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The Last Close Call: Library Edition
A talented genetic analyst and a detective who's haunted by an elusive cold case team up in the new standalone romantic suspense from New York Times bestselling author Laura Griffin.
Forensic genealogist Rowan Healy has made a name for herself by helping investigators trace the family trees of violent criminals who have eluded justice for years. But the pressure of police cases left her burned out, and she's shifted her focus to helping adoptees find their biological parents.
Austin detective Jack Bruner has spent his career successfully tracking down vicious criminals--with the notable exception of the West Campus Rapist, a meticulous offender in Texas who has never been identified. When the latest two victims come to light, Jack sees his target is escalating his violent behavior--and only with Rowan's help does he stand a chance of cracking this case.
Moved by Jack's dedication and the brutal details of the attacks he lays out, Rowan agrees to help. When her ground-breaking DNA research sheds new light on the criminal's background and helps them zero in on a search radius, Rowan and Jack must race against the clock to find a ruthless killer who's growing bolder the longer he evades the law.
Forensic genealogist Rowan Healy has made a name for herself by helping investigators trace the family trees of violent criminals who have eluded justice for years. But the pressure of police cases left her burned out, and she's shifted her focus to helping adoptees find their biological parents.
Austin detective Jack Bruner has spent his career successfully tracking down vicious criminals--with the notable exception of the West Campus Rapist, a meticulous offender in Texas who has never been identified. When the latest two victims come to light, Jack sees his target is escalating his violent behavior--and only with Rowan's help does he stand a chance of cracking this case.
Moved by Jack's dedication and the brutal details of the attacks he lays out, Rowan agrees to help. When her ground-breaking DNA research sheds new light on the criminal's background and helps them zero in on a search radius, Rowan and Jack must race against the clock to find a ruthless killer who's growing bolder the longer he evades the law.
Audio CD
First published October 24, 2023
303 people are currently reading
21678 people want to read
About the author
Laura Griffin
55 books3,834 followersLaura Griffin is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than thirty books and novellas. She is a two-time RITA Award winner, as well as the recipient of the Daphne du Maurier Award. Laura got her start in journalism before venturing into the world of suspense fiction. Her books have been translated into fourteen languages. Laura lives in Austin, Texas, where she is working on her next novel.
Series:
* Texas Murder Files
* Tracers
* Wolfe Security
* Alpha Crew
* Moreno and Hart Mysteries
* Glass Sisters
* The Borderline
Series:
* Texas Murder Files
* Tracers
* Wolfe Security
* Alpha Crew
* Moreno and Hart Mysteries
* Glass Sisters
* The Borderline
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 485 reviews
October 15, 2023
Forensic genealogy plays a part in this gripping book. I must give props to Laura Griffin; I have never seen this used in a book before. It was a nice touch as the genealogist and a detective teamed up to catch a rapist!
Rowan Healy is a forensic genealogist who is quickly making a name for herself by helping investigators track down criminals. She uses her skills to trace the family trees of criminals. This is stressful to do so she is trying to focus on helping find the biological parents of adoptees.
Jack Bruner is an Austin Detective who is trying to catch the West Campus Rapist, and contacts Rowan seeking her assistance in tracking down this elusive criminal.
I listened to the audio version of this book and enjoyed the narration. This book was gripping, and kept me on my toes, doing my best super sleuthing trying to figure out the identity of the West Campus Rapist. As the rapist/killer becomes more brazen, Rowan and Jack are up against the clock, as the tension mounts and danger grows.
The two main characters are both likeable and interesting. As they work closely together, sparks begin to fly between them!
This book had a little bit of everything (romance, tension, mystery, detective work, danger) and was an enjoyable read! I enjoyed how they worked individually and together.
3.5 stars
Thank you to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Rowan Healy is a forensic genealogist who is quickly making a name for herself by helping investigators track down criminals. She uses her skills to trace the family trees of criminals. This is stressful to do so she is trying to focus on helping find the biological parents of adoptees.
Jack Bruner is an Austin Detective who is trying to catch the West Campus Rapist, and contacts Rowan seeking her assistance in tracking down this elusive criminal.
I listened to the audio version of this book and enjoyed the narration. This book was gripping, and kept me on my toes, doing my best super sleuthing trying to figure out the identity of the West Campus Rapist. As the rapist/killer becomes more brazen, Rowan and Jack are up against the clock, as the tension mounts and danger grows.
The two main characters are both likeable and interesting. As they work closely together, sparks begin to fly between them!
This book had a little bit of everything (romance, tension, mystery, detective work, danger) and was an enjoyable read! I enjoyed how they worked individually and together.
3.5 stars
Thank you to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
November 2, 2023
3.5 Stars
In the search for a serial killer whose violent tendencies have been on the rise, Detective Jack Bruner has enlisted the expertise of Rowan Healy, a forensic genealogist. Unbeknownst to Rowan, the case would alter the course of her life.
While I found this to be a pretty decent read, I feel that it could use a touch more oomph, especially around the middle of the novel. Apart from that, the book was an entertaining read. Perfect for those who have an affinity for both police procedurals and romantic storylines.
*** Thank you to NetGalley, Laura Griffin, and Dreamscape Media for graciously sending me the audiobook to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
In the search for a serial killer whose violent tendencies have been on the rise, Detective Jack Bruner has enlisted the expertise of Rowan Healy, a forensic genealogist. Unbeknownst to Rowan, the case would alter the course of her life.
While I found this to be a pretty decent read, I feel that it could use a touch more oomph, especially around the middle of the novel. Apart from that, the book was an entertaining read. Perfect for those who have an affinity for both police procedurals and romantic storylines.
*** Thank you to NetGalley, Laura Griffin, and Dreamscape Media for graciously sending me the audiobook to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
October 14, 2023
Laura Griffin highlights the fascinating subject of forensic genealogy, and the way police use it to help identify potential criminal suspects in THE LAST CLOSE CALL. Through her signature descriptive prose, she quickly draws readers into a fast-paced, edgy story that oozes danger from beginning to end, making it extremely hard to put down. My recommendation is to carve out enough alone time to experience this one straight through and avoid all spoilers.
Rowan Healy is an extraordinarily successful, much sought after forensic genealogist who gave up a thriving career working with investigators tracing the family tree of violent offenders. The blistering pace of a heavy workload left her suffering from burnout at an early age. Now, she finds fulfillment in a thriving private practice assisting families seeking to reunite with missing family members as well as helping adoptees find their biological parents. The last thing she wants is to get pulled back into the darkness and violence of police work. Austin Detective Jack Burner is at a dead-end on a brutal rape and assault case that is eerily similar to a cold case that haunts him as he failed to solve it several years ago. The suspect in that case became known as the serial West Campus Rapist and if Jack's suspicions are correct, he's back and escalating to murder. At the end of his rope and desperate for any leads, Jack turns to Rowan for help hoping she can find some kind of lead through genealogy based on DNA evidence they have. After repeatedly refusing his requests, something Jack says touches Rowan, and she reluctantly joins the search for a killer. Rowan's unique research provides clues to a potential suspect's identity including the possible area of his lair, but they'll need the villain's DNA to seal the case. Can they apprehend him in time to save the next potential victim? Meantime, Rowan and Jack are fighting a mutual attraction neither wants to pursue for their own secret reasons. They may be fighting a losing battle on both fronts.
THE LAST CLOSE CALL is an intriguing, atmospheric thriller highlighting the promising potential for success with genealogy in policework. Many readers will identify with the subject matter in a personal manner having sent their own DNA off for potential matches. Griffin does an excellent job of utilizing the topic, weaving it into the plot line via believable characters maneuvering a fast-paced, twisted plot line. In a race against time, these characters are charged with identifying and capturing a potential suspect before he strikes again setting a dire tone from beginning to end. The author tempers the threat of danger with the promise of a romance between Rowan and Jack with sizzling chemistry erupting between them. Readers will have no problem falling for them while cheering the relationship on. In addition to several red herrings, Griffin ups the ante by slowly revealing perilous secrets Rowan prefers to keep to herself. Are they putting her life in danger?
Laura Griffin has penned a gripping, super intriguing romantic suspense thriller in THE LAST CLOSE CALL - one that's sure to appeal to fans of genealogy and crime fiction. Her expertise in creating fully fleshed characters deserving of readers' empathy is evident. Highly recommended to fans of suspense thrillers and police procedurals.
Many thanks to Berkley Publ. for an arc and tour invite for THE LAST CLOSE CALL by Laura Griffin. This book is scheduled for release Oct. 24, 2023. This review first published in Mystery & Suspense Magazine and will be available on my blog Cross My Heart Reviews during the tour Oct. 24, 2023. All opinions expressed are my own.
Rowan Healy is an extraordinarily successful, much sought after forensic genealogist who gave up a thriving career working with investigators tracing the family tree of violent offenders. The blistering pace of a heavy workload left her suffering from burnout at an early age. Now, she finds fulfillment in a thriving private practice assisting families seeking to reunite with missing family members as well as helping adoptees find their biological parents. The last thing she wants is to get pulled back into the darkness and violence of police work. Austin Detective Jack Burner is at a dead-end on a brutal rape and assault case that is eerily similar to a cold case that haunts him as he failed to solve it several years ago. The suspect in that case became known as the serial West Campus Rapist and if Jack's suspicions are correct, he's back and escalating to murder. At the end of his rope and desperate for any leads, Jack turns to Rowan for help hoping she can find some kind of lead through genealogy based on DNA evidence they have. After repeatedly refusing his requests, something Jack says touches Rowan, and she reluctantly joins the search for a killer. Rowan's unique research provides clues to a potential suspect's identity including the possible area of his lair, but they'll need the villain's DNA to seal the case. Can they apprehend him in time to save the next potential victim? Meantime, Rowan and Jack are fighting a mutual attraction neither wants to pursue for their own secret reasons. They may be fighting a losing battle on both fronts.
THE LAST CLOSE CALL is an intriguing, atmospheric thriller highlighting the promising potential for success with genealogy in policework. Many readers will identify with the subject matter in a personal manner having sent their own DNA off for potential matches. Griffin does an excellent job of utilizing the topic, weaving it into the plot line via believable characters maneuvering a fast-paced, twisted plot line. In a race against time, these characters are charged with identifying and capturing a potential suspect before he strikes again setting a dire tone from beginning to end. The author tempers the threat of danger with the promise of a romance between Rowan and Jack with sizzling chemistry erupting between them. Readers will have no problem falling for them while cheering the relationship on. In addition to several red herrings, Griffin ups the ante by slowly revealing perilous secrets Rowan prefers to keep to herself. Are they putting her life in danger?
Laura Griffin has penned a gripping, super intriguing romantic suspense thriller in THE LAST CLOSE CALL - one that's sure to appeal to fans of genealogy and crime fiction. Her expertise in creating fully fleshed characters deserving of readers' empathy is evident. Highly recommended to fans of suspense thrillers and police procedurals.
Many thanks to Berkley Publ. for an arc and tour invite for THE LAST CLOSE CALL by Laura Griffin. This book is scheduled for release Oct. 24, 2023. This review first published in Mystery & Suspense Magazine and will be available on my blog Cross My Heart Reviews during the tour Oct. 24, 2023. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 29, 2023
Narrated by Stephanie Németh-Parker. Just when you think you know where this story is going it takes you somewhere else. You just never know what secrets you unlock when you trace your genealogy. I loved the narrator. She was just wonderful and added to the experience of this book. I couldn't stop listening to the audio. The plot is vintage Laura Griffin, it is a fantastic blend of romance and heart stopping suspense.
Jack Bruner is an Austin police detective with a heavy case load and a backlog of other cases that are slowly going cold. One case in particular has him looking for new avenues to pursue. The West Campus Rapist haunts him because the guy just stopped, but now he's back and Jack is determined not to let him vanish again.
Rowan Healy is slowly making a name for herself in the area of genealogy by helping adoptees track down their biological parents. After spending years working as a forensic genealogist, she was done working with cops and heart wrenching cases. Her peace has been hard won and she intends to never go back.
Until Jack Bruner crashes into her life and won't take no for an answer. But Rowan has her own reasons for helping Jack and his heart stopping magnetism and strong body have nothing to do with it. Well, maybe not much anyway. The deeper Rowan digs into the genealogy of the suspect, the more danger she finds.
My thanks to the Publisher and Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
Jack Bruner is an Austin police detective with a heavy case load and a backlog of other cases that are slowly going cold. One case in particular has him looking for new avenues to pursue. The West Campus Rapist haunts him because the guy just stopped, but now he's back and Jack is determined not to let him vanish again.
Rowan Healy is slowly making a name for herself in the area of genealogy by helping adoptees track down their biological parents. After spending years working as a forensic genealogist, she was done working with cops and heart wrenching cases. Her peace has been hard won and she intends to never go back.
Until Jack Bruner crashes into her life and won't take no for an answer. But Rowan has her own reasons for helping Jack and his heart stopping magnetism and strong body have nothing to do with it. Well, maybe not much anyway. The deeper Rowan digs into the genealogy of the suspect, the more danger she finds.
My thanks to the Publisher and Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
July 4, 2023
A serial rapist who has been dormant for a few years returns to Austin and soon escalates to murder in San Antonio. Det Jack Bruner enlists the help of genetic genealogist Rowan Healy to try and identify the UNSUB and capture him before he strikes again. I really enjoyed the police procedural part of the story as they hone in on the suspect; however, I could have done without the romance between Jack and Rowan as I didn’t feel they had any real chemistry. My first book by Griffin, overall this was a solid mystery and I’d read her again.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
September 23, 2023
Great plot with lots of twists in both the police procedural murder mystery and romance.
~~~~~~~~~~
This book is so unique. I have to say I loved everything about it and read it in one sitting, much to my chagrin. I did not want it to end! It is fabulous!
Griffin intrigues us with heinous crimes and the race to solve the crimes before there is one more attack. Her characters are always well-developed and researched for a realistic, pulse-pounding story.
The balance between the two main characters is brilliant; their energy and ultimate love affair are just as loaded with energy and heat. Both are strong and capable and together they are on fire.
I could gush about this book all day, but if you enjoy a crime story balanced with suspense, romance, and intricate detail for a realistic slant, The Last Close Call is the one to bring you all of that and more! Griffin brings a great plot with lots of twists in both the police procedural murder mystery and romance.
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-last-clo...
~~~~~~~~~~
This book is so unique. I have to say I loved everything about it and read it in one sitting, much to my chagrin. I did not want it to end! It is fabulous!
Griffin intrigues us with heinous crimes and the race to solve the crimes before there is one more attack. Her characters are always well-developed and researched for a realistic, pulse-pounding story.
The balance between the two main characters is brilliant; their energy and ultimate love affair are just as loaded with energy and heat. Both are strong and capable and together they are on fire.
I could gush about this book all day, but if you enjoy a crime story balanced with suspense, romance, and intricate detail for a realistic slant, The Last Close Call is the one to bring you all of that and more! Griffin brings a great plot with lots of twists in both the police procedural murder mystery and romance.
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-last-clo...
November 1, 2023
This is an entertaining, well-written, fast paced, steamy, romantic suspense novel. It has a likable, intelligent, strong and capable female protagonist, a heroic male protagonist, sizzling chemistry, murder, mystery, twists and turns, and a gratifying conclusion. I have read every one of Ms. Griffin's outstanding novels and she never disappoints her readers! I listened to the audio version of this novel, and the narrator, Ms. Stephanie Németh-Parker, does an outstanding job depicting the characters and their personalities.
October 23, 2023
This was my first Laura Griffin book, but it won’t be my last. I thought the mystery/suspense line was good and the character development of the main characters was great, especially for a story that has a romance “immediately in love” storyline. Rowan has left the world of police work and taken her skills with genetics to the private sector. Jack, a police detective with a burning desire to catch a serial rapist and possible murderer tracks her down and won’t take no for an answer. This fast paced chase for a rapist will have both Rowan and Jack running fast and unable to fully focus on their mutual attraction. I listened to the audiobook and felt like the narrator did a great job, particularly with Rowan.
December 19, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape media for this early audiobook copy of The Last Close Call by Laura Griffin.
I definitely suggest this book to who likes a little bit of everything.
The Last Close Call is a mystery book with a romance subplot. I really liked all the characters and the story overall was very engaging.
Rowan is a genetic analyst who step away from forensic work a while ago, due to the pressure of helping catch the bad guys and all the horror she witnessed during the cases. She is happily helping families reconnect with long lost relatives when Jack, a detective from Austin police, asks her help to find the West Campus Rapist, a cold case that s hunting his every thought.
I have to be honest, I hoped for a bigger plot twist at the end, mainly about the identity of WCR.
The other minor plot twist was a nice touch but not really necessary.
In the end this book enjoyable and I think it´s a vey nice and quick autumn read.
Also shoutout to the voice actress and Dreamscape media production. Dreamscape became a pillar for my audiobook obsession and I now trust every single book they will release will not disapooint me.
I definitely suggest this book to who likes a little bit of everything.
The Last Close Call is a mystery book with a romance subplot. I really liked all the characters and the story overall was very engaging.
Rowan is a genetic analyst who step away from forensic work a while ago, due to the pressure of helping catch the bad guys and all the horror she witnessed during the cases. She is happily helping families reconnect with long lost relatives when Jack, a detective from Austin police, asks her help to find the West Campus Rapist, a cold case that s hunting his every thought.
I have to be honest, I hoped for a bigger plot twist at the end, mainly about the identity of WCR.
The other minor plot twist was a nice touch but not really necessary.
In the end this book enjoyable and I think it´s a vey nice and quick autumn read.
Also shoutout to the voice actress and Dreamscape media production. Dreamscape became a pillar for my audiobook obsession and I now trust every single book they will release will not disapooint me.
October 4, 2023
Despite all the police procedurals out there, very rarely do we get to read one with insight into the actual bureaucracy of a case. The story of this book was fresh with serious plot twists and building towards the end, it was a great attempt at an officer romance.
A few things caused some lapses for me - for one, the couple did not have great chemistry. One day they meet and the next day he randomly expressed interest in her. Not much chemistry and no real romance.
Though tagged as such, I wouldn’t say the story was really a romantic suspense. There wasn’t really any suspense nor thrills as they knew who they were looking for. The story revolved more around how genetics play into the intricacies of investigations and hunting down a serial rapist (and later killer) before he committed another crime.
I’ve read other work by this author and this was definitely not her best work but it was a good entertainer!
Please make yourself aware of triggers prior to reading as needed.
A few things caused some lapses for me - for one, the couple did not have great chemistry. One day they meet and the next day he randomly expressed interest in her. Not much chemistry and no real romance.
Though tagged as such, I wouldn’t say the story was really a romantic suspense. There wasn’t really any suspense nor thrills as they knew who they were looking for. The story revolved more around how genetics play into the intricacies of investigations and hunting down a serial rapist (and later killer) before he committed another crime.
I’ve read other work by this author and this was definitely not her best work but it was a good entertainer!
Please make yourself aware of triggers prior to reading as needed.
October 6, 2023
THE LAST CLOSE CALL was a very well-written thriller with the perfect amount of romance added in. From the beginning, I was hooked. I loved the relationship between Rowan and Jack and how they worked together to solve this case. The genealogy aspect was super neat and always amazes me. Overall, this is another exciting book from Laura Griffin that I can highly recommend!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape media for my ALC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be shared to my Instagram account (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape media for my ALC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be shared to my Instagram account (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
October 25, 2023
4.5 Stars
Jack Bruner has been searching for the West Campus Rapist for years. He’s long believed the perpetrator would escalate his crimes from rape to murder, so when the murder of a young woman matches the WCR’s MO Jack becomes even more desperate to catch him. Unfortunately, this criminal has been very careful about leaving an evidence trail. This is where Rowan comes in. In his desperation, Jack asks her to help find the killer’s identity.
As a forensic genealogist, Rowan can trace DNA back through a particular family tree and pinpoint the killer’s identity. She’s worked with the police in the past, but she was disturbed by the cases, and became burned out. Now Rowan tries to only take private cases where a person is trying to find out about or locate relatives for many different reasons. However, when she finds out that Jack is working to find the West Campus Rapist, she agrees. Rowan attended the college where the WCR attacked and assaulted a fellow student, and the event left a mark.
This case felt true to life, and it’s a crime that’s been committed over and over. Women, of course, are the targets. I was eager for this guy to be caught and brought to justice! I was on the edge of my seat as the story played out worried over the next potential victim!
I loved The Last Close Call! Laura Griffin features exciting new methods of solving crimes in her mysteries, like Rowan’s profession. I find forensic genealogy fascinating, especially since it’s become such an important tool in solving real life crimes like the Golden State Killer. But The Last Close Call was more than just following clues to find a killer. Jack and Rowan were both likeable and relatable characters, thrown together under dark circumstances. Although neither were looking for love there was an immediate attraction, instant chemistry, and I was fully on board with their romance!
I alternately listened to and read The Last Close call and recommend either version! Stephanie Németh-Parker’s performance was a wonderful, both female and male characters. I enjoyed her subtle Southern accent. I listened at my usual 1.5x normal speed.
Thank you to Dreamscape Media and Berkley for the audio and e-copy provided in exchange for an honest review!
Jack Bruner has been searching for the West Campus Rapist for years. He’s long believed the perpetrator would escalate his crimes from rape to murder, so when the murder of a young woman matches the WCR’s MO Jack becomes even more desperate to catch him. Unfortunately, this criminal has been very careful about leaving an evidence trail. This is where Rowan comes in. In his desperation, Jack asks her to help find the killer’s identity.
As a forensic genealogist, Rowan can trace DNA back through a particular family tree and pinpoint the killer’s identity. She’s worked with the police in the past, but she was disturbed by the cases, and became burned out. Now Rowan tries to only take private cases where a person is trying to find out about or locate relatives for many different reasons. However, when she finds out that Jack is working to find the West Campus Rapist, she agrees. Rowan attended the college where the WCR attacked and assaulted a fellow student, and the event left a mark.
This case felt true to life, and it’s a crime that’s been committed over and over. Women, of course, are the targets. I was eager for this guy to be caught and brought to justice! I was on the edge of my seat as the story played out worried over the next potential victim!
I loved The Last Close Call! Laura Griffin features exciting new methods of solving crimes in her mysteries, like Rowan’s profession. I find forensic genealogy fascinating, especially since it’s become such an important tool in solving real life crimes like the Golden State Killer. But The Last Close Call was more than just following clues to find a killer. Jack and Rowan were both likeable and relatable characters, thrown together under dark circumstances. Although neither were looking for love there was an immediate attraction, instant chemistry, and I was fully on board with their romance!
I alternately listened to and read The Last Close call and recommend either version! Stephanie Németh-Parker’s performance was a wonderful, both female and male characters. I enjoyed her subtle Southern accent. I listened at my usual 1.5x normal speed.
Thank you to Dreamscape Media and Berkley for the audio and e-copy provided in exchange for an honest review!
March 19, 2024
Meh. Seriously meh. It started off so promising but then the character development felt like it only took you to knowing the characters at 47% and then just stopped abruptly developing them. There were many characters introduced whose storylines didn’t add value. They pulled me in initially and then they were just never resolved.
The plot was promising and then just “neatly” came together in a way that was so unoriginal and lacked creativity that I paused to see if there was going to be a twist but then realized there was only 34 minutes left in the audiobook. It was messy, rushed and, in my opinion, lazy and disorganized as a whole.
And then everyone just lived happily ever after. To call this a thriller is a huge stretch. If this was one of the author’s earlier books I’d find it forgivable how bad this writing was and chalk it off to early writing before the author found her flow. I’d try more of her books but given this is one of her most recent, there is no way I’d spend time reading more.
The plot was promising and then just “neatly” came together in a way that was so unoriginal and lacked creativity that I paused to see if there was going to be a twist but then realized there was only 34 minutes left in the audiobook. It was messy, rushed and, in my opinion, lazy and disorganized as a whole.
And then everyone just lived happily ever after. To call this a thriller is a huge stretch. If this was one of the author’s earlier books I’d find it forgivable how bad this writing was and chalk it off to early writing before the author found her flow. I’d try more of her books but given this is one of her most recent, there is no way I’d spend time reading more.
December 28, 2023
A Texas detective wants to solve a cold case. A genealogist is brought in to help. They work together to locate a ruthless killer.
The Last Close Call is told using the alternating points of view of Rowan and Jack. Rowan prefers to use her genealogist skills to help adoptees find their biological families. She is hesitant to work with the police, but Jack convinces her to help. Jack is haunted by the case of a serial rapist that he believes is back, and now killing his victims.
Likable and interesting characters and an intriguing mystery. Recommended for fans of romantic suspense and dark mysteries.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The Last Close Call is told using the alternating points of view of Rowan and Jack. Rowan prefers to use her genealogist skills to help adoptees find their biological families. She is hesitant to work with the police, but Jack convinces her to help. Jack is haunted by the case of a serial rapist that he believes is back, and now killing his victims.
Likable and interesting characters and an intriguing mystery. Recommended for fans of romantic suspense and dark mysteries.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 5, 2023
This one intrigued me right from the start.
I really liked Rowan and Jack. They're both smart and driven and loyal. I did like how their relationship evolved organically, but there was something that didn't quite click for me. At times the chemistry felt like it was told instead of shown. And Rowan's friends were delightful and added a bit of levity to the heavy subject matter.
Plot wise, it was good. I loved the focused intensity of the case and how the tension ramped up until the resolution. The story went in a direction I wasn't expecting and it is always great to be surprised. The procedural aspect was definitely the best part of the book.
Overall, this was fast moving and detailed. And while I would have liked more from the personal aspect of the ending, it was a satisfying conclusion.
FYI: there is talk about the rapists habits and an overall talk of the attacks, but there is not an on the page rape
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
I really liked Rowan and Jack. They're both smart and driven and loyal. I did like how their relationship evolved organically, but there was something that didn't quite click for me. At times the chemistry felt like it was told instead of shown. And Rowan's friends were delightful and added a bit of levity to the heavy subject matter.
Plot wise, it was good. I loved the focused intensity of the case and how the tension ramped up until the resolution. The story went in a direction I wasn't expecting and it is always great to be surprised. The procedural aspect was definitely the best part of the book.
Overall, this was fast moving and detailed. And while I would have liked more from the personal aspect of the ending, it was a satisfying conclusion.
FYI: there is talk about the rapists habits and an overall talk of the attacks, but there is not an on the page rape
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
November 5, 2023
Actually rated a 2.5. I liked the story but wish they’d left the romance out of it. The story would’ve been just fine without that instalove occurring. It was a bit baffling how the romance even came to develop between Jack and Rowan. And then, the random skip aheads in the story had me constantly thinking I’d skipped pages. It was like random fast-forwards for the sake of time, but they didn’t seem appropriately placed or alluded to within the book. Finally, the addition of the biological father having raped Joy in the first place just seemed like it was tossed in there without being vetted. It was almost like the author had planned to go somewhere with Joy based on the dog escaping and the gate being left open…and then completely abandoned the idea. What was the point of all those appearances with Joy then aside from her being triggered and turning to alcohol?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2023
I listened to this book and really liked the narrators voice! The story was flat for me however. There weren’t any twist and the poor communication trope isn’t a favorite of mine.
November 5, 2023
I don't care for romantic suspense, but I started it before I knew it was.
It's just baffling how horny these genre characters are no matter who is dying around them
It's just baffling how horny these genre characters are no matter who is dying around them
November 14, 2023
I usually don't prefer police procedurals, but this one had enough character development to keep me intrigued. I also really liked the use of genetic genealogy which is up and coming in the true crime world as well, so I felt like this book was very current on their technology. Steamy romance scenes! Trigger warning: sexual assault.
October 19, 2023
This was an exciting read! I loved the investigation and how they came about finding the culprit. And while this was mostly suspense with just a bit of romance, I ended up loving the romance aspect just as much.
I loved the hero. He's the kind of hero I enjoy reading about. He's a bit standoffish, and doesn't reveal much. It's when this kind of hero finds the woman that changes things for them, that's what makes this kind of hero shine for me.
The heroine was very smart and I like that she was a bit hesitant as well. It gave us a chance to see the hero push for more with her.
Overall, a great audiobook to listen too. The narrator did a really good job.
I loved the hero. He's the kind of hero I enjoy reading about. He's a bit standoffish, and doesn't reveal much. It's when this kind of hero finds the woman that changes things for them, that's what makes this kind of hero shine for me.
The heroine was very smart and I like that she was a bit hesitant as well. It gave us a chance to see the hero push for more with her.
Overall, a great audiobook to listen too. The narrator did a really good job.
October 29, 2023
As ever, Griffin writes books I find immensely readable and I liked this just fine and it was a good book for me this week. BUT, I will probably remember the preview for the next Texas Murder Files more because are we finally getting the book I have wanted???
October 12, 2023
3.5 rounded up.
Fans of romantic suspense, cold case stories and true crime podcasts will love this new standalone from Laura Griffin. Great on audio narrated by Stephanie Németh-Parker, with a story that is both compelling and twisty. I loved the two MCs and was kept guessing right to the end. Recommended for fans of books like Linwood Barclay's Find you first (another murder mystery where genetics/genealogy play a key role). Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy in exchange for my honest review!
Fans of romantic suspense, cold case stories and true crime podcasts will love this new standalone from Laura Griffin. Great on audio narrated by Stephanie Németh-Parker, with a story that is both compelling and twisty. I loved the two MCs and was kept guessing right to the end. Recommended for fans of books like Linwood Barclay's Find you first (another murder mystery where genetics/genealogy play a key role). Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy in exchange for my honest review!
August 27, 2024
3⭐⭐⭐
I recommend this book if you love police procedural with a bit of romance; detective/serial killer books without the gruesome details.
I instantly fell in love with the story as soon as i started.
The narrator was ok, she kept my attention most part of the book.
I think what put me off a bit was the romance aspect of the story. I feel the story was just great without it, or simply the romance felt forced and rushed. I wasn't feeling the connection between them, I skipped certain parts of the book.
I was intrigued by this whole genealogy that was explained in the book.
The story ok until it felt a bit flat. But it's a quick read, so it's ok.
Thanks to the publisher, autho, and NetGalley for this Audio Copy.
The decision to listen to and review this book was entirely my own.
I recommend this book if you love police procedural with a bit of romance; detective/serial killer books without the gruesome details.
I instantly fell in love with the story as soon as i started.
The narrator was ok, she kept my attention most part of the book.
I think what put me off a bit was the romance aspect of the story. I feel the story was just great without it, or simply the romance felt forced and rushed. I wasn't feeling the connection between them, I skipped certain parts of the book.
I was intrigued by this whole genealogy that was explained in the book.
The story ok until it felt a bit flat. But it's a quick read, so it's ok.
Thanks to the publisher, autho, and NetGalley for this Audio Copy.
The decision to listen to and review this book was entirely my own.
November 20, 2023
I did not intend to read this in one sitting, but I'm not sorry I did. The romance felt light even for Griffin in this one, but I was really into the forensic genealogy plot.
Oh, also there was a throwaway exchange between Jack and Rowan at the end about Jack training for a marathon, and it sounded like it was written by someone who actually is familiar with marathon training! A very exciting moment for me, personally.
Oh, also there was a throwaway exchange between Jack and Rowan at the end about Jack training for a marathon, and it sounded like it was written by someone who actually is familiar with marathon training! A very exciting moment for me, personally.
September 3, 2023
Rowan is a forensic genealogist and has made a name for herself helping investigators trace the family trees of violent individuals who have eluded justice. The pressure is too much though, and Rowan is feeling burned out. She has opted to stop working with the police and is instead helping adoptees find their biological parents.
When shes approached by Detective Jack Burner, she ends up needing to use the skills from her past, and present to help solve his current case. As Jack and Rowan race against the clock to find the killer, they start to wonder if they are hiding secrets themselves…
I love a good romantic suspense, and this one delivered. I also like learning more about genealogy and the main character of this one was a forensic genealogist who works with the police. Despite being relatively young, she is burned out and struggling, but is still willing to help. How relatable is that? It struck a chord with me for sure. This book was captivating and entertaining. I enjoyed being sucked into this story and couldn’t wait for it to unfold. The twists were fun, and enjoyable. I found the romance to be realistic and truly believable. This was my first book by this author, but it won’t be the last, I can’t wait to read more!
If you are looking for an entertaining police procedural with a touch of romance, then check this one out.
Thank you to the publisher Berkley Publishing, @berkleypub, and Netgalley @netgalley for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
When shes approached by Detective Jack Burner, she ends up needing to use the skills from her past, and present to help solve his current case. As Jack and Rowan race against the clock to find the killer, they start to wonder if they are hiding secrets themselves…
I love a good romantic suspense, and this one delivered. I also like learning more about genealogy and the main character of this one was a forensic genealogist who works with the police. Despite being relatively young, she is burned out and struggling, but is still willing to help. How relatable is that? It struck a chord with me for sure. This book was captivating and entertaining. I enjoyed being sucked into this story and couldn’t wait for it to unfold. The twists were fun, and enjoyable. I found the romance to be realistic and truly believable. This was my first book by this author, but it won’t be the last, I can’t wait to read more!
If you are looking for an entertaining police procedural with a touch of romance, then check this one out.
Thank you to the publisher Berkley Publishing, @berkleypub, and Netgalley @netgalley for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 4, 2023
Umm. My fault for picking a romance, which I’m not fond of. But I figured the thriller & suspense part of the book might balance out any romantic cheese. Sadly, it did not. The first part of the hunt to find, name, & capture the elusive WCR started out fine & somewhat in depth, only to be concluded in such an anticlimactic way. It felt like that decent chunk of the book was a side plot to the “aha twist” moment. Definitely felt rushed & honestly pointless to have wasted time reading.
Mild spoilers I guess:
My other problem with the romantic part of the book: wtf cliche. I guess if you like to read so many ughhh moments, sure. Hot, intuitive, can do no wrong cop Jack meets Rowan, and pretty much falls for her instantly. Which, shes supposed to be late 20s but given the amount of “tee hee” & stupid decisions, she might as well be 16. For example, let’s surprise Jack by randomly showing up at his hotel, knowing he’s on a stakeout in another town, for probable sex. Who does that?! Ever heard of a phone too?!
The other cliche problem was that the author went out of her way to have Rowan appear not showered, unkempt, with a scrunchie (?! Gasp the horror), or in some state of “not hot” multiple times. But of course Jack is all over her. I’m sorry, I laughed. She can be “not hot” all she wants, it’s just the idea was beat over our heads far too much.
Combine all of that & this book was a definite letdown of a read.
Mild spoilers I guess:
My other problem with the romantic part of the book: wtf cliche. I guess if you like to read so many ughhh moments, sure. Hot, intuitive, can do no wrong cop Jack meets Rowan, and pretty much falls for her instantly. Which, shes supposed to be late 20s but given the amount of “tee hee” & stupid decisions, she might as well be 16. For example, let’s surprise Jack by randomly showing up at his hotel, knowing he’s on a stakeout in another town, for probable sex. Who does that?! Ever heard of a phone too?!
The other cliche problem was that the author went out of her way to have Rowan appear not showered, unkempt, with a scrunchie (?! Gasp the horror), or in some state of “not hot” multiple times. But of course Jack is all over her. I’m sorry, I laughed. She can be “not hot” all she wants, it’s just the idea was beat over our heads far too much.
Combine all of that & this book was a definite letdown of a read.
November 23, 2023
The Last Close Call keeps you entertained from the very beginning all the way through the end. Police procedurals are not my favorite but this one was different and kept me engaged throughout. Jack and Rowan link up when Jack's cold case killer starts back up again, and he needs her skill to help find the culprit. This had a nice nugget of romance that I am all for. I enjoyed both Jack and Rowan and the way their characters were written, they were relatable and fit perfectly in the story. I received The Last Close Call as an audio ARC and the narrator did a phenomenal job bringing this story to life. If you aren't really into police procedurals but you want to give them a try, I suggest this story, I think it's one everyone can enjoy.
Thank you so much NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the audio ARC and the chance to listen and review it honestly.
Happy reading!
Thank you so much NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the audio ARC and the chance to listen and review it honestly.
Happy reading!
June 24, 2024
La protagonista è una esperta in genealogia genetica: non sapevo che esiste una cosa simile, lo confesso. Però mi sono appassionata alla genealogia da ragazzina, anche se mi sono sempre dedicata a quella di famiglie nobili. Comunque sia, quando nella trama ho letto la professione di lei e che lui era un detective, ho subito deciso che dovevo leggere questo libro. Anche se poi ho aspettato mesi a farlo... Che dire? Mi è piaciuto e non mi aspettavo lo sviluppo relativo al padre del cattivo. Questa autrice sta diventando una delle mie preferite in ambito romantic suspense.
July 13, 2024
Never want to leave the house again or be home alone either
November 23, 2023
Gripping and fast-moving, with twists that make for a fantastic thriller! I think this is my favorite of Laura’s standalone novels.
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