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Cold Rock Island: A Port Stirling Mystery Book 7
Readers of Robert Dugoni, Kendra Elliot, and Ann Cleeves will be captivated by Kay Jennings’ sensational 7th installment in the Port Stirling Mystery series.
A body hanging from a rafter. An estranged husband bent on revenge.
Police Chief Matt Horning and State Department Special Agent Fern Byrne return in a thrilling tale of international intrigue that begins with a heartbreaking death on a mysterious island in the Pacific Ocean, and ends up on powerful desks in Washington, D.C.
West Coast billionaire Rohn Reid calls his old friend, the U.S. Secretary of State, to tell him he’s just found a dead body on his private island – Cold Rock Island, about thirty minutes off the southern coast of Oregon. The victim is Hiroshi Matsuda, a military hero who once worked on the island.
The nearest police jurisdiction is Port Stirling, and Matt and Fern are enlisted to investigate, and are soon at odds with the billionaire and his family. But the Port Stirling PD has another problem, as new detective Tamryn Gesicki can’t seem to begin her new life in peace.
In the high-powered heritage of Harlen Coben, the puzzling island death turns into a suspenseful challenge for the local law enforcement team. Will it stretch them to the limit?
Praise for A Port Stirling Mystery
Quite the thriller - Emily
Ok. Must say this is the best one so far, but I have said that as I progressed through the volumes in this series.
Excellent series by Kay Jennings – Elaine E.
I am addicted. It has everything - great characters that you instantly become attached to, intense stories that keep you on the edge, twists and turns. I can't wait for book 7!! Thank you, Kay Jennings.
An effective and compelling writing of the effects of a major earthquake and tsunami – James D.
The opening of the book is chilling as the author takes you on a wild ride post cataclysmic earthquake and tsunami. My book club read the book and we are now more prepared. I'd recommend this book!
Nice series – Rebecca H.
Small town character with big city crime. Roger is a smiling star.🤗 More please.
Almost too realistic! – Kindle Customer
As a survivor of the 1964 Alaskan Good Friday quake, I can attest to this story's authenticity. Kay Jennings always writes an intriguing story with lots of suspense and mystery.
Another winning read - AEK
I think Kay Jennings is one of the top authors of today.
Great Read – Christine H.
The continuing story of how this small town recovers from disaster, all while solving a brutal murder. I enjoyed the inclusion of native American culture and history told from more than one perspective. I'm recommending this one for book club this!
Loved it – David M.
The author has created characters who are believable. My wife and I refer to the characters by their first name, as if they are personal friends.
Another fantastic story from Kay Jennings – Claudia H.
I thought that Tsunami was the book to top her list. Wrong. Mourning Bay kept me puzzled until the end to figure out "who done it." Rumor has it that books 7 and 8 are in the pipeline. Can't wait.
A body hanging from a rafter. An estranged husband bent on revenge.
Police Chief Matt Horning and State Department Special Agent Fern Byrne return in a thrilling tale of international intrigue that begins with a heartbreaking death on a mysterious island in the Pacific Ocean, and ends up on powerful desks in Washington, D.C.
West Coast billionaire Rohn Reid calls his old friend, the U.S. Secretary of State, to tell him he’s just found a dead body on his private island – Cold Rock Island, about thirty minutes off the southern coast of Oregon. The victim is Hiroshi Matsuda, a military hero who once worked on the island.
The nearest police jurisdiction is Port Stirling, and Matt and Fern are enlisted to investigate, and are soon at odds with the billionaire and his family. But the Port Stirling PD has another problem, as new detective Tamryn Gesicki can’t seem to begin her new life in peace.
In the high-powered heritage of Harlen Coben, the puzzling island death turns into a suspenseful challenge for the local law enforcement team. Will it stretch them to the limit?
Praise for A Port Stirling Mystery
Quite the thriller - Emily
Ok. Must say this is the best one so far, but I have said that as I progressed through the volumes in this series.
Excellent series by Kay Jennings – Elaine E.
I am addicted. It has everything - great characters that you instantly become attached to, intense stories that keep you on the edge, twists and turns. I can't wait for book 7!! Thank you, Kay Jennings.
An effective and compelling writing of the effects of a major earthquake and tsunami – James D.
The opening of the book is chilling as the author takes you on a wild ride post cataclysmic earthquake and tsunami. My book club read the book and we are now more prepared. I'd recommend this book!
Nice series – Rebecca H.
Small town character with big city crime. Roger is a smiling star.🤗 More please.
Almost too realistic! – Kindle Customer
As a survivor of the 1964 Alaskan Good Friday quake, I can attest to this story's authenticity. Kay Jennings always writes an intriguing story with lots of suspense and mystery.
Another winning read - AEK
I think Kay Jennings is one of the top authors of today.
Great Read – Christine H.
The continuing story of how this small town recovers from disaster, all while solving a brutal murder. I enjoyed the inclusion of native American culture and history told from more than one perspective. I'm recommending this one for book club this!
Loved it – David M.
The author has created characters who are believable. My wife and I refer to the characters by their first name, as if they are personal friends.
Another fantastic story from Kay Jennings – Claudia H.
I thought that Tsunami was the book to top her list. Wrong. Mourning Bay kept me puzzled until the end to figure out "who done it." Rumor has it that books 7 and 8 are in the pipeline. Can't wait.
- GenresMystery
334 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 15, 2024
168 people are currently reading
36 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
June 1, 2024
Another stirring Port Stirling mystery, this tale of intrigue, murder, possible international crisis, and domestic violence engages and keeps the pages turning. While I found the domestic violence scenes to be graphic, I applaud shining a light on this all-too-common occurrence and the message the book sends.
Jennings is a master at creating authentic, believable characters whom a reader can either fall in love with or absolutely detest. Cold Rock Island brings back our beloved Port Stirling police chief, Matt Horning, his wife, and U.S. State Dept. liasion, Fern Byrne, and the cadre of law enforcement folks we have come to love and depend upon to solve this small town's huge crimes. Then, there are the suspects and perps who are well portrayed.
I highly recommend this latest Port Stirling mystery and look forward to the next one.
Jennings is a master at creating authentic, believable characters whom a reader can either fall in love with or absolutely detest. Cold Rock Island brings back our beloved Port Stirling police chief, Matt Horning, his wife, and U.S. State Dept. liasion, Fern Byrne, and the cadre of law enforcement folks we have come to love and depend upon to solve this small town's huge crimes. Then, there are the suspects and perps who are well portrayed.
I highly recommend this latest Port Stirling mystery and look forward to the next one.
May 26, 2024
Fern rocks again!
Love this series, and #7 does not disappoint.
I saved it for this holiday weekend so I could savor it.
It is wonderful to see Fern really come into her own as a federal agent and detective with backup from everyone in Port Stirling. Bravo!
Love this series, and #7 does not disappoint.
I saved it for this holiday weekend so I could savor it.
It is wonderful to see Fern really come into her own as a federal agent and detective with backup from everyone in Port Stirling. Bravo!
May 22, 2024
just couldn’t put this book down!!!
Another great mystery. Double trouble is the name of the game, plus a very scary side story. Please!!!! Hurry with the next book!!!!!
Another great mystery. Double trouble is the name of the game, plus a very scary side story. Please!!!! Hurry with the next book!!!!!
May 22, 2024
Enjoy
Each book in this series just captures my interest to the point that I keep reading straight through to the end.
Each book in this series just captures my interest to the point that I keep reading straight through to the end.
November 30, 2024
Hated the AI narration on audiobook.
June 11, 2024
“Cold Rock Island” by Kay Jennings is the latest gripping installment in the Port Stirling Mystery series, a book that masterfully intertwines suspense and intricate character development to create a compelling narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
Set against the backdrop of a private island off the Oregon coast, Jennings introduces us to a world of wealth, power, and secrecy. The discovery of Hiroshi Matsuda’s body, a military hero with ties to the island, sets off a chain of events that pulls Police Chief Matt Horning and State Department Special Agent Fern Byrne into a whirlwind investigation that reaches the highest levels of government.
Jennings’ writing is sharp and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the rugged Pacific landscape that mirrors the tumultuous journey of the characters. The author has a knack for creating a sense of place so tangible, it almost becomes a character in its own right. The narrative is well-paced, with Jennings doling out clues and red herrings in equal measure, ensuring that the mystery remains just that until the very end.
The strength of “Cold Rock Island” lies not just in its plot but also in its characters. Jennings has crafted a cast that is both relatable and enigmatic. Chief Horning and Agent Byrne are a dynamic duo, their partnership marked by a blend of professional respect and personal tension that adds depth to their shared quest for the truth. The supporting characters are equally well-drawn, from the enigmatic billionaire Rohn Reid to the ambitious new detective Tamryn Gesicki, each adding layers to the unfolding drama.
What sets this book apart is its ability to balance the thrill of the mystery with the human element. Jennings doesn’t shy away from exploring the emotional landscapes of her characters, making their struggles and triumphs resonate with the reader. It’s this emotional core that elevates “Cold Rock Island” from a mere mystery to a story about the complexities of human nature and the lengths we go to protect our secrets.
In conclusion, “Cold Rock Island” is a must-read for fans of the genre. With its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and a setting that transports you to the stormy Oregon coast, Kay Jennings has delivered a mystery that is both satisfyingly complex and deeply human. Whether you’re a longtime follower of the series or a newcomer, this book is a captivating addition to the Port Stirling saga.
Set against the backdrop of a private island off the Oregon coast, Jennings introduces us to a world of wealth, power, and secrecy. The discovery of Hiroshi Matsuda’s body, a military hero with ties to the island, sets off a chain of events that pulls Police Chief Matt Horning and State Department Special Agent Fern Byrne into a whirlwind investigation that reaches the highest levels of government.
Jennings’ writing is sharp and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the rugged Pacific landscape that mirrors the tumultuous journey of the characters. The author has a knack for creating a sense of place so tangible, it almost becomes a character in its own right. The narrative is well-paced, with Jennings doling out clues and red herrings in equal measure, ensuring that the mystery remains just that until the very end.
The strength of “Cold Rock Island” lies not just in its plot but also in its characters. Jennings has crafted a cast that is both relatable and enigmatic. Chief Horning and Agent Byrne are a dynamic duo, their partnership marked by a blend of professional respect and personal tension that adds depth to their shared quest for the truth. The supporting characters are equally well-drawn, from the enigmatic billionaire Rohn Reid to the ambitious new detective Tamryn Gesicki, each adding layers to the unfolding drama.
What sets this book apart is its ability to balance the thrill of the mystery with the human element. Jennings doesn’t shy away from exploring the emotional landscapes of her characters, making their struggles and triumphs resonate with the reader. It’s this emotional core that elevates “Cold Rock Island” from a mere mystery to a story about the complexities of human nature and the lengths we go to protect our secrets.
In conclusion, “Cold Rock Island” is a must-read for fans of the genre. With its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and a setting that transports you to the stormy Oregon coast, Kay Jennings has delivered a mystery that is both satisfyingly complex and deeply human. Whether you’re a longtime follower of the series or a newcomer, this book is a captivating addition to the Port Stirling saga.
April 26, 2024
This was with a doubt the very best book in the Port Stirling series. The other books have been enjoyable, but Kay brought something a little more in this story. With that said, I would recommend reading the other books in the story first before reading this one to understand the characters, but it can be read alone.
Now, for this story, we have a locked room (or island) mystery to keep the pages turning and a second story that is more personal and more emotional. The cast of characters are using the strength of the books in this series but in this case the mystery was completely fascinating. Parts of the book read like a police procedural as our team chipped away the layers bringing clarity and truth to how our victim ended up dead when no one knew he was on the island. The story was made more compelling as we were treated to flashbacks into our victim’s mind as he too investigated. His family may have had a really well written closure at the end, but their journey too was heart rending.
Speaking of heart rending and emotions, Tamryn’s story was one that any woman in an impossible relationship could relate too. Her ending was gratifying but again she suffered at the hands of a miserable human. I personally like how the two stories were woven together. The author heightened the drama by switching stories when it got intense in one story making us read longer than planned to see what was happening next in the other story. Matt and Fern may have been the stars of the story, but it would not have worked without the rest of their law enforcement team. All the law enforcement officers and townspeople in the story are very well written. The characters complemented each other and worked very well together.
I would be remiss if I failed to mention the chuckle I got when a certain Aaron turned up in the book. Please continue this story. After that ending, we need to know what happens next. I guarantee that as long as the author keeps writing this series, I will keep reading.
Thanks to NetGalley and Paris Communications | Independent Book Publishers Association for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Now, for this story, we have a locked room (or island) mystery to keep the pages turning and a second story that is more personal and more emotional. The cast of characters are using the strength of the books in this series but in this case the mystery was completely fascinating. Parts of the book read like a police procedural as our team chipped away the layers bringing clarity and truth to how our victim ended up dead when no one knew he was on the island. The story was made more compelling as we were treated to flashbacks into our victim’s mind as he too investigated. His family may have had a really well written closure at the end, but their journey too was heart rending.
Speaking of heart rending and emotions, Tamryn’s story was one that any woman in an impossible relationship could relate too. Her ending was gratifying but again she suffered at the hands of a miserable human. I personally like how the two stories were woven together. The author heightened the drama by switching stories when it got intense in one story making us read longer than planned to see what was happening next in the other story. Matt and Fern may have been the stars of the story, but it would not have worked without the rest of their law enforcement team. All the law enforcement officers and townspeople in the story are very well written. The characters complemented each other and worked very well together.
I would be remiss if I failed to mention the chuckle I got when a certain Aaron turned up in the book. Please continue this story. After that ending, we need to know what happens next. I guarantee that as long as the author keeps writing this series, I will keep reading.
Thanks to NetGalley and Paris Communications | Independent Book Publishers Association for the opportunity to read this ARC.
August 6, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review "Cold Rock Island", the seventh book in Kay Jennings' Port Stirling mysteries.
How did Hiroshi Matsuda end up hanging from the rafters in an airplane hangar on Cold Rock Island - the former military installation where he had served previous to it's eventual sale to a reclusive billionaire? And how is it that no one on the Island knew he was there - or why? These are just some of the questions that Fern Byrne, in her official capacity as State Department representative and her husband, Police Chief Matt Horning must answer in this novel full of lies and obfuscations. Was it really suicide? Or was it murder? And if murder, who? and why?
As with all of Kay Jennings' Port Stirling mysteries, this one is painstakingly investigated, with Fern and her boss even bringing in the big guns, in the person of the Secretary and the Coast Guard.
On the homefront, Port Stiirling's newest hire cannot seem to escape her previous domestic situation - with painful and horrific results. (I have to admit, I found the violence difficult to handle and may have skipped over some small bits).
As always, I was hopelessly hooked on the mystery right from the beginning until the surprising end.
Highly recommended for fans of well-crafted, suspenseful mysteries. Could be read as a standalone, but the whole series is well worth the investment of time, in order to get to know all of the 'players'.
How did Hiroshi Matsuda end up hanging from the rafters in an airplane hangar on Cold Rock Island - the former military installation where he had served previous to it's eventual sale to a reclusive billionaire? And how is it that no one on the Island knew he was there - or why? These are just some of the questions that Fern Byrne, in her official capacity as State Department representative and her husband, Police Chief Matt Horning must answer in this novel full of lies and obfuscations. Was it really suicide? Or was it murder? And if murder, who? and why?
As with all of Kay Jennings' Port Stirling mysteries, this one is painstakingly investigated, with Fern and her boss even bringing in the big guns, in the person of the Secretary and the Coast Guard.
On the homefront, Port Stiirling's newest hire cannot seem to escape her previous domestic situation - with painful and horrific results. (I have to admit, I found the violence difficult to handle and may have skipped over some small bits).
As always, I was hopelessly hooked on the mystery right from the beginning until the surprising end.
Highly recommended for fans of well-crafted, suspenseful mysteries. Could be read as a standalone, but the whole series is well worth the investment of time, in order to get to know all of the 'players'.
November 27, 2024
Cold Rock Island Book 7
Kay Jennings
A Murder & Plenty of Mayhem
I have run out of books to read by this author. Kay Jennings has the start of an amazing mystery series with 7 published books and another one to be released in 2025. The characters are like old friends. Fern has settled into her new job quite well with the federal government as the West Coast Liaison. Matt loves his job more and more as the Police Chief of Port Sterling. There are 2 storylines that take place in this book. The main one takes place on a remote island off the coast of Oregon west of Port Sterling. Of the 10 people who live there, one or more committed the murder and then tried to cover it up. It's Fern's job to find out who did it and get the case solved quickly since the victim was a retired Japanese Admiral. The second storyline has to do with the newly hired detective, Tamryn who is replacing Fern's job on the Port Sterling's police force. She comes with an abusive past from her soon to be ex. I highly recommend this book & the series.
Kay Jennings
A Murder & Plenty of Mayhem
I have run out of books to read by this author. Kay Jennings has the start of an amazing mystery series with 7 published books and another one to be released in 2025. The characters are like old friends. Fern has settled into her new job quite well with the federal government as the West Coast Liaison. Matt loves his job more and more as the Police Chief of Port Sterling. There are 2 storylines that take place in this book. The main one takes place on a remote island off the coast of Oregon west of Port Sterling. Of the 10 people who live there, one or more committed the murder and then tried to cover it up. It's Fern's job to find out who did it and get the case solved quickly since the victim was a retired Japanese Admiral. The second storyline has to do with the newly hired detective, Tamryn who is replacing Fern's job on the Port Sterling's police force. She comes with an abusive past from her soon to be ex. I highly recommend this book & the series.
June 16, 2024
This is a pretty good series.
The characters appear real, the area well represented and the plots are complex enough to be intriguing. Obviously, it's set in the actual Bandon ,Oregon area and references the famous links golf courses there (glad I'm not a golfer: there are some suggestions they're unruly hicks with clubs and money). The author moves some geography around to suit each current story, but that's her prerogative. I enjoyed reading all the books and think other mystery readers will too.
The characters appear real, the area well represented and the plots are complex enough to be intriguing. Obviously, it's set in the actual Bandon ,Oregon area and references the famous links golf courses there (glad I'm not a golfer: there are some suggestions they're unruly hicks with clubs and money). The author moves some geography around to suit each current story, but that's her prerogative. I enjoyed reading all the books and think other mystery readers will too.
April 27, 2024
I’ve not read any of the other Port Stirling books but didn’t find that much of a problem. It would have been nice to know a bit more of the background but it’s not necessary and I’ll enjoy going back to read the others.
Cold Rock Island is a good police procedural story with a solid cast of characters and an interesting plot. It’s more detective work than all out action but the pace is decent and kept me entertained all the way through.
Cold Rock Island is a good police procedural story with a solid cast of characters and an interesting plot. It’s more detective work than all out action but the pace is decent and kept me entertained all the way through.
June 18, 2024
an Interstingt who done it. Suspensful. Some nice twists and turns. This was an interesting story that finished up the story of the new dectective as a side story, second plot line. But, this one focused on Fern and her job. Won't say to much more because it would spoil it. The idea of Cold Rock Island is interesting however what it was used for was not as plausable as the rest of the story, but there had to be a reason to have it focus on Fern, so I get it. I recommend it.
July 13, 2024
a good read
Completely engaging from start to finish. The victim and his family were very sympathetic characters. Strong women characters and strong men characters, balanced. They all seem like regular folks with regular folks’ problems. Makes me want to go live on the remoteish coast, for at least a few minutes…, maybe visit again instead. A beautiful area.
I have enjoyed the entire series. Thank you Kay Jennings.
Completely engaging from start to finish. The victim and his family were very sympathetic characters. Strong women characters and strong men characters, balanced. They all seem like regular folks with regular folks’ problems. Makes me want to go live on the remoteish coast, for at least a few minutes…, maybe visit again instead. A beautiful area.
I have enjoyed the entire series. Thank you Kay Jennings.
September 13, 2024
Great!
I recommend this whole series- this is book 7. The characters are well developed and the plot was intricate and interesting. The action in this novel also makes it a thriller.
I recommend this whole series- this is book 7. The characters are well developed and the plot was intricate and interesting. The action in this novel also makes it a thriller.
December 2, 2024
A famous ally of the U.S. is found dead on Cold Rock Island
Japanese admiral Hidachi tries to help his son find what is going on at his bank. This leads to his murder at the hands of thieves.
Japanese admiral Hidachi tries to help his son find what is going on at his bank. This leads to his murder at the hands of thieves.
May 31, 2024
Enjoyable from start to finish!
I love the Oregon coast and even the rain. The author's descriptions of the water, trees and fresh air added authentic touches to a good story.
I love the Oregon coast and even the rain. The author's descriptions of the water, trees and fresh air added authentic touches to a good story.
July 8, 2024
The best. So many twists and turns. I have read all of these books and can’t put them down once I start. How long must I wait for the next?!?
October 19, 2024
Is there any more to this series????
November 3, 2024
Great read but unfortunately the last in a series- maybe worth reading earlier ones??
Will pass to Peter
Will pass to Peter
January 9, 2025
Great book
I keep saying the same things but great mystery, good characters, great wrap-up. Iam looking forward to the release of the next book. I hope it won’t be the last.
I keep saying the same things but great mystery, good characters, great wrap-up. Iam looking forward to the release of the next book. I hope it won’t be the last.
June 6, 2025
Solid police procedural, best to read in order since there are many references to previous cases in the series.
July 18, 2025
A wonderful cast of characters that was hard to put down.
January 15, 2026
Great book!!
This is a fast pasted mystery sure to not let you put it down. I thoroughly enjoyed the read! Can’t wait for the next one !!!
This is a fast pasted mystery sure to not let you put it down. I thoroughly enjoyed the read! Can’t wait for the next one !!!
January 10, 2026
This was the second book by Kay Jennings that I have read, and I enjoyed reading it.
For me to remember some of the key characters: Police Chief Matt Horning and his wife, State Department Special Agent Fern Byrne. Billionaire Rohn Reid found a dead body on his private island – Cold Rock Island, where his sons are also in residence. The victim is Hiroshi Matsuda, a military hero who once worked on the island. Back on the mainland new detective Tamryn Gesicki is threatened by her former husband in an overlapping story line.
For me to remember some of the key characters: Police Chief Matt Horning and his wife, State Department Special Agent Fern Byrne. Billionaire Rohn Reid found a dead body on his private island – Cold Rock Island, where his sons are also in residence. The victim is Hiroshi Matsuda, a military hero who once worked on the island. Back on the mainland new detective Tamryn Gesicki is threatened by her former husband in an overlapping story line.
May 15, 2024
Wow!
Excellent series and this is another thrilling adventure! There are several problems that the police are investigating. All local agencies get involved. All the favorite people are investigating with Fern handling an important, volatile investigation for the State Department!
Excellent series and this is another thrilling adventure! There are several problems that the police are investigating. All local agencies get involved. All the favorite people are investigating with Fern handling an important, volatile investigation for the State Department!
May 15, 2024
I felt like I knew how this was going to go but then it surprised me and was so much more. I loved the double mystery that was in the story and that there was more forensics to this than you what you normally find in this type of book. For me it made the book that much better and wasn’t over the top with way too much information we got just what we needed.
August 2, 2025
I continue to enjoy this "easy-read" mystery series - even though this was about a cryptocurrency ponzi scheme - and I don't understand c-currency at all! I like the characters and as usual there were a couple of mysteries to be solved at once. The new detective in Port Stirling is attacked by her ex-husband and has to sit out much of the action. I read it in about a day and a half, quick for me.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews