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Shadow Island #9
Shadow's Mystery
No good deed goes unpunished.
Reeling from guilt and haunted by the recent loss of one of her deputies, Sheriff Rebecca West doesn’t have time to recover before Shadow Island delivers yet another blow. The island’s most beloved teacher has mysteriously disappeared on the night of her retirement party, her wallet, keys, and cell phone still in her unlocked car. If Rebecca doesn’t want the missing woman to join the island’s growing list of corpses, she’s got to focus on the present.
Even as the past tries to rip her apart.
When the woman’s body is found with a cryptic, blood-spattered note—penned in her own handwriting—stuffed in her blouse pocket, one thing is clear. Not everyone loved the veteran schoolteacher. But who would hate her enough to slit her throat?
With suspects that span the length and breadth of the island, from a potentially violent husband grappling with early-onset dementia to almost every islander the victim once taught, Rebecca finds herself immersed in a web of deceit and vendetta. The more witnesses Rebecca interviews, the more rumors and conflicting stories arise—and the bigger the pool of suspects grows.
But when another, even bloodier murder occurs on school grounds, Rebecca must work faster. A killer with a grudge against people who worked at the school is lurking...and he’s escalating.
From its confounding beginning to the heart-stopping conclusion, Shadow’s Mystery—the ninth book in the Shadow Island Series by Mary Stone and Lori Rhodes—uncovers how a love turned obsession can cast the darkest shadow of all.
Reeling from guilt and haunted by the recent loss of one of her deputies, Sheriff Rebecca West doesn’t have time to recover before Shadow Island delivers yet another blow. The island’s most beloved teacher has mysteriously disappeared on the night of her retirement party, her wallet, keys, and cell phone still in her unlocked car. If Rebecca doesn’t want the missing woman to join the island’s growing list of corpses, she’s got to focus on the present.
Even as the past tries to rip her apart.
When the woman’s body is found with a cryptic, blood-spattered note—penned in her own handwriting—stuffed in her blouse pocket, one thing is clear. Not everyone loved the veteran schoolteacher. But who would hate her enough to slit her throat?
With suspects that span the length and breadth of the island, from a potentially violent husband grappling with early-onset dementia to almost every islander the victim once taught, Rebecca finds herself immersed in a web of deceit and vendetta. The more witnesses Rebecca interviews, the more rumors and conflicting stories arise—and the bigger the pool of suspects grows.
But when another, even bloodier murder occurs on school grounds, Rebecca must work faster. A killer with a grudge against people who worked at the school is lurking...and he’s escalating.
From its confounding beginning to the heart-stopping conclusion, Shadow’s Mystery—the ninth book in the Shadow Island Series by Mary Stone and Lori Rhodes—uncovers how a love turned obsession can cast the darkest shadow of all.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 12, 2023
About the author
Mary Stone
270 books2,248 followersTo download my FREE BOOK, click here: https://authormarystone.com/free-book...
Nestled in the tranquil Blue Ridge Mountains of East Tennessee, Mary Stone has transformed her peaceful home, once bustling with her sons, into a creative haven. As her family grew, so did her writing career, evolving from childhood fears to a deep understanding of real-life villains. Her stories, centered around strong, unconventional heroines, weave themes of courage and intrigue.
Mary's journey from a solitary writer to establishing her own publishing house marks a significant evolution, showcasing her commitment to the literary world. Through her writing and publishing endeavors, she continues to captivate and inspire, honoring her lifelong fascination with the mysterious and the courageous.
Nestled in the tranquil Blue Ridge Mountains of East Tennessee, Mary Stone has transformed her peaceful home, once bustling with her sons, into a creative haven. As her family grew, so did her writing career, evolving from childhood fears to a deep understanding of real-life villains. Her stories, centered around strong, unconventional heroines, weave themes of courage and intrigue.
Mary's journey from a solitary writer to establishing her own publishing house marks a significant evolution, showcasing her commitment to the literary world. Through her writing and publishing endeavors, she continues to captivate and inspire, honoring her lifelong fascination with the mysterious and the courageous.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
February 9, 2024
Look right next to you, A teacher can help
This story of teachers going out of their way to help their students brings back memories of the difficult times in grade school. Bullying, teasing etc. But we all come through it with the help we needed.
This story of teachers going out of their way to help their students brings back memories of the difficult times in grade school. Bullying, teasing etc. But we all come through it with the help we needed.
September 21, 2023
This is a great series, a must read. Mary will not disappoint. There is suspense, drama, lies, grief, twists and turns along with a little romance. The cliff hanger well what can I say but I NEED THE BOOK NOW!!!!
March 4, 2024
Interesting story - I just would feel better if more time passed between these murders! Poor Rebecca and team!
Read
September 15, 2023Seeking Revenge
Sheriff Rebecca West who is still recovering from her injuries never seems to catch a break. She has just returned from visiting Arlington Cemetery, where Deputy Darian Hudson is buried, when she receives a phone call about a missing person. Rebecca is informed that Amy Washington, a retired teacher, is missing and was last seen at her retirement party which was held at the Shadow Island school. Viviane, now a rookie deputy, is helping Rebecca search for Amy Washington. When Amy is found murdered Viviane starts to rush to her aid but Rebecca holds her back saying they must preserve the crime scene. What was Amy doing wandering around that late at night? Who would want to kill a beloved teacher? How does Viviane handle herself at the crime scene?
Rebecca appears to be having some PTSD episodes. She also continues to have random thoughts on what Darian would say or do. He was the one who would have been training Viviane. Darian’s death has hit Rebecca hard and she is having to deal with her grief while trying to catch a killer. Rebecca is missing Ryker who is still recovering from his injuries. Rebecca is blaming herself for Darian’s death and for the injuries everyone suffered. Will Rebecca be able to overcome her guilt?
Rebecca, Hoyt, Viviane and Trent stay busy trying to find the killer. Who else is murdered before the killer is caught? Why did the killer select certain people to die? Is the killer caught?
Rebecca is pretty sure that the Yacht Club is still active dealing in drugs and other stuff. What will the Yacht Club do next?
Shadow’s Mystery is a book full of emotions, murder, suspense, drama, action, and plenty of those twists and turns. Personally, I am still sad every time I read about Darian. I guess it wouldn’t be fair to bring him back as a ghost helping Rebecca. Also, I want Ryker and Rebecca to stay together.
I definitely recommend reading Shadow’s Mystery and if you haven’t read the prior books read them first to get the full background of the characters.
Sheriff Rebecca West who is still recovering from her injuries never seems to catch a break. She has just returned from visiting Arlington Cemetery, where Deputy Darian Hudson is buried, when she receives a phone call about a missing person. Rebecca is informed that Amy Washington, a retired teacher, is missing and was last seen at her retirement party which was held at the Shadow Island school. Viviane, now a rookie deputy, is helping Rebecca search for Amy Washington. When Amy is found murdered Viviane starts to rush to her aid but Rebecca holds her back saying they must preserve the crime scene. What was Amy doing wandering around that late at night? Who would want to kill a beloved teacher? How does Viviane handle herself at the crime scene?
Rebecca appears to be having some PTSD episodes. She also continues to have random thoughts on what Darian would say or do. He was the one who would have been training Viviane. Darian’s death has hit Rebecca hard and she is having to deal with her grief while trying to catch a killer. Rebecca is missing Ryker who is still recovering from his injuries. Rebecca is blaming herself for Darian’s death and for the injuries everyone suffered. Will Rebecca be able to overcome her guilt?
Rebecca, Hoyt, Viviane and Trent stay busy trying to find the killer. Who else is murdered before the killer is caught? Why did the killer select certain people to die? Is the killer caught?
Rebecca is pretty sure that the Yacht Club is still active dealing in drugs and other stuff. What will the Yacht Club do next?
Shadow’s Mystery is a book full of emotions, murder, suspense, drama, action, and plenty of those twists and turns. Personally, I am still sad every time I read about Darian. I guess it wouldn’t be fair to bring him back as a ghost helping Rebecca. Also, I want Ryker and Rebecca to stay together.
I definitely recommend reading Shadow’s Mystery and if you haven’t read the prior books read them first to get the full background of the characters.
September 19, 2023
SHADOW’S SHADOW’S MYSTERY is the ninth installment in the Shadow Island Series by Mary Stone and Lori Rhodes. Get ready for another exciting murder mystery that will have you hooked from the beginning and a hard time setting this book down for even a few minutes
Sheriff Rebecca West has just got home from Arlington Cemetery after visiting her co-worker who was laid to rest while she was still intge hospital. Before opening her door her phone rings calling her to a murder scene. A retired teacher has been murdered.
they have no idea where to look. Who would want the kill a caring and beloved teacher? Then, there's another body. Get ready for another twisty murder case.
Each of these books can be read as a standalone, so if you haven't read any of Mary Stone's books and enjoy thrillers, start now. Mary and her co-authors definitely know how to get their lead character in trouble.
I do recommend this series. I did receive an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review
Sheriff Rebecca West has just got home from Arlington Cemetery after visiting her co-worker who was laid to rest while she was still intge hospital. Before opening her door her phone rings calling her to a murder scene. A retired teacher has been murdered.
they have no idea where to look. Who would want the kill a caring and beloved teacher? Then, there's another body. Get ready for another twisty murder case.
Each of these books can be read as a standalone, so if you haven't read any of Mary Stone's books and enjoy thrillers, start now. Mary and her co-authors definitely know how to get their lead character in trouble.
I do recommend this series. I did receive an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review
September 11, 2023
This is another great ARC read from Mary Stone and her co author. Rebecca West and her deputies are still reeling from the death of a beloved deputy and their own injuries, when the get a call about a missing teacher. This teacher is greatly loved and goes missing on the night of her retirement party at the school. When they find the teacher, she is dead and her throat had been sliced. It will take all of them to solve this crime which means that new Deputy Dabry and Deputy Locke will have to step up.. As they search for a reason for the murder, another person at the school is murdered. The Janitor is found dead in the school, and it looks like he put up a fight. As they follow the clues it leads to the Janitor's brother. Then another clue leads them to another suspect and can they find him before he kills again.
February 17, 2024
The walking wounded, but still working to help keep their island safe. The raw emotions as the department deals with their loss and the events that took place in the last book are prevalent in this book and new case. Vivian is now a deputy, there is a new dispatcher and the team is still down one member due to the loss in the last book. The case is sad and involves an odd blend of history and present as they must look at the impact of a teacher over her all career to find clues of the killer. The librarian was a hoot and I loved seeing how much the town (minus the board) love Rebecca. The romance angle was on hold and possible trouble based on her hospital memory and her conversations with Hoyt were some of the best. Their friendship and work respect grow with each book and I love seeing it. A great read and series.
March 29, 2024
I enjoy this series and really appreciate the character development that progresses with each book. You see growth and changes with each person in the story. It's interesting how the chapters narrated by the "killer" are done in 1st person when the remainder of the book is written mostly in 3rd person. It is very intense to see how each book ending is the next book beginning. The team really has not had any time off between extreme cases/weather. The emotional impact of losing Darian in the last book is being seen through discussions and self-refection and impacts reactions and decisions. I was sorry to see Rebecca hasn't been in touch with Ryker and is making some big assumptions that will most likely be detrimental to the relationship.
September 11, 2023
In Shadow Island series number nine, Shadow's Mystery, we find Stella Knox and her crew battered and bruised as they are still recovering from their last adventure. Unfortunately, they are immediately called to find a missing woman who retired from teaching the evening before. Teacher of the decade doesn't even start to identify the missing teacher. As they look for her, it seems someone is out to kill employees of the school. As the case unwinds, the suspect pool seems slanted towards a particular suspect but is he really the murderer or is he being framed? Stay tuned and find out! As always, wonderful characters in a story that unfolds in a timely manner. I recommend this novel.
September 11, 2023
This was tense, fast paced and emotional read. Every time I finish Mary’s book, I want more. Rebecca is a great character, I love her independence and thoroughness . She is back on the job too fast. The murders in the school of favorite people are mind boggling. When she solves the terrible cases she is emotionally spent and I was so tense that my neck hurt lol. This mystery has everything you wish for . The unique plot, a lot of twists and inside in the police gorse too. How will the new deputy be doing? What about love? Read this story. It will not disappoint . Thank you Mary. I cannot wait for the next one
December 31, 2025
4.5 Stars
Shadow's Mystery is the ninth book in the Shadow Island series by Mary Stone. This collection of twenty books (so far) is a gripping ride through mystery, suspense, and human darkness.
With former FBI agent Rebecca West at the helm, the books masterfully weave high-stakes investigations, layered characters, and island secrets that kept me on edge.
Each installment balances chilling crimes with deeply personal stakes, rendering Shadow Island both a paradise as well as a nightmare.
This is a fast-paced, twist-filled, and psychologically compelling series - a page-turning must for fans of thrillers and atmospheric mysteries.
Happy Reading…
Shadow's Mystery is the ninth book in the Shadow Island series by Mary Stone. This collection of twenty books (so far) is a gripping ride through mystery, suspense, and human darkness.
With former FBI agent Rebecca West at the helm, the books masterfully weave high-stakes investigations, layered characters, and island secrets that kept me on edge.
Each installment balances chilling crimes with deeply personal stakes, rendering Shadow Island both a paradise as well as a nightmare.
This is a fast-paced, twist-filled, and psychologically compelling series - a page-turning must for fans of thrillers and atmospheric mysteries.
Happy Reading…
September 11, 2023
Another amazing Shadow Island book which keeps you hooked until the end. Rebecca West and team must solve the case of a missing teacher soon after their last harrowing case and loss. We learn more about the after mass of what happened in series #8. Will they be able to solve this case before someone is killed? A page turner with many twists and turns. This is one of my favorite series which never disappoints, a must read. Thank you, Mary and Lori, for such great books.
I am an ARC member and am voluntarily leaving this review with great pleasure.
I am an ARC member and am voluntarily leaving this review with great pleasure.
September 15, 2023
Shadow's Mystery (Shadow Island FBI Mystery Series Book 9)
OMG!!!!!!!!! I almost waited to read this book, I didn't want to know how everyone dealt Darren's death, but it was so worth it. I laughed and cried many times over this book. It also gave me so insight into PTSD and how people deal with it. I am very happy that Vivienne became a deputy and happy she helped them catch another murderer. I am very worried that Rebecca hasn't talked to Ryker, I hope that things work out for them. I can't wait to read the next book.
OMG!!!!!!!!! I almost waited to read this book, I didn't want to know how everyone dealt Darren's death, but it was so worth it. I laughed and cried many times over this book. It also gave me so insight into PTSD and how people deal with it. I am very happy that Vivienne became a deputy and happy she helped them catch another murderer. I am very worried that Rebecca hasn't talked to Ryker, I hope that things work out for them. I can't wait to read the next book.
September 22, 2023
I would not want to live on this island!!
Poor Rebecca is recovering from a severe beating and the loss of one of her deputies when she is caught up in another murder! This seems pretty obvious from the beginning who the killer is. Or, is he really the killer? You are led down one path only to be sent in another direction. I like these characters. Most of Mary Stone's characters seem like real people, and these don't disappoint. The book is a fast read and is well worth the time. Good story, good characters and good ending.
Poor Rebecca is recovering from a severe beating and the loss of one of her deputies when she is caught up in another murder! This seems pretty obvious from the beginning who the killer is. Or, is he really the killer? You are led down one path only to be sent in another direction. I like these characters. Most of Mary Stone's characters seem like real people, and these don't disappoint. The book is a fast read and is well worth the time. Good story, good characters and good ending.
October 9, 2023
murderer on a rampage. taking out people from the school. a teacher, the janitor. who’s next
Rebecca and the staff are finally recovering from the last murder spree that almost got them killed. Now they have a new killer on a spree. First the retiring school teacher. Then the janitor. Who was going to be next. They have a convenient suspect but he doesn’t seem to be fitting quite the holes that have been left so they keep looking. As chief Rebecca pulls her staff together and they keep digging.
Rebecca and the staff are finally recovering from the last murder spree that almost got them killed. Now they have a new killer on a spree. First the retiring school teacher. Then the janitor. Who was going to be next. They have a convenient suspect but he doesn’t seem to be fitting quite the holes that have been left so they keep looking. As chief Rebecca pulls her staff together and they keep digging.
September 11, 2023
A beloved school teacher has been murdered, just after enjoying her retirement party. Fresh off the last horrendous encounter with bad guys, Sheriff Rebecca West is still recovering from her injuries, and reeling from the loss to the department, but needs to bring justice to this beloved lady's family.
Of all of Stone's series, this may be my favorite. Always interesting, different, and captures the attention. Easy and enjoyable to read.
Of all of Stone's series, this may be my favorite. Always interesting, different, and captures the attention. Easy and enjoyable to read.
September 11, 2023
Sheriff Rebecca West and her team are thrown into a murder case while dealing with their grief over the loss of Deputy Darian Hudson. As a reader you absolutely feel the palpable sense of loss due to the excellent writing of Mary Stone and Lori Rhodes.
This story is tense, suspenseful and a must read. I cannot wait for the next in this series. Mary and Lori create the best mysteries to keep you happily reading day and into night. Love the Shadow Island Sheriff Department!!
This story is tense, suspenseful and a must read. I cannot wait for the next in this series. Mary and Lori create the best mysteries to keep you happily reading day and into night. Love the Shadow Island Sheriff Department!!
September 11, 2023
Rebecca has just returned to Shadow Island after being injured on their last case. She plans on getting rested up before actually returning to work. Plans change, Amy Washington, a school teacher for many years is missing after her retirement party, and Rebecca is back to work. Everybody loves Amy from her previous students to current, plus anyone who knew her. When her body is found and it’s obvious that she has been murdered the Sheriff’s team is at a loss for suspects.
September 12, 2023
Rebecca is still healing from her wounds when a call of a missing person comes in. A Teacher from the local high school, whom everyone loved had a retirement party the night before and never made it home. But when her body is found, Rebecca can't help but wonder who would do such a thing. Not only that, but she has Viviane, a rookie to train " the right way". Everyone is shocked as who would murder such a caring teacher. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
September 12, 2023
Sheriff Rebecca West has just returned to work after suffering injuries in their last case. Now they are faced with the murder a of a beloved teacher after her retirement party.
A second murder occurs before the first one is solved and Rebecca and her crew are determined to find the killer before another murder happens,
Tis book is filled with mystery and suspense and I can hardly wait for the next book in the series.
A second murder occurs before the first one is solved and Rebecca and her crew are determined to find the killer before another murder happens,
Tis book is filled with mystery and suspense and I can hardly wait for the next book in the series.
September 14, 2023
I really enjoyed catching up with Rebecca as the Sheriff on Shadow Island.
She is dealing mentally and physically with the aftermath of their last Shadow Island Crime. I guess I am so caught up with the characters I felt fear, sorrow and pain for them all.
Then it's back to reality and waiting for the next Shadow Island book. I think you will really enjoy this Series by Mary Stone and Lori Rhodes.
She is dealing mentally and physically with the aftermath of their last Shadow Island Crime. I guess I am so caught up with the characters I felt fear, sorrow and pain for them all.
Then it's back to reality and waiting for the next Shadow Island book. I think you will really enjoy this Series by Mary Stone and Lori Rhodes.
September 9, 2023
Another outstanding book in the never ending saga of Shadow Island. Someone has killed a beloved teacher right after her retirement party and didn’t leave any clues except a crumbled note. Will they be able to find the killer before they strike again? And has Rebecca gone back to work too soon after her last case? Stay tuned
September 15, 2023
Received ARC
Even with healing ribs Sheriff Rebecca West is still chasing bad guys. And you know she’s going to get them. But just who is this killer? Be prepared to read straight through, because you’re not going to want to put this down; and you probably won’t figure out whodunnit until the revelation!
Even with healing ribs Sheriff Rebecca West is still chasing bad guys. And you know she’s going to get them. But just who is this killer? Be prepared to read straight through, because you’re not going to want to put this down; and you probably won’t figure out whodunnit until the revelation!
September 16, 2023
This is the 9th book in the Shadow Island series and like the other books, doesn’t disappoint. The plot is easy to follow. It as always includes a murder, has a dramatic twist, and suspense a plenty. It is a bonding experience for the characters. As always, Mary Stone’s books are an excellent read. Highly recommend.
January 16, 2024
Yet another good read in the series
While reading through the series, you feel like the people of Shadow Island are your friends, and with each new book, you get to know them just a little bit better. The criminal network keeps bubbling to the surface, all while the Sheriff's team keeps splintering and exposing their network.
While reading through the series, you feel like the people of Shadow Island are your friends, and with each new book, you get to know them just a little bit better. The criminal network keeps bubbling to the surface, all while the Sheriff's team keeps splintering and exposing their network.
October 28, 2024
I have to be honest …..
Damn.
I have to type 20 words at least for this to be a review. I find this very offensive as I am spending time when I need to be downloading the next one in series! 2:15 am and the alarm goes off at 4:45 so I can take grandson to track practice…now let me read!!!
Damn.
I have to type 20 words at least for this to be a review. I find this very offensive as I am spending time when I need to be downloading the next one in series! 2:15 am and the alarm goes off at 4:45 so I can take grandson to track practice…now let me read!!!
March 26, 2025
After the last book, this one was a real surprise. There was an element of sadness that was a residual emotion from the previous book but also included the diagnosis of the husband.
The story was ok. Nothing about the mystery or the killer really stood out and many elements were predictable. I did think there might be more about Ryker.
The story was ok. Nothing about the mystery or the killer really stood out and many elements were predictable. I did think there might be more about Ryker.
December 29, 2025
*3.25 Stars
This was a decent installment for me in the series. The mystery was interesting enough to hold my attention, even though some elements felt a bit predictable. While it didn’t quite have the tension or depth of my favourite books in the series, it was still enjoyable and works well as a steady continuation for readers already invested in the Shadow’s Island world.
This was a decent installment for me in the series. The mystery was interesting enough to hold my attention, even though some elements felt a bit predictable. While it didn’t quite have the tension or depth of my favourite books in the series, it was still enjoyable and works well as a steady continuation for readers already invested in the Shadow’s Island world.
September 9, 2023
This story was outstanding withRebecca and team going to find out who is killing people with lots of suspense and drama . Only thing the cover of my book was to another book shadows conspiracy. Thank you Mary and Lori.
September 11, 2023
A GREAT BOOK THAT IS WELL WRITTEN AND WILL KEEP YOU ENGROSSED TILL THE LAST PAGE. THE STORYLINE IS ORIGINAL WITH PLENTY OF TWISTS AND TURNS TO KEEP YOU TURNING THE PAGES TILL THE END. THE CHARACTERS ARE GREAT AND BECOME YOUR FRIENDS DURING THE BOOK. WHAT MORE CAN YOU ASK FOR?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews