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Noelle Marshall #1
Her First Mistake
When a very personal cold case murder is reopened, a detective’s secrets come to light in a novel of shocking twists and suspense by a Wall Street Journal bestselling author.
Thirteen years ago, Assemblyman Derrick Bell was murdered in his home by an intruder. His wife, Noelle Marshall, was left for dead. The crime was unsolved, but it wasn’t forgotten.
Today the FBI is tackling a fresh perspective on the case and looking to Noelle, now a detective for the Deschutes County sheriff’s office, for new clues. It is reopening everything Noelle thought was behind her. Memories of her escape from a traumatic childhood. A marriage that wasn’t the perfect love story she’d been promised. And a husband whose charm and privilege hid a dark side. But Noelle has been hiding something too: a secret about the night Derrick died that she has never told anyone.
As past and present and leads and misleads collide, one thing is frighteningly clear. Derrick’s murder wasn’t just unsolved. It’s unfinished. And only the truth―no matter the risk―can save the next victim.
Thirteen years ago, Assemblyman Derrick Bell was murdered in his home by an intruder. His wife, Noelle Marshall, was left for dead. The crime was unsolved, but it wasn’t forgotten.
Today the FBI is tackling a fresh perspective on the case and looking to Noelle, now a detective for the Deschutes County sheriff’s office, for new clues. It is reopening everything Noelle thought was behind her. Memories of her escape from a traumatic childhood. A marriage that wasn’t the perfect love story she’d been promised. And a husband whose charm and privilege hid a dark side. But Noelle has been hiding something too: a secret about the night Derrick died that she has never told anyone.
As past and present and leads and misleads collide, one thing is frighteningly clear. Derrick’s murder wasn’t just unsolved. It’s unfinished. And only the truth―no matter the risk―can save the next victim.
343 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 10, 2025
9096 people are currently reading
12425 people want to read
About the author
Kendra Elliot
39 books6,393 followersAn Amazon #1 selling author, Kendra Elliot has sold over 14 Million books and been on the WSJ best seller more than a dozen times.
She grew up in the lush Pacific Northwest and still lives, but spends most of the time in the high desert in flip flops.
She grew up in the lush Pacific Northwest and still lives, but spends most of the time in the high desert in flip flops.
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June 8, 2025
Her First Mistake
by Kendra Elliot is the first book in a new series featuring Deschutes County, Oregon Detective Noelle Marshall. Thirteen years ago, Assemblyman Derrick Bell was murdered in his home and his wife, Noelle, was left for dead. Past and present leads collide when the FBI decides to take another look at the case and is reinterviewing everyone. While a team in Sacramento interviews the Bell family and others, Special Agents Keaton and Rhodes are dispatched to interview Noelle and her family in Bend.
Noelle had a memory loss of the attack, but has been having dreams about it. How much of her dreams are real? Her husband had been charming and privileged, but he hid a dark side from others. The interviews spur memories and action as events unfold.
Noelle doesn’t usually lack confidence, but she realizes it took hard work to overcome her past and how she allowed herself to be manipulated by others. She’s a quick study, hard worker, and consistent. While working as a bartender before her marriage to Derrick, she received a college degree in psychology and became a level 2 certified sommelier. She’s sharp, observant, loves to solve puzzles, and loves her current job in law enforcement. She’s also been a supporting character in the Columbia River series by this author. The other characters have good depth for the first book in a series. It was also great that Mercy Kilpatrick from another of this author’s series had a cameo appearance in the story.
The book gives a lot of Noelle’s background so it sets the stage for the series featuring her. This includes her grandfather and great-aunt who raised her and her two sisters, her terrible in-laws, and her married sister’s husband. It was also great to get to know Agent Keaton.
While the story is largely told from Noelle’s point of view, it does go back and forth in time. However, Kendra Elliot is skilled at making this seamless with excellent flow. The start of each chapter tells readers when the events are occurring. While this starts out as only a cold case investigation, violent events begin to occur adding action, danger, and suspense. With the help of the FBI, Noelle must determine what really happened 13 years ago and stop the violence.
Full of twists and turns, lies, and action, this novel has good world-building, great characterization, and a gripping storyline. I was immediately drawn into the story that also has a hint of a future romance. However, getting through the emotional effects of this story’s ending may take a while for Noelle to recover her equilibrium. What an ending!
Overall, this was a tense, clever, and suspenseful novel with well-developed characters and a great start to a new series. I am looking forward to finding out what happens in the next book. If you enjoy police procedurals, crime novels, and mysteries with a strong female protagonist, then I recommend that you check out this series.
Montlake and Kendra Elliot provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for June 10, 2025. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4.25 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Noelle had a memory loss of the attack, but has been having dreams about it. How much of her dreams are real? Her husband had been charming and privileged, but he hid a dark side from others. The interviews spur memories and action as events unfold.
Noelle doesn’t usually lack confidence, but she realizes it took hard work to overcome her past and how she allowed herself to be manipulated by others. She’s a quick study, hard worker, and consistent. While working as a bartender before her marriage to Derrick, she received a college degree in psychology and became a level 2 certified sommelier. She’s sharp, observant, loves to solve puzzles, and loves her current job in law enforcement. She’s also been a supporting character in the Columbia River series by this author. The other characters have good depth for the first book in a series. It was also great that Mercy Kilpatrick from another of this author’s series had a cameo appearance in the story.
The book gives a lot of Noelle’s background so it sets the stage for the series featuring her. This includes her grandfather and great-aunt who raised her and her two sisters, her terrible in-laws, and her married sister’s husband. It was also great to get to know Agent Keaton.
While the story is largely told from Noelle’s point of view, it does go back and forth in time. However, Kendra Elliot is skilled at making this seamless with excellent flow. The start of each chapter tells readers when the events are occurring. While this starts out as only a cold case investigation, violent events begin to occur adding action, danger, and suspense. With the help of the FBI, Noelle must determine what really happened 13 years ago and stop the violence.
Full of twists and turns, lies, and action, this novel has good world-building, great characterization, and a gripping storyline. I was immediately drawn into the story that also has a hint of a future romance. However, getting through the emotional effects of this story’s ending may take a while for Noelle to recover her equilibrium. What an ending!
Overall, this was a tense, clever, and suspenseful novel with well-developed characters and a great start to a new series. I am looking forward to finding out what happens in the next book. If you enjoy police procedurals, crime novels, and mysteries with a strong female protagonist, then I recommend that you check out this series.
Montlake and Kendra Elliot provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for June 10, 2025. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4.25 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
June 6, 2025
Make no mistake about it, Her First Mistake is a gripping and thrilling book! Kendra Elliot takes readers on a roller coaster ride through Noelle Marshall's life going from the present to the past and back again! I found Her First Mistake to be an engaging and intriguing book. It's been a long time since I have read a book by Kendra Elliot, and I am kicking myself for waiting so long to read another one of her books!
Thirteen years ago, Detective Noelle Marshall was left for dead when her husband, Assemblyman Derrick Bell, was murdered. The case has remained cold but now the FBI is looking into it once again! Noelle's in-laws have always placed the blame for their son's death on Noelle. Even though Noelle has tried to put the past behind her, the past has come calling. Will her husband's murder ever be solved? Will Noelle's memories come back from that night?
This is the first book in a new series by Kendra Elliott. It is off to a great start with an interesting mystery. I enjoyed the tension while trying to do my own super sleuthing to determine whodunit as the plot unfolded. I also enjoyed how the book took readers back and forth from the present to the past. This doesn't always work for me in books, but in this book it worked quite well for me. The time transitions gave readers insight and glimpses into the evolution of Noelle through the course of her life. There are also a few twists and turns along the way which kept things interesting and moved the plot along.
I will be on the lookout for the next book in the series while trying to catch up on some of Kendra Elliot's previous books.
Thank you to Montlake 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 📖
Thirteen years ago, Detective Noelle Marshall was left for dead when her husband, Assemblyman Derrick Bell, was murdered. The case has remained cold but now the FBI is looking into it once again! Noelle's in-laws have always placed the blame for their son's death on Noelle. Even though Noelle has tried to put the past behind her, the past has come calling. Will her husband's murder ever be solved? Will Noelle's memories come back from that night?
This is the first book in a new series by Kendra Elliott. It is off to a great start with an interesting mystery. I enjoyed the tension while trying to do my own super sleuthing to determine whodunit as the plot unfolded. I also enjoyed how the book took readers back and forth from the present to the past. This doesn't always work for me in books, but in this book it worked quite well for me. The time transitions gave readers insight and glimpses into the evolution of Noelle through the course of her life. There are also a few twists and turns along the way which kept things interesting and moved the plot along.
I will be on the lookout for the next book in the series while trying to catch up on some of Kendra Elliot's previous books.
Thank you to Montlake 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 📖
June 12, 2025
Her First Mistake is the first book in the Noelle Marshall series, and it’s already a top seller. The story starts with a dramatic scene—Noelle is attacked, and her husband is found dead. The plot switches between past and present, showing Noelle’s life as a trophy wife married to a strict politician.
After her husband’s death, Noelle starts a new life and joins law enforcement. She’s finally happy—until her husbands old murder case, comes back to haunt her.
This is a fast-paced mystery with strong character development. The twist at the end is a great surprise, and this would be good standalone book as well.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for letting me read and review this ARC.
After her husband’s death, Noelle starts a new life and joins law enforcement. She’s finally happy—until her husbands old murder case, comes back to haunt her.
This is a fast-paced mystery with strong character development. The twist at the end is a great surprise, and this would be good standalone book as well.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for letting me read and review this ARC.
June 18, 2025
An excellent start to the Noelle Marshall series! The audio narrated by Stephanie Nemeth-Parker was one of the quickest mysteries I have listened to and she did an excellent job keeping the suspense real.
Detective Noelle's husband died in a brutal attack in their home and Noelle was left with no memory of what occurred when she was hit over the head and left for dead. When she collected a large insurance policy, his family blamed her. 13 years later, it is still unsolved.
Noelle moved on to a new life and police station in Oregon and surprised when two FBI's called on her for questions about his murder. From present to past, we see Noelle in her dating Derrick. Derrick's personality was charming in the beginning then she saw a dark side to him. She had plans to leave him up until his death. Threats are made by his brother and some shady events take place.
A fast-paced book with a lot of action. I was impressed with the writing and shocked by the twisted ending. I can't wait for the next one in the series.
Detective Noelle's husband died in a brutal attack in their home and Noelle was left with no memory of what occurred when she was hit over the head and left for dead. When she collected a large insurance policy, his family blamed her. 13 years later, it is still unsolved.
Noelle moved on to a new life and police station in Oregon and surprised when two FBI's called on her for questions about his murder. From present to past, we see Noelle in her dating Derrick. Derrick's personality was charming in the beginning then she saw a dark side to him. She had plans to leave him up until his death. Threats are made by his brother and some shady events take place.
A fast-paced book with a lot of action. I was impressed with the writing and shocked by the twisted ending. I can't wait for the next one in the series.
June 12, 2025
the setup…
Noelle Marshall is a Deschutes County Sheriff’s detective living and working in Bend, Oregon. But thirteen years ago, she was the wife of Sacramento Assemblyman Derrick Bell who was murdered in their home. Noelle was there, too, apparently left for dead. The killer was never identified or found and she couldn’t remember what happened. Now the FBI is resurrecting the case and have come to Bend to talk to Noelle and her family, hoping to find clues they may have missed in the original investigation. As no one in Bend is aware of her past, Noelle is reluctant to face these old memories and risk her new life.
the heart of the story…
The story transitions seamlessly between the time when Noelle met Derrick, the aftermath of the murder and present day. Noelle’s history was illuminating as the present day woman is far different from who she was during her marriage. Derrick came from wealth and she was never accepted by them, so following his death, she became the object of their suspicions. The new investigation did more than open old wounds as new threats connected to the murder arose.
the narration…
Stephanie Németh-Parker gave a great performance, especially with the storytelling. I was riveted.
the bottom line…
I’m a longtime fan of Elliot and it was so good to be back in a new series and encountering some old friends. The mystery was intriguing and the procedurals excellent. If I could have listened to this in one sitting I would have but life showed up. No way was I prepared for that ending, though there were a couple of elements I got right. What a great start to the series.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Brilliance Audio and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Noelle Marshall is a Deschutes County Sheriff’s detective living and working in Bend, Oregon. But thirteen years ago, she was the wife of Sacramento Assemblyman Derrick Bell who was murdered in their home. Noelle was there, too, apparently left for dead. The killer was never identified or found and she couldn’t remember what happened. Now the FBI is resurrecting the case and have come to Bend to talk to Noelle and her family, hoping to find clues they may have missed in the original investigation. As no one in Bend is aware of her past, Noelle is reluctant to face these old memories and risk her new life.
the heart of the story…
The story transitions seamlessly between the time when Noelle met Derrick, the aftermath of the murder and present day. Noelle’s history was illuminating as the present day woman is far different from who she was during her marriage. Derrick came from wealth and she was never accepted by them, so following his death, she became the object of their suspicions. The new investigation did more than open old wounds as new threats connected to the murder arose.
the narration…
Stephanie Németh-Parker gave a great performance, especially with the storytelling. I was riveted.
the bottom line…
I’m a longtime fan of Elliot and it was so good to be back in a new series and encountering some old friends. The mystery was intriguing and the procedurals excellent. If I could have listened to this in one sitting I would have but life showed up. No way was I prepared for that ending, though there were a couple of elements I got right. What a great start to the series.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Brilliance Audio and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
December 30, 2025
We are changing the title to Her So Many Mistakes
2.5
Noelle Marshall is a detective at local county. 13 years ago, her husband, a wealthy politician, was murdered and the case remains cold. Noelle is haunted by her past, but also wanting to move on. Understandably as she has answered the same questions on repeat for over a decade now. When the FBI enter the scene to investigate the cold case of her husband's murder, we learn more about what happened 13 years ago. And something is still happening.....
Here's the first mistake. Noelle's character is not really complete. Is she powerful and independent, or a harmless victim? Maybe she can be both, but the characterization wasn't complete enough for me to buy it. The flashback narrative gives us all the red flags that Noelle's fiancé at the time displayed. Hyper-controlling, toxic narcissism stuff. But Noelle remains too passive at times when I would have expected the detective to be more vigilant and pro-active. It wasn't that clear why she loved this guy either besides his wealth and she wants to support his career. She is kind of passive as a character. I think as a Detective, Noelle needs to be a more powerful character at the start of a series for me to have in interest in her mysteries.
I like the clean and concise writing style and the audiobook narration. Unfortunately, I will probably not continue with this author for now. I do love a compelling suspense/thriller on audiobook this time of year to keep me moving and motivated, so I will keep hunting for my next compelling suspense read.
2.5 stars. Rounding up for Kendra Elliot's clean and clear writing style.
2.5
Noelle Marshall is a detective at local county. 13 years ago, her husband, a wealthy politician, was murdered and the case remains cold. Noelle is haunted by her past, but also wanting to move on. Understandably as she has answered the same questions on repeat for over a decade now. When the FBI enter the scene to investigate the cold case of her husband's murder, we learn more about what happened 13 years ago. And something is still happening.....
Here's the first mistake. Noelle's character is not really complete. Is she powerful and independent, or a harmless victim? Maybe she can be both, but the characterization wasn't complete enough for me to buy it. The flashback narrative gives us all the red flags that Noelle's fiancé at the time displayed. Hyper-controlling, toxic narcissism stuff. But Noelle remains too passive at times when I would have expected the detective to be more vigilant and pro-active. It wasn't that clear why she loved this guy either besides his wealth and she wants to support his career. She is kind of passive as a character. I think as a Detective, Noelle needs to be a more powerful character at the start of a series for me to have in interest in her mysteries.
I like the clean and concise writing style and the audiobook narration. Unfortunately, I will probably not continue with this author for now. I do love a compelling suspense/thriller on audiobook this time of year to keep me moving and motivated, so I will keep hunting for my next compelling suspense read.
2.5 stars. Rounding up for Kendra Elliot's clean and clear writing style.
June 10, 2025
This was my first Kendra Elliot book and I definitely enjoyed it. The narrator for the audiobook did a great job too. I was immersed into the story with her narration.
Thirteen years ago, Noelle Marshall suffered a horrific attack and was left for dead. However, her husband, Derrick, was murdered. She survived but suffered from a brain injury. Memories of that night are still a blur.
Now, she’s a detective in Oregon. The case is re-opened. There are still no answers for who killed Derrick. There are multiple timelines here so pay close attention.
I highly enjoyed this one and look forward to reading more by her!
Pub date 6/10/25
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thirteen years ago, Noelle Marshall suffered a horrific attack and was left for dead. However, her husband, Derrick, was murdered. She survived but suffered from a brain injury. Memories of that night are still a blur.
Now, she’s a detective in Oregon. The case is re-opened. There are still no answers for who killed Derrick. There are multiple timelines here so pay close attention.
I highly enjoyed this one and look forward to reading more by her!
Pub date 6/10/25
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 15, 2025
**Updated full review**
4.5 🌟RTC!
Magnificently suspenseful, fast-paced and twisty!!
I could not put this one down! This is my first book by Kendra Elliot and the first book in the new Noelle Marshall series. The 2nd book is due out early next year. I can't wait to read more from this author and certainly am anxious for book #2! Books 3 and 4 already have titles too!
ADD THIS TO YOUR TBR ASAP!!!
The story is told from different timelines and was well executed between the past and the present. 13 years ago, Noelle's husband was brutally murdered in their home. Noelle was hit over the head with no memory of what happened. Or does she? Derrik's murder has never been solved. His family blames her. She has never been able to put this tragic incident behind her, haunting her still today.
With the past and present storylines, you learn who Derrick and Noelle are and how their relationship was up until the time of Derrick's death. You also get to see how Noelle has grown since the incident. The story moves along at a steady pace and keeps the reader intrigued. Today, Noelle is a detective in Oregon but suffers from a brain injury she has kept secret. Two FBI agents show up to interview her because they are reopening Derrick's case. Will she remember what happened that night? What transpires after this initial meeting is nothing less than a good cat and mouse chase that will keep you flipping the pages!
I love a good domestic suspense thriller and this hit the sweet spot! If that sounds up your alley, please give this one a try!!
Thanks to Montlake and NetGalley for an advanced digital copy. All opinions are my own.
4.5 🌟RTC!
Magnificently suspenseful, fast-paced and twisty!!
I could not put this one down! This is my first book by Kendra Elliot and the first book in the new Noelle Marshall series. The 2nd book is due out early next year. I can't wait to read more from this author and certainly am anxious for book #2! Books 3 and 4 already have titles too!
ADD THIS TO YOUR TBR ASAP!!!
The story is told from different timelines and was well executed between the past and the present. 13 years ago, Noelle's husband was brutally murdered in their home. Noelle was hit over the head with no memory of what happened. Or does she? Derrik's murder has never been solved. His family blames her. She has never been able to put this tragic incident behind her, haunting her still today.
With the past and present storylines, you learn who Derrick and Noelle are and how their relationship was up until the time of Derrick's death. You also get to see how Noelle has grown since the incident. The story moves along at a steady pace and keeps the reader intrigued. Today, Noelle is a detective in Oregon but suffers from a brain injury she has kept secret. Two FBI agents show up to interview her because they are reopening Derrick's case. Will she remember what happened that night? What transpires after this initial meeting is nothing less than a good cat and mouse chase that will keep you flipping the pages!
I love a good domestic suspense thriller and this hit the sweet spot! If that sounds up your alley, please give this one a try!!
Thanks to Montlake and NetGalley for an advanced digital copy. All opinions are my own.
June 10, 2025
This was absolutely fantastic.
What a ride.
I couldn’t put it down.
I honestly didn’t figure it all out. Phew, I finished hours ago and I want more. This was such a great read. I found myself multiple times thinking come on you aren’t really going to take that. IYKYN.
So excited for Noelle to get her own story/series. And man…what a story. I can’t wait for more. I’m hooked.
What a ride.
I couldn’t put it down.
I honestly didn’t figure it all out. Phew, I finished hours ago and I want more. This was such a great read. I found myself multiple times thinking come on you aren’t really going to take that. IYKYN.
So excited for Noelle to get her own story/series. And man…what a story. I can’t wait for more. I’m hooked.
July 16, 2025
I enjoyed the first part of the book. I absolutely hated the way it wrapped up.
June 26, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ Too much time switching made the story harder to follow.
July 15, 2025
4.75
Thirteen years after the devastating murder of Assemblyman Derrick Bell and the near-fatal assault on his wife, Noelle, the FBI revisits the cold case. Now serving as a detective herself, Noelle finds herself compelled to confront long-buried secrets from her troubled past—secrets rooted in a toxic marriage and the hidden truths surrounding that fateful night. As the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that the case was never truly closed; it was only waiting to be reopened. To prevent another tragedy, Noelle must summon the courage to face the full truth, no matter the cost.
Her First Mistake is an excellent kickoff to the Noelle Marshall series. Kendra Elliot truly delivers with this one—fast-paced, action-packed, and thoroughly engaging. The narration was exceptional, bringing the story vividly to life. The only issue I had was the frequent switching between the present investigation and the events from thirteen years ago, which made the story a bit hard to follow in the beginning.
Aside from that, it’s a solid read—well worth your time.
Thirteen years after the devastating murder of Assemblyman Derrick Bell and the near-fatal assault on his wife, Noelle, the FBI revisits the cold case. Now serving as a detective herself, Noelle finds herself compelled to confront long-buried secrets from her troubled past—secrets rooted in a toxic marriage and the hidden truths surrounding that fateful night. As the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that the case was never truly closed; it was only waiting to be reopened. To prevent another tragedy, Noelle must summon the courage to face the full truth, no matter the cost.
Her First Mistake is an excellent kickoff to the Noelle Marshall series. Kendra Elliot truly delivers with this one—fast-paced, action-packed, and thoroughly engaging. The narration was exceptional, bringing the story vividly to life. The only issue I had was the frequent switching between the present investigation and the events from thirteen years ago, which made the story a bit hard to follow in the beginning.
Aside from that, it’s a solid read—well worth your time.
July 12, 2025
This was a very intriguing plot that gave up its' secrets very slowly. I had a lot of questions about Noelle Marshall from the last book and this plot filled out her character in some very unexpected ways. I look forward to continuing this series.
Noelle Marshall is a competent Deschutes County Sheriff's detective. She is also a hero, but she is not an easy person to get to know. She is friendly enough, but she tends to keep herself to herself, especially when it comes to her past. When FBI Agents come to Bend to question her about a murder from thirteen years ago, her past crashes into her present.
The murder of her husband, California Assemblyman Derrick Bell is unsolved. Noelle was badly injured and left with no memory of the attack. Now the FBI is revisiting the case and reinterviewing everyone involved, and someone is more than a little nervous.
To everyone Derrick and Noelle were the perfect, golden couple - destined for big things in the California political sphere. But that perfect facade hid some real issues and problems. Three years into the marriage, Derrick is erratic and mentally abusive. Noelle is losing herself, piece by piece. Now all that is being dredged up again and Noelle is still no closer to remembering what happened until an explosion rocks her world.
Noelle Marshall is a competent Deschutes County Sheriff's detective. She is also a hero, but she is not an easy person to get to know. She is friendly enough, but she tends to keep herself to herself, especially when it comes to her past. When FBI Agents come to Bend to question her about a murder from thirteen years ago, her past crashes into her present.
The murder of her husband, California Assemblyman Derrick Bell is unsolved. Noelle was badly injured and left with no memory of the attack. Now the FBI is revisiting the case and reinterviewing everyone involved, and someone is more than a little nervous.
To everyone Derrick and Noelle were the perfect, golden couple - destined for big things in the California political sphere. But that perfect facade hid some real issues and problems. Three years into the marriage, Derrick is erratic and mentally abusive. Noelle is losing herself, piece by piece. Now all that is being dredged up again and Noelle is still no closer to remembering what happened until an explosion rocks her world.
June 23, 2025
3.5 Stars rounded down.
Noelle Marshall is a police detective in Oregon but this first book in a new series is not about one of her detective cases. Thirteen years ago, before she joined the police force, her politician husband, Derrick was murdered, and the case remains unsolved. The FBI are reviewing the cold case and speaking to Noelle and her family again, which leads to a hostage situation and the truth about Derrick's death.
I've read a few books from Kendra's Mercy Kilpatrick series, and the reason that I haven't read more of her books is because of the same italicized writing technique used here. Her frequent italicized short sentences to emphasize quick thoughts and obvious observations is a style that doesn't appeal to me.
Noelle Marshall is a police detective in Oregon but this first book in a new series is not about one of her detective cases. Thirteen years ago, before she joined the police force, her politician husband, Derrick was murdered, and the case remains unsolved. The FBI are reviewing the cold case and speaking to Noelle and her family again, which leads to a hostage situation and the truth about Derrick's death.
I've read a few books from Kendra's Mercy Kilpatrick series, and the reason that I haven't read more of her books is because of the same italicized writing technique used here. Her frequent italicized short sentences to emphasize quick thoughts and obvious observations is a style that doesn't appeal to me.
July 20, 2025
Her First Mistake by Kendra Elliot
Noelle Marshall series #1. Police procedural. Multiple time lines. Spinoff from prior series.
Detective Noelle Marshall doesn’t remember the night her husband was killed thirteen years ago. With the investigation reopened by the FBI, she’s forced to confront her memory loss and family problems.
Told in current and varying time frames in the past, the murder and her marriage issues are slowly unraveled. New technologies are applied to the old evidence that allows the FBI and Noelle to revisit the past.
Is it always the wife? That’s the question in this domestic murder and conveniently lost memories. Noelle wants to walk away but she also needs to protect her family. And what she does remember is not all sunshine and roses.
Lots of timeline changes made this a bit difficult to follow at times. Chapters are labeled and vary widely.
Ultimately a good mystery with lots of false leads and twists in the “who killed him” question.
3.5
Noelle Marshall series #1. Police procedural. Multiple time lines. Spinoff from prior series.
Detective Noelle Marshall doesn’t remember the night her husband was killed thirteen years ago. With the investigation reopened by the FBI, she’s forced to confront her memory loss and family problems.
Told in current and varying time frames in the past, the murder and her marriage issues are slowly unraveled. New technologies are applied to the old evidence that allows the FBI and Noelle to revisit the past.
Is it always the wife? That’s the question in this domestic murder and conveniently lost memories. Noelle wants to walk away but she also needs to protect her family. And what she does remember is not all sunshine and roses.
Lots of timeline changes made this a bit difficult to follow at times. Chapters are labeled and vary widely.
Ultimately a good mystery with lots of false leads and twists in the “who killed him” question.
3.5
July 17, 2025
Although I was interested in this story at first it got tedious. The biggest star subtractor, however, is found at the end. When an author has to spend an entire chapter at the end of the book explaining what happened it is the sign of a bad story teller. Sorry. No more of Noelle Marshall......
September 7, 2025
Liked this had goodly number of twists and was satisfying in the end. Fuck Derrick though.
July 11, 2025
Noelle is now a detective but thirteen years ago she was an assemblyman's wife. Her husband was murdered in their home and she was left with a brain injury and memory loss. What really happened that night? Her husband's death was never solved. Now as the case is being reexamined and Noelle is questioned all over again, she thinks about the events leading up to that evening and even prior to that, when she first met her husband.
Told in a few different timelines, this is Noelle's backstory (as the first book in a new series) and she’s a fascinating person who has incredible character growth. With multiple POVs including FBI agents in the past and present, the many layers involved held me rapt! In addition to the whodunit of the past, in the present someone is trying to kill Noelle, but who? The suspense built to an intense conclusion that had me flipping pages, but it did end a bit suddenly and left me wanting more. There's also an aspect that's implausible so be aware you need to be okay suspending some disbelief.
As for the audiobook, I've found a new favorite narrator! Stephanie Németh-Parker was FANTASTIC with a smooth tone, unique voices, emotive qualities and perfect pitch and pace for any given situation!
HER FIRST MISTAKE is juicy, tense, intriguing and even has the perfect spattering of romance. If you enjoy domestic suspense blended with mystery and the investigative qualities of a police procedural, this is for you!
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Thank you MBC Books Amazon Publishing & Brilliance Audio for my free copies. All opinions are mine.
Told in a few different timelines, this is Noelle's backstory (as the first book in a new series) and she’s a fascinating person who has incredible character growth. With multiple POVs including FBI agents in the past and present, the many layers involved held me rapt! In addition to the whodunit of the past, in the present someone is trying to kill Noelle, but who? The suspense built to an intense conclusion that had me flipping pages, but it did end a bit suddenly and left me wanting more. There's also an aspect that's implausible so be aware you need to be okay suspending some disbelief.
As for the audiobook, I've found a new favorite narrator! Stephanie Németh-Parker was FANTASTIC with a smooth tone, unique voices, emotive qualities and perfect pitch and pace for any given situation!
HER FIRST MISTAKE is juicy, tense, intriguing and even has the perfect spattering of romance. If you enjoy domestic suspense blended with mystery and the investigative qualities of a police procedural, this is for you!
____
Thank you MBC Books Amazon Publishing & Brilliance Audio for my free copies. All opinions are mine.
June 24, 2025
Her First Mistake is book 1 in the Noelle Marshall series by Kendra Elliot. I read a lot of series and wasn't sure if I should start a new one, but wow am I glad I did. Her First Mistake is one of my favorite reads so far this year! As hard as I tried to figure out the killer, I couldn't do it, and was blown away by the twists at the end! Noelle Marshall is working as a detective in the Deschutes County sheriff's office. She has worked hard to put her troubled past behind her. Thirteen years ago, Noelle was married to Assemblyman Derrick Bell. Noelle and Derrick were attacked in their home and Derrick was killed. Noelle sustained a bad head injury and was left for dead. The police never caught the killer after trying for years. Noelle recovered, but never regained her memory of that night. The FBI agent working the case took Noelle under her wing and cared for her during her recovery. Alice was a big influence in Noelle's recovery as they lived together for a few years. Alice is the one who got Noelle to consider law enforcement for a career as she was curious and asked a lot of good questions.
One day at work, in current time, Noelle is told the FBI is here to see her. The FBI has reopened the case and is again looking to interview her about what happened that night. Noelle dropped her married name and is going by her maiden name to avoid that night following her into her new career. No one she works with knows what happened to her that night or that she is the wife of murdered Assemblyman Derrick Bell. Noelle wants to keep it that way. Noelle meets with the 2 agents and tells them the same thing as years ago. She sustained a head injury and can't remember anything from that night. She's not sure the agents believe her, but leave to interview others involved. Noelle has been hiding something all of these years about that night and has never told anyone. What is it she's been hiding? Did Noelle have something to do with the murder of her husband? Did she really lose her memory? Is Noelle safe with the FBI looking into that night after all of this time?
Her First Mistake is told in different timelines and that adds to the intensity you will feel as you read it. The suspense is incredible and I could not put this book down. I'm all in on the Noelle Marshall series and can't wait for the next book! If you love a thriller that is hard to solve you will love Her First Mistake! I thought I had it figured out a couple of times, but that twist at the end got me! I rate Her First Mistake 5 stars with my very highest recommendation. Her First Mistake is out now and should go to the top of your TBR pile! I'd like to thank NetGalley and Montlake for an advanced copy of Her First Mistake in exchange for a fair review. #HerFirstMistake
One day at work, in current time, Noelle is told the FBI is here to see her. The FBI has reopened the case and is again looking to interview her about what happened that night. Noelle dropped her married name and is going by her maiden name to avoid that night following her into her new career. No one she works with knows what happened to her that night or that she is the wife of murdered Assemblyman Derrick Bell. Noelle wants to keep it that way. Noelle meets with the 2 agents and tells them the same thing as years ago. She sustained a head injury and can't remember anything from that night. She's not sure the agents believe her, but leave to interview others involved. Noelle has been hiding something all of these years about that night and has never told anyone. What is it she's been hiding? Did Noelle have something to do with the murder of her husband? Did she really lose her memory? Is Noelle safe with the FBI looking into that night after all of this time?
Her First Mistake is told in different timelines and that adds to the intensity you will feel as you read it. The suspense is incredible and I could not put this book down. I'm all in on the Noelle Marshall series and can't wait for the next book! If you love a thriller that is hard to solve you will love Her First Mistake! I thought I had it figured out a couple of times, but that twist at the end got me! I rate Her First Mistake 5 stars with my very highest recommendation. Her First Mistake is out now and should go to the top of your TBR pile! I'd like to thank NetGalley and Montlake for an advanced copy of Her First Mistake in exchange for a fair review. #HerFirstMistake
July 25, 2025
This was okay. I’ve read a lot of this authors book and while the story’s structure was different, the story itself felt like rinse and repeat. Still it was entertaining enough that I will likely continue. But I’d prefer a Mercy book. The narrator was good. Overall 3.5 rounded up
July 10, 2025
Great beginning to a new series!
June 4, 2025
4.25 stars
This book is the debut of a new series and features Detective Noelle Marshall. Noella is a minor character from one of the author's other series, but takes center stage in this book. I wasn't familiar with the character, but that didn't affect my enjoyment of the book.
Noelle was the victim of a crime thirteen years ago and is now a detective with the Deschutes County Sheriff's Department. The FBI is now reinvestigating the cold case in which Noelle's husband, Derrick Bell, was killed and she was left for dead. The questions from the two agents are bringing back painful memories for Noelle, but she can't deny the connection she feels between her and Special Agent Max Rhodes.
The story alternates between three main timelines - the present investigation, the initial investigation thirteen years ago, and a few years before that when Noelle first met Derrick. I enjoyed both of the faster-paced investigation timelines the most. I like the FBI agents Alice Patmore and Oscar Wilson from the original investigation and the current timeline is suspenseful since Noelle again seems to be in danger. Despite the act Noelle puts on for her husband's constituents, she and Derrick didn't have a perfect marriage and some of their interactions were unpleasant.
The plot is complex, often dramatic, and has several twists. It was clear several characters were keeping secrets and when they are revealed, there are some big surprises. The author's acknowledgements in the back say there will be a second book with Noelle that will reveal more of Max's backstory. I look forward to reading it and seeing what happens next in their lives.
Thank you to MB Communications, Amazon Publishing, and the author for the review copy of the book. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
This book is the debut of a new series and features Detective Noelle Marshall. Noella is a minor character from one of the author's other series, but takes center stage in this book. I wasn't familiar with the character, but that didn't affect my enjoyment of the book.
Noelle was the victim of a crime thirteen years ago and is now a detective with the Deschutes County Sheriff's Department. The FBI is now reinvestigating the cold case in which Noelle's husband, Derrick Bell, was killed and she was left for dead. The questions from the two agents are bringing back painful memories for Noelle, but she can't deny the connection she feels between her and Special Agent Max Rhodes.
The story alternates between three main timelines - the present investigation, the initial investigation thirteen years ago, and a few years before that when Noelle first met Derrick. I enjoyed both of the faster-paced investigation timelines the most. I like the FBI agents Alice Patmore and Oscar Wilson from the original investigation and the current timeline is suspenseful since Noelle again seems to be in danger. Despite the act Noelle puts on for her husband's constituents, she and Derrick didn't have a perfect marriage and some of their interactions were unpleasant.
The plot is complex, often dramatic, and has several twists. It was clear several characters were keeping secrets and when they are revealed, there are some big surprises. The author's acknowledgements in the back say there will be a second book with Noelle that will reveal more of Max's backstory. I look forward to reading it and seeing what happens next in their lives.
Thank you to MB Communications, Amazon Publishing, and the author for the review copy of the book. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
September 9, 2025
A solid start to a brand new series!
Great characters, an intriguing storyline and just a little bit of romance.
Loved the ending. Did not see it coming and was shooketh.
My only dislike was the constant change in timelines. I found it hard to follow and that often messed with my reading flow.
My thanks to MB Communications for my gifted copy.
Great characters, an intriguing storyline and just a little bit of romance.
Loved the ending. Did not see it coming and was shooketh.
My only dislike was the constant change in timelines. I found it hard to follow and that often messed with my reading flow.
My thanks to MB Communications for my gifted copy.
August 15, 2025
I’m genuinely confused why this book is above 4 stars. I can’t say I saw see the twist coming, but that might be because my mind wasn’t fully invested in the story. I somehow managed to finish it and didn’t consider dnf, but honestly nothing about this book was riveting to me.
September 5, 2025
The ending was atrocious. How this has such a great rating I’ll never know. I couldn’t get into it then finally did then couldn’t wait for it to end…praying a big twist would be revealed. But man…dumb.
June 10, 2025
Thank you to MB Communications and Amazon Publishing #partner for the gifted finished copy to review and to Brilliance Audio for the ALC to review.
I read this one yesterday, listened to it on audio, and was hooked from the beginning. What a fascinating premise: an unsolved crime (dead husband), the family suspects the wife, the wife was left for dead and does not remember what happened, so she becomes a detective, as one does, and then the FBI reopens her case 13 years later. The skepticism begins again, as do the murders. Is the wife innocent? What does she know? Who is killing all these people? Well, you’ll have to read this to find out. I’m not going to tell you! Procedurals are my favorite, and I absolutely loved this one, the narrator did a wonderful job with the story also. I enjoyed it all the way through.
I read this one yesterday, listened to it on audio, and was hooked from the beginning. What a fascinating premise: an unsolved crime (dead husband), the family suspects the wife, the wife was left for dead and does not remember what happened, so she becomes a detective, as one does, and then the FBI reopens her case 13 years later. The skepticism begins again, as do the murders. Is the wife innocent? What does she know? Who is killing all these people? Well, you’ll have to read this to find out. I’m not going to tell you! Procedurals are my favorite, and I absolutely loved this one, the narrator did a wonderful job with the story also. I enjoyed it all the way through.
June 24, 2025
I have been saving this ARC for a time when I didn't feel like reading and needed a boost. And it did not disappoint. I adored Kendra Elliot's Mercy Kilpatrick series, and I'm working my way through Columbia River, so when I saw that she was starting a new series, I was thrilled.
As in all Kendra Elliot books, the pacing is excellent, the characters are realistic (no mentally screaming at them to get some common sense), and the plot is expertly woven. As with many mystery/suspense readers, we pay attention to every word and detail, trying to solve the mystery before the book does. I get frustrated with books that introduce new characters and throw in unexpected plot twists at the last minute, making it impossible for the reader to solve the mystery on their own. That was not the case here. There were enough breadcrumbs that you started to wonder about character motivations and potential lies, giving you a few options of possible suspects.
A fantastic start to a new series, and I cannot wait to follow along the journey.
Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for a digital advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
As in all Kendra Elliot books, the pacing is excellent, the characters are realistic (no mentally screaming at them to get some common sense), and the plot is expertly woven. As with many mystery/suspense readers, we pay attention to every word and detail, trying to solve the mystery before the book does. I get frustrated with books that introduce new characters and throw in unexpected plot twists at the last minute, making it impossible for the reader to solve the mystery on their own. That was not the case here. There were enough breadcrumbs that you started to wonder about character motivations and potential lies, giving you a few options of possible suspects.
A fantastic start to a new series, and I cannot wait to follow along the journey.
Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for a digital advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 21, 2025
A compelling story by an author, I’ve never read before. It has an interesting plot with a multitude of well developed characters, some of which could be suspects in the murder of Noel‘s successful husband. This is a very readable book that had me turning pages and kept me engaged. It’s a quick read that I flew through, mainly because I did like the characters. I see a path for this new series with a lot of possibilities for future mysteries and a budding romance that will easily transition into future installments.
I also had the Audible companion, and I found the narration to be done very well. I will definitely read the next book in the series once it releases.
I also had the Audible companion, and I found the narration to be done very well. I will definitely read the next book in the series once it releases.
October 1, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
My heart was definitely racing for so much of this thriller. Had me second guessing every word and action everyone did! Just didn’t entirely like the cheesier ending but overall I really loved this one!!!
On KU ✨ (+free audio)
My heart was definitely racing for so much of this thriller. Had me second guessing every word and action everyone did! Just didn’t entirely like the cheesier ending but overall I really loved this one!!!
On KU ✨ (+free audio)
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