What do you think?
Rate this book
Dwayne Morrow Mystery #6
Abduction: Dwayne Morrow Mystery #6
Thanksgiving—a time for family, friends, and food—lots of food. What better time to meet your girlfriend’s entire clan? Dwayne, Melanie, and Jasmine have barely settled in before Dwayne hears of a teen whose disappearance has the entire town guessing. Did she run away or was she abducted?What should have been a peaceful holiday celebration goes off the rails in more ways than one, as Melanie’s estranged, abusive father crashes Thanksgiving dinner, and Dwayne is burdened with more secrets than he can possibly handle.And that’s before the first body washes up on the rocks alongside the Ohio River.Will Dwayne unmask a killer before anyone else pays the ultimate price?Abduction is the sixth jaw-dropping adventure in the Dwayne Morrow Mystery series.
- GenresMystery
402 pages, Hardcover
Published January 29, 2024
42 people are currently reading
68 people want to read
About the author
Darin Miller
17 books414 followersDarin Miller was born in Portsmouth but currently resides in Grove City, both of which are located in Ohio. While he has worked in Information Technology for three decades, he has not solved a single, solitary crime to date. He is the BookFest award-winning author of the Ohio-based Dwayne Morrow Mystery series, as well as an unrelated short story collection, Broken Bits and Bobs, and a standalone psychological horror thriller, Equilibrium. With equal parts action, humor, suspense and mystery, the Dwayne Morrow series features characters you’re sure to love—and in some cases, loathe.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
February 19, 2024
What an incredible read. I've read all the authors books and I've loved all his books. An engaging writing style that I was immersed into the story from the first page. His writing is very descriptive and detailed. I enjoyed the captivating mystery with suspenseful twists and turns that deliver a well executed conclusion. I was on the edge of my seat, trying to figure out the plot. The author characters are fleshed out perfectly, and he builds layers to give complexity. Definitely recommend his whole series.
April 21, 2024
In the heart of a seemingly idyllic Thanksgiving, where family and an abundance of food paint the perfect picture of harmony, lurks an undercurrent of tension and mystery that is about to erupt. Dwayne, Melanie, and Jasmine find themselves ensnared in a web of uncertainty from the moment they arrive, as whispers of a local teenager’s (Tina McAlister) vanishing shroud the town in suspense. Was it a desperate bid for freedom, or was something far more sinister at play? In the shadowed corners of a world cloaked in mystery, Dwayne Morrow finds himself ensnared once again in a web he tries to escape, driven by a relentless force beyond his control. Despite being stripped of his case by a boss whose decisions are mostly profound, Dwayne is forced into events that make him feel a sense of duty that won’t let him rest.
The veneer of peace shatters completely when Melanie's long-estranged and notoriously abusive father makes an appearance at the Thanksgiving dinner, turning a family gathering into a scene of turmoil. But this is merely the beginning of Dwayne's troubles. He soon finds himself entrusted with secrets that threaten to overwhelm him, secrets that could unravel the very fabric of their lives. Dwayne harbors not only undisclosed truths about his sister Gina but also bears the heavy, silent expectation of concealing multiple other dark secrets. The weight of all these profound secrets presses heavily on Dwayne's shoulders, a burden many people expect him to bear in silence. Torn between the fear of unraveling at the seams and the dread of alienating those closest to him, Dwayne teeters on the brink of a precipice, unsure if he can safeguard the mystery without sacrificing his sanity or his loved ones.
Just when things can’t get worse, as if to grip on to Dwayne and Melanie’s worst fears, the discovery of a lifeless body on the rocky banks of the Ohio River sends shockwaves of emotions. As the evidence ominously converged, it was becoming alarmingly clear that there is a possibility they dared not face: they might just know the identity of the victim. With danger closing in and the stakes higher than ever, Dwayne is thrust into a chilling race against time. Can he expose the truth lurking behind the façade of small-town innocence before the killer claims another victim? The sixth installment in the Dwayne Morrow Mystery series, "Abduction," promises an adrenaline-fueled journey into the heart of darkness, where the line between friend and foe is blurred, and trust is a commodity as scarce as redemption.
An everyman cast against a backdrop of mystery and murder, Dwayne's all-too-human weaknesses—his clumsy attempts at the consolation of the grieving, his penchant for saying the wrong thing at the worst possible time, and a knack for finding the wrong end of an ass-kicking—render him profoundly real. These very flaws weave the fabric of a character unforgettable in his authenticity, an everyday man perpetually, yet accidently, dancing on the knife-edge of danger, making Dwayne Morrow a name synonymous with suspense.
Not only is Dwayne's character impressively crafted and developed, but the entire cast also shines with depth and complexity. For instance, Melanie grapples with her next steps concerning Dwayne's secrets, while Jasmine finds herself entangled in the chaos on several fronts, the antagonist, revealed in a astonishing turn of events, leaving the reader stunned, and even the group of thugs that took part in giving Dwayne a scare of a lifetime, and even Dexter’s feline feistiness, ensures that each character remains unforgettable long after the story concludes, highlighting the novel's strength in character development and narrative intrigue.
Darin Miller employed captivating storytelling that had drew me in with an interesting storyline, relatable characters, and detailed picturesque settings, that appealed to my emotions and intellect. The pacing maintained an ideal tempo, ensuring sustained engagement by skillfully alternating moments of tension and relief that maintained my interest. The story's peaks were thrilling, and its valleys more impactful. The unpredictable ending amplified the narrative appeal - not only defying anticipations but also leaving a lasting impression. I found myself profoundly immersed in this story. These components blend together to create a captivating narrative that had entranced me from beginning to end, turning the tale into an experience that was not only read but will also be remembered. I'm on the edge of my seat, anticipation coursing through my veins, as I eagerly await the next adrenaline-fueled installment – Deception: Dwayne Morrow Mystery #7.
The veneer of peace shatters completely when Melanie's long-estranged and notoriously abusive father makes an appearance at the Thanksgiving dinner, turning a family gathering into a scene of turmoil. But this is merely the beginning of Dwayne's troubles. He soon finds himself entrusted with secrets that threaten to overwhelm him, secrets that could unravel the very fabric of their lives. Dwayne harbors not only undisclosed truths about his sister Gina but also bears the heavy, silent expectation of concealing multiple other dark secrets. The weight of all these profound secrets presses heavily on Dwayne's shoulders, a burden many people expect him to bear in silence. Torn between the fear of unraveling at the seams and the dread of alienating those closest to him, Dwayne teeters on the brink of a precipice, unsure if he can safeguard the mystery without sacrificing his sanity or his loved ones.
Just when things can’t get worse, as if to grip on to Dwayne and Melanie’s worst fears, the discovery of a lifeless body on the rocky banks of the Ohio River sends shockwaves of emotions. As the evidence ominously converged, it was becoming alarmingly clear that there is a possibility they dared not face: they might just know the identity of the victim. With danger closing in and the stakes higher than ever, Dwayne is thrust into a chilling race against time. Can he expose the truth lurking behind the façade of small-town innocence before the killer claims another victim? The sixth installment in the Dwayne Morrow Mystery series, "Abduction," promises an adrenaline-fueled journey into the heart of darkness, where the line between friend and foe is blurred, and trust is a commodity as scarce as redemption.
An everyman cast against a backdrop of mystery and murder, Dwayne's all-too-human weaknesses—his clumsy attempts at the consolation of the grieving, his penchant for saying the wrong thing at the worst possible time, and a knack for finding the wrong end of an ass-kicking—render him profoundly real. These very flaws weave the fabric of a character unforgettable in his authenticity, an everyday man perpetually, yet accidently, dancing on the knife-edge of danger, making Dwayne Morrow a name synonymous with suspense.
Not only is Dwayne's character impressively crafted and developed, but the entire cast also shines with depth and complexity. For instance, Melanie grapples with her next steps concerning Dwayne's secrets, while Jasmine finds herself entangled in the chaos on several fronts, the antagonist, revealed in a astonishing turn of events, leaving the reader stunned, and even the group of thugs that took part in giving Dwayne a scare of a lifetime, and even Dexter’s feline feistiness, ensures that each character remains unforgettable long after the story concludes, highlighting the novel's strength in character development and narrative intrigue.
Darin Miller employed captivating storytelling that had drew me in with an interesting storyline, relatable characters, and detailed picturesque settings, that appealed to my emotions and intellect. The pacing maintained an ideal tempo, ensuring sustained engagement by skillfully alternating moments of tension and relief that maintained my interest. The story's peaks were thrilling, and its valleys more impactful. The unpredictable ending amplified the narrative appeal - not only defying anticipations but also leaving a lasting impression. I found myself profoundly immersed in this story. These components blend together to create a captivating narrative that had entranced me from beginning to end, turning the tale into an experience that was not only read but will also be remembered. I'm on the edge of my seat, anticipation coursing through my veins, as I eagerly await the next adrenaline-fueled installment – Deception: Dwayne Morrow Mystery #7.
December 1, 2025
Twisty ~ Incomplete
I know, I know! This is a series and not all the plot lines are going to be resolved. I do not even mind a cliffhanger if it leads into the next book and is after the current story arc is completed. And sure, I picked up this #6 book when it was free, but what about other readers who paid good money for it? The story arc in this book was incomplete, with numerous plotlines just dropped.
Dwayne is a mix of intelligence and stupidity. It makes him less than believable as a character, especially when he breaks confidentiality, sharing information with his girlfriend and her family so she can "trust" him. It makes the whole book less believable because the concept of confidentiality and protecting personal information is too intrinsic to our culture for these characters to be unaware of it.
I appreciate the quality of the writing and the twisty plot; I do not appreciate the many loose ends of this story arc left dangling and the incomplete plotlines. The book just stopped. Doug's disappearance and injuries are glossed over, despite him being a major character. Craig's description of his awful night sounded clearly like he'd been roofied, not drunk, another plot twist not followed through on. Katie's and Tina's roles in the crimes are also glossed over, with indications they both preyed on others and were preyed upon themselves. Last but not least, there is a major twist at the end revealing how the deaths occurred, but it was too pat and convenient to be believable.
This reads like a proofed, but unedited rough draft of an interesting story. There's mystery, humor, horror, and a soap opera going on all at once. And seriously, Dwayne deserves a better girlfriend.
If you don't mind dodging the plot hole potholes and the soap opera of it all, it's an interesting read.
Content: No explicit sex or violence, except for that broken nose...
I know, I know! This is a series and not all the plot lines are going to be resolved. I do not even mind a cliffhanger if it leads into the next book and is after the current story arc is completed. And sure, I picked up this #6 book when it was free, but what about other readers who paid good money for it? The story arc in this book was incomplete, with numerous plotlines just dropped.
Dwayne is a mix of intelligence and stupidity. It makes him less than believable as a character, especially when he breaks confidentiality, sharing information with his girlfriend and her family so she can "trust" him. It makes the whole book less believable because the concept of confidentiality and protecting personal information is too intrinsic to our culture for these characters to be unaware of it.
I appreciate the quality of the writing and the twisty plot; I do not appreciate the many loose ends of this story arc left dangling and the incomplete plotlines. The book just stopped. Doug's disappearance and injuries are glossed over, despite him being a major character. Craig's description of his awful night sounded clearly like he'd been roofied, not drunk, another plot twist not followed through on. Katie's and Tina's roles in the crimes are also glossed over, with indications they both preyed on others and were preyed upon themselves. Last but not least, there is a major twist at the end revealing how the deaths occurred, but it was too pat and convenient to be believable.
This reads like a proofed, but unedited rough draft of an interesting story. There's mystery, humor, horror, and a soap opera going on all at once. And seriously, Dwayne deserves a better girlfriend.
If you don't mind dodging the plot hole potholes and the soap opera of it all, it's an interesting read.
Content: No explicit sex or violence, except for that broken nose...
May 14, 2025
I love this series!
Miller’s writing is fresh, fun, and quirky, making every scene feel like you’re part of it.. or at least standing there, watching things play out. For me, I think it’s because his characters aren’t just names on a page—they’re people I feel like I’ve known forever. And then there’s that whole setting thing Miller does so well, incorporating it into its own entity within the story. I always find myself transported back home to my Midwestern roots.
But back to the story itself. Abduction is packed with intrigue and delivers a steady current of suspense that layers and blends family drama, small-town secrets, and high emotional stakes into a compelling, well-paced narrative, making the weight of Dwayne’s choices heavier in this sixth installment of the series. And then, of course, there’s the body that washes up along the Ohio River, which sends this story spiraling along, making me flip those pages long past the point of my eyes begging me to close them for a little shut-eye.
In a nutshell, Miller is a master at balancing humor, heart, and high-stakes mystery, making Abduction (and indeed, this entire series) a must-read for fans of engaging, personal, character-driven stories. If you love narratives that keep you guessing while making you feel right at home, this book/series is for you. And like each one in the series, I read that last page, close the book, and think, “I’m pretty sure this one’s my favorite.”
Miller’s writing is fresh, fun, and quirky, making every scene feel like you’re part of it.. or at least standing there, watching things play out. For me, I think it’s because his characters aren’t just names on a page—they’re people I feel like I’ve known forever. And then there’s that whole setting thing Miller does so well, incorporating it into its own entity within the story. I always find myself transported back home to my Midwestern roots.
But back to the story itself. Abduction is packed with intrigue and delivers a steady current of suspense that layers and blends family drama, small-town secrets, and high emotional stakes into a compelling, well-paced narrative, making the weight of Dwayne’s choices heavier in this sixth installment of the series. And then, of course, there’s the body that washes up along the Ohio River, which sends this story spiraling along, making me flip those pages long past the point of my eyes begging me to close them for a little shut-eye.
In a nutshell, Miller is a master at balancing humor, heart, and high-stakes mystery, making Abduction (and indeed, this entire series) a must-read for fans of engaging, personal, character-driven stories. If you love narratives that keep you guessing while making you feel right at home, this book/series is for you. And like each one in the series, I read that last page, close the book, and think, “I’m pretty sure this one’s my favorite.”
October 28, 2024
Our bumbling protagonist Dwayne is visiting his girlfriend's family for Thanksgiving and wants to make an impression. He would like it to be a good one, but in true Dwayne Morrow fashion, it's somewhere between fantastic and maybe she should stay single. What starts out as a curious question to ponder why there are so many billboards about missing women becomes a full blown investigation with twists and turns that no one, most especially Dwayne, sees coming.
He got himself in a couple of super hot pickles that he only survived through the help of others, but his heart was in the right place. He wanted to help a family who felt railroaded by the cops and wanted the real truth about their loved one's death. The truth was shocking and completely unexpected, but I'll leave that for you to experience as you read the sixth installment of the series. At the end of the book, Dwayne has a whole lotta problems but having a heart of gold isn't one of them. He set out to help a family and ended up doing so much more, at great risk to his life. I just hope he can find a way to get his life back under control before misses out on the best things life has to offer.
If you love Stephanie Plum, you'll love Dwayne Morrow and want to binge this entire series!
He got himself in a couple of super hot pickles that he only survived through the help of others, but his heart was in the right place. He wanted to help a family who felt railroaded by the cops and wanted the real truth about their loved one's death. The truth was shocking and completely unexpected, but I'll leave that for you to experience as you read the sixth installment of the series. At the end of the book, Dwayne has a whole lotta problems but having a heart of gold isn't one of them. He set out to help a family and ended up doing so much more, at great risk to his life. I just hope he can find a way to get his life back under control before misses out on the best things life has to offer.
If you love Stephanie Plum, you'll love Dwayne Morrow and want to binge this entire series!
July 5, 2024
Wow! Want to know a secret? While Dwayne, Melanie, and Jasmine, go to visit their families for Thanksgiving, Dwayne notices billboard’s about missing girls and the closer, they get, the more billboards and the more missing girls. But when a missing girl’s body is found, Dwayne is recruited to help in the investigation and what he finds is that everyone in town just about has a secret. But is it really a secret if one person knows it all? This book will definitely keep you guessing and wondering…who dunnit . I can you you, I didn’t see it coming! Another 5 stars for Darin Miller in Book #6!
February 27, 2024
This is a must-read series! You will not be disappointed! Each book becomes a new favorite!
I had no idea how this one was going to turn out! Never suspected the master mind(s) of the murders.
Can't wait for the next book. I hope Dwayne and Mel work things out.
I had no idea how this one was going to turn out! Never suspected the master mind(s) of the murders.
Can't wait for the next book. I hope Dwayne and Mel work things out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 12, 2024
i am enjoying this series. Dwayne is such a dork who can't seem to keep out of trouble as he tries to get his PI license. Meeting his girlfriend's family was quite the adventure. I did not like the way it ended, but it tells me there will be a book 7 . At least I hope so.
February 4, 2025
A Thanksgiving weekend spent with family. What could possibly go wrong? Well, anywhere Dwayne Morrow goes, trouble follows. This time he is asked by a family member if he would investigate a teen's death which has been ruled a suicide. With his usual curiosity he agrees and ends up in precarious situations. I've fallen in love with the character of Dwayne who frequently speaks before thinking and suffers the consequences. All the characters are so well described, I feel like I know them. The plot is intriguing and suspenseful. Abduction is excellently written by a master storyteller. I highly recommend this exciting book.
March 31, 2025
Awesome read
Well, Dwayne got himself in hot water again! I enjoy the characters in this series so much. I'm excited to start the next one.
Well, Dwayne got himself in hot water again! I enjoy the characters in this series so much. I'm excited to start the next one.
February 22, 2024
Another Wild Ride
Darin Miller hits the mark again with a gripping tale of murder and intrigue with some good old-fashioned familial dysfunction woven in.
It's a shame I have to wait for the next one!
Darin Miller hits the mark again with a gripping tale of murder and intrigue with some good old-fashioned familial dysfunction woven in.
It's a shame I have to wait for the next one!
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews