When Things Fall Apart

by Alan Brenham

Newly minted homicide detective Kit Hanover is paired with a crusty veteran who makes no bones about his feelings for Native Americans. Their prickly partnership becomes more antagonistic when her first murder case proves devastating and she is reassigned. Determined to work the case in her own time despite the emotional consequences she finds herself and her family the target of an unknown madman. She withstands the inexplicable attacks as she continues her investigation until she finds herself face to face with the murderer. Only one of them can survive.

427 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 21, 2023

About the author

Alan Brenham is the pseudonym of Alan Behr, an American author and attorney.
He served as a law enforcement officer before earning a law degree from Baylor University and worked as a prosecutor and criminal defense attorney for twenty-two years.
Alan began his writing craft by studying novels by Michael McGarrity, James Hayman, and Michael Connelly.
He has authored ten crime fiction novels. Alan and his wife, Lillian, currently live in the Central Texas area.

Reviews

[Lisette Brodey · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are books that grab your attention from the first sentence and never let go. When Things Fall Apart is one of those.

First, the strong character of new homicide detective Kit Hanover made me care … and I was immediately invested in her story. Right away, I wanted to punch her new partner, who not only was racist toward Native Americans, but felt no shame in displaying his ignorance. I liked Kit even more when she didn’t let his behavior take her down.

Work relationship aside, in no time at all, a stranger, someone very sick and twisted, begins to wreak havoc, fear, and sorrow in Kit’s life. But who? What’s their motive?

This is a heart-pounding story with non-stop action. Every spare minute I had, I was compelled to turn more pages until I finished it. I just love when a novel takes me away like this!

Kudos to Alan Brenham for a great story. This is the third, but not the last, book of his that I’ve read. Five stars!

[Rodrigo J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rising from the ruins

Sometimes, things break without warning. People we trusted fail us, plans collapse, and life turns into chaos. This book made me think about how we respond when everything seems lost. The main character faces fear, loneliness, and danger, but she also shows that even in the darkest moments, strength can be found. It reminded me that falling is not the same as giving up, it is an opportunity to start again with more clarity. In real life, we all have days when nothing seems to make sense, yet those experiences show who we truly are. When everything falls apart, something new can also emerge inside us, stronger and more genuine, helping us move forward with courage and hope.

[Evelyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This first installment in The Kit Hanover series follows a homicide detective who must not only worry about catching a ruthless killer but also about rebuilding her relationship with her partnership, an unsociable veteran.
Alan Behr does a great job of creating a world in which I, as a reader, can believe in and a plot that keeps me absolutely interested. The main character was written to perfection and it’s easy to empathize with her. The chapters were brilliantly developed; there were a lot of twists that kept the story fresh and moving from beginning to end. I love how it’s filled with suspense, action, mystery and intrigue.
This is a must-read without any doubt!

[Lina P · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very fun read

When Things Fall Apart, by Brenham, is a detective novel that keeps the reader engaged from beginning to end. As you read, you become involved in the story's development and can't help but develop feelings at some point.
From beginning to end, you see the evolution of Kit Hannover, the main character, from an inexperienced, novice detective to the heroine of the story who solves the case. She also has to confront various things, people, and situations to achieve her goal.
It's a fun story, full of action and mystery that keeps the reader focused on the story's development. This novel is definitely a great choice for a pleasant read.

[READER VIEWS · Rating 5 out of 5]

In “When Things Fall Apart (The Kit Hanover series, Book 1)” by Alan Brenham, an inexperienced detective finds herself at the center of deep treachery and misery that almost wipes her entire family away.

Kit Hanover, a newbie detective with the Fort Worth Police, has been paired with Detective Wade Shepard to investigate a homicide case at Marine Creek Lake. It was her first time seeing a dead body with a grossly mutilated face, severe head trauma, and multiple puncture wounds to the chest and abdomen. This being her first homicide investigation, she wants to be thorough, but her efforts keep getting obstructed by Shepard, a ruthless detective known to harass new officers.

Kit barely digs into the mountain of evidence in front of her before she is reassigned to a different team of undercover officers who are trying to cripple a well-established prostitution network in the city. She is required to pose as a decoy who will lure men to herself and then utter a code that will have them arrested immediately after offering her hard cash. Her new unit believes that this is a brilliant strategy that will scare the ‘customers’ away and subsequently clean the streets for good.

Kit’s new assignment seems less laborious than her last assignment. This is, however, until she is kidnapped one day by armed men. She narrowly escapes their deadly grip, but before she can heal from the trauma, she receives the tragic news of her father’s murder. Further details reveal that he was found lifeless at Marine Creek Lake, meaning that the battered corpse she had seen at the same site days ago may have been her father’s.

Alan Brenham has crafted a spectacular tale that wields breathtaking twists and an engaging plot. He introduces a protagonist whose calm nature, brilliance, determination, and willingness to take on tricky duties easily make her a fan favorite. Her development from a newbie detective is slow, but the incorporation of the antagonist’s personal and family life obscures that and keeps the tale captivating.

The author offers multiple teases of close-call meetings between the protagonist and antagonist that will send jets of adrenaline through the reader’s veins. His writing style is excellent, and his prose is remarkable. “When Things Fall Apart” rises above other mystery stories owing to its most iconic element: a twisty ending and red herrings. Its scenes are extremely intense and will leave many readers stunned. If you love mystery novels that will turn you into a sleuth, you won’t want to miss this one!

[Juan · Rating 5 out of 5]

“When Things Fall Apart” is the first installment of The Kit Hanover series. Let me say that I enjoyed it so much and I will detail some of the reasons why I absolutely recommend it.

First of all, the writing style is impeccable, organized and fully detailed. The author skillfully weaves a story of suspense, intrigue and mystery. The narrative is totally fluid from beginning to end, with real descriptions that help readers to bring the scenes to life. The balance between action and thought-provoking moments is also right.

Moreover, as regards the characters, they are extremely well-developed with unique and strong personalities. The end of the story left me speechless. I want to know more about the protagonist and I’m anxious to read the following book.

[Book Reviewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

In When Things Fall Apart by Alan Brenham, readers are introduced to Kit Hanover, a Native American police officer navigating the complex intersection of her heritage and her career. As she steps into her role in Fort Worth's homicide division, Kit faces the challenges of her demanding job and the prejudices and skepticism from her colleagues.

The character of Kit Hanover is delicately balanced between her professional competence and the cultural dichotomy she embodies. Brenham explores the delicate position Native Americans can find themselves in when assuming roles of authority in a society where they have historically been marginalized. This tension is further emphasized through the relationship between Kit and her partner, Wade Shepard, whose hostility adds a layer of internal conflict to the narrative. While Brenham's novel may tread familiar ground in some aspects, it offers a rich exploration of its themes and characters. Detective Hanover, as a focal point, provides a fascinating character study. Brenham's skill in dialogue and plotting is evident, with the story gaining momentum and suspense in its later stages. The narrative of When Things Fall Apart occasionally ventures into predictable tropes, but these moments contribute to the broader tapestry of the novel. They underscore its exploration of cultural tensions and the complexities of identity, enhancing the story's overall depth and resonance.

When Things Fall Apart by Alan Brenham is a captivating and thoughtful exploration of cultural identity and professional integrity. Through Kit Hanover's experiences, the novel delves into the heart of societal and personal conflicts with sensitivity and nuance. Brenham's adept storytelling, rich character development, and suspenseful plot make this novel an engaging and enlightening read.

[Cathy Geha · Rating 3 out of 5]

When Things Fall Apart by Alan Brenham
Kit Hanover Series #1

~ This one was hard for me to get into and I almost gave up on about page ten BUT decided to keep reading and the story did eventually draw me in and keep me reading ~

What I liked:
* The use “Ken” as the name for the killer that would keep the killer hidden longer
* Kit Hanover: 23-year-old new police homicide detective, adopted, Native American, adopted, loving parents, bright, capable, enjoys homicide but able to switch to vice with ease, dating Don Hudson
* Kit’s parents: father a lawyer, mother works in real estate, married 25 years, faithful, loving
* That even though the racist bigotry nearly had me DNF I was able to continue after reading the end of the book and a bit from the middle
* Not knowing who the killer was till further into the story than usual
* The police procedural aspects of the story and that the killer was eventually uncovered and dealt with
* Thinking about how twisted the killer’s mental state must have been and learning that jealousy can lead to murder
* Starting the series on the first book and thinking about what Kit might get up to next
* The glimpse into Vice while Kit worked there a few days

What I didn’t like:
* Detective Shepherd: off-putting, racist, bigoted, rude, belittling, inappropriate, offensive – did redeem himself a bit toward the end of the story
* The Killer: easily disliked and wished Karma or Justice to deal with him sooner than later
* The crimes committed by the killer and the damage done to those who died and those who survived

Did I like this book? Eventually
Would I read more in this series? I think so

Thank you to NetGalley and Book Go Social for the ARC – This is my honest review.

3-4 Stars

[Jill Rey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Native American Kit Hanover is looking forward to finally landing in homicide, after dreaming of solving homicides throughout the academy. However, being partnered Detective Wade Shepard is less than ideal. The constant Pocahontas slurs and references to her Indian bloodlines are making it difficult to remain professional as Shepard rudely takes the investigative lead. At every turn Detective Shepard seeks to throw up roadblocks. From getting Kit transferred to undercover decoy work on the Vice Human Trafficking team, to cutting her out of the homicide case that takes a personal turn, every bit of this book has readers seething over Shepard’s action.

Author Alan Brenham crafts a great villain as readers quickly take a liking to Kit Hanover and the barriers she faces in law enforcement, while maintaining a level of mystery and intrigue regarding some of Kit’s strong dislikes and aversions, all of which will hopefully continue to come out as the series progresses. Brenham, not one to shy away from using unique main characters, once again brings us a strong, representative female to the main page. Adopted from the Comanche Nation reservation at a young age, Kit Hanover brings a fresh perspective, while injecting some diversity into the law enforcement community.

“When Things Fall Apart” is a strong kick off for Brenham’s new Kit Hanover Series. Onboarding readers to the Fort Worth Police Department, various players within, and the crimes the various departments investigate. Providing a powerful introduction to Kit’s family dynamics and personalities, this book will have readers rooting for Kit to succeed.

[Tammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

📚When Things Fall Apart
⚠️Alan Brenham
Blurb"
Newly minted homicide detective Kit Hanover is paired with a crusty veteran who makes no bones about his feelings for Native Americans. Their prickly partnership becomes more antagonistic when her first murder case proves devastating and she is reassigned. Determined to work the case in her own time despite the emotional consequences she finds herself and her family the target of an unknown madman. She withstands the inexplicable attacks as she continues her investigation until she finds herself face to face with the murderer. Only one of them can survive.
My Thoughts:
I found When Things Fall Apart to be a fast, gripping readWhen Things Fall Apart is a work that evokes tension and emotional stakes in introducing the Kit Hanover series. Kit is a rookie homicide detective, eager to prove herself, but her first case—and her partner's gruff, openly prejudiced demeanor—makes that close to impossible. From beginning to end, you see the evolution of Kit Hannover, the main character, from an inexperienced, novice detective to the heroine of the story who solves the case. She also has to confront various things, people, and situations to achieve her goal. If you enjoy thrillers add this to your TBR list.
Thanks NetGalley, Brenham Publishing and Author Alan Brenham for the advanced copy of "When Things Fall Apart" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#BrenhamPublishing
#AlanBrenham
#WhenThingsFallApart
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Widener Coover · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Things Fall Apart is a tightly woven crime thriller that blends procedural investigation with personal stakes in a compelling and often unsettling way. Alan Brenham introduces Detective Kit Hanover at an early stage in her career, and the novel benefits greatly from this positioning. Her inexperience is not a weakness in the writing; instead, it becomes a narrative strength that allows the reader to experience the instability and emotional weight of homicide work alongside her.

The partnership with her veteran colleague adds significant tension. His overt bias and abrasive demeanor create an uncomfortable but realistic workplace dynamic that shapes Kit’s early trajectory as a detective. Brenham does not soften these interactions, which enhances the authenticity of the environment.

As the murder investigation unfolds, the narrative gradually shifts from procedural work to personal danger, effectively escalating stakes without breaking plausibility. The introduction of an unknown assailant targeting Kit and her family adds a psychological layer that transforms the case into something far more intimate and threatening.

While certain plot developments follow familiar genre structures, the emotional grounding and character focus keep the story engaging. A strong entry in the detective thriller space with a notable emphasis on resilience and psychological pressure.

[Sarah William · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Things Fall Apart is a tightly woven crime thriller that blends procedural investigation with personal stakes in a compelling and often unsettling way. Alan Brenham introduces Detective Kit Hanover at an early stage in her career, and the novel benefits greatly from this positioning. Her inexperience is not a weakness in the writing; instead, it becomes a narrative strength that allows the reader to experience the instability and emotional weight of homicide work alongside her.

The partnership with her veteran colleague adds significant tension. His overt bias and abrasive demeanor create an uncomfortable but realistic workplace dynamic that shapes Kit’s early trajectory as a detective. Brenham does not soften these interactions, which enhances the authenticity of the environment.

As the murder investigation unfolds, the narrative gradually shifts from procedural work to personal danger, effectively escalating stakes without breaking plausibility. The introduction of an unknown assailant targeting Kit and her family adds a psychological layer that transforms the case into something far more intimate and threatening.

While certain plot developments follow familiar genre structures, the emotional grounding and character focus keep the story engaging. A strong entry in the detective thriller space with a notable emphasis on resilience and psychological pressure.

[Morries · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Things Fall Apart presents a gripping blend of procedural crime fiction and personal psychological thriller. Alan Brenham centers the narrative on Detective Kit Hanover, whose early career status allows for a compelling exploration of vulnerability within a high pressure investigative environment.
The professional dynamic between Kit and her assigned veteran partner is one of the novel’s most striking elements. His overt bias and abrasive behavior create sustained tension that influences both investigative outcomes and Kit’s emotional development. This relationship is depicted with a level of realism that enhances the story’s credibility.
The homicide case itself unfolds in a structured and methodical manner, with Brenham emphasizing procedural accuracy. However, the narrative gains significant intensity when external threats begin targeting Kit and her family, shifting the story from investigation to survival.
The pacing is steady, occasionally deliberate, but this supports the novel’s focus on detail and psychological buildup. Some elements of the mystery follow established genre patterns, but they are executed with competence and clarity.
Ultimately, the novel succeeds most in its portrayal of endurance under pressure. It is a strong, character focused thriller that balances investigative realism with escalating personal stakes.

[Clifton Ware · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alan Brenham delivers a tense and character driven thriller in When Things Fall Apart. The novel’s strength lies in its protagonist, Kit Hanover, whose determination and resilience carry the story forward even when circumstances seem stacked against her.

The strained partnership with her veteran colleague introduces themes of prejudice and generational conflict, which are handled with a degree of realism. While this dynamic can feel uncomfortable at times, it adds depth to the narrative and reflects real world complexities within law enforcement.

The plot unfolds methodically, allowing readers to piece together clues alongside Kit. While some sections feel slower, they ultimately contribute to the buildup of suspense. The personal stakes are particularly effective, as the threat extends beyond Kit’s professional life into her family, raising the emotional intensity.

Brenham’s writing is straightforward yet effective, prioritizing clarity and tension over stylistic flourish. The climax is satisfying, delivering a confrontation that feels earned.

This is a strong thriller with a grounded protagonist and a storyline that keeps you engaged, even if it occasionally lingers longer than necessary.

[Casey · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Things Fall Apart is a character driven crime thriller that emphasizes emotional consequence as much as investigative detail. Alan Brenham constructs a narrative where professional duty and personal vulnerability collide, particularly through the experiences of Detective Kit Hanover.

Kit’s position as a newly minted homicide detective is central to the story’s effectiveness. Her learning curve is depicted with realism, capturing the uncertainty and pressure inherent in early investigative work. This adds credibility to her decisions and reactions throughout the novel.

The strained relationship with her assigned partner introduces a persistent undercurrent of tension. His biased worldview creates friction that complicates not only the investigation but also Kit’s sense of professional belonging.

The narrative intensifies significantly once the investigation spills into Kit’s personal life. The shift from procedural work to targeted violence is handled smoothly, maintaining narrative cohesion while raising stakes.

While the structure adheres to familiar thriller conventions, the emotional depth and character focus elevate the material. Brenham’s strength lies in portraying the psychological toll of crime work rather than merely the mechanics of solving it.

[Bateman Kody · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alan Brenham’s When Things Fall Apart is a suspenseful and emotionally charged procedural that follows Detective Kit Hanover as she navigates both professional hostility and escalating personal danger. The novel succeeds in blending workplace tension with investigative momentum.

Kit is portrayed as a developing detective rather than an established authority, which allows the narrative to explore growth, doubt, and resilience in a meaningful way. Her early experiences in homicide investigation feel grounded and often uncomfortable in a realistic sense.

The antagonistic dynamic between Kit and her senior partner adds complexity to the procedural framework. Their interactions are tense and frequently abrasive, reflecting deeper systemic and interpersonal conflicts within law enforcement environments.

The murder investigation is structured with clarity, gradually building toward higher stakes. The transition from casework to personal threat is handled effectively, increasing urgency without feeling abrupt.

Although the novel occasionally relies on familiar thriller pacing techniques, its strength lies in character psychology and escalating tension. The presence of an unknown assailant targeting Kit and her family adds a compelling layer of suspense.

[Bennett Hale · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Things Fall Apart is a gripping crime thriller that wastes no time pulling the reader into its tense and emotionally charged narrative. Alan Brenham introduces Kit Hanover as a newly minted homicide detective navigating not only the brutality of her first case but also the internal politics of a flawed partnership. The dynamic between Kit and her veteran partner is sharply drawn, adding a layer of tension that feels authentic and relevant.

What stands out most is the emotional weight of the story. Kit is not portrayed as invincible, instead, she is deeply human, affected by both the case and the personal consequences that follow. The pacing is steady, building suspense without feeling rushed, and the stakes rise in a way that keeps you invested.

The plot itself is well constructed, with enough twists to maintain intrigue without becoming convoluted. Brenham balances procedural detail with character development effectively, making the story both engaging and grounded.

Overall, this is a compelling read that blends psychological tension with strong storytelling. It’s a solid addition to the crime thriller genre and leaves a lasting impression.

[Claire A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Things Fall Apart is a standout crime novel that combines procedural authenticity with emotional depth. Alan Brenham crafts a story that feels both intense and personal, largely due to the compelling portrayal of Kit Hanover.

Kit’s journey from a newly assigned detective to someone personally entangled in the case is both believable and engaging. Her determination to pursue justice, even when reassigned, highlights her moral conviction and adds tension to the narrative.

The antagonist remains a looming and unpredictable presence throughout the story, creating an atmosphere of constant unease. Brenham does an excellent job of maintaining suspense, ensuring that readers are never entirely comfortable.

What elevates this novel is its exploration of consequences, both professional and personal. Kit’s investigation comes at a cost, and the story does not shy away from showing the toll it takes on her life.

The pacing is well managed, with a satisfying balance between action and introspection. The final confrontation is intense and fitting, bringing the story to a powerful close.

This is a must read for fans of thoughtful, character driven thrillers.

[Soozee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kit Hanover has recently graduated and is now in her first job in the Homicide Division. However, she is partnered with an ascerbic, racist, mysogynistic man. Their first case is a messy killing - the man was severely beaten, shot and then tipped into water.

A second strand concerns 'Ken' who is desperately jealous, determined his wife will not be seduced away from him but convinced she is having an affair.

From this, Kit's family are drawn into a maelstrom of hatred, as 'Ken' focuses on them as seducers and responsible for his failing marriage.

Its well written, although I guessed the perpetrator quite early on. The author plays the strings well, leading the reader to suspect this person and that as we try to work out who 'Ken' is. A few scenes didn't work; there's no way several characters would not have realised who the villain was, but I won't give things away.

A fun read. Thank you to NetGalley and Books Go Social for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[C. Eloise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alan Brenham’s When Things Fall Apart offers a compelling blend of crime investigation and personal drama. The novel introduces readers to Kit Hanover, whose first major case quickly becomes more than she bargained for.

One of the most engaging aspects of the book is its focus on character relationships. The friction between Kit and her partner adds realism and tension, while her connection to her family raises the stakes in a meaningful way.

The narrative is structured in a way that gradually builds suspense. Brenham takes his time developing the story, which may feel slow for some readers, but ultimately results in a more immersive experience.

The threat against Kit and her family is particularly effective, shifting the story from a standard procedural to a more personal and psychological thriller. This transition keeps the narrative fresh and engaging.

While not without its slower moments, the book delivers a satisfying and well rounded reading experience. It’s a thoughtful exploration of determination, resilience, and the cost of pursuing justice.

[Prescott Vale · Rating 5 out of 5]

In When Things Fall Apart, Alan Brenham demonstrates a strong command of suspense and character development. The novel is anchored by Kit Hanover, a protagonist who feels authentic and relatable in her struggles.

The story’s tension is amplified by the dual conflicts Kit faces, both within her professional environment and in the case itself. The antagonistic partnership adds a layer of realism that enhances the overall narrative.

Brenham’s pacing is deliberate, allowing readers to fully engage with the investigation. The unfolding mystery is compelling, with enough twists to maintain interest without overwhelming the reader.

What truly stands out is the emotional resonance of the story. Kit’s determination to continue the investigation despite personal risk adds depth and urgency to the plot.

The climax is intense and well executed, providing a satisfying resolution to the story’s central conflict.

This novel is a strong example of how crime fiction can be both entertaining and emotionally impactful.

[Mayra · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Things Fall Apart by Alan Brenham is a captivating novel that deals with highly important and interesting matters. The first book in The Kit Hanover series is an intriguing book with a blend of crime drama, thriller, and police genres. As regards the plot, it tells the story of Kit Hanover, a determined homicide detective, and the challenges in her career. The narrative intensifies as she is assigned her first murder case and runs into unexpected twists. Thanks to the writing style of the author, I was able to put myself into the main character's shoes. Especially when she has to face prejudices from her veteran partner. I found the dialogues and descriptions in the novel to be of a great importance for getting to connect with Kit. All along the story, I read about well-researched procedural details, which in my opinion, give an excellent frame to the personal story. 100% recommendable.

[Munfordreels · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a gripping and intense read from start to finish. When Things Fall Apart pulls you into Kit Hanover’s world right away, and I found myself invested in her journey as a rookie homicide detective. The dynamic between Kit and her partner adds a layer of tension that feels very real, especially with the underlying prejudice and conflict. It’s not just a crime story, it’s also about navigating difficult relationships and proving yourself under pressure. The pacing kept me turning pages, and the mystery was well crafted without being predictable. I appreciated how the emotional stakes were just as strong as the investigative side of the story. Kit’s determination to continue the case, even when it puts her and her family at risk, made her a compelling character. The suspense builds steadily toward a satisfying and intense conclusion. Overall, it’s a solid thriller with depth and strong character development.

[Landon H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Things Fall Apart is a well crafted thriller that emphasizes character over spectacle. Alan Brenham focuses on the internal and external challenges faced by Kit Hanover, creating a story that feels grounded and realistic.

The novel’s strength lies in its attention to detail, particularly in the depiction of investigative work. Brenham balances procedural elements with personal drama, ensuring that the story remains engaging throughout.

The pacing is steady, though occasionally slow, allowing for deeper character development. The tension builds gradually, culminating in a climax that feels both intense and earned.

Kit’s resilience is a central theme, and her determination to pursue the case despite being reassigned adds a compelling layer to the narrative.

Overall, this is a thoughtful and engaging thriller that prioritizes substance over speed. It’s a solid read for those who appreciate character driven crime fiction.

[May G. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Survival

Get ready for a read that will keep you on the edge of your seat, in a whirlwind of intrigue and adrenaline that won’t let you go until its shocking conclusion, where danger and determination collide at every turn. From the start, her path crosses with that of a veteran partner whose convictions clash head-on with her own, laying the groundwork for a tense, conflict-ridden relationship. The tension builds with every page, leading to a climax where the final confrontation is inevitable. A protagonist on a relentless quest for the truth, facing threats that force her to fight not only for justice, but also for her own life. A suspense-filled plot that will keep you hooked until the very end, revealing that, in the world of crime, the thin line between hunter and prey can vanish in an instant.

[G. Aldric · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alan Brenham delivers a gripping and emotionally charged narrative in When Things Fall Apart. The novel excels in its portrayal of a protagonist who is both strong and vulnerable.

Kit Hanover’s journey is compelling, particularly as she navigates the challenges of her first major case. The personal stakes are high, and the threat to her family adds an additional layer of tension.

The writing is clear and effective, allowing the story to take center stage. Brenham’s ability to build suspense is evident throughout, keeping readers engaged from beginning to end.

The antagonist is well crafted, adding a sense of unpredictability that enhances the overall narrative. The final confrontation is particularly impactful, delivering a satisfying conclusion.

This is a well rounded thriller that combines strong character development with a compelling plot.

[V. Rupert Sinclair · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Things Fall Apart offers a compelling look at the complexities of law enforcement and personal resilience. Alan Brenham creates a story that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

The character of Kit Hanover is well developed, and her determination to continue the investigation despite setbacks is admirable. The strained partnership adds depth to the narrative, highlighting the challenges she faces within her profession.

The pacing is measured, allowing for a thorough exploration of both the case and the characters. While this may not appeal to readers seeking fast paced action, it contributes to the story’s overall depth.

The suspense builds effectively, leading to a conclusion that feels both intense and satisfying.

This is a strong entry in the crime thriller genre, offering a balance of character and plot.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Violent and gritty

Detective Kit is assigned her first homicide case with a murdered body washing up at Marine Creek. The only problem is that her assigned partner, Wade, is openly hostile and makes no secret of his disdain of her Native American heritage. The hostile work environment eventually leads to her reassignment. Kit is determined to solve the case anyway. This puts her in the crosshairs of the killer, and she will have to outsmart and out gun him to survive. This book did not shy away from the violent nature of the killer and the vitriol that hatred shows some of our community face on a day-to-day day. This can be hard to read for some, but I think it's important to remember that Wade's treatment of Kit isn't viewed as wrong by many in this country.

[Yolanda Gomez · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Things Fall Apart by Alan Brenham is an exceptional crime fiction novel that I loved. The standout feature is the compelling characterization of Kit Hanover, making her a relatable and dynamic detective. The book's meticulous attention to detail and balanced pacing contribute to an immersive reading experience. Brenham's depiction of crime scenes is vivid, adding authenticity to the plot. Beyond being a gripping thriller, the novel delves into the complexities of justice and human psychology, elevating it beyond the standard crime fiction fare. The book promises more intriguing mysteries to come in The Kit Hanover series. For fans of crime fiction, this debut in The Kit Hanover series is a must-read. Highly recommended!

[Steven Finkelstein · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the book that kicks off the Kit Hanover series. Kit is a new homicide detective who gets paired up with an older individual, a veteran who doesn’t like her or her ideas. They butt heads, but then, when Kit’s first murder case hits a little too close to home, their relationship gets even worse. From there, it becomes a cautionary tale of what happens when a cop’s emotions enter into their work.

Kit throws herself even further into the case, which leads her and her family right into the firing line of a madman. Now, a war of attrition has begun that seemingly won’t end until either Kit or the psychopath threatening her is in the ground. This is a thrilling, gritty police procedural that picks up the pace like a runaway train until its exciting, dramatic conclusion.