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True Crime Junkies #1
Just the Nicest Person
Disgraced attorney Andi Grey came to Alaska to find justice after a friend's murder. In order to find answers, she’s gone undercover in the dangerous world of ice road trucking.
Former CID investigator Duke McAllister is searching for his fiancée who disappeared two years ago on the Dalton Highway. Though the trail has gone cold, he hasn't given up hope he'll find her alive, along with the other women who’ve disappeared along the remote stretch of highway.
A snowstorm throws Andi and Duke together, and both of their plans come to a freezing halt. They’re stranded in the Arctic Circle, the only highway in and out of the area closed. While together, they discover a common true crime. When their favorite local Alaskan podcaster goes radio silent right before revealing the name of a cold case killer, they dive in to investigate only to make a terrifyingly frigid discovery.
Can these strangers work together to find answers before the biting, dangerous cold claims their lives? Or even worse . . . before the killer comes looking for his own brand of justice?
Former CID investigator Duke McAllister is searching for his fiancée who disappeared two years ago on the Dalton Highway. Though the trail has gone cold, he hasn't given up hope he'll find her alive, along with the other women who’ve disappeared along the remote stretch of highway.
A snowstorm throws Andi and Duke together, and both of their plans come to a freezing halt. They’re stranded in the Arctic Circle, the only highway in and out of the area closed. While together, they discover a common true crime. When their favorite local Alaskan podcaster goes radio silent right before revealing the name of a cold case killer, they dive in to investigate only to make a terrifyingly frigid discovery.
Can these strangers work together to find answers before the biting, dangerous cold claims their lives? Or even worse . . . before the killer comes looking for his own brand of justice?
414 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2023
1388 people are currently reading
1254 people want to read
About the author
Christy Barritt
340 books1,677 followersChristy Barritt is an author, freelance writer and speaker who lives in Virginia. She’s married to her Prince Charming, a man who thinks she’s hilarious—but only when she’s not trying to be. Christy’s a self-proclaimed klutz, an avid music lover who’s known for spontaneously bursting into song, and a road trip aficionado. She’s only won one contest in her life—and her prize was kissing a pig (okay, okay… actually she did win the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Suspense and Mystery also). Her current claim to fame is showing off her mother, who looks just like former First Lady Barbara Bush
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews
February 4, 2024
Just The Nicest Person - Christy Barritt - 3.5 to 4 Stars, Maybe 3.75 :) (Book 1 in the True Crime Junkies series)
BLOG REVIEW POST HERE.
What a wild ride! Just the Nicest Person was our Christian book club pick for January and I had a fun time reading this. It's a Christian Suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat and have you NEEDING to know all the things! Very fast paced, which I love in books, and not just 1 plot point - we see secondary plot points that can be explored in future books which is always interesting because now I need to read book 2!
This story is about Andi, a previous attorney with a mysterious past. She is driving her "ice-road-truck" through Alaska - as she is there to find justice after a friend's murder. Things take a dramatic turn when she sees a man in the middle of the road during a white-out snow storm and her truck veers off the road.
Enter Duke McAllister, a former CID investigator gone tour guide in Alaska, who comes to Andi's rescue. The person in the road Andi saw is no where to be found and with Duke having his clients, brother and sister, with him on a tour at the time, they end up getting involved in the situation as well and travel with Duke and Andi to the nearest trading post.
As they all get settled in from the snow at the local trading post, they realize their favorite local Alaskan podcaster, Craig, goes silent right before he was to reveal the name of a cold case killer. This leads them to dive right in to investigate together...only to make a terrifying discovery that he has been murdered. Together, they embark on the full investigation, but the lurking killer, always watching, poses a constant threat. Will these strangers be able to find the killer before its too late?
The story's setting in Alaska is a standout feature that I thoroughly enjoyed. The unique backdrop, coupled with insights into the challenges faced by law enforcement in the area, added depth to the story. While Andi's character sometimes grated on my nerves with her persistent "because I'm a woman" attitude and certain choices she makes frustrated me, I loved the other characters of Duke, Simmy, Mariella and Michael. They were AWESOME. Mariella stands out and adds a bit of humor to the story as she is an online influencer so she uses her skills to help in the investigation. Nevertheless, I am really excited to get back into this series to explore Duke's missing fiancé and Andi's career issues.
Additionally, the exploration of Andi's faith journey and Duke's explanations for why he believed in God were great. The formation of a group for true crime enthusiasts adds an extra layer of anticipation for book 2! I look forward to delving deeper into this series and seeing the progression of these characters and their stories.
BLOG REVIEW POST HERE.
What a wild ride! Just the Nicest Person was our Christian book club pick for January and I had a fun time reading this. It's a Christian Suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat and have you NEEDING to know all the things! Very fast paced, which I love in books, and not just 1 plot point - we see secondary plot points that can be explored in future books which is always interesting because now I need to read book 2!
This story is about Andi, a previous attorney with a mysterious past. She is driving her "ice-road-truck" through Alaska - as she is there to find justice after a friend's murder. Things take a dramatic turn when she sees a man in the middle of the road during a white-out snow storm and her truck veers off the road.
Enter Duke McAllister, a former CID investigator gone tour guide in Alaska, who comes to Andi's rescue. The person in the road Andi saw is no where to be found and with Duke having his clients, brother and sister, with him on a tour at the time, they end up getting involved in the situation as well and travel with Duke and Andi to the nearest trading post.
As they all get settled in from the snow at the local trading post, they realize their favorite local Alaskan podcaster, Craig, goes silent right before he was to reveal the name of a cold case killer. This leads them to dive right in to investigate together...only to make a terrifying discovery that he has been murdered. Together, they embark on the full investigation, but the lurking killer, always watching, poses a constant threat. Will these strangers be able to find the killer before its too late?
The story's setting in Alaska is a standout feature that I thoroughly enjoyed. The unique backdrop, coupled with insights into the challenges faced by law enforcement in the area, added depth to the story. While Andi's character sometimes grated on my nerves with her persistent "because I'm a woman" attitude and certain choices she makes frustrated me, I loved the other characters of Duke, Simmy, Mariella and Michael. They were AWESOME. Mariella stands out and adds a bit of humor to the story as she is an online influencer so she uses her skills to help in the investigation. Nevertheless, I am really excited to get back into this series to explore Duke's missing fiancé and Andi's career issues.
Additionally, the exploration of Andi's faith journey and Duke's explanations for why he believed in God were great. The formation of a group for true crime enthusiasts adds an extra layer of anticipation for book 2! I look forward to delving deeper into this series and seeing the progression of these characters and their stories.
September 19, 2024
Do you enjoy true crime? An Alaskan setting?
You’ll have to read this KU book by Christy Barritt. It’s book 1 of the True Crime Junkies series and is set in Alaska.
Craig Rogers, a seasoned PI, hosts “Real Crime, Real Time” and is focused on solving the murder of one of his neighbours. Henrietta Blanco was murdered in cold blood eight years ago and Rogers believes he’s finally pinpointed the perpetrator. The thing is, while he’s moments away from revealing it on his podcast, he’s murdered during an off-air break.
The murder mystery kept me guessing and I loved the red herrings and twists. I loved learning about the Homestead Act, the Canaan Community, and how Alaskans’ circadian rhythm gets so off-kilter. It was good to be reminded to learn and grow when things go wrong, to be humble enough to admit weakness, and that true faith demands sacrifice.
“Stop thinking about religion in terms of rules and more in terms of relationship.”
I’ve already downloaded the second book in the series and I can’t wait to see what The Arctic Circle Murder Club gets up to next!
You’ll have to read this KU book by Christy Barritt. It’s book 1 of the True Crime Junkies series and is set in Alaska.
Craig Rogers, a seasoned PI, hosts “Real Crime, Real Time” and is focused on solving the murder of one of his neighbours. Henrietta Blanco was murdered in cold blood eight years ago and Rogers believes he’s finally pinpointed the perpetrator. The thing is, while he’s moments away from revealing it on his podcast, he’s murdered during an off-air break.
The murder mystery kept me guessing and I loved the red herrings and twists. I loved learning about the Homestead Act, the Canaan Community, and how Alaskans’ circadian rhythm gets so off-kilter. It was good to be reminded to learn and grow when things go wrong, to be humble enough to admit weakness, and that true faith demands sacrifice.
“Stop thinking about religion in terms of rules and more in terms of relationship.”
I’ve already downloaded the second book in the series and I can’t wait to see what The Arctic Circle Murder Club gets up to next!
January 25, 2024
3 ½ stars 🌟
I literally read this entire book in one sitting. But while it was hard to put down, in the end I just didn't love it.
Andi was a little annoying. She was really touchy and all "you think I can't do such and such because I'm a woman?" But at the same time, she knew she was being that way because of past experiences with men, and she tried not to be like that, but I'm sorry it was still a little annoying. And Duke would always be like, "you guys wait here while I go see if it's safe." And Andi would wait for a while but then Duke would be gone too long and she'd go check on him and more often than not, end up saving his life. Also a few comments and things seemed repetitive.
The POV shifted back and forth between Duke and Andi every couple pages or so, which some people might dislike, but I think that's part of what made this book so easy and quick to read?
You also get a few chapters from the killer's POV. And I know some people don't like when the bad guys use religion and the Bible to justify their actions, so if you are one of those people, this book probably isn't for you.
There isn't really any romance in this book, but I'm sure it will come as the series goes on. I am interested in the missing fiancée mystery but not enough to read book 2.
Overall, a decent book, but not really for me.
I literally read this entire book in one sitting. But while it was hard to put down, in the end I just didn't love it.
Andi was a little annoying. She was really touchy and all "you think I can't do such and such because I'm a woman?" But at the same time, she knew she was being that way because of past experiences with men, and she tried not to be like that, but I'm sorry it was still a little annoying. And Duke would always be like, "you guys wait here while I go see if it's safe." And Andi would wait for a while but then Duke would be gone too long and she'd go check on him and more often than not, end up saving his life. Also a few comments and things seemed repetitive.
The POV shifted back and forth between Duke and Andi every couple pages or so, which some people might dislike, but I think that's part of what made this book so easy and quick to read?
You also get a few chapters from the killer's POV. And I know some people don't like when the bad guys use religion and the Bible to justify their actions, so if you are one of those people, this book probably isn't for you.
There isn't really any romance in this book, but I'm sure it will come as the series goes on. I am interested in the missing fiancée mystery but not enough to read book 2.
Overall, a decent book, but not really for me.
February 1, 2024
I really enjoyed this book, it had me on the edge of my seat and kept me guessing until the end. The only reason it wasn't 5 stars was because I felt the ending was a little lacking for me. But I'm really excited to read book 2.
January 30, 2024
Loved the setting! I have a weird obsession with Alaska and the tv show Ice Road Truckers. I liked how the main relationship played out. The book was very fast-paced with very short chapters, which I love. The social media twins were a fun addition. I'll definitely read the next book!
February 21, 2024
*4.5⭐️
What a great start to The Crime Junkies series! The whole 391 pages kept me engaged and eager to find out what would happen next.
“When their favorite local podcaster goes radio silent right before revealing the name of a cold case killer, they dive in to investigate only to make a terrifyingly frigid discovery”.
This book follows Andi who is working as an ice road trucker and Duke who is working as a tour guide. The two come together during a storm and find shelter at the “Almost Halfway Trading Post”. A group of very different individuals with an interest in true crime decides to investigate a why a true crime podcaster went silent during their season finale episode. This starts a fast paced and intriguing mystery for the group!
I really enjoyed this book and will definitely read the next book in the series!
#TrueCrime #Alaska #Podcast #ShortChapters #ChristianFiction #LittleToNoRomance
What a great start to The Crime Junkies series! The whole 391 pages kept me engaged and eager to find out what would happen next.
“When their favorite local podcaster goes radio silent right before revealing the name of a cold case killer, they dive in to investigate only to make a terrifyingly frigid discovery”.
This book follows Andi who is working as an ice road trucker and Duke who is working as a tour guide. The two come together during a storm and find shelter at the “Almost Halfway Trading Post”. A group of very different individuals with an interest in true crime decides to investigate a why a true crime podcaster went silent during their season finale episode. This starts a fast paced and intriguing mystery for the group!
I really enjoyed this book and will definitely read the next book in the series!
#TrueCrime #Alaska #Podcast #ShortChapters #ChristianFiction #LittleToNoRomance
January 22, 2024
I read this for a book club, so Mrs. Barrit was a new author to me. I enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading more. The two main protagonists, Andi and Duke, are an interesting duo with great chemistry. The mystery is well written with plenty of red herrings. This book is written in multiple POV's which I usually do not enjoy, but it works for this book.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, I have not been influenced by anyone.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, I have not been influenced by anyone.
November 4, 2024
Just brace yourself for a stomach ache from all the cheese in this book 😜
You’ll enjoy it but then wonder why the heck you ate the whole bowl of queso
You’ll enjoy it but then wonder why the heck you ate the whole bowl of queso
May 7, 2025
A great start to the series! This one felt extra disturbing because the killer completely bent Scripture to justify his actions (which was called out in the end, by the way). I’m looking forward to seeing how the characters grow in the series as they solve more mysteries!
January 9, 2026
I had very high hopes for this book. It started out so strong, and had me immediately wanting to get the rest of the series.
But then it started getting repetitive and the sentences got choppy. It just felt very elementary to me, which was so disappointing. I love the original Lantern Beach series and have read it a number of times. But this book just didn't do it for me.
But then it started getting repetitive and the sentences got choppy. It just felt very elementary to me, which was so disappointing. I love the original Lantern Beach series and have read it a number of times. But this book just didn't do it for me.
November 6, 2023
I've now completed "Just the Nicest Person" by Christy Barritt, and it certainly was an interesting departure from her previous works. This book gives readers an intriguing glimpse into Alaska, reminiscent at times of the exciting vistas and perilous journeys depicted in "Ice Road Truckers."
The novel revolves around the riveting investigation into the murder of a true crime podcaster and explores the last mystery he was engrossed in solving. While the story delivers on intrigue, I initially found myself stumbling over the research embedded in dialogue and had a bit of difficulty connecting deeply with the characters.
However, by the conclusion, I appreciated the novel more fully. While it may not be my personal favorite among Barritt's works, it stands as a testament to her range and talent as a writer. The unfolding of the plot is skilful, and, despite early reservations, the book offers a solid mystery with Barritt's signature storytelling prowess. I'm glad I stayed the course with this one, and I encourage fans and new readers alike to give it a try for an authentic taste of Alaskan adventure mixed with suspenseful storytelling.
The novel revolves around the riveting investigation into the murder of a true crime podcaster and explores the last mystery he was engrossed in solving. While the story delivers on intrigue, I initially found myself stumbling over the research embedded in dialogue and had a bit of difficulty connecting deeply with the characters.
However, by the conclusion, I appreciated the novel more fully. While it may not be my personal favorite among Barritt's works, it stands as a testament to her range and talent as a writer. The unfolding of the plot is skilful, and, despite early reservations, the book offers a solid mystery with Barritt's signature storytelling prowess. I'm glad I stayed the course with this one, and I encourage fans and new readers alike to give it a try for an authentic taste of Alaskan adventure mixed with suspenseful storytelling.
January 17, 2024
I really wanted to love this book.
The concept was compelling, and the plot held a lot of promise, but the writing just wasn’t for me and that ending was pretty anticlimactic. The entire climax lasted, maybe, four pages?
Maybe I’m just spoiled after coming off of CC Warrens’ Holly series where the characters were so vivid and lifelike, where the settings were so real and tangible, and the plot left me breathless.
But I have a couple issues with True Crime Junkies. The first, as I already mentioned, was the writing. I get the feeling that the author was going for a “stream of consciousness” feel, but when almost the entire book.
Is written.
Like this.
With one-line paragraphs.
Even when there’s nothing suspenseful happening.
It just didn’t work.
The writing also lacked a lot of nuance. When writers spell everything out for their readers, it comes across as really dull. There were several times where one character would ponder something – maybe an assumption about another character – and then two lines later that other character would confirm their thoughts “as if to read their mind” and use the exact same verbiage. It made a lot of the dialogue and monologue feel very redundant. Again, a lack of nuance.
Then, the way “the gang” fell together felt very forced. They went from five strangers over the course of a night to immediately referring to themselves as “the gang.” I get that they were all hiding from a bad guy and afraid of who it might be, but even that fear didn��t feel very palpable. Probably because this book tends to tell rather than show. Which also meant that I didn’t feel connected to our two leads, Andi and Duke.
Not to mention the author’s bizarre aversion to the word “too.” Characters said things like “Me also.” Or “He joined them also.” Sure, it’s grammatically correct, but it just doesn’t feel organic. And neither did much of the dialogue. Like when Duke, a thirty-something former military detective says, “Alaska is the best place of all time.”
No adult should be ending a sentence with “of all time” unironically.
I bought all four books in the series (so far), so my hope is that maybe the writing gets better as the series goes on? But I think I’m going to take a break and read some Jamie Jo Wright.
The concept was compelling, and the plot held a lot of promise, but the writing just wasn’t for me and that ending was pretty anticlimactic. The entire climax lasted, maybe, four pages?
Maybe I’m just spoiled after coming off of CC Warrens’ Holly series where the characters were so vivid and lifelike, where the settings were so real and tangible, and the plot left me breathless.
But I have a couple issues with True Crime Junkies. The first, as I already mentioned, was the writing. I get the feeling that the author was going for a “stream of consciousness” feel, but when almost the entire book.
Is written.
Like this.
With one-line paragraphs.
Even when there’s nothing suspenseful happening.
It just didn’t work.
The writing also lacked a lot of nuance. When writers spell everything out for their readers, it comes across as really dull. There were several times where one character would ponder something – maybe an assumption about another character – and then two lines later that other character would confirm their thoughts “as if to read their mind” and use the exact same verbiage. It made a lot of the dialogue and monologue feel very redundant. Again, a lack of nuance.
Then, the way “the gang” fell together felt very forced. They went from five strangers over the course of a night to immediately referring to themselves as “the gang.” I get that they were all hiding from a bad guy and afraid of who it might be, but even that fear didn��t feel very palpable. Probably because this book tends to tell rather than show. Which also meant that I didn’t feel connected to our two leads, Andi and Duke.
Not to mention the author’s bizarre aversion to the word “too.” Characters said things like “Me also.” Or “He joined them also.” Sure, it’s grammatically correct, but it just doesn’t feel organic. And neither did much of the dialogue. Like when Duke, a thirty-something former military detective says, “Alaska is the best place of all time.”
No adult should be ending a sentence with “of all time” unironically.
I bought all four books in the series (so far), so my hope is that maybe the writing gets better as the series goes on? But I think I’m going to take a break and read some Jamie Jo Wright.
August 16, 2023
Another Spectacular Read by Christy Barritt!
When you pick up a book by Christy Barritt, you know you are in for an exciting adventure! This one was amazing, it's set
in the Artic Circle and it promises to give you chills one way or another!!
When you pick up a book by Christy Barritt, you know you are in for an exciting adventure! This one was amazing, it's set
in the Artic Circle and it promises to give you chills one way or another!!
October 24, 2025
Fast-paced, edge-of-the-seat suspense! Andi and Duke are such strong characters, but the minor characters are just as well developed. The descriptions are so realistic that you feel as though you are in the thick of the action. I'm looking forward to Book 2 in the series.
January 14, 2024
Christy did a great job keeping the plot moving! The characters held intense secrets and you had to keep reading to find out what they were hiding. I was drawn in within the first five pages!
January 20, 2024
Podcast with a story
Riveting, scary tale of murder with lots of twists and turns. Definitely hard to put down.
I finished it in one day because I had to know the ending.
Riveting, scary tale of murder with lots of twists and turns. Definitely hard to put down.
I finished it in one day because I had to know the ending.
February 5, 2024
Unpredictable, edge of your seat suspense!
I have been a fan of Christy Barritt for some time. I very much enjoyed this first book in the True Crime Junkies series. I look forward to reading more!!
I have been a fan of Christy Barritt for some time. I very much enjoyed this first book in the True Crime Junkies series. I look forward to reading more!!
August 26, 2023
I Approve 😊
As a lifelong Alaskan, I often find novels set in my state to be frustrating at times, due to incorrect phrases attributed to Alaskans or geographical locations of real places and communities that are just flat out wrong. The basic plots of these novels may be enjoyable, but the inaccuracies diminish my enjoyment.
I found Just the Nicest Person to be a breath of fresh air, as I didn’t detect any geographical mistakes or incorrect phrasing at all - just a wonderfully intriguing mystery that I read from beginning to end, only stopping to drive home from work (where I began reading) and later, fixing myself a plate of dinner 😊
Thank you, Christy, for this delightful new series! I look forward to the next volume, He Walks Among Us, and seeing Andi pursue her investigation of Victor and what mystery the Arctic Circle Murder Club uncovers next 😁 And thank you also, Christy, for calling it a “snow machine!” 😉😄
As a lifelong Alaskan, I often find novels set in my state to be frustrating at times, due to incorrect phrases attributed to Alaskans or geographical locations of real places and communities that are just flat out wrong. The basic plots of these novels may be enjoyable, but the inaccuracies diminish my enjoyment.
I found Just the Nicest Person to be a breath of fresh air, as I didn’t detect any geographical mistakes or incorrect phrasing at all - just a wonderfully intriguing mystery that I read from beginning to end, only stopping to drive home from work (where I began reading) and later, fixing myself a plate of dinner 😊
Thank you, Christy, for this delightful new series! I look forward to the next volume, He Walks Among Us, and seeing Andi pursue her investigation of Victor and what mystery the Arctic Circle Murder Club uncovers next 😁 And thank you also, Christy, for calling it a “snow machine!” 😉😄
January 22, 2024
Just the Nicest Person is the first book in the True Crime Junkies Series by Christy Barritt. Let's just say a story set in Alaska combined with a true crime podcast and a murder club was the perfect formula to hook me from the beginning. This book kept me guessing and I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
Thank you to the author for a copy of this story. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Thank you to the author for a copy of this story. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
December 2, 2023
I felt like this book had a lot of promise.. when I first started reading it, I couldn't put it down. However, there were a few things that were off-putting and just didn't work for me. If you love true crime and Christianity, this might be the series for you.
There are strong Christian undertones, which isn't necessarily a problem, but definitely isn't for me. Should have looked more into the author, but the book was highly rated so I didn't. I don't mind a book with religious content, but this one felt like it had an agenda. "'You don't believe God exists?' He wasn't sure why that thought surprised him so much, but it did. Andi struck him as someone with wholesome roots and strong morals." What?! Of course by the end of the book, it sounds like she fully believes in God again, because they saw the northern lights... in the arctic circle.
The dialogue is strange to me. Everyone talks to each other with the type of language you'd use in a high school essay. The cadence is off, the interactions seem forced, and it feels too formal at times.
The weirdest part is the developing romance between the two main characters. Andi is a disbarred lawyer turned long-haul trucker, multiple people in her life seem to have been murdered, and she's secretly trying to prove she was framed for the incident that got her disbarred. Also sounds like she was SA'd by her current boss's son? Duke is a former soldier investigator who is now a tour guide searching for information about his missing fiancé who was probably taken/murdered along with a bunch of other women in the area. The book opens with Andi's big rig going off the road in a snow storm, she's rescued by Duke, and then they get chased and shot at. Shortly after they discover a murdered podcaster, and then the murderer comes after them. And despite all of this.. too much of the book is dedicated to their growing feelings for each other. Every time something traumatic happens, these two are struggling to keep it in their pants, and then both feeling guilty about that.
All in all.. I wasn't super impressed, but someone with other interests might love it. Parts of it were still very entertaining, and I did read it all the way through.
There are strong Christian undertones, which isn't necessarily a problem, but definitely isn't for me. Should have looked more into the author, but the book was highly rated so I didn't. I don't mind a book with religious content, but this one felt like it had an agenda. "'You don't believe God exists?' He wasn't sure why that thought surprised him so much, but it did. Andi struck him as someone with wholesome roots and strong morals." What?! Of course by the end of the book, it sounds like she fully believes in God again, because they saw the northern lights... in the arctic circle.
The dialogue is strange to me. Everyone talks to each other with the type of language you'd use in a high school essay. The cadence is off, the interactions seem forced, and it feels too formal at times.
The weirdest part is the developing romance between the two main characters. Andi is a disbarred lawyer turned long-haul trucker, multiple people in her life seem to have been murdered, and she's secretly trying to prove she was framed for the incident that got her disbarred. Also sounds like she was SA'd by her current boss's son? Duke is a former soldier investigator who is now a tour guide searching for information about his missing fiancé who was probably taken/murdered along with a bunch of other women in the area. The book opens with Andi's big rig going off the road in a snow storm, she's rescued by Duke, and then they get chased and shot at. Shortly after they discover a murdered podcaster, and then the murderer comes after them. And despite all of this.. too much of the book is dedicated to their growing feelings for each other. Every time something traumatic happens, these two are struggling to keep it in their pants, and then both feeling guilty about that.
All in all.. I wasn't super impressed, but someone with other interests might love it. Parts of it were still very entertaining, and I did read it all the way through.
April 21, 2024
Not a bad read! I’m giving this one 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and I’m super excited to see how the rest of the series goes. “Just The Nicest Person” is a Christian mystery that will keep you turning pages to see what’s going to happen next.
Let’s meet Andi and her sassy, suspicious of everyone, attitude. She’s only in Alaska to get Justice for something that happened in her past. Something she wants to keep secret and she only has a short time to do so be fore she’s discovered. Things start to go extremely crazy after a big snow storm hits. Andi flips her semi and swears she saw somebody standing in the middle of the road.
Seeing the headlights for the semi coming towards him, Duke McAllister, former CID investigator, now Alaskan tour guide, on a mission of his own to track down the disappearance of his fiancé, slams on brakes. Now being shot at and has no clue why, is about to be involved in something he never dreamed of.
Thrown together in a terrible snow storm after wrecking her truck, Andi joins forces with Duke, Mariella, and Matthew, twins Duke is giving a tour for, to figure out who caused all of this and why. Did this have any connection to the local podcaster who was about to give the name of the murderer in a cold case? Maybe that’s why he goes silent on his episode just before revealing the name. Or, has Andi’s past finally caught up with her?
If you are into suspense and looking for a clean story line, then this book is right up your alley. There is no vulgar language and explicit scenes. Although. I have to admit it did take me a few chapters to finally get hooked. Once I did though, I couldn’t stop. Andi’s character was a little hard to get used to at first. She’s very untrusting of everyone so her attitude threw me off in the beginning. Duke on the other hand is by far my favorite. He’s kind, smart and very loyal. The other characters add insight, humor and make the story line a little more fun. There was one character I don’t know what his purpose was but he did do a good deed once.
I love how the story took place in the Alaskan wilderness. One of the least charted territories with mysteries all on its own. One place I would love to be able see with my own two eyes one day. The challenges of small bush and village living with very little law enforcement is what gives the crew the opportunity to do their own investigation without limits but to do it safely and together.
I’m super excited to see what’s going to “POP” off in book #2 of the True Crime Junkie series. 🫶🏻
Let’s meet Andi and her sassy, suspicious of everyone, attitude. She’s only in Alaska to get Justice for something that happened in her past. Something she wants to keep secret and she only has a short time to do so be fore she’s discovered. Things start to go extremely crazy after a big snow storm hits. Andi flips her semi and swears she saw somebody standing in the middle of the road.
Seeing the headlights for the semi coming towards him, Duke McAllister, former CID investigator, now Alaskan tour guide, on a mission of his own to track down the disappearance of his fiancé, slams on brakes. Now being shot at and has no clue why, is about to be involved in something he never dreamed of.
Thrown together in a terrible snow storm after wrecking her truck, Andi joins forces with Duke, Mariella, and Matthew, twins Duke is giving a tour for, to figure out who caused all of this and why. Did this have any connection to the local podcaster who was about to give the name of the murderer in a cold case? Maybe that’s why he goes silent on his episode just before revealing the name. Or, has Andi’s past finally caught up with her?
If you are into suspense and looking for a clean story line, then this book is right up your alley. There is no vulgar language and explicit scenes. Although. I have to admit it did take me a few chapters to finally get hooked. Once I did though, I couldn’t stop. Andi’s character was a little hard to get used to at first. She’s very untrusting of everyone so her attitude threw me off in the beginning. Duke on the other hand is by far my favorite. He’s kind, smart and very loyal. The other characters add insight, humor and make the story line a little more fun. There was one character I don’t know what his purpose was but he did do a good deed once.
I love how the story took place in the Alaskan wilderness. One of the least charted territories with mysteries all on its own. One place I would love to be able see with my own two eyes one day. The challenges of small bush and village living with very little law enforcement is what gives the crew the opportunity to do their own investigation without limits but to do it safely and together.
I’m super excited to see what’s going to “POP” off in book #2 of the True Crime Junkie series. 🫶🏻
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2023
3.5 stars
"Henrietta Blanco was just the nicest person. She was a mother, a wife, and a homesteader, loved by her family, church, and community. And she was murdered in cold blood eight years ago."
"Henrietta's killer has never been found . . . . . but that's about to change." And thus began true crime podcaster Craig Rogers' final episode in season seven of "Real Crime, Real Time". Hearing a strange noise outside his isolated Alaskan home, Craig takes a short break and never comes back to the microphone. His audience is stunned . . .
Among those wondering why Craig never completed his podcast is ice road trucker Andi Slade. A former attorney, who had been set up to take the fall for her employer's illegal activities, Andi is in Alaska utilizing her driving skills while managing some off-the-radar investigating in hopes of clearing her name. When a strange occurrence on a snowy night sends her rig sliding off the road, she is rescued by another person who is Alaska to find answers, former army investigator Duke McAllister, who is working as a tour guide. Taking refuge at a local trading post while waiting out the storm, they join other stranded locals and guests to form an unusual alliance, "The Arctic Circle Murder Club".
Someone is on to them! "What can wash away my sin? What can make me whole again? Nothing but the blood . . . .. "
Veering away from her common format, the author assembles an eclectic cast of characters, who when it's all said and done, want to continue their newfound acquaintance around a common goal . . . . solving crimes . . . and for Andi and Duke? . . . . maybe something a little more personal? A fascinating, fast-paced story set deep in the snowy wilds of Alaska! Stay tuned for the next episode!
"Henrietta Blanco was just the nicest person. She was a mother, a wife, and a homesteader, loved by her family, church, and community. And she was murdered in cold blood eight years ago."
"Henrietta's killer has never been found . . . . . but that's about to change." And thus began true crime podcaster Craig Rogers' final episode in season seven of "Real Crime, Real Time". Hearing a strange noise outside his isolated Alaskan home, Craig takes a short break and never comes back to the microphone. His audience is stunned . . .
Among those wondering why Craig never completed his podcast is ice road trucker Andi Slade. A former attorney, who had been set up to take the fall for her employer's illegal activities, Andi is in Alaska utilizing her driving skills while managing some off-the-radar investigating in hopes of clearing her name. When a strange occurrence on a snowy night sends her rig sliding off the road, she is rescued by another person who is Alaska to find answers, former army investigator Duke McAllister, who is working as a tour guide. Taking refuge at a local trading post while waiting out the storm, they join other stranded locals and guests to form an unusual alliance, "The Arctic Circle Murder Club".
Someone is on to them! "What can wash away my sin? What can make me whole again? Nothing but the blood . . . .. "
Veering away from her common format, the author assembles an eclectic cast of characters, who when it's all said and done, want to continue their newfound acquaintance around a common goal . . . . solving crimes . . . and for Andi and Duke? . . . . maybe something a little more personal? A fascinating, fast-paced story set deep in the snowy wilds of Alaska! Stay tuned for the next episode!
January 10, 2024
Ok, so rating this is problematic for me. On one hand, it was very unputdownable, but on the other hand, I had a hard time with parts of it.
Things I liked:
-The atmosphere! This is a winter read, and I am a huge seasonal reader. The descriptions and winter aspect made me shiver (and I read this during a snowstorm).
-The actual idea of the story was great!!! I love stories about people trying to solve true crimes or cold cases. The addition of a podcaster being murdered made it better.
-The faith aspects were good. The distortion of God's Word was prevalent, but the two main protagonists talked honestly and deeply about their faith (or lack of faith and why), and it was great.
Things that I didn't care for:
-The jump from protagonist to protagonist was repetitive and it took away from the story.
-The characterization was lacking, so much so, that I didn't get as invested into the story as I could've.
-When something happened with the murderer, it was described so quickly that you almost had to reread it to be sure you didn't miss anything.
-Every time Duke or Ranger were talking, they had to rub their jaw/chin. It was a lot that didn't need to be there.
I gave this 2.5/5. It was a good story, there were just a few things that put me off.
Things I liked:
-The atmosphere! This is a winter read, and I am a huge seasonal reader. The descriptions and winter aspect made me shiver (and I read this during a snowstorm).
-The actual idea of the story was great!!! I love stories about people trying to solve true crimes or cold cases. The addition of a podcaster being murdered made it better.
-The faith aspects were good. The distortion of God's Word was prevalent, but the two main protagonists talked honestly and deeply about their faith (or lack of faith and why), and it was great.
Things that I didn't care for:
-The jump from protagonist to protagonist was repetitive and it took away from the story.
-The characterization was lacking, so much so, that I didn't get as invested into the story as I could've.
-When something happened with the murderer, it was described so quickly that you almost had to reread it to be sure you didn't miss anything.
-Every time Duke or Ranger were talking, they had to rub their jaw/chin. It was a lot that didn't need to be there.
I gave this 2.5/5. It was a good story, there were just a few things that put me off.
November 26, 2023
When a true crime podcaster suddenly goes silent before revealing a killer on-air, his listeners are worried. Among them are Andi Slade, who was just run off the road by a shooter, Duke McAllister the tour guide who picked her up, and a trading post employee named Simone (or Simmy) who believes she may be his daughter. She asks Duke and Andi to check on him. When they find him dead, they --along with two tourists and a mountain man -- try to retrace his steps to discover the killer he was about to implicate who ended his life. They are all stranded together due to a snowstorm, anyway -- and the killer is waiting to pick them off as well.
Awesome series start! Hard to put down. Fun fact: I had a friend named Simone growing up, and I often called her "Simmy" -- to her dismay. Anyway, great mystery, believable characters, and a decent amount of action. Miranda warning was read upon arrest once when it's actually read when a suspect is in custody AND interrogation is imminent. Excited to read the rest of the series!
Awesome series start! Hard to put down. Fun fact: I had a friend named Simone growing up, and I often called her "Simmy" -- to her dismay. Anyway, great mystery, believable characters, and a decent amount of action. Miranda warning was read upon arrest once when it's actually read when a suspect is in custody AND interrogation is imminent. Excited to read the rest of the series!
October 21, 2023
Angela Landsbury Mysteries Never End
Oh my goodness! I have read almost all of Christy Barritt's books and have loved them all but was so surprised at this one! This one was filled with so much intrigue, and deep mysteries, that I wasn't even sure it was her writing it. All of her books have been so lighthearted, fun, and definitely uplifting and left me feeling great.
This one however has definitely left me wanting to explore the relationships of the group and all the other mysteries that leaves you hanging, but it certainly didn't have the 'uplifting and feeling good' vibe as all her other books. I have already purchased the next one in the series and am looking forward to seeing if this change in her writing is for me. I read to be entertained and find joy in this chaotic world. Maybe this new style of writing, as well as it is written and as much as I have loved all of her books, just isn't for me anymore!
Oh my goodness! I have read almost all of Christy Barritt's books and have loved them all but was so surprised at this one! This one was filled with so much intrigue, and deep mysteries, that I wasn't even sure it was her writing it. All of her books have been so lighthearted, fun, and definitely uplifting and left me feeling great.
This one however has definitely left me wanting to explore the relationships of the group and all the other mysteries that leaves you hanging, but it certainly didn't have the 'uplifting and feeling good' vibe as all her other books. I have already purchased the next one in the series and am looking forward to seeing if this change in her writing is for me. I read to be entertained and find joy in this chaotic world. Maybe this new style of writing, as well as it is written and as much as I have loved all of her books, just isn't for me anymore!
May 18, 2024
Non mi ricordo come sono inciampata in questo libro e relativa serie, ma avevo letto altri libri di questa autrice (come una delle autrici di quelle serie multi-autori della Harlequin che mi piacciono tanto) e le trame di questa serie mi intrigavano così la ho messa nella mia lista dei desideri. L'altro giorno ho comprato questo libro, che è il primo della serie, e non me ne sono pentita. Qui un gruppo di persone si ritrovano in mezzo a una tempesta di neve (in Alaska!) e iniziano a indagare sull'assassinio di un creatore di podcast che aveva appena scoperto il colpevole di un omicidio avvenuto otto anni prima. In tre giorni ci riescono e formano una sorta di murder club, che seguiremo nei libri successivi. Anche perché almeno tre di loro sembrano avere dei segreti da indagare, soprattutto i due che possono essere considerati i protagonisti di questo libro. Credo proprio che metterò presto le mani sul volume successivo...
October 20, 2023
Andi Slade is an Ice Road Trucker Driver. Driving those big rigs on the icy Alaskan highways. But, she hasn't always been a trucker, she was a lawyer. But her reputation has been destroyed and she was disbarred. Now she is in Alaska searching for revenge against the man that took her career away.
When Andi's truck winds up in a ditch, she meets Duke McAllister, who is a tour guide, but he is in Alaska for other reasons also. Now these two meet up and being stranded in the snow storm, with others, they try to solve a local mystery of what happened to a podcaster that was supposed to reveal the killer's name in his local podcast.
In the middle of this brutal snowstorm, stranded and working on a murder mystery, will the put their own lives in danger along with the others that are helping solve this one!
When Andi's truck winds up in a ditch, she meets Duke McAllister, who is a tour guide, but he is in Alaska for other reasons also. Now these two meet up and being stranded in the snow storm, with others, they try to solve a local mystery of what happened to a podcaster that was supposed to reveal the killer's name in his local podcast.
In the middle of this brutal snowstorm, stranded and working on a murder mystery, will the put their own lives in danger along with the others that are helping solve this one!
October 27, 2023
Please judge this book by its cover! Both are fantastic! Shamed attorney Andi Slade is a truck driver in Alaska, searching for a killer. Someone causes her truck to skid, leaving her stranded in an ice storm. She is given a ride by Duke McAllister, who is a car-riding tour guide, who is actually searching for his missing fiancée, who disappeared on an Alaskan highway 2 years ago. When Andi's favorite true crime podcaster mysteriously stops broadcasting right before revealing the name of a killer, Andi and several stranded people join their forces to unravel the mystery, as danger gets closer to them. Law enforcement is limited due to Alaska's vast territory, so they are allowed to use their time and skills to try to solve the crime! Andi finds herself praying, as she has not tried it in years. Now I cannot wait to read the next book in the series!
November 3, 2023
A fast-paced Christian Suspense Romance Just the Nicest Person is the first book in a new series by Christy Barritt. It introduces us to the Arctic Circle Murder Club characters. Barritt’s style, as always, engages the reader through short, alternating POV segments representative of the female and male main characters. The Alaskan elements are an interesting addition and the sections written from the antagonist’s first person POV are appropriately creepy.
This clean, Christian read is a recommended choice for anyone seeking a light, suspenseful read offering a creepy killer and a building romance. If you have enjoyed Christy Barritt’s writing in the past, you will enjoy Just the Nicest Person.
This clean, Christian read is a recommended choice for anyone seeking a light, suspenseful read offering a creepy killer and a building romance. If you have enjoyed Christy Barritt’s writing in the past, you will enjoy Just the Nicest Person.
August 20, 2025
Refreshing Author
Christy Barritt is the ONLY author I've read with Kindle Unlimited who both writes in concise sentences and uses proper grammar and spelling. Ms. Barritt weaves a thrilling tale without the use of profane language or graphic scenes. Thank you, Christy Barritt!! I am an avid reader of suspense thrillers and will look forward to reading everything she writes.
Just The Nicest Person kept me on edge for all 441 pages. With thorough descriptions and well-developed characters, this novel starts off running and does not stop.
I highly recommend this novel and I am ready to read the next adventure featuring characters about which I need to know more!
Well done!
Christy Barritt is the ONLY author I've read with Kindle Unlimited who both writes in concise sentences and uses proper grammar and spelling. Ms. Barritt weaves a thrilling tale without the use of profane language or graphic scenes. Thank you, Christy Barritt!! I am an avid reader of suspense thrillers and will look forward to reading everything she writes.
Just The Nicest Person kept me on edge for all 441 pages. With thorough descriptions and well-developed characters, this novel starts off running and does not stop.
I highly recommend this novel and I am ready to read the next adventure featuring characters about which I need to know more!
Well done!
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