for readers, the novel's ability to create a chilling and mysterious atmosphere makes it a worthwhile read for enthusiasts of the supernatural genre.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 1, 2023
When Maddie Daler survived a brutal attempted sexual assault and murder in her little Minnesota town of Little Falls she became a he hero to many but she wouldn’t be the last victim. When Serena Bell heard about what the local woman went through she especially admired her and was surprised when she ran into a woman that she thought was Maddie but would turn out to be the murderer‘s next victim. Her name was Julia Adams and Serena witnessed Julius husband Marshall physically and verbally abusing her in front of the local bar. Little did Serena know she would be murdered later that night and although everyone thought Marshall was the killer that would be a frightened local teenager named Brandy who would eventually no different but would be too scared to tell Julia‘s little cabin would become the haunted house of Hillman and teenagers would get their thrills by going to see it and this is where Brandy was when she lost her cell phone and when she went back alone to retrieve it she would run in to the anonymous serial assaulter and killer how many more victims will there be before they solve the case and Ken a retired handicap detective a basketball star and an ex meth head really help with that? There is so much I loved about this book they had some great characters in this book like John Frederick and his brother Vic I love the way Vic it all kind of great useless information and how him and his brother said that trait I love John and Serena‘s relationship I love that Jace helped solve the case there’s so much I loved about this book and if you love great crime mystery you’ll love this book as well they truly stellar read! I want to thank Book sirens and the author for my free Ark copy please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
December 27, 2023
This is a crime thriller, but it is based on true cases.
This was an awesome book by Frank Weber and the first book I have read by the author. The story is easy to follow and has a great cast of characters. The book is set in small towns in Minnesota. The house on Hillman is the focus of the story where A woman is raped and murdered.
As a result, young people go to the house believing it is haunted but the killer is lurking nearby and very quickly another teenager is also raped there. The story does not stop with Maddie’s attack, as we see it repeatedly in the same area.
The story itself finds John Frederick attempting to solve a cold case that happened. John follows leads and clues and various information gathered during interviews that may (or may not) lead to a conclusion and an arrest. The maroon man is a sick man who enjoys raping, killing and enjoys making the women submit and suffer is found to be targeting a certain type of women.
I found This book to be professionally written and it holds the reader’s attention from the first page. Frank Weber did not disappoint me, and I found this book to be exceptionally professionally researched and professionally written. I could not put this book down as it has so much action and great in-depth characters it was a gripping read and exceeded all my expectations. Frank Weber is a very good crime writer and I defiantly look forward to reading more books by him very soon. I highly recommend you pick up a copy of this book as you will not be disappointed. I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntary.
This was an awesome book by Frank Weber and the first book I have read by the author. The story is easy to follow and has a great cast of characters. The book is set in small towns in Minnesota. The house on Hillman is the focus of the story where A woman is raped and murdered.
As a result, young people go to the house believing it is haunted but the killer is lurking nearby and very quickly another teenager is also raped there. The story does not stop with Maddie’s attack, as we see it repeatedly in the same area.
The story itself finds John Frederick attempting to solve a cold case that happened. John follows leads and clues and various information gathered during interviews that may (or may not) lead to a conclusion and an arrest. The maroon man is a sick man who enjoys raping, killing and enjoys making the women submit and suffer is found to be targeting a certain type of women.
I found This book to be professionally written and it holds the reader’s attention from the first page. Frank Weber did not disappoint me, and I found this book to be exceptionally professionally researched and professionally written. I could not put this book down as it has so much action and great in-depth characters it was a gripping read and exceeded all my expectations. Frank Weber is a very good crime writer and I defiantly look forward to reading more books by him very soon. I highly recommend you pick up a copy of this book as you will not be disappointed. I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntary.
June 18, 2024
A punchy and gripping thriller The Haunted House of Hillman begins with an attack on a young woman and moving through time shares stories of more attacks and murders over a timeline of more than 10 years. It cleverly tells the story from different perspectives, perpetrator, victim, investigator and many connected people.
I enjoyed the book and it constantly provoked thinking, it’s difficult at times and triggering as it is emotionally open as it is graphic in creating the details and importantly the feelings of the narrators in each chapter.
The detail and quality of writing is good and it brings to life the environment and settings very well, vivid location and weather descriptions and even highlighting how things were dealt with in the legal system through COVID.
The author clearly brings his knowledge of forensics and psychology and interweaves the characters and their stories well.
I gave it 4 as I did get a little lost about a third of the way through and had to go back a little. I guessed it but by 3/4 of the way through I’d changed my mind so lots of great storylines thrown in to follow.
The author really brings the characters to life and as much as the content is sometimes difficult there is a lot of emotion and feelings around relationships woven in that works really well.
Definitely enjoyed it and recommend and would read more from this author.
Grateful to have received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed the book and it constantly provoked thinking, it’s difficult at times and triggering as it is emotionally open as it is graphic in creating the details and importantly the feelings of the narrators in each chapter.
The detail and quality of writing is good and it brings to life the environment and settings very well, vivid location and weather descriptions and even highlighting how things were dealt with in the legal system through COVID.
The author clearly brings his knowledge of forensics and psychology and interweaves the characters and their stories well.
I gave it 4 as I did get a little lost about a third of the way through and had to go back a little. I guessed it but by 3/4 of the way through I’d changed my mind so lots of great storylines thrown in to follow.
The author really brings the characters to life and as much as the content is sometimes difficult there is a lot of emotion and feelings around relationships woven in that works really well.
Definitely enjoyed it and recommend and would read more from this author.
Grateful to have received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 17, 2023
What is it with Minnesota? I have never been there, but the more I read about it, the worse it seems, all the crazies seem to be from Minnesota and all the bad things happen in Minnesota! 😀😱🙈😱
This is one of the books where I find it hard to write a review because I’m afraid it is too easy to start disclosing all the secrets the plot holds if I allow myself to go really deep and pull out all the weird feelings this book brought up for me.
Let me just say here that do not be deceived by the book title – this is not a horror book of a made-up ghost haunting a house. Not. At. All.
This is a crime thriller – and, to make it HORRIBLE, it is based on true cases. And it is very well written. Only after I finished reading the book I actually looked up more about the author. Yup, this person knows what he is talking about. He has worked with all sorts of horrible cases, he has seen all sorts of horrible people.
Either way, the book is GOOD. It is horrible and it is good. Forget the true crime tv shows, forget all the entertaining true crime short stories. This is the real deal.
The book’s pub date is set to June 14, so there is still quite some time to wait for those who love the genre, but this one looks like it has all the potential to go big.
So, to all the true crime people – yay!
This is one of the books where I find it hard to write a review because I’m afraid it is too easy to start disclosing all the secrets the plot holds if I allow myself to go really deep and pull out all the weird feelings this book brought up for me.
Let me just say here that do not be deceived by the book title – this is not a horror book of a made-up ghost haunting a house. Not. At. All.
This is a crime thriller – and, to make it HORRIBLE, it is based on true cases. And it is very well written. Only after I finished reading the book I actually looked up more about the author. Yup, this person knows what he is talking about. He has worked with all sorts of horrible cases, he has seen all sorts of horrible people.
Either way, the book is GOOD. It is horrible and it is good. Forget the true crime tv shows, forget all the entertaining true crime short stories. This is the real deal.
The book’s pub date is set to June 14, so there is still quite some time to wait for those who love the genre, but this one looks like it has all the potential to go big.
So, to all the true crime people – yay!
June 22, 2023
This was an overall good thriller book. I thought the character development was done well and really made you root for certain characters. There were times I felt taken out of the story (like when the younger kids like Jace were speaking and in their lingo i.e cheugy, it was explained what it meant. I think for older readers (that aren’t familiar with the lingo) could still pick up on context clues to figure out what their saying instead of addressing it. I also didn’t care much for the POV of the killer. I didn’t think his perspective offered anything to the story and if anything just gave him a voice he really shouldn’t have had given his crimes. That said, I did enjoy the POV switching from characters throughout the book. The storyline did hold my interest throughout. I would recommend unless someone has triggers in sexual assault. I did receive an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 24, 2023
This is a gripping crime thriller set in rural Minnesota that is based on a true story. This fact makes it more frightening.
The book starts with Maddie Dehler's amazing survival escape after being shot and chased by a man we will discover to be a murderer and serial rapist.
The story is told through the viewpoints of different characters. This requires you to pay attention at the beginning. But once you are familiar with the characters, you will find that this literary device works very well. You will also be challenged by the imperfect nature of most of the characters.
Toward the end of the book, I could not put it down! I needed to see how the bad guy's identity would be discovered and whether he would be brought to justice.
4.5 stars rounded down because there are too many typos or grammatical errors for my taste.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The book starts with Maddie Dehler's amazing survival escape after being shot and chased by a man we will discover to be a murderer and serial rapist.
The story is told through the viewpoints of different characters. This requires you to pay attention at the beginning. But once you are familiar with the characters, you will find that this literary device works very well. You will also be challenged by the imperfect nature of most of the characters.
Toward the end of the book, I could not put it down! I needed to see how the bad guy's identity would be discovered and whether he would be brought to justice.
4.5 stars rounded down because there are too many typos or grammatical errors for my taste.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 18, 2023
I really enjoyed the story in this book. It loosely connects to other books by the author, but I didn't feel like I had to read the others to understand this. It jumps to multiple characters, which isn't my favorite style of writing, but it's done well and in an organized manner so it's easy to follow.
The biggest thing I disliked about this book was the side story between the main investigator and his wife. It seemed like an afterthought that was needed at the last minute. I don't think this would've been a bad addition, but it just seemed very displaced and unnecessary. Not enough thought went into the story itself, and it was sprinkled in in weird places.
Overall, I found this book to move along at a really good pace. It was enjoyable and I am excited to read more by this author.
Note that I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The biggest thing I disliked about this book was the side story between the main investigator and his wife. It seemed like an afterthought that was needed at the last minute. I don't think this would've been a bad addition, but it just seemed very displaced and unnecessary. Not enough thought went into the story itself, and it was sprinkled in in weird places.
Overall, I found this book to move along at a really good pace. It was enjoyable and I am excited to read more by this author.
Note that I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 2, 2023
This book was written so well!! I loved every min of it. This is a longer book and I read it in a day!!
I couldn't put it down. The twists the turns I was spooked out at some points. This was a true mystery that kept me guessing until the end of the book and even then I was still shocked and reeling!! This was my first read by this author and I was NOT disappointed in the least !! I will be for sure checking out more by this author. This wasn't just a murder mystery case also got to know all the characters and what they were dealing with and I LOVED how was told from characters points of view I could go on and on but I don't want to give anything away !! I will say if you enjoy a good small time story with murder and mystery this book is for you !!!
September 30, 2023
4.5 stars for me. With that said I am a picky rater so this is a good rating. :)
This is the story about a murder in Hillman, Mn and has intersecting stories about people who go back to the murdered woman's house which leads to other incidents.
The telling of the story is good but the book was a little long for me.
With that said I did learn a lot of details I didn't know before (only 5 states in the US have conjugal visits, DNA is not in the hair but in the scalp) and I am a Minnesotan so was familiar with a few of the areas covered in this book.
I had the pleasure of Meeting Frank Weber at an Author event this month and he has a talent for telling a story and sharing aspects of True Crime. Very nice man also.
This is the story about a murder in Hillman, Mn and has intersecting stories about people who go back to the murdered woman's house which leads to other incidents.
The telling of the story is good but the book was a little long for me.
With that said I did learn a lot of details I didn't know before (only 5 states in the US have conjugal visits, DNA is not in the hair but in the scalp) and I am a Minnesotan so was familiar with a few of the areas covered in this book.
I had the pleasure of Meeting Frank Weber at an Author event this month and he has a talent for telling a story and sharing aspects of True Crime. Very nice man also.
August 20, 2023
This book has so much action and great in-depth characters. It kept me up late and got me up early to finish it.
Set in small towns in Minnesota is what initially attracted me to the book. There are plenty of accurate descriptions of the horribly cold winters we endure here.
Small town rapist and murderer has the detectives on the case to discover his identity. The crimes are brutal and numerous with POV from the victims, the detectives and the criminal.
The book ends in a real cat and mouse trap that left me thinking. “ just one my chapter and I must sleep ! “
Excellent book !
Thanks to Book Sirens , the author and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Set in small towns in Minnesota is what initially attracted me to the book. There are plenty of accurate descriptions of the horribly cold winters we endure here.
Small town rapist and murderer has the detectives on the case to discover his identity. The crimes are brutal and numerous with POV from the victims, the detectives and the criminal.
The book ends in a real cat and mouse trap that left me thinking. “ just one my chapter and I must sleep ! “
Excellent book !
Thanks to Book Sirens , the author and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
September 11, 2023
Crime thriller fans will love this.
Based on a true story, the story presents through a multiplicity of character POV. For the crime reader this offers unique insight into the thought process of law enforcement, victims and the perpetrator.
For a general reader this narrative device somewhat slows the plot, and with each chapter explaining terms, linguistic differentials etc, makes them less than three dimensional. For those readers I would rate this 3*
But, for the intended readership, the attention to detail will be immersive. For those, I rate this 4*
I received a copy of this book for review and leave this voluntarily.
Based on a true story, the story presents through a multiplicity of character POV. For the crime reader this offers unique insight into the thought process of law enforcement, victims and the perpetrator.
For a general reader this narrative device somewhat slows the plot, and with each chapter explaining terms, linguistic differentials etc, makes them less than three dimensional. For those readers I would rate this 3*
But, for the intended readership, the attention to detail will be immersive. For those, I rate this 4*
I received a copy of this book for review and leave this voluntarily.
October 26, 2023
Another great book by Frank Weber. As the investigation starts and continues one is pulled into the lives of the characters. Every pain is felt by the reader.
But as always Jon and Serena collect information that helps them to solve the case.
The house on Hillman is the focus of story. A woman was murdered and raped there. And as a result another teenager was also raped there. The maroon man is a sick man who enjoys raping, killing and enjoys making the women submit and suffer.
As the investigation moves forward I know that either Vicki or Serena will gain the attention of the maroon man.
To find out how the story ends you must read this book.
Looking forward to the next one!
But as always Jon and Serena collect information that helps them to solve the case.
The house on Hillman is the focus of story. A woman was murdered and raped there. And as a result another teenager was also raped there. The maroon man is a sick man who enjoys raping, killing and enjoys making the women submit and suffer.
As the investigation moves forward I know that either Vicki or Serena will gain the attention of the maroon man.
To find out how the story ends you must read this book.
Looking forward to the next one!
February 10, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. There are a few characters and they are all tied together due to violence and trauma. Maddie Dehler is the first character that you root for and then there are more. It is hard to figure out who the killer is and why the killer is doing what they do. Over time there is more and more things and the complexities of the characters just make you want to know them in person. I really enjoyed this book even if there was a little more than needed to be in the book. I 100% would read more by this author. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 20, 2024
This is my first book by Mr. Weber, certainly won't be my last! I am a true crime addict so of course this pulled me right in since it is based on a real case. This book shows us just how unraveled people can be. The story is told in alternating points of view, another of my favorite things. The characters are easy to relate to, well, not the killer, but everyone else. Overall this is a well written, well developed suspense story that keeps you guessing, has a twinge of creepy and was a nice way to escape for awhile. Thank you to the author and BookSirens for a free copy to read in exchange for an honest review.
July 16, 2023
OOH this one had me captivated!
At the beginning the writer states to look at the heading of each chapter as it tells that chapter from that characters point of view. I like this style and he had me guessing for a long time. And I got it wrong too.
Overall I really enjoyed it, but then I went for a walk by myself when visiting a country town and that made me second guess myself at a certain point when no one else was around so I turned back to where there were people. Yes I had this book on my mind. And that in itself is a great review!
I look forward to reading more by this author.
At the beginning the writer states to look at the heading of each chapter as it tells that chapter from that characters point of view. I like this style and he had me guessing for a long time. And I got it wrong too.
Overall I really enjoyed it, but then I went for a walk by myself when visiting a country town and that made me second guess myself at a certain point when no one else was around so I turned back to where there were people. Yes I had this book on my mind. And that in itself is a great review!
I look forward to reading more by this author.
September 7, 2023
This story captivated me right from the beginning. This is the first book I have read by this author, but I will definitely need to go read others. It was crazy to read a book that takes place in an area of Minnesota not far from my hometown and the city that I now live was also brought up in this one. It was crazy to read a book with towns I know and have been to before.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 15, 2023
This book was a well written thriller that offered character development. The book had multiple points of views that was done well and other than the killer’s point of view I enjoyed it. I liked that this book was based on a true case which added an edge to this book. The mystery aspect of this book was well done and had me trying to solve it myself. Crime thriller fans should give this book a read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 27, 2024
This is my second of Frank's books and I realized they are all connected and may have to read the rest!
This story is a rough one to read with sensitive subject matter, but Frank does a good job of being sensitive to it. The crime/thriller aspect is well done and I didn't quite predict the ending. It dragged in some spots and the ending did go for a little longer than necessary, but it wrapped up well.
This story is a rough one to read with sensitive subject matter, but Frank does a good job of being sensitive to it. The crime/thriller aspect is well done and I didn't quite predict the ending. It dragged in some spots and the ending did go for a little longer than necessary, but it wrapped up well.
June 22, 2023
Wow, just wow! I could not put this book down. I love how Frank writes each chapter in the 1st person style with each character telling their own story. That brings a whole new dimension to storytelling. I highly recommend this book as well as his others.
No spoilers here, you just have to read for yourself. Love, love, loved it.
No spoilers here, you just have to read for yourself. Love, love, loved it.
July 18, 2023
This story is complex and simple at the same time. Jon and Serena Fredrick are trying to solve a cold case. Along the way, other people are hurt and killed. The clues are non-existing or damaged. A very well written story that keeps the reader's attention with all the different characters, both good and bad. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 23, 2023
I loved this book, it was heart breaking, warming & shocking all at the same time. Pulled you in from page one, I loved the characters & the intense story line, it does have triggering elements if you have had any abuse in your life but the ending was brilliant.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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