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Sheriff Elven Hallie #7
Carnage in the County
How can he fix an entire county when he’s the most broken?
Sheriff Elven Hallie is a shell of himself. He’s lost everything. His house, his Jeep, his girl. But most of all, his reputation.
When an entire library full of people is massacred, Elven is forced to pull himself together to catch the killer.
To make matters worse, it’s election time, and this go around, Elven’s not running unopposed.
Zane Rhodes is highly respected in the community. A business owner, involved in the church, and has the backing of the governor.
But Elven has one thing that Zane doesn’t.
He’s still the sheriff of Dupray.
Will Elven be able to bring the mass murderer to justice, restoring the community’s faith in him as sheriff? Or will he prove everyone right—that he’s the county’s biggest mistake?
Sheriff Elven Hallie is a shell of himself. He’s lost everything. His house, his Jeep, his girl. But most of all, his reputation.
When an entire library full of people is massacred, Elven is forced to pull himself together to catch the killer.
To make matters worse, it’s election time, and this go around, Elven’s not running unopposed.
Zane Rhodes is highly respected in the community. A business owner, involved in the church, and has the backing of the governor.
But Elven has one thing that Zane doesn’t.
He’s still the sheriff of Dupray.
Will Elven be able to bring the mass murderer to justice, restoring the community’s faith in him as sheriff? Or will he prove everyone right—that he’s the county’s biggest mistake?
355 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 4, 2024
890 people are currently reading
232 people want to read
About the author
Drew Strickland
44 books167 followersDrew Strickland is an Amazon #1 bestselling author of the Sheriff Elven Hallie Mysteries along with other twisted crime and psychological thrillers.
He resides in Arizona with his wife and kids. When he’s not writing, he can be found reading, exploring new cities, spending time with his family, and of course, cuddling with his many cats (for real, cats just love him and he loves them).
Connect with Drew:
➜ WEBSITE: drewstricklandbooks.com
➜ FACEBOOK: facebook.com/drewstricklandbooks
➜ INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/drewstricklandbooks
He resides in Arizona with his wife and kids. When he’s not writing, he can be found reading, exploring new cities, spending time with his family, and of course, cuddling with his many cats (for real, cats just love him and he loves them).
Connect with Drew:
➜ WEBSITE: drewstricklandbooks.com
➜ FACEBOOK: facebook.com/drewstricklandbooks
➜ INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/drewstricklandbooks
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
October 17, 2024
Drew Strickland keeps the calibre of his writing high the deeper I delve into this series. Working with a successful premise in small-town West Virginia, Strickland leads Sheriff Elven Hallie through countless twists during the collection. While Elven. is recovering from a significant injury, the discovery of a number of bodies slain in a library has Dupray County on edge. Elven musters the energy to play his role, but a new hurdle emerges. As the investigation mounts and a prospective suspect emerges, Sheriff Elven Hallie will have to juggle a great deal or risk losing it all. Another great novel in the series proves Drew Strickland’s capabilities.
After the recent revelations and violent fallout, Sheriff Elven Hallie must pick up the pieces. He may have uncovered a murderous scheme, but in doing so, he lost someone he thought he would trust, his home, and the respect of those around him. Now, Elven tries to balance recuperating with the need to show leadership. Even though some within the Dupray County sheriff’s office have begun losing the faith, Elven Hallie will have to try working alongside them to enforce the county laws.
The discovery of a massacre at a local library leaves many worried about a new killer whose motives remain a mystery. Sheriff Hallie will have to find the wherewithal to act or be left in the dust. His attention on the case will be key, though there is more disturbing news to keep him busy. Someone is challenging him for the role of sheriff in the upcoming election. Having been offered the role on a temporary basis, Elven Hallie has never had to pander for votes in order to defend the county.
Juggling the importance of tracking down a murderer and showing Dupray County that he has what it takes to remain him his role. Sheriff Hallie must push every limitation and scour every piece of evidence to make a difference, while realising that he cannot do it alone. A great story that builds with each passing chapter. Strickland delivers one more with a great cliffhanger.
This is once more a complex and busy novel, adding depth and intrigue to the work of Drew Strickland. There is much that stems from the solid foundation on which this book rests. The narrative builds from the opening pages, trying to handle much of what has transpired in the last book and the fallout that ensues. Strickland picks up the pieces and tries to assemble them, while casting the light on other characters in need of some backstory to keep the series alive. The momentum increases as the central crime emerges and is developed, leaving the mystery to secure its hold and spurring many to act accordingly. A little drama as a secondary storyline propels things forward and keeps Elven Hallie from getting too comfortable. Many characters flavour the story and add their own depth, while the plot points keep things from becoming too predictable. I am eager to see what’s next and how Dupray County will show more of its true colours in the next novel.
Kudos, Mr. Strickland, for a great novel that ends with quite the twist.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
After the recent revelations and violent fallout, Sheriff Elven Hallie must pick up the pieces. He may have uncovered a murderous scheme, but in doing so, he lost someone he thought he would trust, his home, and the respect of those around him. Now, Elven tries to balance recuperating with the need to show leadership. Even though some within the Dupray County sheriff’s office have begun losing the faith, Elven Hallie will have to try working alongside them to enforce the county laws.
The discovery of a massacre at a local library leaves many worried about a new killer whose motives remain a mystery. Sheriff Hallie will have to find the wherewithal to act or be left in the dust. His attention on the case will be key, though there is more disturbing news to keep him busy. Someone is challenging him for the role of sheriff in the upcoming election. Having been offered the role on a temporary basis, Elven Hallie has never had to pander for votes in order to defend the county.
Juggling the importance of tracking down a murderer and showing Dupray County that he has what it takes to remain him his role. Sheriff Hallie must push every limitation and scour every piece of evidence to make a difference, while realising that he cannot do it alone. A great story that builds with each passing chapter. Strickland delivers one more with a great cliffhanger.
This is once more a complex and busy novel, adding depth and intrigue to the work of Drew Strickland. There is much that stems from the solid foundation on which this book rests. The narrative builds from the opening pages, trying to handle much of what has transpired in the last book and the fallout that ensues. Strickland picks up the pieces and tries to assemble them, while casting the light on other characters in need of some backstory to keep the series alive. The momentum increases as the central crime emerges and is developed, leaving the mystery to secure its hold and spurring many to act accordingly. A little drama as a secondary storyline propels things forward and keeps Elven Hallie from getting too comfortable. Many characters flavour the story and add their own depth, while the plot points keep things from becoming too predictable. I am eager to see what’s next and how Dupray County will show more of its true colours in the next novel.
Kudos, Mr. Strickland, for a great novel that ends with quite the twist.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
September 7, 2024
This book ranges from 2 stars to 3.5 stars. It never approaches "good" but maintains a steady place in the "OK" category primarily due to the real wacky character of Sheriff Elven Hallie. A borderline narcissist, manic depressive, goofy deputy sheriff. He is an interesting character but most everyone else are just cut-out forgettable stiffs. The stories in the series are a bit crazy. Dupray WV must have the most murders, serial killers, psychos then any rural area in the world.
June 17, 2025
4.5⭐️ Carnage in the County was a slow burn compared to the previous book, but an excellent read that picked up after the chaotic events where there was so much pain, death, surprises, and an epic arrest. Elvin is struggling to get back on track, but when a heinous attack happens at the local library, he is forced to figure out his path forward and find his footing, while also trying to get reelected. The final moments of the story though, those were not expected and I cannot wait to see what happens next!
August 5, 2025
We find Elvin in a downward depressive spiral. A killing spree at the library brings him back out. He is being challenged for sheriff. This is the part I did not like- we don’t really get a good story out of his opponent and did not fit. The murder mystery is good and I enjoyed that this title did not have gratuitous violence like some other titles in this series. I’m glad Mads was not in this installment and hope that character never returns. Hollis has a cameo appearance and is always an interesting character.
October 13, 2025
I feel like the author wants Elven to be some handsome broody genius. He’s not. He comes across as way too irresponsible and selfish. He just says I don’t have enough evidence to prove anything but my guts tells me this is true. And in every book he’s wrong. He brings the wrong people in and it’s just brushed off as a normal part of an investigation. No. He’s wasting time and money. He’s violating the rights of the citizens. He’s ruining people’s reputations. He’s creating unnecessary drama. It’s not good police work. It’s not suspenseful.
September 30, 2024
Twists and Turns!
I do love Elven's character. The story lines are very good, and I love the twists and turns that every story takes. I struggle with how many times the world traveler, Elven, uses the word ain't. His grammar otherwise is very good. It's doubtful that a person who uses "nom de plume" would use the word ain't at all much less as many times as it is written for Elven.
I do love Elven's character. The story lines are very good, and I love the twists and turns that every story takes. I struggle with how many times the world traveler, Elven, uses the word ain't. His grammar otherwise is very good. It's doubtful that a person who uses "nom de plume" would use the word ain't at all much less as many times as it is written for Elven.
November 15, 2024
Now what is an ex sheriff gonna do?
Great read. Absolutely wonderful story. Great characters but, the new sheriff is gonna take a lot of getting used to. This story raps around getting Elven back into solving crimes using his instincts. Which he seems to have lost after losing Hollis, Pennie, Made and a few others in the previous installment. The election of the sheriff puts in on notice.
Great read. Absolutely wonderful story. Great characters but, the new sheriff is gonna take a lot of getting used to. This story raps around getting Elven back into solving crimes using his instincts. Which he seems to have lost after losing Hollis, Pennie, Made and a few others in the previous installment. The election of the sheriff puts in on notice.
February 15, 2025
Pretty good...
Story line and characters are enjoyable though I have noticed that the proofreaders could be a little adamant about their job in this book and books earlier in the series. Spellchecker is not always your friend, just because a word is spelled correctly doesn't mean it's the correct word. Characters names also need to be correct in the setting.
All in all an enjoyable series. Now off to find out what Madds has been up to....can't stop now.
Story line and characters are enjoyable though I have noticed that the proofreaders could be a little adamant about their job in this book and books earlier in the series. Spellchecker is not always your friend, just because a word is spelled correctly doesn't mean it's the correct word. Characters names also need to be correct in the setting.
All in all an enjoyable series. Now off to find out what Madds has been up to....can't stop now.
July 2, 2025
I’ve enjoyed all of the books in this series. Good storylines, twists, great characters - with the exception of Madds - she has irritated me from the start as has her name!! So I enjoyed this book until the end!! Absolutely hated it!! Spoiler alert - not only is Elven no longer the sheriff (loved him in that role) but Madds is back!!! And after everything she did to him, he still has feelings for her? Come on dude! What is wrong with you??
September 20, 2024
Definitely recommend the series.
Strickland isn't the best author you're going to read, and this isn't the best series you're going to read, but they don't have to be the best. They just have to be interesting, have relatable characters, and hold your attention.
He accomplishes all of that, and I'm Kokomo forward to the next book.
Strickland isn't the best author you're going to read, and this isn't the best series you're going to read, but they don't have to be the best. They just have to be interesting, have relatable characters, and hold your attention.
He accomplishes all of that, and I'm Kokomo forward to the next book.
November 20, 2025
This book went in directions I didn't see coming. The main character Hallie is falling apart but seems to be getting it together. The book moved at a fast pace and the end came in record time. Binge reading these and still not bored with either the plots or the characters, each books seems a fresh and interesting as the first.
September 15, 2024
I’m definitely addicted to Sheriff Elven Hallie. I’m so glad Madds is back and I can’t wait to see what’s in store for them. I’m sure that whatever she needs help with will bring an exciting story and I can’t wait to read it.
September 22, 2024
Surprise!
Hard to believe a mass murder in this little town. Eleven is still recovering from his last case. The community is even more against his efforts. How will he solve this one?
Hard to believe a mass murder in this little town. Eleven is still recovering from his last case. The community is even more against his efforts. How will he solve this one?
September 28, 2024
One surprise after another!
Just when we all got comfortable with Elven’s life - here comes a curveball. From a normal life in his sad little hometown, things turned around so fast that even my head was spinning! What a great book!
Just when we all got comfortable with Elven’s life - here comes a curveball. From a normal life in his sad little hometown, things turned around so fast that even my head was spinning! What a great book!
September 28, 2024
Carnage in the County
This is an exciting mystery. I really enjoyed it although the ending did surprise me. I know the next book will be more interesting. Can't wait. I highly recommend this book and series
This is an exciting mystery. I really enjoyed it although the ending did surprise me. I know the next book will be more interesting. Can't wait. I highly recommend this book and series
October 12, 2024
Good Action
These books are becoming a drug for me. I find myself skimming parts because I can't wait to see what happens next.
I like how the different characters weave in and out and the relationship between Hollis and Elven..
These books are becoming a drug for me. I find myself skimming parts because I can't wait to see what happens next.
I like how the different characters weave in and out and the relationship between Hollis and Elven..
November 1, 2024
Proud Appalachian
This series takes me.back where I came from. Hill folk, moonshine, country doctor and just some good people and some.not so.good people to read about - definetely a series to read if you are from Appalachia and there's a lot of us! Enjoy!
This series takes me.back where I came from. Hill folk, moonshine, country doctor and just some good people and some.not so.good people to read about - definetely a series to read if you are from Appalachia and there's a lot of us! Enjoy!
August 24, 2025
Loved the book and enjoy this series. Sheriff Hallie's interaction with the various characters make his crime solving all the more interesting. And like usual, I never have been able to guess the ending!
September 6, 2025
A slower pace than previous ones as Sheriff Elven Hallie tries to put himself back together physically and mentally. Drew Strickland writes in a way that makes you want to keep reading, then he has an unexpected ending that makes you want to read the next book in the series.
September 2, 2024
Great series. Hate it’s going to be so long before the next episode
September 4, 2024
The plot thickens
Lots of twists and turns in this one. Great read as always from this author . you never disappoint Mr. Strickland!
Lots of twists and turns in this one. Great read as always from this author . you never disappoint Mr. Strickland!
September 7, 2024
There is quite a surprise ending for this book. I am very curious what will happen next.
September 20, 2024
Love the whole series!!
October 8, 2024
Delightful
Elvin is such a wonderful character...He is smart, loving, helpful and a terrific problem solver... personally and professionally. Thanks for a great novel.
Elvin is such a wonderful character...He is smart, loving, helpful and a terrific problem solver... personally and professionally. Thanks for a great novel.
October 20, 2024
Another good series!
December 13, 2024
Good read. I don’t feel like there was a lot of action like there normally is with Drew Strickland’s books but I did still enjoy it.
December 26, 2024
Great, exciting reads. I’m sorry I’ve caught up on the series. If you like Joe Pickett, Walt Longmire, and the characters in Justified, you will love Sheriff Elven Hallie.
July 25, 2025
Good book
This was a very good book. Can’t wait to read the next book in the series. I would recommend this book to family members and friends.
This was a very good book. Can’t wait to read the next book in the series. I would recommend this book to family members and friends.
July 25, 2025
Excellent read!
The Elven Hallie series is riveting! there is action, humor, and heartfelt emotions. I love this character and the series Drew Strickland does an excellent job.
The Elven Hallie series is riveting! there is action, humor, and heartfelt emotions. I love this character and the series Drew Strickland does an excellent job.
July 31, 2025
Blah.. this one was not good at all.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews