Beautiful Death: An addictive crime thriller packed with jaw-dropping twists

CJ O'Hara #3

by John Deal

A corpse exposes one of Charleston’s lethal secrets...

Detective CJ O’Hara is finally getting a grip on life. Recently promoted and in a promising relationship, her instincts scream foul play when she responds to a reported heart attack at a bed and breakfast. Smelling a hint of vanilla in the air and noticing scratches on the victim’s back, she suspects she’s looking for a murderess.

After the medical exam reveals poison from a rare plant, surprising links to two similar cold cases appear. As CJ delves deeper, her investigation leads to the darkest corners of the city’s oldest clubs and wealthiest people — and more than one killer.

When her personal life implodes, CJ finds herself juggling her emotions with the increasingly complex case. But with her reputation and another life on the line, time is running out to secure the evidence she needs to stop history from repeating its deadly pattern.

Beautiful Death is the third book in the CJ O’Hara Crime Thrillers Series (books in this series may be read in any order). Following a seasoned investigator through captivating twists and turns, this fast-paced crime novel is filled with mystery, suspense and deception… and an ending you won’t believe.

Genres: Thriller

425 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 12, 2023

About the author

John is an author of crime and mystery thrillers and a reader of many genres. His debut novel, All the Natural Beauties, introduces Detective CJ O’Hara, and he continues to follow her and other relatable characters in the CJ O’Hara Crime Thrillers series.

John grew up near Nashville, Tennessee, and now lives in the California Bay Area. His love for the South Carolina Lowcountry stems from the time he spent living in a beach house outside Charleston. This portion of his life inspires his writing and many of his characters. Besides books, he loves spending time with his family, especially his two grandkids, and going to the mountains, the beach, and fishing in Alaska.

You’ll enjoy John’s books if you like thrillers filled with mystery and suspense. His fast-paced plots twist and turn, and he’ll surprise you . . . his antagonists will make you keep your lights on as you wander through the beautiful and historic Lowcountry.

Reviews

[Ella Droste · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book will have you on the edge of your seat till the very last page. You'll get lots of twists and turns, plenty of suspense, romance, and oh, so many secrets!!!! You will not see the twists coming, no matter how much you try to guess things ahead of time. It's such a fun ride!!!

The author's descriptions are so vivid and crisp that it felt like I was watching everything unfold instead of reading it. This really was a wild ride, and I absolutely loved it!

I'd like to express my appreciation for having received an online copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Linda Terenzo · Rating 5 out of 5]

beautiful death

This book had so many twists and turns in it. It constantly kept you guessing!l I’m glad I decided to read another of John deal’s books, and look forward to more.

[Robert Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

A definite must read!

The third book of John Deal's CJ O'Hara series lives up to the hype of the first and second books! Following CJ's investigations through the streets of Charleston will keep you on the edge of your seat. The characters are so lovable and relatable. Can't wait for the release of book four!!

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a fan of John Deal. I have loved CJ O’Hara. I have to say that this was my least favorite so far. It felt slower and there were a few twists that didn’t feel like they had a reason to be there except to take up pages. All of that said, CJ is portrayed as an intelligent badass woman who is fearless. I will always root for that kind of character. I am hoping for something a bit less drawn out in his next book. Always a fun read.

[travel_thru_books · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Book 3 in the CJ O'Hara Crime Thrillers. Book 4 is coming soon!

Oh my goodness, I can't even express how much I adore CJ and the gang! This series has the most lovable characters in CJ's group of friends and family!

Come along for an exciting journey in "Beautiful Death" as it uncovers Charleston's hidden secrets. Detective CJ O'Hara finds herself caught up in a world of můrdęr, deceit, and her own personal drama. When a heart attack call leads her to a bed and breakfast, she senses something sinister is at play. The autopsy reveals poison from a rare plant, Nightshade, connecting the case to two old cold cases. Follow CJ as she investigates the city's oldest clubs and the wealthiest locals.

"Beautiful Death"will keep you hooked and guessing with its fast-paced storyline. The tension and intrigue mount, culminating in an unexpected ending! If you enjoy crime thrillers with well-crafted characters and surprising twists, this book is a must-read!

I need to mention that John Deal is an exceptional author and really knows how to write a crime series! I haven't enjoyed a series this much in ages!

[Shannon Page · Rating 5 out of 5]

John Deal is my new favorite author and this series is fantastic! Beautiful Death kept me in suspense from the first page to the last. I didn't want it to end. This a must read for any crime thriller enthusiast.

[Catrina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful Death is an amazing crime thriller book. This story has so many twist and turns that’s it’s impossible to give any kind description of the story without revealing anything. CJ O’Hara and the many characters are so well written that they each have their own unique personality that adds so much to the storyline. What I can say you won’t be able to put the book down.

[Roberta · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the suspense. I was trying to determine who the killer was, along with C.J. Ohara. Had me fooled until it was revealed at the end.

[Sherry Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

BEAUTIFUL DEATH was absolutely fantastic from beginning to end! The twist and turns had me sitting at the edge of my seat! I did not want to stop reading it!
It had a oh my gosh ending that was amazing! So good!!!

[J.Earl Deal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read I didn’t want put it down. Best book so far , looking forward to next book.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful Death is a crime thriller, following the recently-promoted-to-lieutenant CJ. When CJ is focused on a crime, she does not give up. Foregoing sleep, and sometimes food, she is determined to catch the "bad guy". And she is good at what she does.

A man is found deceased in a locked bed and breakfast room of a supposed heart attack. But something just isn't right. Missing bath towels, feminine perfume, and a room that's so clean that it is almost too perfect.

This book is a bit unique, as we are introduced to the killer early. We know who she is, and we know her motivation. But finding her...and the deeper history behind her hatred of men, takes a bit more time.

[DAB-E · Rating 4 out of 5]

While this book is part of a series (not the first) it can stand alone. The characters are well developed and interesting. You might need a score card to keep track of the different name of some of them. The books keeps you interested and it is hard to put down. It also makes you want to visit the Lowcountry.

Thanks goodreads for this book and introducing me to a new author.

[Nicolette · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first read from Deal and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It had strong character development. The multiple points of view flowed well and were easy to follow. It also had a solid plot with enough twists and turns to keep the pages turning. Then you get that one last curve ball just to end it on a bang! I’ll be reading the other books in this series soon.

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

John Deal has become one of my favorite authors. I can summarize this book in one word, brilliantly written. I was completely immersed in the story, characters, and plot. There is, on the edge of your seat, unexpected twists that hook you and make you question all characters in books that have so many secrets. The ending was executed perfectly.

[Carol Nauss · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an exciting book! It was difficult to put this thriller down! There is so much going on. CJ O'Hara is smart and tough with great intuition in solving crimes. Not only does she have to solve a current crime but also two cold cases which also seem connected. Beautiful Death can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading the first two books in the CJ O'Hara series for important background information which enhance enjoyment of this book. The characters are real, the plot fast paced, filled with twists and turns and the setting in beautiful Charleston, SC all come together to create a fast paced thriller you won't want to miss!

[Jamie Washer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first John Deal book and definitely not my last!! Though Beautiful Death is 3rd in the Detective CJ O'Hara series I had no problem starting here although I will definitely go back and read 1 & 2. I received this audiobook in trade for my honest review and honestly, I loved it. The narrator's voice was beautiful and engaging and even though there were many twists and turns the book had a great flow. I truly enjoyed it and look forward to more!!

[Patricia Mccammon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this series. Sorry to finish the last book. Really great

[Laura M · Rating 5 out of 5]

My appreciation of Detective CJ O’Hara grows with each of John Deal's books. CJ is becoming more comfortable in Charleston but still relies on her big city experience to solve the case. The murder case had some interesting complexities (which I won’t spoil!) and a twisty ending. The last chapters in particular were suspenseful as CJ raced to pull the threads together. Interestingly, this crime mystery unfolds alongside a multi-dimensional love story. It’s good to see our detective settling in to her new home, embracing her new job, and falling in love with the Lowcountry and the loving people around her. Deal's writing invites the reader do the same.

[Donald Ledoux · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful Death – Thriller and romance all wrapped into one!

I absolutely love that I am surprised at every turn no matter how hard I try to guess what’s next!

The characters have been described so clearly over the series that you have crisp images of them and feel like you’re watching the conversations in person.

My favorite character, CJ, is one tough lady. You’ll find yourself rooting for her throughout the series. The last 80 pages I could feel myself accelerating the reading pace as the energy in the writing was increased and I had to finish it!

The whole series is enjoyable to read!

[Tambi Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Detective CJ O’Hara is finally finding her footing amidst the chaos of her life, yet her recent promotion to lieutenant comes with a heavy burden. Taking over the position of her late boss, Paul Grimes, is bittersweet, as CJ is haunted by the unresolved guilt surrounding his death during her last case. When a call comes in about a seemingly routine heart attack at The Duncan House Bed and Breakfast, CJ's instincts tell her something is amiss. Her investigation reveals a sinister twist—this was no heart attack, but a carefully orchestrated murder. As CJ delves deeper, she uncovers unsettling parallels to an eerily similar crime from the past, suggesting a chilling pattern that threatens to repeat itself.
The investigation unfolds into a tangled web of deceit, with multiple murders and a labyrinth of suspects who have lawyered up, making CJ’s job increasingly complex. Each suspect she encounters weaves a tapestry of lies, leaving CJ racing against time, her reputation and another life hanging in the balance. Her team works tirelessly, yet every lead seems to unravel into more questions than answers. The pressure mounts as CJ fights to piece together the puzzle before the murderer strikes again. With history threatening to repeat its deadly course, CJ is pushed to her limits, straining to maintain her composure and resolve.
Amidst the chaos of her professional life, CJ faces personal turmoil as well. Her beloved uncle, Harry O’Hara, remains ill, but at this time, his condition lands him in the hospital. Despite the demands of her case, CJ's attention is torn between her duties as a detective and her responsibilities as a family member. To make matters worse, a nagging suspicion gnaws at her, hinting that someone who is trying to get close to her uncle may have ulterior motives. As she juggles the weight of her cases and her uncle's precarious health, CJ must rely on her instincts to protect her family while ensuring that justice is served. Can CJ truly juggle the weight of her detective duties while keeping her family safe? With the clock ticking ominously, will CJ unearth the tangled web of deceit before the killer claims another victim and history's dark shadow looms once again?
John Deal's "Beautiful Death," the third installment in the CJ O'Hara Thriller series, is a masterfully crafted narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. The story centers around a gripping murder investigation, where multiple suspects keep both CJ and the readers guessing at every turn. The primary murder plot is intricately woven with a compelling side-story about CJ's uncle, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. John Deal's strategic and original twists are not only purposeful but also serve to enhance the suspense, making the book an unputdownable read. The atmosphere of lies and deceit that permeates the story creates a tense and thrilling experience, perfectly suited for fans of the genre.
The character development in "Beautiful Death" is one of its strongest attributes. CJ O'Hara is portrayed as a deeply flawed yet incredibly real protagonist. Her internal conflict, stemming from the death of her parents, sister, and now Paul, adds layers to her character, making her relatable and human. John Deal ingeniously uses stream of consciousness to present CJ's thoughts, allowing readers to form a strong emotional connection with her. Even the secondary characters are written with such strong emotion that they feel real, drawing readers in and making them emotionally attached. While some characters earn the readers' empathy and support, others are crafted to be despised, compelling readers to root even more for CJ as she unravels the truth.
John Deal's use of vivid setting descriptions and detailed depiction of character body language immerses readers into the world of the book. The narrative unfolds in such a way that readers feel like armchair detectives, piecing together clues alongside CJ. The suspense is consistently maintained from beginning to end, with the author providing CJ's bulleted lists of clues and questions to guide the investigation. This meticulous attention to detail makes the story easy to follow while maintaining its fast pace, akin to watching a movie play out in the mind. John Deal's ability to transport readers into the heart of the investigation is a testament to his skill as a storyteller.
"Beautiful Death" is not only a thrilling ride but also a standalone story that can be enjoyed with or without prior knowledge of the series. John Deal cleverly includes information from previous installments, making strategic connections that enrich the story without alienating new readers. His phenomenal construction of the narrative ensures that readers suspect everyone and question everything. Just when one thinks they have the mystery figured out, John Deal masterfully delivers twists that leaves them astounded. This unpredictability is a hallmark of a well-crafted thriller and is expertly executed in this novel.
In conclusion, John Deal has delivered a marvelously written addition to the CJ O'Hara series with "Beautiful Death." Its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and unexpected twists make it a standout thriller that will leave readers eager for more. The suspenseful narrative, combined with Deal's skillful storytelling, ensures that this book is a must-read for fans of the genre. As readers turn the final page, they are left eagerly anticipating the next installment, "The Last Cabin," with high expectations and an insatiable appetite for more of CJ O'Hara's adventures.

[Erin · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is a newer author for me so I wanted to give this book a fair chance, but it just didn’t work out for me. Firstly it’s listed as a thriller but I would classify it more as a police procedural. I didn’t find any of the points particularly thrilling or suspenseful. It’s possible that this just wasn’t the genre for me. Secondly, I read this on audiobook and the narrator was very distracting. She gave CJ a weird ditzy sounding voice that didn’t fit her and sounded like the voiceovers in TikTok videos.

In regard to the writing, it was fine overall. I just couldn’t really engage in the story and never connected with the characters. It’s said this book can be read as a standalone but there were many references to previous cases and events that made me feel like an outsider. The many references to lips either being chewed on, bitten, curling, or rising got old pretty fast and some of the dialog felt very forced - for example, long winded explanations of scientific processes or features of the case. These made it seem like the author was just trying to prove he did his research rather than add to the story. I really wanted to like it and maybe if I enjoyed the police procedural type of book more it would have been better.

Overall, this book just wasn’t for me. I know lots of others have really enjoyed it and I encourage you to check it out and support an Indy author!

Full disclosure - I received a free audiobook version of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

[A]

This is a police procedural set in the south. The MC is a young woman with some personal baggage. The subtitle is a little misleading, as the story isn't dark, thrilling, or psychological. I found the characters 2-dimensional, a little awkward at times and I didn’t relate to them. This wasn’t helped by the fact that I hadn’t read prior books in the series. The writing isn’t the best either with some of the phrasing being a little off, such as “armed with a thousand milliliters or water…”. Why not just say “a liter”? I was forcing myself to get through this, and eventually gave up half-way through.
I won a free copy of this book (thanks to the author & publisher!) and am voluntarily providing an honest review.

[Wanda Stewart · Rating 3 out of 5]

A bit confusing

I enjoyed reading this book but it leaves me craving hush puppies and fried seafood.

This was an interesting take on human trafficking and generational abuse. The only negative was keeping up with the characters, the number of aliases, and which generation was doing what. The twisty twists were tied up in the end. Question: Did the mayor play a deeper role? Why was she so invested in this case?

[Fathima Gulzad · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story flows so well, the writing is great. The plot was quite predictable though and there were no surprise twists in my opinion. It was still enjoyable to read though because the main character is so like-able.

[Madi Berry · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this one. Big fan personally, tied for my favorite in the series.