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One Icy Night: A Rook Thriller
"Gritting, unexpected, and hard to put down." - Midwest Book ReviewRook’s on the run in the most dangerous storm in decades. When a brush with the law goes from bad to worse, can she escape druggies, crazies, and killers?Abandoned by her now-ex-boyfriend at a dive bar in the middle of nowhere, the last thing resilient Rook Kellum needs is the local sheriff confiscating her I.D. when one phone call could expose her true identity and the reason she is on the run from the law. So when she’s trapped by a deadly ice storm that destroys the Mississippi Delta, the twenty-year-old fugitive has a get everyone drunk, steal back her license (and a madman’s car), and get the hell out of town.It is only when Rook escapes to a secluded cabin does she discover she isn’t the only one in need of rescue. As she fights her way out of one disaster just to get pounded with another, will Rook live to see the light of day?One Icy Night is Taylor Adam's No Exit meets Rachel Hawkins’s The Wife Upstairs.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 26, 2024
93 people are currently reading
306 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
January 31, 2024
W.A. Pepper’s voice is pure magic. It’s not easy to infuse humor into thrillers, but Pepper does it with ease. One Icy Night is atmospheric, twisted, and a whole lot of fun, with well thought out characters who will feel like your best friends and worst enemies. Every person added to the web and all I could do was hang on for the ride while Pepper took us through the storm, around some icy cliffs, and to the final breathless conclusion!
January 11, 2024
One of my favorite trillers to date! Pepper has a shark, witty and fun style of writing that I love. This story was tense, funny, compelling and totally enjoyable. Highly recommend!
January 7, 2024
Thank you to the author for allowing me to e-read and review this ARC before publishing on 1/26/24.
This was a wild ride from the beginning, following 3 close time lines. It is thrilling, suspenseful, disturbing, witty and funny at times. You will not believe the ending!
This was a wild ride from the beginning, following 3 close time lines. It is thrilling, suspenseful, disturbing, witty and funny at times. You will not believe the ending!
January 29, 2024
This book was told in multiple time lines by the same persons pov, Rook
She is one that would have no luck if it weren’t for bad luck
Quite a twist at that ending
This book released 1/26/2024
She is one that would have no luck if it weren’t for bad luck
Quite a twist at that ending
This book released 1/26/2024
November 14, 2023
Der Preis für Freiheit und Sicherheit ist ewige Wachsamkeit. Es gibt keine Teilzeit-Wachsamkeit, Lil Hoody.
~ Kämpfe, als ob du mit dem Teufel selbst ringen würdest ~
Es ist mein 3. Buch von Will, und wieder hat er mich nicht endtäuscht.
Es ist ein (für mich) spannender, und packender Thriller bis zur letzten Seite.
Aber trotzdem musste ich auch zwischendurch lachen, z.B.
„Also nahmen wir Bleichmittel, um die Wanne zu reinigen, etwas Salzsäure, um Flecken zu entfernen, und holten etwas Obst, Wasser und Hefe und ließen es einwirken.“
„Ich bin mir ziemlich sicher, dass man auf diese Weise keinen trinkbaren Alkohol herstellt“, entgegne ich.
„Hey, wenn du es trinkst und nicht stirbst, ist es trinkbar.“ 😅😅😅
Gut, Spaß beiseite.
Es ist ein (für mich wieder) toller Thriller, und eine Freude das Buch gelesen zu haben.
Danke Will, für die spannenden Lesestunden, die ich wirklich sehr in die Länge zog, um mehr davon zuhaben.
Ganz klare Leseempfehlung 👍🏻
~ Kämpfe, als ob du mit dem Teufel selbst ringen würdest ~
Es ist mein 3. Buch von Will, und wieder hat er mich nicht endtäuscht.
Es ist ein (für mich) spannender, und packender Thriller bis zur letzten Seite.
Aber trotzdem musste ich auch zwischendurch lachen, z.B.
„Also nahmen wir Bleichmittel, um die Wanne zu reinigen, etwas Salzsäure, um Flecken zu entfernen, und holten etwas Obst, Wasser und Hefe und ließen es einwirken.“
„Ich bin mir ziemlich sicher, dass man auf diese Weise keinen trinkbaren Alkohol herstellt“, entgegne ich.
„Hey, wenn du es trinkst und nicht stirbst, ist es trinkbar.“ 😅😅😅
Gut, Spaß beiseite.
Es ist ein (für mich wieder) toller Thriller, und eine Freude das Buch gelesen zu haben.
Danke Will, für die spannenden Lesestunden, die ich wirklich sehr in die Länge zog, um mehr davon zuhaben.
Ganz klare Leseempfehlung 👍🏻
January 11, 2024
This is a split timeline story that follows Rook and her various situations that life puts her in. Just her will to survive alone is admirable because tough predicaments keep finding her. She utilizes a skill taught to her by her grandma that helps Rook navigate whatever comes her way and she is quite the impressive character. An efficient amount of suspense and twist and laughs throughout so the pages will keep turning. I’ll admit, I struggled in connecting to the chapter titles and could be because its been quite sometime since I’ve read a book that had actual chapter titles like this book did but it didn’t distract from following the story. This book jumps past and present quite a bit and interesting enough the bulk of this storyline stems from one night and I was pleased to see how the author made the transitions easy enough to follow. When the story escalates for Rook (trying to tread careful here with spoilers) I am interested in seeing if people are as SHOCKED as I was!! Impactful reveal indeed! Glad I got to read this and look forward to reading more from W.A.Pepper
January 31, 2024
Every choice has a consequence and for Rook it’s no different, she’s a base guitarist educated by her grandma on the best ways to survive. Rook has always been taught to be aware of her surroundings. Which in turns helps Rook survive a lot of sticky situations. This book is full of twists, turns, this book has me laughing out loud, reminded me of different movies and smiling at how sharp, quick witted and spunky Rook is. This book has a lot of vulgarity which for me is generally a turn off but somehow W.A. Pepper makes it flow without being overwhelming. If you’re in the market for a fast page turner with humor woven throughout it. This is your book. Make sure to bring your own water bottles and don’t trust any laying around throughout this book. 😂 Well done and thanks for the chance to review this book as an arc for an honest opinion. 5/5 ✨
January 27, 2024
Good thriller with nice satisfying ending
You get a good look at Rook's life and experiences in the great storm of 1994. It’s a thriller with her dealing with a few crazies like Cooter and the Sheriff, but it ends well with Rook getting off and finding satisfaction with the help and friendship of Battleship.
Enjoyed the book. I like the writing style of W. A. Pepper.
You get a good look at Rook's life and experiences in the great storm of 1994. It’s a thriller with her dealing with a few crazies like Cooter and the Sheriff, but it ends well with Rook getting off and finding satisfaction with the help and friendship of Battleship.
Enjoyed the book. I like the writing style of W. A. Pepper.
February 2, 2024
Wow! This was an unexpected breath of fresh air for a thriller! I found myself laughing out loud while also being completely entranced with the crazy, exciting story. I will definitely be looking for more to read from this author.
January 19, 2024
Excellent thriller, very addictive! I highly recommend this one
February 12, 2024
In One Icy Night, author W.A. Pepper presents a gripping narrative centered around Rook Kellum, a twenty-year-old bassist caught up in the chaos of the 1994 Delta Ice Storm. The story unfolds in a small-town setting, where Rook, left stranded by her bandmates, finds herself passing the time in a local bar. The narrative takes an intriguing turn as Rook interacts with a cast of distinctive characters, including the bar owner Stalin, Sherriff Roberts, and the enigmatic Riley. Pepper skillfully weaves a tale where secrets are unveiled amidst a backdrop of a severe blizzard, compelling Rook to navigate through escalating tensions and unexpected revelations.
Pepper's writing is notable for its blend of wit and intensity, creating an engaging and thought-provoking thriller. The novel is structured around three closely linked timelines within a year, offering a deeper understanding of Rook's past and the circumstances that have shaped her resilient and resourceful character. This narrative approach, while involving shifts in time, remains clear and coherent, enhancing the overall storytelling. The character of Rook, particularly her relationship with her grandmother and her ability to persist in the face of adversity, is a highlight of Pepper's character development. The reader is drawn into rooting for Rook, partly thanks to the well-placed plot twists that keep the suspense high. The author's humor provides a balanced contrast to the more action-packed and dramatic scenes, enriching the reading experience.
With its brisk pacing, engaging flashbacks, and a collection of well-crafted characters, One Icy Night is a commendable choice for fans of thrillers. Its appeal lies in the compelling combination of high-stakes scenarios, a strong female lead, and an addictive narrative rhythm. This novel is especially recommended for those who appreciate stories with dynamic action scenes and complex protagonists.
Pepper's writing is notable for its blend of wit and intensity, creating an engaging and thought-provoking thriller. The novel is structured around three closely linked timelines within a year, offering a deeper understanding of Rook's past and the circumstances that have shaped her resilient and resourceful character. This narrative approach, while involving shifts in time, remains clear and coherent, enhancing the overall storytelling. The character of Rook, particularly her relationship with her grandmother and her ability to persist in the face of adversity, is a highlight of Pepper's character development. The reader is drawn into rooting for Rook, partly thanks to the well-placed plot twists that keep the suspense high. The author's humor provides a balanced contrast to the more action-packed and dramatic scenes, enriching the reading experience.
With its brisk pacing, engaging flashbacks, and a collection of well-crafted characters, One Icy Night is a commendable choice for fans of thrillers. Its appeal lies in the compelling combination of high-stakes scenarios, a strong female lead, and an addictive narrative rhythm. This novel is especially recommended for those who appreciate stories with dynamic action scenes and complex protagonists.
November 3, 2024
A Heart-Racing Fight for Survival...
"One Icy Night" delivers a pulse-pounding survival thriller centered on Rook Kellum, a complex protagonist whose resourcefulness is tested during a catastrophic ice storm in the Mississippi Delta. W.A. Pepper crafts a taut narrative where the deadly weather serves as both a physical threat and metaphorical prison for our fugitive heroine, while strategic flashbacks provide crucial depth to Rook's character and motivations.
What sets this thriller apart is its expert pacing and layered plot structure. Just when you think you understand the stakes, Pepper adds another dangerous complication, building to a crescendo that keeps readers turning the pages. The claustrophobic cabin sequences are particularly effective, ramping up both psychological and physical tension. It's Rook's gritty determination and quick thinking that elevate this above-standard genre fare, making it perfect for readers who like their thrillers smart, fast, and fierce. Highly recommended.
"One Icy Night" delivers a pulse-pounding survival thriller centered on Rook Kellum, a complex protagonist whose resourcefulness is tested during a catastrophic ice storm in the Mississippi Delta. W.A. Pepper crafts a taut narrative where the deadly weather serves as both a physical threat and metaphorical prison for our fugitive heroine, while strategic flashbacks provide crucial depth to Rook's character and motivations.
What sets this thriller apart is its expert pacing and layered plot structure. Just when you think you understand the stakes, Pepper adds another dangerous complication, building to a crescendo that keeps readers turning the pages. The claustrophobic cabin sequences are particularly effective, ramping up both psychological and physical tension. It's Rook's gritty determination and quick thinking that elevate this above-standard genre fare, making it perfect for readers who like their thrillers smart, fast, and fierce. Highly recommended.
October 28, 2024
I liked it very much.
This novel, written by W.A. Pepper and titled One Icy Night, is very interesting. It is a well-written and developed work, full of mysteries and intrigues among the characters. The author invites readers to reflect on various aspects of life and the environment around us, such as the significance of making decisions and the fact that we are responsible for our actions. We must take accountability for them and realize that we are not alone in the world; our decisions will always affect those around us. Even more importantly, we must be aware that we should support each other.
On another note, I believe the author made a wise choice by incorporating specific, short chapters. This approach contributes to a much more dynamic reading experience and helps keep the reader's attention focused.
This novel, written by W.A. Pepper and titled One Icy Night, is very interesting. It is a well-written and developed work, full of mysteries and intrigues among the characters. The author invites readers to reflect on various aspects of life and the environment around us, such as the significance of making decisions and the fact that we are responsible for our actions. We must take accountability for them and realize that we are not alone in the world; our decisions will always affect those around us. Even more importantly, we must be aware that we should support each other.
On another note, I believe the author made a wise choice by incorporating specific, short chapters. This approach contributes to a much more dynamic reading experience and helps keep the reader's attention focused.
October 31, 2024
Looking for something engaging and fun to read, I found this amazing mystery that kept me captivated the whole time. The way W.A. Pepper’s tells the story blew my mind, I was constantly thinking about Rook Kellum, the main character, and her situation as she decided to run from the law. The suspense throughout the book grabs your attention, paired with vivid descriptions of the setting. I could feel the biting cold of the winter conditions Rook faced. The character development is incredible; I felt Rook’s isolation deeply, and my heart raced during the dangerous situations she had to confront. After spending time with Rook, I feel like I truly know her, her resilient personality, and the brave yet vulnerable heart that defines her. If you're looking for a story filled with tension, mystery, vulnerability, and resilience, One Icy Night is the book for you.
November 14, 2023
No choice goes with out consequences. A female base guitarist had to make many choices trying to just survive. Her beloved grandmother has spent years teaching Rook to be consistently aware of her surroundings. It becomes second nature to Rook's life as she tried to stay ahead of trouble,but, finds herself embedded in constant danger. For her, life is filled with trying to avoid the quick sand obstacle life and becoming the next victim. There are many twists and turns in this book to avoid the never ending bounty of traps where if it weren't for bad luck, Rook would have no luck at all. W.A. Pepper has created, quite the masterly, where if Rook did not have good luck, she wouldn't have any luck at all!
October 29, 2024
Featuring memorable protagonists, this great thriller book is an absolutely riveting, suspense-filled journey that challenges the mind with daring plot twists and turns. It equally compels us to think about the implications of resilience and life in general.
The storyline is dynamic, creative, and fast-paced, loaded with actions that keep us hooked until the very end.
Pepper’s appealing characters ground this frenetic thriller in wry humor and heart. If I have to summarize my review using a couple of adjectives, I would go with: glossy, gritty, breathlessly suspenseful, effortlessly authentic, and altogether wonderful.
This is the first book I read from the author, but he is one of my favorites now.
The storyline is dynamic, creative, and fast-paced, loaded with actions that keep us hooked until the very end.
Pepper’s appealing characters ground this frenetic thriller in wry humor and heart. If I have to summarize my review using a couple of adjectives, I would go with: glossy, gritty, breathlessly suspenseful, effortlessly authentic, and altogether wonderful.
This is the first book I read from the author, but he is one of my favorites now.
October 30, 2024
A good reading
It is incredible how through a combination of different elements, such as a cold night, an isolated cabin, among others, and a main character, Rook Kellum, Pepper, the author of this book, makes One Icy Night, a novel full of suspense and mystery that keeps the reader captivated from beginning to end.
At no time, the reading falls into monotony, on the contrary, the reader will always be waiting for a new event and its development without imagining what may be the end.
In spite of being written in different timelines, it is not difficult to understand the moment it refers to and where it is happening, keeping the reader attentive to the development of the events.
It is incredible how through a combination of different elements, such as a cold night, an isolated cabin, among others, and a main character, Rook Kellum, Pepper, the author of this book, makes One Icy Night, a novel full of suspense and mystery that keeps the reader captivated from beginning to end.
At no time, the reading falls into monotony, on the contrary, the reader will always be waiting for a new event and its development without imagining what may be the end.
In spite of being written in different timelines, it is not difficult to understand the moment it refers to and where it is happening, keeping the reader attentive to the development of the events.
October 31, 2024
A page-turning book
“One icy night” is such a captivating thriller that will produce goosebumps all over your body. W.A. Pepper has penned an enthralling story full of unexpected dangers.
Rook’s just been dumped in a place where she doesn’t know anybody and to make matters worse, the sheriff retains her ID so she needs to find a way to return home. In the middle of her despair, she encounters many dangers.
Well, the situation that Rook faces is one of the most frightening since you feel alone, with fear and hopelessness. When I started reading, I couldn´t stop because I wanted to know more about Rook’s life. There are many surprises that will keep you at the edge of your seat. It’s definitely a must-read thriller!
“One icy night” is such a captivating thriller that will produce goosebumps all over your body. W.A. Pepper has penned an enthralling story full of unexpected dangers.
Rook’s just been dumped in a place where she doesn’t know anybody and to make matters worse, the sheriff retains her ID so she needs to find a way to return home. In the middle of her despair, she encounters many dangers.
Well, the situation that Rook faces is one of the most frightening since you feel alone, with fear and hopelessness. When I started reading, I couldn´t stop because I wanted to know more about Rook’s life. There are many surprises that will keep you at the edge of your seat. It’s definitely a must-read thriller!
October 29, 2024
As soon as I saw the book’s cover, I was immediately hooked and I was able to confirm my fascination as I got into the reading.
The first thing I loved about this masterpiece is the author's writing which is, without any doubt, always a must, but in this particular case, essential to the story’s development. Pepper has an absolute talent for creating suspense and I’m glad I came across his book. The world building is superb; rich in detail, especially regarding scenarios which made me feel really there with the characters.
The plot is captivating and it was really difficult for me put the book down because the action and mystery never stopped!
The first thing I loved about this masterpiece is the author's writing which is, without any doubt, always a must, but in this particular case, essential to the story’s development. Pepper has an absolute talent for creating suspense and I’m glad I came across his book. The world building is superb; rich in detail, especially regarding scenarios which made me feel really there with the characters.
The plot is captivating and it was really difficult for me put the book down because the action and mystery never stopped!
October 31, 2024
Loved it!!! I'm too much of a fan of suspense and mystery books, and this one was actually one of the best, not only because it has twists you don't expect, but because it's an interesting story, with characters that will take you from love to hate in seconds and with a narrative so entertaining that I couldn't stop reading. This book is based on the life of Rook, a very funny and complex character, who has a very complicated life that leads her to change her identity and run away from the law. You are going to enjoy this book very much, it has the perfect dose of mystery and intrigue so you can't stop reading it, I highly recommend it.
October 31, 2024
Perfect book for thriller fans
If you are looking for a gripping thriller that combines tension, suspense, and survival challenges, this is the book for you. In "One Icy Night," you'll see how Rook Kellum's life changes as she attempts to flee the law and gets caught in a deadly ice storm. With intense storytelling and pacing, it keeps the suspense high and will leave you on the edge of your seat wondering what's around the corner. I have to say that I really enjoyed the protagonist and her backstory with her internal struggles that make her a complex character. This is a perfect book for thriller fans, and I'm sure you will love it.
If you are looking for a gripping thriller that combines tension, suspense, and survival challenges, this is the book for you. In "One Icy Night," you'll see how Rook Kellum's life changes as she attempts to flee the law and gets caught in a deadly ice storm. With intense storytelling and pacing, it keeps the suspense high and will leave you on the edge of your seat wondering what's around the corner. I have to say that I really enjoyed the protagonist and her backstory with her internal struggles that make her a complex character. This is a perfect book for thriller fans, and I'm sure you will love it.
October 31, 2024
Delighted
What a spectacular story, I think the author managed at all times to keep me intrigued and trapped with this excellent narrative. The book pushes us to the edge, expecting on too many occasions for all the worst to happen, even though you think it might be impossible for it to get worse.
Rook's character left me in love, as he is endowed with fantastic strength and personality. I must say that it has been a long time since I read a book so well done in narrative terms, I felt like I was watching a movie all the time.
So, if you like intrigue and action, you are in the right place, this is my favorite genre and this book has set the bar high.
What a spectacular story, I think the author managed at all times to keep me intrigued and trapped with this excellent narrative. The book pushes us to the edge, expecting on too many occasions for all the worst to happen, even though you think it might be impossible for it to get worse.
Rook's character left me in love, as he is endowed with fantastic strength and personality. I must say that it has been a long time since I read a book so well done in narrative terms, I felt like I was watching a movie all the time.
So, if you like intrigue and action, you are in the right place, this is my favorite genre and this book has set the bar high.
October 31, 2024
Great Story
This great novel is the perfect excuse for all those who want to escape from the daily and accelerated routine. It is amazing how a book can offer many literary genres in a few pages. The reader can experience thriller, suspense, fear and action. One of the things I most appreciate about this novel is the fact that the reader can feel like one of the characters in the story. I really love thrillers; the language used by the author is a very easy language that helped the reader to get hooked very easily with the story. I would definitely recommend this book for anyone who wants to have a good time.
This great novel is the perfect excuse for all those who want to escape from the daily and accelerated routine. It is amazing how a book can offer many literary genres in a few pages. The reader can experience thriller, suspense, fear and action. One of the things I most appreciate about this novel is the fact that the reader can feel like one of the characters in the story. I really love thrillers; the language used by the author is a very easy language that helped the reader to get hooked very easily with the story. I would definitely recommend this book for anyone who wants to have a good time.
January 31, 2024
That was wild! The main character, Rook is on her own but you better watch out for her, she's nothing to mess with. I loved her and how well-fleshed out she is. The back-and-forth between timelines really helps you understand where her headspace is.
There was a portion of the book that I wasn't sure where it was going. Then, BAM! Oh, that little twist around page 300 was unexpected.
Action-packed, snowed-in, set in the 90s, great main character. This book is solid! I give it 4.5 stars which is damn never perfect in my book.
There was a portion of the book that I wasn't sure where it was going. Then, BAM! Oh, that little twist around page 300 was unexpected.
Action-packed, snowed-in, set in the 90s, great main character. This book is solid! I give it 4.5 stars which is damn never perfect in my book.
March 8, 2024
Be prepared for a thrill ride when you meet Rook Kellum, a spunky 20 year old survivalist. She commits insurance fraud in an attempt to save her Grandmother and ends up on the run, meeting a cast of characters who are not all what they seem to be. The book has three different time lines cleverly interwoven through the story. Each time line gives you a look into Rook's character and how she deals with each situation she encounters. Follow her throughout a harrowing journey which will have you holding your breath until you reach the conclusion and will have you wondering, how did I miss that!
November 8, 2025
This audiobook was truly exceptional. I found myself constantly listening, completely captivated by it. I felt a genuine anticipation with every passing second, wondering what exciting turn the story would take next. The crime aspects and the way those elements were interwoven with real-world connotations were definitely a standout feature. I really enjoyed the book and would definitely recommend it if you're looking for a thriller that combines a bit of mystery with a distinct, almost unique Southern charm.
October 25, 2025
An interesting story about crazy criminal minds in Mississippi. But the book was difficult to track as the author used a bizarre pattern of telling the story - jumping from a chapter now, to a chapter before, to a chapter later. The story line and characters were chopped up and mixed, making it hard to follow. Not sure why it was done, but I would certainly advise future volumes to follow a more reader-friendly timeline.
January 31, 2024
My first book by Will Pepper and definitely look for more from him. One Icy Night is written in dual timeline, present and past. The author has a very unique writing style that I absolutely fell in love with. He writes intense suspenseful thriller with witty, funny, and laughable moments. His characters are strong and well developed. I was surprised by the ending. A great read.
March 8, 2025
This is a fast-paced, atmospheric thriller that keeps readers on edge. With relentless tension, shocking twists, and a compelling protagonist, the story pulls you into its eerie, snow-covered setting where danger lurks at every turn.
For fans of suspenseful, high-stakes thrillers, One Icy Night is an unforgettable read that lingers long after the final page.
For fans of suspenseful, high-stakes thrillers, One Icy Night is an unforgettable read that lingers long after the final page.
February 22, 2024
I enjoyed this book. Whenever I put it down to do chores or work, I kept thinking about it & wanted to find out what the secrets in the cabin were. The end surprised me. I would deff recommend this thriller!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews