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True Crime Junkies #5
Leave the Lights On
First the lights go out . . . then they die.
The body count is rising. Six murder victims. The only connection? An X carved into the dead person’s chest. When the family of one of the victims asks the Artic Circle Murder Club to investigate, the team dives into their toughest case yet.
Stopping the murders isn’t the team’s only challenge. When Duke McAllister sees his teammate Andi Slade dodging the cops, he knows she must be in deep trouble. But Andi isn’t the only one on her team on thin ice. Trouble seems to be following them all.
With more murders making the headlines, the threat level reaches an all-time high. The end game has begun. The clock is ticking, and disaster looms near. Will they stop the killer before the deadly grand finale? Or will the lights go out one final time?
The body count is rising. Six murder victims. The only connection? An X carved into the dead person’s chest. When the family of one of the victims asks the Artic Circle Murder Club to investigate, the team dives into their toughest case yet.
Stopping the murders isn’t the team’s only challenge. When Duke McAllister sees his teammate Andi Slade dodging the cops, he knows she must be in deep trouble. But Andi isn’t the only one on her team on thin ice. Trouble seems to be following them all.
With more murders making the headlines, the threat level reaches an all-time high. The end game has begun. The clock is ticking, and disaster looms near. Will they stop the killer before the deadly grand finale? Or will the lights go out one final time?
460 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 27, 2024
607 people are currently reading
193 people want to read
About the author
Christy Barritt
338 books1,667 followersChristy Barritt is an author, freelance writer and speaker who lives in Virginia. She’s married to her Prince Charming, a man who thinks she’s hilarious—but only when she’s not trying to be. Christy’s a self-proclaimed klutz, an avid music lover who’s known for spontaneously bursting into song, and a road trip aficionado. She’s only won one contest in her life—and her prize was kissing a pig (okay, okay… actually she did win the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Suspense and Mystery also). Her current claim to fame is showing off her mother, who looks just like former First Lady Barbara Bush
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
February 4, 2024
Leave the Lights On is about a serial killer who strikes at nighttime and leaves his signature mark on each of his victim's bodies. One of the victim's families asks the Arctic Circle Murder Club to investigate the Late Night Killer. As the team investigates, they are being attacked, and some of the members are facing their own personal, underlying battles and struggles.
The author did an excellent job crafting a well-written mystery that will leave readers devouring the pages to uncover the villain's identity and motive. Looking forward to reading the next installment as hopefully some of the characters' struggles will be resolved.
The author did an excellent job crafting a well-written mystery that will leave readers devouring the pages to uncover the villain's identity and motive. Looking forward to reading the next installment as hopefully some of the characters' struggles will be resolved.
January 30, 2024
Leave the Lights On by Christy Barritt is a revenge story. Barritt dives into the Round the Table Podcasters and their hunt for justice. Of course, as the killer ups the villainy, the characters are left in confusion. Barritt does a wonderful job at crafting a mystery that has the readers guessing until the climactic moment. This time the climactic moment shows the danger of technology. The True Crime Junkies are still relying on each other to work on the current case, but there are underlying issues for each of their lives that need dealt with. Overall, Leave the Lights On by Christy Barritt is a non-stop thrill ride for a cozy mystery. She keeps the readers guessing but wanting more at the same time. There are three more books in this series, and it would be nice to see some of the personal conflicts wrap up.
I received a complimentary copy of Leave the Lights On by Christy Barritt from River Heights Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
I received a complimentary copy of Leave the Lights On by Christy Barritt from River Heights Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
May 26, 2024
I love this series and read the entire book on the plane to Alaska! Each book starts out crazy and stays fast-paced the whole way thtough. I love the characters and the setting. I seriously wish these books would be made into a show!
February 23, 2024
I think one of my favorite parts about this series is the characters. I love that when you jump into the next book, you don’t have to “get to know them”. It’s been fun to follow their stories.
This book had a great plot and I was super surprised to find out who the killer was. The author did a great job of keeping the murderer concealed.
The ending leaves you wanting more and opens the door wide for the next installment in the series.
Although I’ve really enjoyed this series so far, this book felt a little more repetitive to me. There was a lot of re-explaining things from the previous books. That being said, I still can’t wait to read the next one and get some answers.
This book had a great plot and I was super surprised to find out who the killer was. The author did a great job of keeping the murderer concealed.
The ending leaves you wanting more and opens the door wide for the next installment in the series.
Although I’ve really enjoyed this series so far, this book felt a little more repetitive to me. There was a lot of re-explaining things from the previous books. That being said, I still can’t wait to read the next one and get some answers.
June 9, 2025
A great continuation of the series. Things are building up for the group’s overarching story, at the same time, the mystery solved in this book was solid. Another creepy killer and close stakes ending.
February 5, 2025
Another fun installment in a series I thoroughly enjoy. The mysteries for this one held my attention and I am excited to continue on in the series.
February 28, 2024
This was another exciting and hard-to-put down book by Christy Barritt. This whole series has been great, but this is the most suspense-filled and fast-paced one of the bunch. At one point, I could hardly catch my breath; the danger was imminent, and I didn’t know how they were going to get out of the situation unscathed.
The Arctic Circle Murder Club is called in to help solve a perplexing case in Anchorage. Seven people have been murdered in the past twelve days. One of the only things they have to go on is the fact that the killer cuts the power to the victim’s house before killing them. The victims don’t seem to have anything in common. They’re all from different social standings. They're of different ages and ethnicities. What’s the connection? What’s driving the killer to commit these murders? The Lights Out Killer had the whole town on edge and living in fear, and that fear seeped through the pages and kept my anxiety high.
This series is perfect for anyone who enjoys a fast-paced, character-driven thriller. While this book could technically be a standalone, I’d still recommend starting with book one. There’s a lot of history between these characters, and some ongoing mysteries from the beginning play a big part here. There’s quite a bit of development in one of those mysteries. There’s still some questions, but I was happy about the progress. And while I wouldn’t classify the ending as a cliffhanger per se, I’m very eager to see where things go with the Arctic Circle Murder Club next.
The Arctic Circle Murder Club is called in to help solve a perplexing case in Anchorage. Seven people have been murdered in the past twelve days. One of the only things they have to go on is the fact that the killer cuts the power to the victim’s house before killing them. The victims don’t seem to have anything in common. They’re all from different social standings. They're of different ages and ethnicities. What’s the connection? What’s driving the killer to commit these murders? The Lights Out Killer had the whole town on edge and living in fear, and that fear seeped through the pages and kept my anxiety high.
This series is perfect for anyone who enjoys a fast-paced, character-driven thriller. While this book could technically be a standalone, I’d still recommend starting with book one. There’s a lot of history between these characters, and some ongoing mysteries from the beginning play a big part here. There’s quite a bit of development in one of those mysteries. There’s still some questions, but I was happy about the progress. And while I wouldn’t classify the ending as a cliffhanger per se, I’m very eager to see where things go with the Arctic Circle Murder Club next.
February 3, 2024
"The day was so normal . . . . . until the Lights Out Killer chose her. "
A cold blooded killer is stalking Anchorage, Alaska residents, striking only at night, and leaving a signature symbol carved on the corpses. The Arctic Circle Murder Club (whose cases contribute to their popular podcast) just happens to be meeting in Anchorage for the weekend, so naturally they respond to a request by one of the victim's family members to take a look at the evidence. Meanwhile, the killer strikes again.
Team member Andi Slade has troubles of her own to contend with . . . . starting with dumpster diving in order to escape the authorities after she was nearly caught on one of her clandestine surveillance missions. Consequently, Andi has put the entire team in the cross-hairs of her dangerous personal vendetta. Fortunately Duke McAllister is determined to help protect Andi from herself, as they work together to keep Andi safe while investigating the bizarre killing spree going on around them. The clues are sparse, bodies are showing up every other day, and what may link the victims to each other is tenuous at best.
"Maybe you're a bit like Esther. . . . . . She was created for 'such a time as this'. Maybe you were too."
I say . . . . "leave the lights on" while you read this creepy crawling story with its dual plot lines that merge and diverge throughout every chapter. It's a conundrum that bears solving . . . . stay tuned!
A cold blooded killer is stalking Anchorage, Alaska residents, striking only at night, and leaving a signature symbol carved on the corpses. The Arctic Circle Murder Club (whose cases contribute to their popular podcast) just happens to be meeting in Anchorage for the weekend, so naturally they respond to a request by one of the victim's family members to take a look at the evidence. Meanwhile, the killer strikes again.
Team member Andi Slade has troubles of her own to contend with . . . . starting with dumpster diving in order to escape the authorities after she was nearly caught on one of her clandestine surveillance missions. Consequently, Andi has put the entire team in the cross-hairs of her dangerous personal vendetta. Fortunately Duke McAllister is determined to help protect Andi from herself, as they work together to keep Andi safe while investigating the bizarre killing spree going on around them. The clues are sparse, bodies are showing up every other day, and what may link the victims to each other is tenuous at best.
"Maybe you're a bit like Esther. . . . . . She was created for 'such a time as this'. Maybe you were too."
I say . . . . "leave the lights on" while you read this creepy crawling story with its dual plot lines that merge and diverge throughout every chapter. It's a conundrum that bears solving . . . . stay tuned!
February 29, 2024
The True Crime Junkies are becoming well-known in Alaska, and the family of one murder victim wants them to help find answers in this most recent murder mystery, but others are out to stop them. A serial killer is terrorizing the town, but there doesn't seem to be any connection between the victims, except for three things -- the lights go out, the victim is alone, and an "X" is carved in his or her chest. But why is the killer choosing these particular victims? The team is pressed for time to find the killer before he or she kills again, but there is much more going on in their personal lives. Duke is still thinking about his missing fiancee, Andi is pushing the envelope in trying to find evidence to catch Victor, who may be trying to frame her for even more, and other members of the team receive ominous messages. I love the character development, and new characters introduced (will they be back in future books?), the team looking out for one another, and the mysteries they solve. I did find this one a little more difficult to keep everyone and everything straight, but that could be just me! But I anxiously await the next 3 books in this series, coming in the next few months, as this series has become one of my favorites!
I received a complimentary copy of the book without obligation. This review is all my opinions.
I received a complimentary copy of the book without obligation. This review is all my opinions.
February 22, 2024
I’m exhausted! This book was hard to put down and kept me interested and on a roller coaster of emotions and my brain hurts at trying to figure out who the “bad guy” is!
If you haven’t started this series, I encourage you to do so. Each book has a different main story, but the back stories of the characters develop throughout the series. So you must read them in order.
I can’t wait for the next book to come out! I’ve read a few of her books before this series and enjoyed them, but WOW this series kicked it up several notches!
This is clean Christian fiction with a mild faith aspect weaved through the book. There’s no bad language or sexual inappropriateness. There is violence and killings, so if you have issues with that, but it’s handled well.
I wish I could give it a 4.5 star rating, cause it’s so good! I’m seriously considering changing my star rating status and possibly going up to a 5 star on this series.
If you haven’t started this series, I encourage you to do so. Each book has a different main story, but the back stories of the characters develop throughout the series. So you must read them in order.
I can’t wait for the next book to come out! I’ve read a few of her books before this series and enjoyed them, but WOW this series kicked it up several notches!
This is clean Christian fiction with a mild faith aspect weaved through the book. There’s no bad language or sexual inappropriateness. There is violence and killings, so if you have issues with that, but it’s handled well.
I wish I could give it a 4.5 star rating, cause it’s so good! I’m seriously considering changing my star rating status and possibly going up to a 5 star on this series.
February 29, 2024
This book just didn’t hit the spot like I hoped. I really hoped for more storyline about the Lights Out Killer, and what I got was more chasing rabbit trails of Andi and Victor. Andi’s storyline was not one I was interested in from the beginning, yet it’s the one that seems to be most prominent in this series. I felt like the Artic Circle Murder Club members were just props in this story with no real purpose for them even being present. I think the entire concept of this series is so unique and interesting, but I feel a bit disappointed that the characters aren’t playing more of a part in this series. Andi is truly an unlikable character and it’s really hard to have her be the focal point of each book when there are so many other characters that have so much to offer. I am planning to finish this series as I do want the answers we have hung around an 8 book series for, but I can definitely say that this series has lost a bit of momentum for me as the story has progressed.
March 18, 2024
The Artic Circle Murder Club is meeting again. They all come back together when they are called in to investigate a murder case. In this one, six murders have already been committed and more are occurring. The local police cannot figure out the connection on the murders.
When the parents of one of the men that were killed calls in the Murder Club. Andi Slade and Duke McAllister are really the ones that started the group and it seems like everyone these two go, crime follows. Their team also consists of 4 more members and they also do a podcast.
Andi is still trying to find Victor, the one that destroyed her career and now she has almost been caught by the police doing an illegal entry to gain information. The police are looking for her and they are trying to find out who the serial killer is. A lot is going on with the Club, but will they survive this one?
When the parents of one of the men that were killed calls in the Murder Club. Andi Slade and Duke McAllister are really the ones that started the group and it seems like everyone these two go, crime follows. Their team also consists of 4 more members and they also do a podcast.
Andi is still trying to find Victor, the one that destroyed her career and now she has almost been caught by the police doing an illegal entry to gain information. The police are looking for her and they are trying to find out who the serial killer is. A lot is going on with the Club, but will they survive this one?
January 30, 2024
Um, wow!!! Not sure exactly how to sum up this book that I couldn’t put down… every book in this series is better than the last! And I absolutely loved the first book! The character development is second to none as Christy leads us deeper into their histories and struggles pointing us to Christ in changing their lives for the better. The psychological analysis of the characters motivations are so deep and revealed a little more with each book as we see the depth of each of the main characters and the unfolding of their past wounds and burdens. I absolutely recommend this book, however if you haven’t read the previous books in this series, start with book one! Each book would be great on its own, in order from the beginning is like nothing else I have ever read!
February 13, 2024
LEAVE THE LIGHTS ON
The Arctic Circle Murder Club is meeting to talk about the latest serial killer , the Lights Out Killer, who murders people who are alone in their home. The lights go out & the person is killed. There is no pattern to the victims, different ages/both sexes/married & single but always alone. He leaves an X across their chests.
Andi broke in to Senator Glassine's office to try to find information about the legislation for a new oil reserve Victor is pushing for. She gets away but she is being followed. Then there is a news blurb about a woman who broke in the Office that fits her. Duke is worried about her & notices someone following them.
As in the first 3 books, events from the killer's perspective! The killer is a surprise!
The Arctic Circle Murder Club is meeting to talk about the latest serial killer , the Lights Out Killer, who murders people who are alone in their home. The lights go out & the person is killed. There is no pattern to the victims, different ages/both sexes/married & single but always alone. He leaves an X across their chests.
Andi broke in to Senator Glassine's office to try to find information about the legislation for a new oil reserve Victor is pushing for. She gets away but she is being followed. Then there is a news blurb about a woman who broke in the Office that fits her. Duke is worried about her & notices someone following them.
As in the first 3 books, events from the killer's perspective! The killer is a surprise!
January 25, 2024
I had a BETA copy of this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. A series of murders in Anchorage have the Arctic Circle Murder Club scrambling to find the murderer before more people die. In addition, Andi is still trying to gather information to bring Victor down, but gets caught entering a Senator’s office and taking files then being framed for shooting the Senator. Many twists and turns keep you turning pages of this book to find answers. This book is a must read for anyone who likes suspense. Christy Barritt is a master in this category for sure. A great addition to this series.
January 5, 2025
This book is part of a series. It's best to read the books in order. The focus in this installment is once again on Andi and Duke. I enjoyed the book, but it was nothing extraordinary, and one aspect ruined the ending for me.
What I liked: The mystery was compelling. The villain didn't become apparent until the very end. The motivations of the characters were relatable. I didn't notice any significant writing or editing problems.
What I didn't like: At the end, I found myself equally as furious at some of the victimsfor their ignorance of the fire code as I was at the villain for taking advantage of those violations to perpetrate crime.
What I liked: The mystery was compelling. The villain didn't become apparent until the very end. The motivations of the characters were relatable. I didn't notice any significant writing or editing problems.
What I didn't like: At the end, I found myself equally as furious at some of the victimsfor their ignorance of the fire code as I was at the villain for taking advantage of those violations to perpetrate crime.
June 13, 2025
4/5 stars. Really good book. I read this book in only 2 days! I love how it's easy to get lost in the story. The mystery and characters are awesome. I liked how they always get to the conclusion, even when there is little to no evidence that will actually help them. I do think that the reason that the killer used to murder these people was a little non sense. Also, the romance between Andi and Duke starts to evolve. I also liked that the secrets from every member of the group are slowly being exposed in a way that will help each of them become closer as friends. Really liked it and I would keep reading the other books in this series.
January 29, 2024
This Alaskan thriller will grab you by the throat as you follow the true crime podcasters in their challenge to stop the serial killer on the rampage. They struggle to find a connection between the victims before it’s too late. The characters all seem so realistic and alive, and the plot takes readers on a wild ride with plenty of surprises along the way. I could not guess the killer ahead of time—not even a suspicion. Good job, Christy Barritt! I received a review copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
January 29, 2024
My Lights Are on!
I have been with the Arctic Circle Murder Club since Book 1, page 1. They’ve become “friends”. Ms. Barritt creates characters who resonate with life and scenes that can be seen with the mind’s eye. It’s crazy how one comes to care about fictional characters!
Leave the Lights On is full of tension and suspense. A serial killer is stepping up his game even as he is blending in to society.
The ending of this book is a real shocker. I wish Book 6 came out tomorrow!
I have been with the Arctic Circle Murder Club since Book 1, page 1. They’ve become “friends”. Ms. Barritt creates characters who resonate with life and scenes that can be seen with the mind’s eye. It’s crazy how one comes to care about fictional characters!
Leave the Lights On is full of tension and suspense. A serial killer is stepping up his game even as he is blending in to society.
The ending of this book is a real shocker. I wish Book 6 came out tomorrow!
February 1, 2024
This series, which I didn't think I would like, just keeps getting better and better...and this one is the best yet. The author came up with a terrific plot. I had a general idea of the why at some point, but the who was a complete surprise. The suspense was non stop, and I had trouble putting the book down...it was pretty intense.
With a series of this type, the reader is able to get to know the characters more since the same ones are in every book.
This one ended in a way that I wasn't crazy about, but we will see what the next book brings forth.
With a series of this type, the reader is able to get to know the characters more since the same ones are in every book.
This one ended in a way that I wasn't crazy about, but we will see what the next book brings forth.
January 29, 2024
Very suspenceful
Although I pegged the killer early on (so helpful) it was still quite the suspenseful journey to see the killer revealed. Good writing, because a few times I doubted my own thoughts and conclusions. Can't wait for the next installment! Will Victor finally make a mistake? Will Ranger find his daughter, and Simmy? Will Duke find Celeste? And will he & Andi ever find a happy ever after?
Although I pegged the killer early on (so helpful) it was still quite the suspenseful journey to see the killer revealed. Good writing, because a few times I doubted my own thoughts and conclusions. Can't wait for the next installment! Will Victor finally make a mistake? Will Ranger find his daughter, and Simmy? Will Duke find Celeste? And will he & Andi ever find a happy ever after?
February 1, 2024
Best yet of the True Crime Junkies
Ok, worst part of the novel was that it ended! Ugh! Now I have to wait for the next one. I'm really loving the mystery suspense in this series. I even found myself holding my breath waiting for what happened next and I was held in total suspense toward the end when I wasn't sure who the killer really was. Kudos to the author for her best yet series!
Ok, worst part of the novel was that it ended! Ugh! Now I have to wait for the next one. I'm really loving the mystery suspense in this series. I even found myself holding my breath waiting for what happened next and I was held in total suspense toward the end when I wasn't sure who the killer really was. Kudos to the author for her best yet series!
February 3, 2024
This is the 5th book in the series. I am ready for it to end. There is a continuing bad guy in the series. There is a continuing lost (or runaway) fiancée. The potential love interests do not develop. Names of the Pod-Cast group are mentioned with very little character development.
I have read most of Christy's books but have been disappointed in this series. My favorite of hers has been the Lantern Beach stories.
I have read most of Christy's books but have been disappointed in this series. My favorite of hers has been the Lantern Beach stories.
May 27, 2024
Arctic Murder Club takes on a prolific serial killer!
In their deadliest situation yet people are rapidly dying around them to settle one man's need for revenge from childhood trauma. It'll keep you buying to the very end, while many of their teammates,are having their families threatened.
Will the Arctic Murder Club split up for good or can each member investigate and solve their own storylines? I can't wait to see where Christy Barrier takes us next!!
In their deadliest situation yet people are rapidly dying around them to settle one man's need for revenge from childhood trauma. It'll keep you buying to the very end, while many of their teammates,are having their families threatened.
Will the Arctic Murder Club split up for good or can each member investigate and solve their own storylines? I can't wait to see where Christy Barrier takes us next!!
November 24, 2024
I waited to read this book until the last one comes out, so I could read them all back to back. I skimmed books one to four to remind myself of how they went and then started this one. I knew I would love it and it did not disappoint. Great mystery, excuse me, mysteries and chilling conclusion to at least one. Now on to the next one with hopes that another mystery or two will be concluded, and maybe even one romance comes together.
February 12, 2024
Don't end!
I've really enjoyed this series and it's quirky set of characters. Please keep them together fighting crimes. They make a great mix! Each book is good on its own but the back stories are so interesting I find your books difficult to put down. I enjoy all your books, but I think this series is my favorite!
I've really enjoyed this series and it's quirky set of characters. Please keep them together fighting crimes. They make a great mix! Each book is good on its own but the back stories are so interesting I find your books difficult to put down. I enjoy all your books, but I think this series is my favorite!
February 15, 2024
Leave the Lights On
Eau De Lavatory! I laughed my head off & kept going after the Beau and not BO. There are so much more to these stories other than the suspense that makes me love them.
A scintillating pace that makes it hard to walk away. I did not have any idea who the killer was, he was kept well concealed.
Eau De Lavatory! I laughed my head off & kept going after the Beau and not BO. There are so much more to these stories other than the suspense that makes me love them.
A scintillating pace that makes it hard to walk away. I did not have any idea who the killer was, he was kept well concealed.
March 3, 2024
Better and better
I am still amazed , even after reading over 100? Of Christy Barritt's books. She manages to always keep me up too late, reading her exciting stories. Have I read them all? Not sure. But I hope she continues to write, and I will happily lose sleep reading every word.
I am still amazed , even after reading over 100? Of Christy Barritt's books. She manages to always keep me up too late, reading her exciting stories. Have I read them all? Not sure. But I hope she continues to write, and I will happily lose sleep reading every word.
March 11, 2024
Leave the Lights On
This is a great addition to the True Crime Junkies series! The Arctic Circle crew has been asked to investigate a murder that is one of a serial killer in Anchorage. Andi is still trying to get evidence against her nemesis and gets in serious trouble with law enforcement. Be sure to read this exciting and suspenseful book by Christy Barritt.
This is a great addition to the True Crime Junkies series! The Arctic Circle crew has been asked to investigate a murder that is one of a serial killer in Anchorage. Andi is still trying to get evidence against her nemesis and gets in serious trouble with law enforcement. Be sure to read this exciting and suspenseful book by Christy Barritt.
December 3, 2024
Lights go out… murder happens! Now every lady around is scared every time there is a thunderstorm because you just don’t know if the storm knocked them out …or did the serial killer? The Arctic Circle Murder club is being hit from all sides as they try to solve the case of “ the lights outl serial killer. If they don’t catch a break soon, it may be lights out for good ….
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews