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Byte #1
Killerbyte
A killer with a penchant for inventive and macabre deaths challenges an FBI Agent with an equally unusual imagination and sense of humour. SA Ellie Conway works serial crime cases. When someone tries to kill her, it becomes obvious it’s linked to her after-hours pursuits in cyberspace. Matters become complicated when her assailant is found dead in the trunk of her car. Despite a plethora of crime scenes, no evidence can be found to identify a motive or perpetrator. The death toll rises and eventually includes those close to her. A chance remark provides the first real clue to unraveling the killer’s twisted goals.
- GenresThriller
416 pages, Paperback
First published April 2, 2009
7 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
About the author
Cat Connor
74 books36 followersCat lives in Upper Hutt, New Zealand, with her ancient retired racing greyhound and youngest two children,
She is a member of International Thriller Writers, Inc, Kiwi Writers, and Masters of Horror.
Cat is the co-director of the only bookshop in the world that stocks only New Zealand authors, Writers Plot Bookshop.
She is currently published by Rebel ePublishers, USA.
She is a member of International Thriller Writers, Inc, Kiwi Writers, and Masters of Horror.
Cat is the co-director of the only bookshop in the world that stocks only New Zealand authors, Writers Plot Bookshop.
She is currently published by Rebel ePublishers, USA.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
November 9, 2010
The jacket on this gives you a good idea of what to expect...however what it can't do is tell you how additively good it is!! I thoroughly enjoyed this humorously captivating story, from start to finish. Ellie Conway, the bold as brass, butt kicking main character starts the story in her own unique way. I have no doubts as to why she's a Sagittarius (yep, I'm one too!). Her smart-arse comments and choice words are splattered throughout the book, making her character very refreshing and lively, and Mac is just as good and knows how to have fun.
Killerbyte is chillingly suspenseful with a very convincing storyline...at points I didn't know whether to hide behind the sofa or close my eyes...but I couldn't stop reading. The characters' lives are turned upside down as the killing spree escalates...this book is packed with action, and full on with unexpected and shocking twists to the plot. I also enjoyed mention of some retro shows, such as A Team and Starsky and Hutch. I thought the end a very good one, leaving the reader on a high note.
If, like me, you enjoy suspense, FBI thrillers and shows such as CSI or Dexter, then you will really enjoy this book (or ebook). Killerbyte is the beginning the Ellie Conway series. There is also Terrorbyte and Exacerbyte, due out March 2011. Can't wait!!!!
Killerbyte is chillingly suspenseful with a very convincing storyline...at points I didn't know whether to hide behind the sofa or close my eyes...but I couldn't stop reading. The characters' lives are turned upside down as the killing spree escalates...this book is packed with action, and full on with unexpected and shocking twists to the plot. I also enjoyed mention of some retro shows, such as A Team and Starsky and Hutch. I thought the end a very good one, leaving the reader on a high note.
If, like me, you enjoy suspense, FBI thrillers and shows such as CSI or Dexter, then you will really enjoy this book (or ebook). Killerbyte is the beginning the Ellie Conway series. There is also Terrorbyte and Exacerbyte, due out March 2011. Can't wait!!!!
September 6, 2020
Not quite my usual read, but once into it I found it curiously compelling: not just about who the next victim would be, but also what ghastly things would be done to the body. An ingeniously nasty little tale.
January 10, 2018
This is a great book to read from the minute you start the book you are on the edge of your seat, this a very good book and I have enjoyed it a lot
October 3, 2018
This story is about a woman FBI agent named Ellie. Ellie smokes, drinks and swears. She’s one tough cookie who happens to land herself in the middle of a truckload of drama but manages to stay calm. The setting of this story starts in an online chatroom between friends. Suddenly, death threats emerge, and Ellie finds her house being pelted with rocks. Murder manifests with the discovery of a body. Ellie is a smart, hard-working woman who maintains her wits in the most challenging situations. Ultimately, it is Ellie who saves the day and solves the crime with the aid of her astute observation and problem-solving skills. Although at times, Ellie comes across as hard and callous, she also has a big heart for the man, named Mac, in her life. He stays near her side as he champions her career. Ellie also has a good relationship with her father whom she prefers to her harsh mother.
The content type is fast-paced and filled with blood-thirsty action. The level of violence escalates with multiple gruesome deaths. Body parts appear one at a time in surprising places.
Overall, the readability is easy with plain vocabulary. Be warned though; the content is seasoned with irreverent adult-themed language that might offend some readers.
At over 400 book pages, this book offers bags of entertainment for its price. It is also the forerunner for a comprehensive series. It moves faster than expected as the reader trails along with the roller-coaster action.
The book appears well-edited with a high standard of punctuation.
The originality and outcome of the storyline were like nothing I’ve read before.
The characters are ordinary working people with strengths and weaknesses.
The most likeable part was that although this book is the first in a series, it is also a stand-alone story. The next best thing was that it delivered reader satisfaction; ultimately the culprit was apprehended and exposed.
The least likeable part was feeling the constant bombardment of chilling action that transports out of comfort zones and sends one to bed with nightmares.
Recommended to readers who enjoy gory reads that favour intelligent woman heroes.
The content type is fast-paced and filled with blood-thirsty action. The level of violence escalates with multiple gruesome deaths. Body parts appear one at a time in surprising places.
Overall, the readability is easy with plain vocabulary. Be warned though; the content is seasoned with irreverent adult-themed language that might offend some readers.
At over 400 book pages, this book offers bags of entertainment for its price. It is also the forerunner for a comprehensive series. It moves faster than expected as the reader trails along with the roller-coaster action.
The book appears well-edited with a high standard of punctuation.
The originality and outcome of the storyline were like nothing I’ve read before.
The characters are ordinary working people with strengths and weaknesses.
The most likeable part was that although this book is the first in a series, it is also a stand-alone story. The next best thing was that it delivered reader satisfaction; ultimately the culprit was apprehended and exposed.
The least likeable part was feeling the constant bombardment of chilling action that transports out of comfort zones and sends one to bed with nightmares.
Recommended to readers who enjoy gory reads that favour intelligent woman heroes.
April 23, 2020
A Gripping Yarn
Why has it taken me so long to read one of Cat Connor's books?
I love a good twisty plot, and this story didn't fail. I was enthralled to the last word, intrigued by the investigation and fascinated by the characters.
Me Connor has set the book up like we should know who the characters are. Most are introduced in the first couple of chapters, but the backstory is apparent without it being overdone.
Ellie, the main character, has an interesting past. As the story unfolds, we get a better grasp of her mental state. She's a totally flawed petson, who loves poetry, and imagines every situation as a part of a TV program, making me think of the theme song, at the same time as Ellie.
By comparison, Mac is a strong person, who has a lot of common sense. He had a similar upbringing to Ellie, so understands the hard stuff.
The only part that didn't quite seem believable was how easy it was for Mac to become part of the team.
With suspects ranging from close friends to family membets, this story will keep you on the edge of your seat, turning the pages of this story.
Why has it taken me so long to read one of Cat Connor's books?
I love a good twisty plot, and this story didn't fail. I was enthralled to the last word, intrigued by the investigation and fascinated by the characters.
Me Connor has set the book up like we should know who the characters are. Most are introduced in the first couple of chapters, but the backstory is apparent without it being overdone.
Ellie, the main character, has an interesting past. As the story unfolds, we get a better grasp of her mental state. She's a totally flawed petson, who loves poetry, and imagines every situation as a part of a TV program, making me think of the theme song, at the same time as Ellie.
By comparison, Mac is a strong person, who has a lot of common sense. He had a similar upbringing to Ellie, so understands the hard stuff.
The only part that didn't quite seem believable was how easy it was for Mac to become part of the team.
With suspects ranging from close friends to family membets, this story will keep you on the edge of your seat, turning the pages of this story.
December 16, 2025
Killerbyte hooked me faster than I expected. From the opening chapters, there’s this constant sense of unease like something is always just one step ahead of the characters and it never really lets up.
What I appreciated most was how the tech elements felt grounded rather than overwhelming. Even if you’re not deeply into tech-heavy thrillers, the concepts are explained in a way that keeps the tension high without slowing the story down. The pacing is sharp, with short chapters that make it dangerously easy to say “just one more.”
The atmosphere really stood out for me. There’s a creeping paranoia running through the story, and Cat Connor does a great job of making the digital threat feel personal and real, not abstract. The stakes feel earned, and the twists didn’t rely on cheap shock, they made sense within the world of the story.
As the first book in the Byte series, Killerbyte does exactly what a strong opener should: it tells a complete, gripping story while clearly setting up a larger world I’m curious to explore. If you enjoy techno-thrillers with suspense, smart pacing, and a modern edge, this one is worth your time.
I’ll definitely be continuing the series.
What I appreciated most was how the tech elements felt grounded rather than overwhelming. Even if you’re not deeply into tech-heavy thrillers, the concepts are explained in a way that keeps the tension high without slowing the story down. The pacing is sharp, with short chapters that make it dangerously easy to say “just one more.”
The atmosphere really stood out for me. There’s a creeping paranoia running through the story, and Cat Connor does a great job of making the digital threat feel personal and real, not abstract. The stakes feel earned, and the twists didn’t rely on cheap shock, they made sense within the world of the story.
As the first book in the Byte series, Killerbyte does exactly what a strong opener should: it tells a complete, gripping story while clearly setting up a larger world I’m curious to explore. If you enjoy techno-thrillers with suspense, smart pacing, and a modern edge, this one is worth your time.
I’ll definitely be continuing the series.
October 25, 2025
Killerbyte is an addictive, fast-paced thriller that hooks you from the first page and doesn’t let go. Cat Connor creates a sharp, witty, and gutsy protagonist in Special Agent Ellie Conway someone you can’t help but root for, even as the danger around her grows darker and more personal. The blend of cybercrime, psychological tension, and Connor’s dark humor makes this story stand out from your typical FBI thrillers. Every twist feels earned, every reveal more chilling than the last. It’s clever, gripping, and impossible to put down a must read for crime fiction fans who love their thrillers with bite.
November 12, 2025
Killerbyte by Cat Connor is a sharp, fast-paced thriller that blends dark humor with chilling suspense. FBI Special Agent Ellie Conway is a refreshingly unconventional protagonist tough, witty, and haunted by the dangers that lurk both online and off. When a series of inventive murders hits close to home, Ellie must navigate a web of cyber intrigue and real-world horror where nothing is as it seems. Connor’s crisp dialogue, clever plotting, and psychological depth keep the tension high from the first page to the last. Killerbyte is a gripping, modern thriller that will hook crime fans and cyber-sleuths alike.
August 4, 2024
I loved this. It was fast paced and I wanted to know what was going to happen next.
I really loved Ellie and Mac during this and how protective they were to each other.
The story had me guessing the whole way and I really liked all the twists. In some points, I was second guessing my own guesses and I absolutely loved the writing style.
I look forward to the next book.
I really loved Ellie and Mac during this and how protective they were to each other.
The story had me guessing the whole way and I really liked all the twists. In some points, I was second guessing my own guesses and I absolutely loved the writing style.
I look forward to the next book.
July 29, 2022
This is an odd story - on one hand it is lightweight and fast flowing but on the other hand a total shedload of people get murdered ( like I lost count by the end) can't quite figure out if it was awesome or awful - I might need to check out more by this author to be sure
February 20, 2018
I received a copy of this book through voraciousreadersonly.com and it was a great thriller! It caught my interest right away and kept me hooked all the way to the end.
January 25, 2020
Killer Read
This awesome book really drew me in... the character's, the plot, and the fast pace kept me engaged 100 percent!
This awesome book really drew me in... the character's, the plot, and the fast pace kept me engaged 100 percent!
April 19, 2024
Definitely loved this, so many twists and turns!!
September 1, 2012
I had my first experience of this series back in June, perhaps not entirely sensibly starting with the 4th book Flashbyte. I said at the time I wanted to go back and start at the beginning and now I have. As if being an FBI agent doesn't put enough on her plate Ellie Conway also runs a poetry chat room with friend Mac. Sounds harmless enough but on the same night that she gets a record number of death threats the virtual becomes all too real. When her would be killer turns up dead himself, in the boot of her car, it becomes clear she is dealing with more than just a disgruntled poet. The body count keeps rising and Ellie and Mac struggle to stay one step ahead of the seemingly omniscient murderer.
I really took to Ellie reading Flashbyte and as a character she is just as likeable in this book. Despite the pressure she is under she shows she is one tough woman and still displays a sense of humour. Things don't just fall into place magically for her, although the big break in the case does come from a chance remark. Her family is complicated and, between finding out about her parents and brother and seeing her become closer to Mac, she becomes a character with depth.
The story packs one punch after another, some of them in a slightly stomach churning way. As more and more chat room patrons turn up dead and Ellie and Mac keep moving to try and keep those around them safe a couple of good suspects emerge, but just when I thought I had it all sussed I discovered I was wrong. There was some benefit from reading the books out of order, as I recognised some characters who turned up in Flashbyte, and eventually I will work my way through the others in the series.
This is an eventful crime thriller, and from my point of view all the better for having a strong woman who I could imagine having as a friend in the lead. It misses out on being five stars by a narrow margin, although I would rate Cat Connor's series as on a par with some of the heavy hitters of the genre.
I really took to Ellie reading Flashbyte and as a character she is just as likeable in this book. Despite the pressure she is under she shows she is one tough woman and still displays a sense of humour. Things don't just fall into place magically for her, although the big break in the case does come from a chance remark. Her family is complicated and, between finding out about her parents and brother and seeing her become closer to Mac, she becomes a character with depth.
The story packs one punch after another, some of them in a slightly stomach churning way. As more and more chat room patrons turn up dead and Ellie and Mac keep moving to try and keep those around them safe a couple of good suspects emerge, but just when I thought I had it all sussed I discovered I was wrong. There was some benefit from reading the books out of order, as I recognised some characters who turned up in Flashbyte, and eventually I will work my way through the others in the series.
This is an eventful crime thriller, and from my point of view all the better for having a strong woman who I could imagine having as a friend in the lead. It misses out on being five stars by a narrow margin, although I would rate Cat Connor's series as on a par with some of the heavy hitters of the genre.
June 3, 2013
I expected to like this book. It's by an e-book thriller writer who enjoys technology, like me. It features a female FBI agent tracking, and being tracked by, a serial killer who uses internet poetry chatrooms to identify victims (sort of a Silence of the Lambs for the Facebook generation (actually the Myspace generation, as it's a few years old now)). I even thought the title was a clever, non-wince-inducing pun.
But I couldn't help but find the characters unrealistic and irritating. An FBI agent is being threated, so she holes up with her stockbroker boyfriend and drinks tequila at a location she doesn't tell her colleagues about, and when more bodies mount up the FBI gives her boyfriend temporary creds and a carry permit. They find a tracking device and just carry it around with them for a while rather than ditching it. The heroine keeps getting knocked out and there's a single random chapter told from another character's perspective - I had to read the start of it several times to figure out who the narrator was.
Connors has written some more in the series, following it with Terrorbyte, which I may get around to reading one day, but my expectations will be much lower.
www.bgmhall.com - thrillers with a tech edge
But I couldn't help but find the characters unrealistic and irritating. An FBI agent is being threated, so she holes up with her stockbroker boyfriend and drinks tequila at a location she doesn't tell her colleagues about, and when more bodies mount up the FBI gives her boyfriend temporary creds and a carry permit. They find a tracking device and just carry it around with them for a while rather than ditching it. The heroine keeps getting knocked out and there's a single random chapter told from another character's perspective - I had to read the start of it several times to figure out who the narrator was.
Connors has written some more in the series, following it with Terrorbyte, which I may get around to reading one day, but my expectations will be much lower.
www.bgmhall.com - thrillers with a tech edge
May 24, 2011
I promise I won't spoil the ending (or any other part) of this book as I really enjoyed it and would have been mighty pissed off if someone ruined it for me.
I talk to Cat through Twitter so reading her stories is pretty exciting for me as well - especially as I can tell her what I am enjoying!
From Cat's own profile:
The idea for her first Conway novel, Killerbyte, came about after Cat received a string of death threats while co-running a poetry chat room, back in the days of MSN chat. The thought that people could get so nasty online fascinated her.
I really love a good thriller and I love crime stories and Killerbyte checks both boxes for me.
Not only are there many bodies piling up quickly, the clues from each scene are laid out so that the reader feels like they can help solve the case.
The characters are so well described and as the story progresses, I found myself cheering the team on as the book also explores the life of Ellie, the main character, who has her shitty moments too.
I am instantly moving on to the next book in the series!
I talk to Cat through Twitter so reading her stories is pretty exciting for me as well - especially as I can tell her what I am enjoying!
From Cat's own profile:
The idea for her first Conway novel, Killerbyte, came about after Cat received a string of death threats while co-running a poetry chat room, back in the days of MSN chat. The thought that people could get so nasty online fascinated her.
I really love a good thriller and I love crime stories and Killerbyte checks both boxes for me.
Not only are there many bodies piling up quickly, the clues from each scene are laid out so that the reader feels like they can help solve the case.
The characters are so well described and as the story progresses, I found myself cheering the team on as the book also explores the life of Ellie, the main character, who has her shitty moments too.
I am instantly moving on to the next book in the series!
September 21, 2012
This is a book that's been sitting on my Kindle for a while without my getting around to reading it. Once I did though I rattled through it in a few days.
Threats in an online poetry chatroom lead to a string of murders in which the killer constantly seems to be one step ahead of SA Ellie Conway and her colleagues.
I can't tell you much more without giving too much away, but the plot moves at a cracking pace and constantly keeps you guessing as the body count rises. There's also plenty of black humour to offset the sometimes grim subject matter.
Sharply written with an eye for the absurd in day-to-day situations, Killerbyte won't disappoint.
Threats in an online poetry chatroom lead to a string of murders in which the killer constantly seems to be one step ahead of SA Ellie Conway and her colleagues.
I can't tell you much more without giving too much away, but the plot moves at a cracking pace and constantly keeps you guessing as the body count rises. There's also plenty of black humour to offset the sometimes grim subject matter.
Sharply written with an eye for the absurd in day-to-day situations, Killerbyte won't disappoint.
March 10, 2016
Ellie is FBI & a good agent with attitude & imagination. She also has a hot manpal Mac, between them they run a web page & it seems a stalker has decided Ellie is fair game.
FbI or not this guy is not backing down. With Mac helping they go on a cat & mouse, hide & seek, but nowhere seems safe. They've got to find out who this is.
The book just keeps going, never ending action it's a well written book. I will read more.
Likeable characters & great female lead.
I was lucky to win this on a fbook draw & can honestly say, new addiction!
FbI or not this guy is not backing down. With Mac helping they go on a cat & mouse, hide & seek, but nowhere seems safe. They've got to find out who this is.
The book just keeps going, never ending action it's a well written book. I will read more.
Likeable characters & great female lead.
I was lucky to win this on a fbook draw & can honestly say, new addiction!
February 1, 2016
I liked it, though at times it felt like we had jumped into book 2 without realising it - whats Mac the stockbrokers backstory that has the FBI claiming him as their own? Weird. Liked the suspense, characters quite well fleshed out.
April 6, 2009
Romping good read!
January 19, 2011
you can read my review of this entertaining book here:
http://www.women24.com/BooksAndAstrol...
http://www.women24.com/BooksAndAstrol...
April 27, 2014
Very B-grade. I didn't like the writing style and I found the characters annoying. The plot was clichéd and it felt as if the author rushed the end. Disappointing.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews