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Alaska Wild #6
Perfect Storm
The next installment in the Alaska Wild series a gripping, atmospheric, traditional mystery series with a great wilderness hook.Beth Rivers needs to disappear. Her one-time kidnapper, Travis, is on his way to her town in Alaska, and she's losing time to get out quickly.The perfect spot for Beth and her boyfriend, Tex, to hide, presents itself in a camp in the woods, away from Benedict. But when their trip takes them by Blue Mine, a small community that has seen tragedy over the last couple months, plans get diverted. Beth and Tex bring the widow of a recently murdered man back to Benedict, for Police Chief Gril to investigate, only to find that nothing is quite what it seems. When the woman vanishes, Beth must be on the alert for further danger. Who knows what further unwelcome disappearances--or appearances--might be lurking in the unforgiving Alaska storms.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published December 3, 2024
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616 people want to read
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September 27, 2024
4 stars for book 6 in the Alaska Wild series. I have read the previous books in the series and recommend that you do so also, as there is a continuing plot line throughout the series. Beth Rivers is hiding from a man who kidnapped and tortured her about a year ago. She is now in the fictional town of Benedict, Alaska, near Glacier Bay National Park. She is in the process of hiking to a remote cabin with a friend when they meet a woman with a body on her horse. They investigate and unravel a complicated story. There is a secondary plot line carried over from previous books about her kidnapper.
There is no graphic violence, no sex, and no bad language, making it and the series suitable for cozy mystery fans.
Thank You St. Martin's Press for sending me this eARC through NetGalley.
Pub Date Dec 03 2024
There is no graphic violence, no sex, and no bad language, making it and the series suitable for cozy mystery fans.
Thank You St. Martin's Press for sending me this eARC through NetGalley.
Pub Date Dec 03 2024
December 1, 2024
Paige Shelton has done it again!
Perfect Storm,
the sixth book in the Alaska Wild series, combines mystery, suspense, danger, and adventure into another satisfying thriller set in and around fictional Benedict, Alaska. The novel is combines traditional police detective work and amateur sleuthing with outdoor adventure and multiple subplots. Secrets, deaths, and a horrific experience that continues to haunt and traumatize the main character make for a suspenseful and riveting read.
Beth Rivers, a successful thriller writer known as Elizabeth Fairchild, is still recovering in Alaska following her abduction a year ago. She needs to disappear again. Her one-time abductor Travis Walker has escaped capture during a prison transfer and has indicated he’s coming to kill Beth.
Beth and her boyfriend, Tex, decide to camp in the woods, away from Benedict. On their way, they need to pass through Blue Mine. This gold mining community has seen several tragedies during the last two months, forcing Beth and Tex to change plans. They bring the widow of a recently deceased man back to Benedict, but lies abound.
By this sixth book, many of the repeat characters have depth and feel like old friends. Beth’s character is complex. She continues to be a flawed protagonist who has shown growth through making friends and learning to trust people. She is curious, somewhat nosy, and tends to ignore sensible advice. While she is flexible and uses words to help her work through her emotions, she still tends to project her own fears and situation on others.
The author’s writing style continues to hook me quickly, and the story builds momentum that leads to an action-filled and satisfying conclusion with a hint about what might be a plot or subplot in the next novel. With twists, turns, and surprises along the way, the intricate plot kept me guessing. The world-building is fantastic with the rugged landscape, mud, storms, rising creeks, and more. The atmosphere is tense and serious throughout the novel.
From the quirky and eccentric residents to the descriptions of Alaska to the various mysteries, I thoroughly enjoyed the story. I could easily visualize the setting and felt transported to Alaska. Several themes run through the tale including murder, trust, betrayal, found family as well as biological family, secrets, lies, family dynamics, forgiveness, and much more.
Overall, this enjoyable mystery was engaging, suspenseful, atmospheric, and full of adventure. Darker than many cozy mysteries, the well-developed ideas with good pacing from scene to scene kept me turning the pages. If you enjoy well-written amateur sleuth mysteries, then I recommend you check out this series. The books are best read in order. I’m looking forward to book seven.
St. Martin’s Press, Minotaur Books and Paige Shelton provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for December 03, 2024. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4.25 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Beth Rivers, a successful thriller writer known as Elizabeth Fairchild, is still recovering in Alaska following her abduction a year ago. She needs to disappear again. Her one-time abductor Travis Walker has escaped capture during a prison transfer and has indicated he’s coming to kill Beth.
Beth and her boyfriend, Tex, decide to camp in the woods, away from Benedict. On their way, they need to pass through Blue Mine. This gold mining community has seen several tragedies during the last two months, forcing Beth and Tex to change plans. They bring the widow of a recently deceased man back to Benedict, but lies abound.
By this sixth book, many of the repeat characters have depth and feel like old friends. Beth’s character is complex. She continues to be a flawed protagonist who has shown growth through making friends and learning to trust people. She is curious, somewhat nosy, and tends to ignore sensible advice. While she is flexible and uses words to help her work through her emotions, she still tends to project her own fears and situation on others.
The author’s writing style continues to hook me quickly, and the story builds momentum that leads to an action-filled and satisfying conclusion with a hint about what might be a plot or subplot in the next novel. With twists, turns, and surprises along the way, the intricate plot kept me guessing. The world-building is fantastic with the rugged landscape, mud, storms, rising creeks, and more. The atmosphere is tense and serious throughout the novel.
From the quirky and eccentric residents to the descriptions of Alaska to the various mysteries, I thoroughly enjoyed the story. I could easily visualize the setting and felt transported to Alaska. Several themes run through the tale including murder, trust, betrayal, found family as well as biological family, secrets, lies, family dynamics, forgiveness, and much more.
Overall, this enjoyable mystery was engaging, suspenseful, atmospheric, and full of adventure. Darker than many cozy mysteries, the well-developed ideas with good pacing from scene to scene kept me turning the pages. If you enjoy well-written amateur sleuth mysteries, then I recommend you check out this series. The books are best read in order. I’m looking forward to book seven.
St. Martin’s Press, Minotaur Books and Paige Shelton provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for December 03, 2024. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4.25 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
September 19, 2024
“A walk is always good for the soul.”
This series keeps getting better! This one held my attention from cover to cover and I don’t think I’ll ever be able to hike in Alaska again without looking for a light blue sock with Mickey Mouse embroidered on the back.
As always, readers get a little more of the backstory and the jigsaw pieces of Beth Rivers’ life start to fit together. I loved the trek to Blue Mine, the murder mystery and the appearance of Bigfoot. Jin was a fantastic character; she kept throwing me off with her unpredictability.
I think the biggest lesson for me was to be aware of complacency.
Shelton creates an atmospheric mystery for sure, but she is a master at keeping her readers guessing and doling out just enough information to keep us turning pages. I eagerly await the next installment in this series.
I was gifted this copy by St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
This series keeps getting better! This one held my attention from cover to cover and I don’t think I’ll ever be able to hike in Alaska again without looking for a light blue sock with Mickey Mouse embroidered on the back.
As always, readers get a little more of the backstory and the jigsaw pieces of Beth Rivers’ life start to fit together. I loved the trek to Blue Mine, the murder mystery and the appearance of Bigfoot. Jin was a fantastic character; she kept throwing me off with her unpredictability.
I think the biggest lesson for me was to be aware of complacency.
Shelton creates an atmospheric mystery for sure, but she is a master at keeping her readers guessing and doling out just enough information to keep us turning pages. I eagerly await the next installment in this series.
I was gifted this copy by St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
January 12, 2025
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Beth Rivers came to Benedict Alaska to hide from her kidnapper, Travis Walker. She had made friends and felt more at ease because the man had been captured. But during a recent transfer, he escaped and has made it known he is after Beth again. Her new friends have vowed to keep her safe. They come up with a plan to get her out of town. She and her boyfriend, Tex are going on a hike and will find the perfect place to set up camp until Travis is recaptured.
That plan is upended when Tex and Beth get near the tiny community of Blue Mine. They meet a woman heading to Benedict with her husband’s dead body atop a horse. After visiting the people at Blue Mine they learn of some strange happenings and other suspicious deaths. They agree to get her and the body back to Police Chief Gril so he can launch a full investigation.
Back in town, Beth is again on high alert but some of her protectors are on the way to Blue Mine. The widow disappears when a secret is revealed so others are searching to find her. With a limited number of people to keep her safe, they stay hyperaware because you never know who or what may be out in the Alaskan wilderness, especially during the unrelenting storms.
There are several reasons that this is one of my favorite series.
First, the characters in this series are unique and continue to grow in realistic ways. Beth gets more confident in every installment and every chapter. She and Viola are now true friends, both learning from each other. Viola is one tough lady but you have to be in the wilds of Alaska. Beth and Tex have a relationship that is in no way conventional but it works for them. Gril’s job is to keep everybody safe and he goes to all ends to do that. Beth’s safety is a priority for him. Orin is concerned about Beth’s safety as well. He has an actual fortress for her to stay in but she is too stubborn to take him up on his offer. Park Ranger Donner and Beth’s dad Eddy are also part of the team involved in Beth’s safety. The people who live in Benedict Alaska are strong and unshakeable. Ms. Shelton’s words bring these wonderful people to life. I could get dropped in Benedict today and pick out each one of them just from her words. I can’t forget Gus, he is such a smart and loyal dog.
Her descriptive details also set each scene vividly. The torrential rainstorms of course, but also the beauty of the entire area. The area around Blue Mine is so aptly described, as is an abandoned mine. The town of Benedict, Viola’s boardinghouse, Orin’s fortress, the mercantile, the bar, the post office, the trail to the library, and Beth’s old hunting shed. – everything is brilliantly described.
Ms. Shelton takes us to this amazing place and wraps her characters in a suspenseful mystery that is impossible to put down. With dead bodies, Bigfoot sightings, and a felon on the loose after one of their own, readers are pulled in and are allowed to travel along with Beth and her friends as they try to make sense of what is happening around them and if and how kidnapper Travis Walker is involved. Will they be able to find him before he finds Beth? The pages on my Paperwhite were flying and there truly were times I was at the edge of my seat.
Perfect Storm is a compelling, complex mystery plotted with such precision that it is absolutely a must-read. Full of suspense and drama with twists and turns, Ms. Shelton continues to impress me every chapter. This series would make an excellent movie or short drama series. Someone call Netflix! You shouldn’t be surprised when I say this book deserves more than 5 stars. I am very intrigued about Beth’s next adventure.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Minotaur Books and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Beth Rivers came to Benedict Alaska to hide from her kidnapper, Travis Walker. She had made friends and felt more at ease because the man had been captured. But during a recent transfer, he escaped and has made it known he is after Beth again. Her new friends have vowed to keep her safe. They come up with a plan to get her out of town. She and her boyfriend, Tex are going on a hike and will find the perfect place to set up camp until Travis is recaptured.
That plan is upended when Tex and Beth get near the tiny community of Blue Mine. They meet a woman heading to Benedict with her husband’s dead body atop a horse. After visiting the people at Blue Mine they learn of some strange happenings and other suspicious deaths. They agree to get her and the body back to Police Chief Gril so he can launch a full investigation.
Back in town, Beth is again on high alert but some of her protectors are on the way to Blue Mine. The widow disappears when a secret is revealed so others are searching to find her. With a limited number of people to keep her safe, they stay hyperaware because you never know who or what may be out in the Alaskan wilderness, especially during the unrelenting storms.
There are several reasons that this is one of my favorite series.
First, the characters in this series are unique and continue to grow in realistic ways. Beth gets more confident in every installment and every chapter. She and Viola are now true friends, both learning from each other. Viola is one tough lady but you have to be in the wilds of Alaska. Beth and Tex have a relationship that is in no way conventional but it works for them. Gril’s job is to keep everybody safe and he goes to all ends to do that. Beth’s safety is a priority for him. Orin is concerned about Beth’s safety as well. He has an actual fortress for her to stay in but she is too stubborn to take him up on his offer. Park Ranger Donner and Beth’s dad Eddy are also part of the team involved in Beth’s safety. The people who live in Benedict Alaska are strong and unshakeable. Ms. Shelton’s words bring these wonderful people to life. I could get dropped in Benedict today and pick out each one of them just from her words. I can’t forget Gus, he is such a smart and loyal dog.
Her descriptive details also set each scene vividly. The torrential rainstorms of course, but also the beauty of the entire area. The area around Blue Mine is so aptly described, as is an abandoned mine. The town of Benedict, Viola’s boardinghouse, Orin’s fortress, the mercantile, the bar, the post office, the trail to the library, and Beth’s old hunting shed. – everything is brilliantly described.
Ms. Shelton takes us to this amazing place and wraps her characters in a suspenseful mystery that is impossible to put down. With dead bodies, Bigfoot sightings, and a felon on the loose after one of their own, readers are pulled in and are allowed to travel along with Beth and her friends as they try to make sense of what is happening around them and if and how kidnapper Travis Walker is involved. Will they be able to find him before he finds Beth? The pages on my Paperwhite were flying and there truly were times I was at the edge of my seat.
Perfect Storm is a compelling, complex mystery plotted with such precision that it is absolutely a must-read. Full of suspense and drama with twists and turns, Ms. Shelton continues to impress me every chapter. This series would make an excellent movie or short drama series. Someone call Netflix! You shouldn’t be surprised when I say this book deserves more than 5 stars. I am very intrigued about Beth’s next adventure.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Minotaur Books and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
October 16, 2024
To be honest I think this was my least favorite book of the series. It felt like nothing really got resolved except the matter with Travis. Beth spent most of the book saying how she was feeling and why she was making extremely stupid decisions. A disappointing end to what had been a very good series.
ARC from Netgalley
ARC from Netgalley
November 28, 2024
Book six in the Alaska Wild cozy mystery series: Travis Walker, the man who kidnapped Beth Rivers, has escaped from prison in Missouri and her friends and family are determined to protect her should he show up in Benedict to get his revenge. While searching the forests for signs of Travis, Beth and her boyfriend Tex stumble upon what might be a murder in a small settlement of miners.
This series has a cast of eccentric characters--the kind of people who move to Alaska to hide away from their past mistakes. It's a place where the rules are pretty loose so people are free to live life as they please. I have enjoyed this series but found this plot to be a little too goofy, with too many people running around searching the woods but accomplishing nothing. And somehow trouble always seems to find Beth no matter how many people are trying to protect her.
Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an arc of this new mystery via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
This series has a cast of eccentric characters--the kind of people who move to Alaska to hide away from their past mistakes. It's a place where the rules are pretty loose so people are free to live life as they please. I have enjoyed this series but found this plot to be a little too goofy, with too many people running around searching the woods but accomplishing nothing. And somehow trouble always seems to find Beth no matter how many people are trying to protect her.
Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an arc of this new mystery via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
September 18, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for an ARC of this book.
If you read this series, you won't want to miss this entry. The central plot arc of the entire series comes to a conclusion when Beth is put on a final, inevitable collision course with her one-time abductor who has escaped prison to come for her once again.
The story itself was a little different for me--there was so much urgency (for the reader!) to see how this was all going to come to a head that sometimes the side plot--mysterious killings at a remote mine that's complicated by claims of Bigfoot--seemed to derail the building tension. But for those who have been following this series, it's an important entry and all the faves are back (well, mostly--I'm still waiting for those knitting men from Book 1 to return and maybe Chaz from Book 4).
It wasn't my favorite execution of the series, but it brings a central conflict to a close, which, I hope, will mean the series continues with what's next for this crew!
If you read this series, you won't want to miss this entry. The central plot arc of the entire series comes to a conclusion when Beth is put on a final, inevitable collision course with her one-time abductor who has escaped prison to come for her once again.
The story itself was a little different for me--there was so much urgency (for the reader!) to see how this was all going to come to a head that sometimes the side plot--mysterious killings at a remote mine that's complicated by claims of Bigfoot--seemed to derail the building tension. But for those who have been following this series, it's an important entry and all the faves are back (well, mostly--I'm still waiting for those knitting men from Book 1 to return and maybe Chaz from Book 4).
It wasn't my favorite execution of the series, but it brings a central conflict to a close, which, I hope, will mean the series continues with what's next for this crew!
January 14, 2025
Another great entry in one of my favorite series. Beth is still in Alaska, on alert because Travis, the man who kidnapped her has escaped prison and vows to find and kill her. Beth and her boyfriend Tex come across a woman who has a body she's bringing to the police, claiming he is her dead husband.
I love that the setting is a major component of these books. Benedict, Alaska is rugged place, not for everyone. As Beth learns to navigate the wild, with the help of the town's citizens, she's getting stronger mentally and physically, preparing for the possibility of a showdown with Travis.
I love that the setting is a major component of these books. Benedict, Alaska is rugged place, not for everyone. As Beth learns to navigate the wild, with the help of the town's citizens, she's getting stronger mentally and physically, preparing for the possibility of a showdown with Travis.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 14, 2024
Author Beth Rivers left St. Louis and moved to the isolated town of Benedict, Alaska to hide from the man who abducted her. The man was eventually identified as Travis Walker and now he has escaped from prison and is after Beth again. Beth fears for her life, but also for the residents of Benedict who have come together to help protect her.
This book is part of an ongoing series and while the case that Beth and her boyfriend, Tex, get involved in when passing through a nearby town stands on its own, the storyline about Travis Walker runs through each of the books in the series. For that reason, I would recommend at least reading the first book in the series, Thin Ice, to get a better feel for Beth's backstory. This is a wonderful series that really gives you the feel for the remote Alaskan environment. I've enjoyed getting to know the town and the characters.
This book starts out great and the suspense grows throughout the first part of the story. There are mysterious deaths in the nearby village of Blue Mine which could be due to rights over a gold mine, but the villagers think they're the work of Bigfoot! I love the message of new beginnings and found family. Beth is a strong, brave character who is someone to root for, but she often has a tendency to ignore good advice and make questionable decisions. It's especially frustrating in this book since everyone is working so hard to keep Beth safe and she does things to make that more difficult than it has to be. As a whole, this is an entertaining book and wonderful series. A big development at the end of the story has me curious about what will come next for Beth.
Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for providing the advance ebook copy for review consideration. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
This book is part of an ongoing series and while the case that Beth and her boyfriend, Tex, get involved in when passing through a nearby town stands on its own, the storyline about Travis Walker runs through each of the books in the series. For that reason, I would recommend at least reading the first book in the series, Thin Ice, to get a better feel for Beth's backstory. This is a wonderful series that really gives you the feel for the remote Alaskan environment. I've enjoyed getting to know the town and the characters.
This book starts out great and the suspense grows throughout the first part of the story. There are mysterious deaths in the nearby village of Blue Mine which could be due to rights over a gold mine, but the villagers think they're the work of Bigfoot! I love the message of new beginnings and found family. Beth is a strong, brave character who is someone to root for, but she often has a tendency to ignore good advice and make questionable decisions. It's especially frustrating in this book since everyone is working so hard to keep Beth safe and she does things to make that more difficult than it has to be. As a whole, this is an entertaining book and wonderful series. A big development at the end of the story has me curious about what will come next for Beth.
Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for providing the advance ebook copy for review consideration. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
December 11, 2024
When I received Perfect Storm I didn't know it was part six in a series. While I was missing a little bit of context of what happened in the past installments it's pretty easy to pick up what happened and works well as a standalone.
I originally liked the premise of the book. Beth running and hiding in the woods until her would-be killer is found. But at the 70% mark, Beth became a little annoying to me. It seemed as if she could decide to be strong or let the other protect her never really landing on one or the other.
I also felt like the blue mine mystery aspect of the story was never really solved. It was shoved to the side after being a major part of the storyline. I feel like everyone was chasing their tails in the woods for nothing to happen. I really wish there was more to the Bigfoot plot. The way that wrapped up was such a letdown.
Overall the book was just okay. I don't know if I will read the other books in the series.
Thank you to the author and publisher for providing me with an arc of this new mystery via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
I originally liked the premise of the book. Beth running and hiding in the woods until her would-be killer is found. But at the 70% mark, Beth became a little annoying to me. It seemed as if she could decide to be strong or let the other protect her never really landing on one or the other.
I also felt like the blue mine mystery aspect of the story was never really solved. It was shoved to the side after being a major part of the storyline. I feel like everyone was chasing their tails in the woods for nothing to happen. I really wish there was more to the Bigfoot plot. The way that wrapped up was such a letdown.
Overall the book was just okay. I don't know if I will read the other books in the series.
Thank you to the author and publisher for providing me with an arc of this new mystery via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
December 15, 2024
I feel like these books are getting worse with each new release. there's no build-up to anything and no tension, everyone just keeps running around and making stupid decisions. I wish Shelton would spend more time working on the atmosphere, developing our characters, revealing Benedict further, etc. but we got this short story instead. the ending was so disappointing I'm not sure I will read any more of the Alaska Wild series.
December 25, 2024
Ohhhh this was very good, with a VERY satisfying []; some of what happened and the results were a huge surprise, and some I guessed, so it all evened out in the end.
I have really loved this series and the gritty vastness of Alaska as the backdrop [it is almost a character itself]; I feel that Ms. Shelton wrote that scenery [if you will] very well and I often felt I was right in the middle of that cold tundra [and it made me want to visit Alaska, something I had never really wanted to do before this series. I am not a lover of cold OR roughing it. LOL]. I also really enjoyed how Beth and Tex's relationship has evolved and how good they are together and how Tex really cares about AND for Beth and how that has really helped her heal. Her relationship with the others in Benedict have also been very heartwarming and I am always left wishing I had a Viola in my life.
This really has the feel of a final book [Waaaaaaa!!!], and if that is the case, this was an excellent way to end a really great run of stories, but part of me will always hope there is one more book. What a great series!!
Thank you to NetGalley, Paige Shelton, and St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I have really loved this series and the gritty vastness of Alaska as the backdrop [it is almost a character itself]; I feel that Ms. Shelton wrote that scenery [if you will] very well and I often felt I was right in the middle of that cold tundra [and it made me want to visit Alaska, something I had never really wanted to do before this series. I am not a lover of cold OR roughing it. LOL]. I also really enjoyed how Beth and Tex's relationship has evolved and how good they are together and how Tex really cares about AND for Beth and how that has really helped her heal. Her relationship with the others in Benedict have also been very heartwarming and I am always left wishing I had a Viola in my life.
This really has the feel of a final book [Waaaaaaa!!!], and if that is the case, this was an excellent way to end a really great run of stories, but part of me will always hope there is one more book. What a great series!!
Thank you to NetGalley, Paige Shelton, and St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 27, 2025
Think this will be the last I read in this series. Lame and weak.
August 12, 2025
I have loved this series and was sad to see it come to an end!
July 26, 2025
I am not usually a fan of thrillers, and I usually abhor cliffhangers. But in this case, Paige Shelton managed to overcome both those aversions and give me a book I love in spite of them.
The previous book in this series ended on a strong cliffhanger. So I wasn't really surprised when this book picked up right after that, full of suspense and thriller energy. It just felt right.
Then, after a few opening scenes at that pace and energy level, Shelton managed to ratchet it down a bit. I mean, the action was still continuing forward, but I found myself able to breathe again. Throughout the book, the author displayed amazing skill at building up the tension then diffusing it, allowing the story to progress for a while before leading to another tense scene. I guess I would say that it flowed the way I think thrillers SHOULD flow, rather than at the breakneck pace they usually do.
Shelton is also very good at character development, and throughout this series one sees immense growth and healing in Beth, the main character. She takes some important steps toward completing that healing in this book. We leave Beth with the sense that she knows who she is better than she ever has, and is ready to face the rest of her life. But, and I am so pleased to say this, it didn't feel like the character was saying goodbye. I have not been able to find anything on line that says whether there will be more of these books, but I am left with strong hopes that there will be.
The previous book in this series ended on a strong cliffhanger. So I wasn't really surprised when this book picked up right after that, full of suspense and thriller energy. It just felt right.
Then, after a few opening scenes at that pace and energy level, Shelton managed to ratchet it down a bit. I mean, the action was still continuing forward, but I found myself able to breathe again. Throughout the book, the author displayed amazing skill at building up the tension then diffusing it, allowing the story to progress for a while before leading to another tense scene. I guess I would say that it flowed the way I think thrillers SHOULD flow, rather than at the breakneck pace they usually do.
Shelton is also very good at character development, and throughout this series one sees immense growth and healing in Beth, the main character. She takes some important steps toward completing that healing in this book. We leave Beth with the sense that she knows who she is better than she ever has, and is ready to face the rest of her life. But, and I am so pleased to say this, it didn't feel like the character was saying goodbye. I have not been able to find anything on line that says whether there will be more of these books, but I am left with strong hopes that there will be.
February 28, 2025
The problem with finding a great author is the ending of their book's series. These characters are so well developed you get attached to them and don't want their stories to end.
This was the last book in the Alaska Wild Series and it was amazing! I couldn't put it down and it literally had me on the edge of my seat through it all. The best part was how it ended.......with still more mysteries......so I am secretly hoping since she wrote this book in 2024 she might write another one. There is lots of potential here and I enjoy her writing.
In fact, tonight I am going to start a third series of hers.....
This was the last book in the Alaska Wild Series and it was amazing! I couldn't put it down and it literally had me on the edge of my seat through it all. The best part was how it ended.......with still more mysteries......so I am secretly hoping since she wrote this book in 2024 she might write another one. There is lots of potential here and I enjoy her writing.
In fact, tonight I am going to start a third series of hers.....
August 23, 2024
3.5 stars
I've fallen yet again to my own greediness for ARCs into not realizing the book I'm requesting is part of a series. It's clearly indicated, but I guess my brain just overlooks that part. That being said, there were no issues following what was going on. While I think reading the 5 books that preceded this may have enhanced the experience, nothing was taken away in not doing so. The writing is great and all the characters are so enjoyable (with the exception of Travis of course). Our main character Beth's mother is a hoot and a half...and there's even a Sasquatch mixed in amongst them. I want to talk myself into giving this a 4 star rating, and a probably should. I guess maybe I'm just not a big fan of outdoor wildnerness adventures/misadventures, but if you love a good mystery, a few twists along the way, and strong characters, you would do well to pick this one up!!!
I've fallen yet again to my own greediness for ARCs into not realizing the book I'm requesting is part of a series. It's clearly indicated, but I guess my brain just overlooks that part. That being said, there were no issues following what was going on. While I think reading the 5 books that preceded this may have enhanced the experience, nothing was taken away in not doing so. The writing is great and all the characters are so enjoyable (with the exception of Travis of course). Our main character Beth's mother is a hoot and a half...and there's even a Sasquatch mixed in amongst them. I want to talk myself into giving this a 4 star rating, and a probably should. I guess maybe I'm just not a big fan of outdoor wildnerness adventures/misadventures, but if you love a good mystery, a few twists along the way, and strong characters, you would do well to pick this one up!!!
February 2, 2025
I enjoyed this series and this book was a suspenseful and twisty conclusion to the original crime of Beth being kidnapped. I like the characters and wouldn’t mind seeing them in more mysteries that take place in Alaska and conclude in one book.
April 25, 2025
Show me the money!
I was worn out after this finale! Trimming through woods, escaping real and imagined stalkers and in the end....where's the money? I have my guess but who knows? Good ending!!!!
I was worn out after this finale! Trimming through woods, escaping real and imagined stalkers and in the end....where's the money? I have my guess but who knows? Good ending!!!!
December 13, 2024
3.5 stars
Lots of running around. No real content....Ending too tame.
Lots of running around. No real content....Ending too tame.
January 2, 2025
If you liked the first 5 cozy murder mysteries in this series, you’ll be entertained reading this one too. Plus, an added bonus of big foot!
January 20, 2025
Really like this series.
February 6, 2025
I enjoyed this book better than the last one. The storyline was good, although there was some what felt like extraneous storyline that got woven in at the tend. I enjoyed this whole series because after all...Alaska. I would definitely read more books by this author.
March 12, 2025
Finally....
May 23, 2025
Book 6 in the series was just as good as Book 1 - I am hoping there is a #7 coming . . . .
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August 21, 2025audiobook
June 11, 2025
The last book (I think) in the Alaska Wild series. I enjoyed them. Easy to read, I liked the characters and there's just enough suspense to keep it interesting. Not the greatest mystery series I've ever read, but good enough.
December 3, 2024
Perfect Storm by Paige Shelton is the sixth in her Alaska Wild series, basically about a woman known as Beth Rivers, who was kidnapped and held for three days by a former associate of her parents. By then her father had been gone for years, and Beth was an adult. When she was released from the hospital she traveled to the most remote place she could find: Benedict, Alaska. The only person who knew her story was the sheriff, Gril, who for a long time was her only friend. Finally they caught the guy and sent him to jail. Then he escaped and that is where we join the story. By now, Beth has plenty of friends, and the people here keep themsleves to themsleves so she doesn’t worry about what they might say to a stranger. She and her friend and lover, Tex, have decided to hike into the wilderness and let the others handle it. There they run into a group of people, some of whom have been killed, and before too long they have no idea who or what to believe.
The story gets complicated and is worth the read. Beth is a good character as is her friend, Viola, with whom she boards at a half-way house for women, Orin, who is (maybe) a former undercover spy, and Gril, already mentioned. She has a good life as the editor and staff for a small newsletter for the area while she writes her books. Oh, yeah, that is a complication: she is a famous mystery writer. The story has gotten convoluted over the series but is always entertaining, and has you on the edge of your seat often. Alaska is fascinating and I feel like this is a pretty accurate representation for those living out in the country. Shelton has done a good job with this mystery that started off as out of her wheelhouse, but she has quickly proven she is up to it.
I was invited to read Perfect Storm by St Martins Press. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #StMartinsPress #PaigeShelton #PerfectStorm
The story gets complicated and is worth the read. Beth is a good character as is her friend, Viola, with whom she boards at a half-way house for women, Orin, who is (maybe) a former undercover spy, and Gril, already mentioned. She has a good life as the editor and staff for a small newsletter for the area while she writes her books. Oh, yeah, that is a complication: she is a famous mystery writer. The story has gotten convoluted over the series but is always entertaining, and has you on the edge of your seat often. Alaska is fascinating and I feel like this is a pretty accurate representation for those living out in the country. Shelton has done a good job with this mystery that started off as out of her wheelhouse, but she has quickly proven she is up to it.
I was invited to read Perfect Storm by St Martins Press. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #StMartinsPress #PaigeShelton #PerfectStorm
December 24, 2024
I just love this series!!! The audiobook was so good!!! I wonder what will be next. The twists were perfect!! 🤩
October 31, 2024
Beth Rivers has made a new home for herself in Benedict, Alaska. But when news that Travis who kidnapped her and kept her hostage has escaped from prison, her friends in town surround her to offer protection.
Among those eager to protect her are her estranged parents who have also found themselves in Benedict. Beth feels she has finally established an adult-to-adult relationship with them though they don't seem to have the same relationship to each other.
She and Tex decide to get out of town and do some camping. They head for an isolated cabin that he knows about. However, when they come across Jin who is carrying a body to town to report to the police, they get involved in trying to solve a murder at Blue Mine. This isolated gold mining community is filled with secrets and the body Jin carries isn't the first to die.
Then there are the Bigfoot spottings...
Beth quickly gets tired of so much protection and decides that she is ready to face her kidnapper. She's much stronger and more capable than she was when he kidnapped her although the anxiety attacks aren't completely in the past. Now all she has to do is convince her well-armed and concerned friends.
I enjoyed this story which is the sixth in the Alaska Wild series.
Among those eager to protect her are her estranged parents who have also found themselves in Benedict. Beth feels she has finally established an adult-to-adult relationship with them though they don't seem to have the same relationship to each other.
She and Tex decide to get out of town and do some camping. They head for an isolated cabin that he knows about. However, when they come across Jin who is carrying a body to town to report to the police, they get involved in trying to solve a murder at Blue Mine. This isolated gold mining community is filled with secrets and the body Jin carries isn't the first to die.
Then there are the Bigfoot spottings...
Beth quickly gets tired of so much protection and decides that she is ready to face her kidnapper. She's much stronger and more capable than she was when he kidnapped her although the anxiety attacks aren't completely in the past. Now all she has to do is convince her well-armed and concerned friends.
I enjoyed this story which is the sixth in the Alaska Wild series.
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