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Bree Taggert #10
Beyond Her Reach
In the wake of a woman’s savage murder, the suspects and motives are only mounting for Sheriff Bree Taggert in a twisting novel of suspense by #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author Melinda Leigh.
In a quiet suburban neighborhood in upstate New York, single mom Kelly Gibson is slain in her home—the victim of a rage killing. Right away, Sheriff Bree Taggert has three persons of interest: an angry soon-to-be ex-husband, a furtive rebound boyfriend, and an obsessive neighbor.
But as Bree and investigator Matt Flynn work together to narrow the field, there’s a shocking twist in the case: a second woman is murdered in the same brutal fashion.
While investigating, Bree is attacked and left for dead. When another woman is kidnapped, Bree and Matt must act quickly to unravel the deceptions in Kelly’s life and death and find a killer before someone else dies.
In a quiet suburban neighborhood in upstate New York, single mom Kelly Gibson is slain in her home—the victim of a rage killing. Right away, Sheriff Bree Taggert has three persons of interest: an angry soon-to-be ex-husband, a furtive rebound boyfriend, and an obsessive neighbor.
But as Bree and investigator Matt Flynn work together to narrow the field, there’s a shocking twist in the case: a second woman is murdered in the same brutal fashion.
While investigating, Bree is attacked and left for dead. When another woman is kidnapped, Bree and Matt must act quickly to unravel the deceptions in Kelly’s life and death and find a killer before someone else dies.
Paperback
First published September 16, 2025
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About the author
Melinda Leigh
54 books21.9k followers#1 Wall Street Journal and #1 Amazon bestselling author Melinda Leigh is a fully recovered banker who learned that writing books is way more fun than analyzing financial statements. Melinda’s debut novel, SHE CAN RUN, was nominated for Best First Novel by the International Thriller Writers. Since then, she has garnered numerous writing accolades, including two RITA® Award nominations and an induction into the NJ Romance Writers Hall of Fame. Her novels have sold more than 15 million copies across the world. Melinda loves martial arts, rescue dogs, and sea turtles.
WEBSITE: https://www.melindaleigh.com/
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/melindaleighauthorpage/
TWITTER: https://twitter.com/MelindaLeigh1
WEBSITE: https://www.melindaleigh.com/
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/melindaleighauthorpage/
TWITTER: https://twitter.com/MelindaLeigh1
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 494 reviews
June 14, 2025
Intriguing and fast-paced, the tenth book in the Bree Taggert series by Melinda Leigh,
Beyond Her Reach,
is another fantastic read. This police procedural is combined once again with a strong mystery, family evolution, and a little romance. Bree is called to the scene of a death in a quiet neighborhood. Keely Gibson appears to be the victim of a rage killing. As Bree and investigator Matt Flynn (and Bree’s significant other) work leads with the deputies, there are three immediate suspects. However, when a second woman is murdered, the answers are even more difficult to find. If that isn’t enough, there are more attacks. Can Bree, Matt, and the team solve the case before more deaths occur?
Bree is the Randolf County, New York sheriff and is based out of Gray’s Hollow. She’s smart, skilled, confident, honorable, and determined. She has earned the respect of her deputies, has high standards and ethics, and puts the community first. She joined law enforcement to help people and that is what she intends to do. Her good leadership and compassion have gained her the support of the community and her deputies. She is learning to navigate the politics, media, and paperwork associated with being a sheriff in a county with a limited budget. Matt is a former sheriff’s deputy injured in the line of duty. He was going to start a K-9 training program, but his sister Cady is using the kennels for rescued dogs. Matt is a great investigator and is a master at interviewing suspects. He loves dogs, including his retired K-9, Brody and a canine that he wants to train, Turbo. He adores Bree’s nephew and niece and has found a new purpose in life since meeting Bree.
The novel starts with a mystery that pulls readers into the police investigation. Who could have done this? The plot has twists and turns that were unexpected and clever. I loved how Turbo and the department’s K-9 Greta had roles in this story. As always, the world-building is well-done and the characterization is excellent. By this time in the series, it feels like I’m visiting old friends. The relationships with friends, family, co-workers, and the community add another dimension to the story. The author does a great job of adding personal information into the plot without detracting and slowing down the police investigation into the deaths. Additional threads in the storyline include memories, family connections, support systems, deceptions, lies, and much more.
Overall, this book has twists, tension, suspense, violence, and was hard to put down. If you are expecting a solid series that will have mysteries, suspense, crime, action, a little romance, and a strong female protagonist, then this is a series that I recommend. I am looking forward to finding out what is next for Bree, Matt, and the deputies.
Montlake and Melinda Leigh 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 September 16, 2025. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4.57 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon.
Bree is the Randolf County, New York sheriff and is based out of Gray’s Hollow. She’s smart, skilled, confident, honorable, and determined. She has earned the respect of her deputies, has high standards and ethics, and puts the community first. She joined law enforcement to help people and that is what she intends to do. Her good leadership and compassion have gained her the support of the community and her deputies. She is learning to navigate the politics, media, and paperwork associated with being a sheriff in a county with a limited budget. Matt is a former sheriff’s deputy injured in the line of duty. He was going to start a K-9 training program, but his sister Cady is using the kennels for rescued dogs. Matt is a great investigator and is a master at interviewing suspects. He loves dogs, including his retired K-9, Brody and a canine that he wants to train, Turbo. He adores Bree’s nephew and niece and has found a new purpose in life since meeting Bree.
The novel starts with a mystery that pulls readers into the police investigation. Who could have done this? The plot has twists and turns that were unexpected and clever. I loved how Turbo and the department’s K-9 Greta had roles in this story. As always, the world-building is well-done and the characterization is excellent. By this time in the series, it feels like I’m visiting old friends. The relationships with friends, family, co-workers, and the community add another dimension to the story. The author does a great job of adding personal information into the plot without detracting and slowing down the police investigation into the deaths. Additional threads in the storyline include memories, family connections, support systems, deceptions, lies, and much more.
Overall, this book has twists, tension, suspense, violence, and was hard to put down. If you are expecting a solid series that will have mysteries, suspense, crime, action, a little romance, and a strong female protagonist, then this is a series that I recommend. I am looking forward to finding out what is next for Bree, Matt, and the deputies.
Montlake and Melinda Leigh 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 September 16, 2025. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4.57 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon.
January 14, 2026
Bree is kicking more butt as a homicide detective. How is it so many murders happen in this small town? In addition to the murder mystery, narratives of found-family and the complexities of being a female on the police are dispersed throughout. For example, her department is advocating for a female-only locker room. Detective work is messy and they all need equal opportunity to clean up after working a homicide case.
While I found some of the murder mystery repetitive (it dealt with a dating app and targeting exes), I love Bree's journey. In fact, I'm worried about her because she got injured and has been needing more and more ibuprofen. While there is some discussion about her retirement, she's not quite ready yet. Luckily though, that seems to be something she can look forward to in the future when the time is right. I also love how each book ends with Bree and Matt decompressing the case and refocusing on what matters most. There were also more dog-hero moments.
The next book, Bree Taggert #11 actually does not come out until next January, 2027. Melinda Leigh has plenty of other crime novels for me to binge until then. There is also a crossover series with author Kendra Elliot, where Bree Taggert shows up in standalone mysteries.
4/5*
While I found some of the murder mystery repetitive (it dealt with a dating app and targeting exes), I love Bree's journey. In fact, I'm worried about her because she got injured and has been needing more and more ibuprofen. While there is some discussion about her retirement, she's not quite ready yet. Luckily though, that seems to be something she can look forward to in the future when the time is right. I also love how each book ends with Bree and Matt decompressing the case and refocusing on what matters most. There were also more dog-hero moments.
The next book, Bree Taggert #11 actually does not come out until next January, 2027. Melinda Leigh has plenty of other crime novels for me to binge until then. There is also a crossover series with author Kendra Elliot, where Bree Taggert shows up in standalone mysteries.
4/5*
September 16, 2025
the setup…
Sheriff Bree Taggert and her team are called to a bloody murder scene in a quiet suburban neighborhood. Recently separated Kelly Gibson was found murdered in her own home and all signs point to the killer being someone she knew and willingly allowed in. As they probe, three suspects emerge: her soon to be ex-husband, a man she was dating who she met online and a neighbor who could be classified as a stalker. Things take a turn when another woman turns up dead and the crime scene looks similar, just when Bree was thinking the answer was within reach.
the heart of the story…
Bree’s mantra as a detective is always follow the evidence even while developing theories. She and Matt Flynn, her chief investigator and live-in partner, are meticulous in their approach and I loved following their procedurals. The red herrings didn’t distract me and I thought I had this licked…close but no proverbial cigar. And, there is significant focus on the K-9 teams, exploring their unique personalities and skills.
the narration…
Christina Traister is the voice of this series and she even sounds like my version of Bree. She’s an excellent storyteller and I love her tone.
the bottom line…
I couldn’t wait to start this story and it hooked me from page one. The plotting and character development are outstanding and I had no trouble assembling the clues and developing credible theories. It’s not all business as there are significant events on the personal front, both for Bree and her family and other team members. And, Morgan Dane from the earlier series makes an appearance in a substantive way. I hope this one never ends. 4.5 stars
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Brilliance Audio and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Sheriff Bree Taggert and her team are called to a bloody murder scene in a quiet suburban neighborhood. Recently separated Kelly Gibson was found murdered in her own home and all signs point to the killer being someone she knew and willingly allowed in. As they probe, three suspects emerge: her soon to be ex-husband, a man she was dating who she met online and a neighbor who could be classified as a stalker. Things take a turn when another woman turns up dead and the crime scene looks similar, just when Bree was thinking the answer was within reach.
the heart of the story…
Bree’s mantra as a detective is always follow the evidence even while developing theories. She and Matt Flynn, her chief investigator and live-in partner, are meticulous in their approach and I loved following their procedurals. The red herrings didn’t distract me and I thought I had this licked…close but no proverbial cigar. And, there is significant focus on the K-9 teams, exploring their unique personalities and skills.
the narration…
Christina Traister is the voice of this series and she even sounds like my version of Bree. She’s an excellent storyteller and I love her tone.
the bottom line…
I couldn’t wait to start this story and it hooked me from page one. The plotting and character development are outstanding and I had no trouble assembling the clues and developing credible theories. It’s not all business as there are significant events on the personal front, both for Bree and her family and other team members. And, Morgan Dane from the earlier series makes an appearance in a substantive way. I hope this one never ends. 4.5 stars
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Brilliance Audio and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
August 28, 2025
Thank you, Montlake, for sending me this ARC. ☺️🥰
Melinda Leigh is one of the authors who got me back into reading. I love the Bree Taggert series.
Book #10 met all my expectations. This series is just so fun, and I love the little twists along the way. I've truly fallen in love with the characters, and I love how characters from other series of hers have been blended into this series. Melinda Leigh never disappoints. 4.25 stars! ✨
I highly recommend you add this series to your TBR if you enjoy detective/criminal-based mysteries/thrillers.
Pub date 9/16/25
As always, all thoughts are my own. 🖤😊
Melinda Leigh is one of the authors who got me back into reading. I love the Bree Taggert series.
Book #10 met all my expectations. This series is just so fun, and I love the little twists along the way. I've truly fallen in love with the characters, and I love how characters from other series of hers have been blended into this series. Melinda Leigh never disappoints. 4.25 stars! ✨
I highly recommend you add this series to your TBR if you enjoy detective/criminal-based mysteries/thrillers.
Pub date 9/16/25
As always, all thoughts are my own. 🖤😊
October 7, 2025
2.5 I love love love that she brought Morgan Dane back, but her portion of the story was legit DROPPED until the end and she never returned.
Very predictable and slow until the last 15%. So much happened in the last 13% and then there was even more at the end.
It sounds like a beautiful tie up to the entire Bree series.
I still love the characters but my personal opinion is the series became all too formulaic. I miss my author from her early days!
Cheers to her next series and I hope you loved it more than I did!
Very predictable and slow until the last 15%. So much happened in the last 13% and then there was even more at the end.
It sounds like a beautiful tie up to the entire Bree series.
I still love the characters but my personal opinion is the series became all too formulaic. I miss my author from her early days!
Cheers to her next series and I hope you loved it more than I did!
January 12, 2026
This was a quick read for me,it’s a simple murder mystery and I liked the characters Sheriff Bree struggles with her past,but is very dedicated to her job.She has time for her pets and family and still able to solve crimes.Don’t want to give much away so I will just say I liked it and will try to read more of Melinda Leigh’s books.
October 18, 2025
This series is now at ten books and there seems to be a lot of murder in this rural upstate New York area. Sheriff Bree Taggert has her work cut out for her in this one. Neither one of us saw this baddie coming. This one gets complicated when her prime suspect is a friend of her boyfriend Matt Flynn, wealthy and smart enough to lawyer up with Morgan Dane (from Melinda Leigh's series "Morgan Dane"). It was great to see Morgan and her husband/partner Lance Kruger and how they helped Bree's case. I wondered how it would go if Bree ended up going hard after Morgan's client, Troy Ryder, but that wasn't an issue. The motives for all the suspects were a little thin, and with the gruesome nature of the murders Bree had little to go on. I was defiantly stumped on this one.
The narrator, Christina Traister, was wonderful. She had a wide range of voices for the various characters and delivered a brilliant performance of this book.
Sheriff Bree Taggert has been having flashes from her childhood and has asked for help to track down a woman who may have been a friend of her mother. Matt's sister is about to give birth, and she is having trouble controlling a rescue dog that Matt wants to train as a K-9. Turbo cannot be contained, he's really smart. Then she gets a call that Kelly Gibson, suburban stay at home mom who now has an empty nest and a soon to be ex-husband, has been murdered, her throat slashed. Bree has three prime suspects, but weak motives all around. When another woman is murdered, Bree and Matt have more to focus on but still can't make the connections necessary for an arrest.
While pursuing a lead Bree is run off the road and injured. Turbo discourages the assailant from trying to finish the job. Then another woman with ties to Bree's prime suspect is kidnapped. A wild theory has Bree and Matt looking at alternative suspects, but time is running out for the latest victim.
The narrator, Christina Traister, was wonderful. She had a wide range of voices for the various characters and delivered a brilliant performance of this book.
Sheriff Bree Taggert has been having flashes from her childhood and has asked for help to track down a woman who may have been a friend of her mother. Matt's sister is about to give birth, and she is having trouble controlling a rescue dog that Matt wants to train as a K-9. Turbo cannot be contained, he's really smart. Then she gets a call that Kelly Gibson, suburban stay at home mom who now has an empty nest and a soon to be ex-husband, has been murdered, her throat slashed. Bree has three prime suspects, but weak motives all around. When another woman is murdered, Bree and Matt have more to focus on but still can't make the connections necessary for an arrest.
While pursuing a lead Bree is run off the road and injured. Turbo discourages the assailant from trying to finish the job. Then another woman with ties to Bree's prime suspect is kidnapped. A wild theory has Bree and Matt looking at alternative suspects, but time is running out for the latest victim.
October 29, 2025
Good to be back with Bree and Matt
Love the progression of their love and relationship although I would of course like more of them
ABSOLUTELY LOVED Morgan and Lance ugh can’t we get more books of just them please 🙏🏻
Overall great can’t wait for the next one
Love the progression of their love and relationship although I would of course like more of them
ABSOLUTELY LOVED Morgan and Lance ugh can’t we get more books of just them please 🙏🏻
Overall great can’t wait for the next one
March 28, 2025
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by Montlake via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
“Beyond her Reach”, by Melinda Leigh, is a moving thriller showing sheriff Bree Taggert and her devoted, hard-working team in action while her extended family seems to be settled into some kind of peaceful, contented life.
I was held in suspense about the villain until the end. I liked how the author developed the initial principal suspect’s characterization and even thought he would be a great member of the extended Bree/Matt’s team.
As usual, Bree and Matt are a united front at work and at home and it’s wonderful to see how seamlessly they deal with these two worlds and its changes and dynamics.
Their families, colleagues and friends bring additional interest to the story. I loved how Morgan Dane and Lance, from another Leigh’s series, played a part in the investigation, too.
I love these characters, their personalites and relationships: the love, easy affection, kindness, compassion.
I felt Bree and her family found some kind of closure after the tragedy and that was comforting.
“Beyond her Reach”, by Melinda Leigh, is a moving thriller showing sheriff Bree Taggert and her devoted, hard-working team in action while her extended family seems to be settled into some kind of peaceful, contented life.
I was held in suspense about the villain until the end. I liked how the author developed the initial principal suspect’s characterization and even thought he would be a great member of the extended Bree/Matt’s team.
As usual, Bree and Matt are a united front at work and at home and it’s wonderful to see how seamlessly they deal with these two worlds and its changes and dynamics.
Their families, colleagues and friends bring additional interest to the story. I loved how Morgan Dane and Lance, from another Leigh’s series, played a part in the investigation, too.
I love these characters, their personalites and relationships: the love, easy affection, kindness, compassion.
I felt Bree and her family found some kind of closure after the tragedy and that was comforting.
February 11, 2026
9/10: 4.5⭐️’s
A gruesome murder scene. Three solid suspects.
Then another gruesome murder scene. The solid suspects no longer seem quite so solid.
Now a woman is missing. How are these three women connected? Will Bree and Matt figure out who the killer/abductor is in time to save the third woman?
Okay folks, this was a good one. It was my body and eyes that made me take so long to get through it (hugely frustrating when really into a book🫤).
Morgan and Lance from I the Morgan Dane series had minor roles in the book, which was a fun little bonus.
Animal lovers will enjoy Turbo. Okay, I am just blanking right now. I think my brain froze while I was waiting (stupidly outside and yes I had a hat on) for my ride home from the hockey game.
The conclusion to the case was a bit surprising. Seriously….how do people like that exist?! I can’t say anything else about that because all of my thoughts would tip people off.
My only complaint is that Luke and Kayla didn’t make many appearances, they are great characters.
As a side note: Matt makes the comment that Kayla and Luke feel like his. This series often brings the boys to mind. They aren’t mine but I love them like they are mine. Family comes in all different ways. Today the middle boy turned 16. I sent him a text message before school with a picture of me holding him when he was a baby and asked how he went from this little guy to 16 so fast?! His response:
‘Thanks for being here with me for those 16 years Marta.’
My eyes are leaking again🤦🏼♀️. And I completely forgot where I was going by bringing that up. Go figure. But it’s a sweet story, so I am leaving it in.
Anyways, great addition to the series. I guess I am going to round up with this one.
Brief thoughts and rating posted: 2/10/26
A gruesome murder scene. Three solid suspects.
Then another gruesome murder scene. The solid suspects no longer seem quite so solid.
Now a woman is missing. How are these three women connected? Will Bree and Matt figure out who the killer/abductor is in time to save the third woman?
Okay folks, this was a good one. It was my body and eyes that made me take so long to get through it (hugely frustrating when really into a book🫤).
Morgan and Lance from I the Morgan Dane series had minor roles in the book, which was a fun little bonus.
Animal lovers will enjoy Turbo. Okay, I am just blanking right now. I think my brain froze while I was waiting (stupidly outside and yes I had a hat on) for my ride home from the hockey game.
The conclusion to the case was a bit surprising. Seriously….how do people like that exist?! I can’t say anything else about that because all of my thoughts would tip people off.
My only complaint is that Luke and Kayla didn’t make many appearances, they are great characters.
As a side note: Matt makes the comment that Kayla and Luke feel like his. This series often brings the boys to mind. They aren’t mine but I love them like they are mine. Family comes in all different ways. Today the middle boy turned 16. I sent him a text message before school with a picture of me holding him when he was a baby and asked how he went from this little guy to 16 so fast?! His response:
‘Thanks for being here with me for those 16 years Marta.’
My eyes are leaking again🤦🏼♀️. And I completely forgot where I was going by bringing that up. Go figure. But it’s a sweet story, so I am leaving it in.
Anyways, great addition to the series. I guess I am going to round up with this one.
Brief thoughts and rating posted: 2/10/26
February 23, 2026
I will admit to having read one of Leigh's books in this series before, though I cannot tell you which number. Reading this, however, brought back a bit of the past one and I remember enjoying that book just as I enjoyed this one.
Thankfully the Bree Taggert novels can be read as standalone books, though of course they would be more impactful in order I imagine. Bree is a fun and driven character and I found myself drawn to her and rooting for her- easy to do as the FMC. I enjoyed the plot, pacing, and characters and recommend this book to those looking for a badass female to root for.
thank you to NetGalley, the author Melinda Leigh, and Brilliance Publishing for my copy of this book.
Thankfully the Bree Taggert novels can be read as standalone books, though of course they would be more impactful in order I imagine. Bree is a fun and driven character and I found myself drawn to her and rooting for her- easy to do as the FMC. I enjoyed the plot, pacing, and characters and recommend this book to those looking for a badass female to root for.
thank you to NetGalley, the author Melinda Leigh, and Brilliance Publishing for my copy of this book.
January 17, 2026
A decent procedural. I was gobsmacked at the climax. What??
September 19, 2025
I’m going to preface this review by saying I absolutely enjoy this series so much, but there was one chapter that the proofreaders REALLY dropped the ball and it was distracting and took away from the book.
In Chapter 10, Bree goes to interview her victim, Kelly’s, ex husband’s girlfriend, Marina. Multiple times throughout the chapter it goes from telling what Marina is doing in her kitchen to it being Kelly. Now, unless Kelly’s ghost is in the kitchen cooking with her ex’s new lady, then that’s a wildly distracting typo that happened a LOT, back and forth throughout the chapter.
Other than that the story was okay. Not my favorite in the series but I’ll still happily read the last one to come.
In Chapter 10, Bree goes to interview her victim, Kelly’s, ex husband’s girlfriend, Marina. Multiple times throughout the chapter it goes from telling what Marina is doing in her kitchen to it being Kelly. Now, unless Kelly’s ghost is in the kitchen cooking with her ex’s new lady, then that’s a wildly distracting typo that happened a LOT, back and forth throughout the chapter.
Other than that the story was okay. Not my favorite in the series but I’ll still happily read the last one to come.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 22, 2025
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Thrillers / Suspense
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Beyond Her Reach is the Tenth installment in author Melinda Leigh's Bree Taggart series. Several key characters were involved in the story: Sheriff Bree Taggart, Investigator Matt Flynn, Defense Attorney Morgan Dane, and Private Investigator Lance Kruger. This was a fairly engaging mystery, as the author keeps her cards close to her chest right up until the end of the story. Set in the sleepy yet sinister town of Grey's Hollow, upstate New York, the story kicks off with the brutal murder of single mom Kelly Gibson in her own home—a rage-fueled slaying that screams domestic fallout.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Thrillers / Suspense
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Beyond Her Reach is the Tenth installment in author Melinda Leigh's Bree Taggart series. Several key characters were involved in the story: Sheriff Bree Taggart, Investigator Matt Flynn, Defense Attorney Morgan Dane, and Private Investigator Lance Kruger. This was a fairly engaging mystery, as the author keeps her cards close to her chest right up until the end of the story. Set in the sleepy yet sinister town of Grey's Hollow, upstate New York, the story kicks off with the brutal murder of single mom Kelly Gibson in her own home—a rage-fueled slaying that screams domestic fallout.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
September 5, 2025
Audiobook: Narrated by Christina Traister
Christina Traister delivered a stellar performance. Her narration captures both the tension of the investigation and the emotional undercurrents of the characters, keeping the story gripping from start to finish. She gives each voice just enough distinction without overdoing it, making it easy to follow while fully immersing me in the suspense.
There are stories with twists, and then there are stories with characters who are twisted. This book delivers both. Melinda Leigh once again pulls readers deep into Sheriff Bree Taggert’s world with a case that’s equal parts chilling and addictive. What begins with a brutal murder soon spirals into a tangled web of suspects, secrets, and shocking betrayals.
I loved the way this author layered the suspense, keeping the tension sharp with every revelation. Just when I thought I knew where it was going, the story veered, proving that the most dangerous twists aren’t always in the plot, they’re in the people. A fast, gripping read that left me satisfied and already eager for the next installment.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Christina Traister delivered a stellar performance. Her narration captures both the tension of the investigation and the emotional undercurrents of the characters, keeping the story gripping from start to finish. She gives each voice just enough distinction without overdoing it, making it easy to follow while fully immersing me in the suspense.
There are stories with twists, and then there are stories with characters who are twisted. This book delivers both. Melinda Leigh once again pulls readers deep into Sheriff Bree Taggert’s world with a case that’s equal parts chilling and addictive. What begins with a brutal murder soon spirals into a tangled web of suspects, secrets, and shocking betrayals.
I loved the way this author layered the suspense, keeping the tension sharp with every revelation. Just when I thought I knew where it was going, the story veered, proving that the most dangerous twists aren’t always in the plot, they’re in the people. A fast, gripping read that left me satisfied and already eager for the next installment.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
January 7, 2026
Love a happy ending
Interesting murders and who dun it with lots of twists and turns. Enjoyed trying to figure out who the killer was and why! Have gotten to know these characters over many books so its nice to get a happy conclusion.
Interesting murders and who dun it with lots of twists and turns. Enjoyed trying to figure out who the killer was and why! Have gotten to know these characters over many books so its nice to get a happy conclusion.
February 18, 2026
You can’t go wrong reading a Bree Taggert mystery. Just make sure you start with Cross Her Heart and continue with the other books in the proper order. You will be glad you did.
September 15, 2025
This was such an addicting listen! The mystery behind Kelly and who was behind her murder pulled me in and I was eager to try to figure out who was behind it. Another murder happens and it’s similar to Kelly’s and it’s pointing to one of their suspects. Not everything is as it seems. I really enjoy the moment’s when we get to see Bree and Matt with their niece and nephew. It just warms my heart and makes them so realistic. I love how Bree was able to work on her trauma and push through it in this one. It was really a sweet moment between the two. It melted my heart. The narrator, Christina Traister, does a phenomenal job bringing Bree, Matt, and the other characters to life. Her tones and inflections were spot on, especially during the high emotion scenes. She really captured those emotions and made the story feel real. I had my eye on the suspect but there was a small twist that I didn’t see so that’s always exciting. I was also happy to see some familiar faces in this book as well! I’m very excited for what's to come.
A very special thanks to Brilliance Audio + Netgalley for the gifted ALC.
September 14, 2025
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this awesome book in an amazing series
sheriff bree taggert is back and its great to catch up with where everyone is....
a violent murder of single mom kelly gibson has bree's attention...its so violent that they have to wonder who would do such a thing but its not long before bree has three men who fit the profile.... the ex husband the boyfriend or the neighbour who has stalkerish tendencies.... any one of them could have done it
but when a second murder occurs there are to many similarities between the two murders and the suspect pool doesnt widen than the 3 she has an eye on
its a captivating read and one i couldnt wait to finish to find out who the perp was.... and boy i wasnt disappointed....
looking forward to the next book from this author
sheriff bree taggert is back and its great to catch up with where everyone is....
a violent murder of single mom kelly gibson has bree's attention...its so violent that they have to wonder who would do such a thing but its not long before bree has three men who fit the profile.... the ex husband the boyfriend or the neighbour who has stalkerish tendencies.... any one of them could have done it
but when a second murder occurs there are to many similarities between the two murders and the suspect pool doesnt widen than the 3 she has an eye on
its a captivating read and one i couldnt wait to finish to find out who the perp was.... and boy i wasnt disappointed....
looking forward to the next book from this author
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August 30, 2025When a callout to a murder scene comes to Sheriff Bree Taggert, a calculating murderer has an agenda- and its only just getting started. Melinda Leigh’s Bree Taggert series has been a consistent greatly anticipated one for each new release and Beyond Her Reach was no exception.
My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy TBA.
My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy TBA.
September 10, 2025
I like this book good storyline
Blurb
In the wake of a woman’s savage murder, the suspects and motives are only mounting for Sheriff Bree Taggert in a twisting novel of suspense by #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author Melinda Leigh.
In a quiet suburban neighborhood in upstate New York, single mom Kelly Gibson is slain in her home—the victim of a rage killing. Right away, Sheriff Bree Taggert has three persons of interest: an angry soon-to-be ex-husband, a furtive rebound boyfriend, and an obsessive neighbor.
But as Bree and investigator Matt Flynn work together to narrow the field, there’s a shocking twist in the case: a second woman is murdered in the same brutal fashion.
While investigating, Bree is attacked and left for dead. When another woman is kidnapped, Bree and Matt must act quickly to unravel the deceptions in Kelly’s life and death and find a killer before someone else dies.
Blurb
In the wake of a woman’s savage murder, the suspects and motives are only mounting for Sheriff Bree Taggert in a twisting novel of suspense by #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author Melinda Leigh.
In a quiet suburban neighborhood in upstate New York, single mom Kelly Gibson is slain in her home—the victim of a rage killing. Right away, Sheriff Bree Taggert has three persons of interest: an angry soon-to-be ex-husband, a furtive rebound boyfriend, and an obsessive neighbor.
But as Bree and investigator Matt Flynn work together to narrow the field, there’s a shocking twist in the case: a second woman is murdered in the same brutal fashion.
While investigating, Bree is attacked and left for dead. When another woman is kidnapped, Bree and Matt must act quickly to unravel the deceptions in Kelly’s life and death and find a killer before someone else dies.
October 11, 2025
A violent and bloody murder case for Bree and her team to solve. I couldn't guess for the life of me but I don't feel that bad because the murderer wasn't even on Bree's suspect list. Wasn't on her radar or anyone's. Really good! Kept me guessing who has done it.
Oh my gosh, the last part...! So happy for Bree! She totally deserves to be happy.
Oh my gosh, the last part...! So happy for Bree! She totally deserves to be happy.
February 3, 2026
Sheriff Bree Taggert has another brutal murder to solve with her team. With 2 main suspects she works with her boyfriend to solve the case. I love this series and I can’t wait to read the next book.
September 20, 2025
5.0 stars. Love this series! Book 10 is another gripping, twisted murder mystery that's hard to put down. Terrific mix of action and suspense. On the personal front, I loved catching up with Bree and Matt's lives. Thrilled there will be a book 11 to look forward to. Can't wait.
November 12, 2025
Love this series! Really love how the author even brought in a fan favorite character from another series. Morgan Dane! Quite intense in some parts. Now I wait for book 11 in January 2027!
October 2, 2025
i’m always so excited to get back into this series with my fav characters! this one was really good, kept my attention, surprised me, and had the perfect balance between murder plot stuff and character stuff
September 27, 2025
I love the Bree series, but this one was a little slow for me. I can already predict what's going to happen in the next book.... They will get married, and the series will be over, just like the Morgan Dane series.
I didn't completely figure out who the killer was. That's the only reason I gave it 3 stars. The ratings for this book are way too high.
I didn't completely figure out who the killer was. That's the only reason I gave it 3 stars. The ratings for this book are way too high.
November 12, 2025
As always, I enjoyed reading about Bree's and Matt's crime fighting escapades. Melinda Leigh always manages to keep this series engaging and eventful!
August 16, 2025
The tenth Bree Taggert mystery has her investigating the brutal murder of a woman in her home in upstate New York. Kelly Gibson was in the middle of a divorce and a home renovation project when her throat was slit by a box cutter.
Bree and her live-in and part time investigator Matt Flynn quickly identify three potential suspects. The almost-ex-husband who wanted her to sell the house so that he could start a new life with her replacement is a good candidate. So is the guy she met on a dating app. Then there is the overly interested and possibly stalkerish guy who lives across the street.
As Bree and Matt investigate, they are also dealing with Matt's sister's impending birth which will put Bree's chief deputy on the sidelines since he's the father. Then there's Turbo who is supposed to be in training as a police dog but who is already an accomplished escape artist with lots and lots of energy.
Bree has her favorite suspect, but another woman is murdered in the same way as Kelly while she is interviewing him. They only thing the two women seem to have in common is that both dated the same potential suspect who also has an airtight alibi.
Then Bree is attacked by having a concrete block dropped on her patrol car and having the car run over a strip which blows out her tires. Only the presence of Turbo saves her when the potential killer comes to finish her off.
The case finally comes together when a third woman is kidnapped.
This was an excellent addition to the series. I love the relationship between Bree and Matt. The side characters are also interesting people.
Bree and her live-in and part time investigator Matt Flynn quickly identify three potential suspects. The almost-ex-husband who wanted her to sell the house so that he could start a new life with her replacement is a good candidate. So is the guy she met on a dating app. Then there is the overly interested and possibly stalkerish guy who lives across the street.
As Bree and Matt investigate, they are also dealing with Matt's sister's impending birth which will put Bree's chief deputy on the sidelines since he's the father. Then there's Turbo who is supposed to be in training as a police dog but who is already an accomplished escape artist with lots and lots of energy.
Bree has her favorite suspect, but another woman is murdered in the same way as Kelly while she is interviewing him. They only thing the two women seem to have in common is that both dated the same potential suspect who also has an airtight alibi.
Then Bree is attacked by having a concrete block dropped on her patrol car and having the car run over a strip which blows out her tires. Only the presence of Turbo saves her when the potential killer comes to finish her off.
The case finally comes together when a third woman is kidnapped.
This was an excellent addition to the series. I love the relationship between Bree and Matt. The side characters are also interesting people.
February 2, 2026
Now in double digits, the Bree Taggart series is one of my go-to reads when I want a suspenseful read that balances a small-town police procedural and a story that allows readers to really get to know the characters well.
Now in double digits, this tenth book in the series allowed me to reconnect with Sheriff Bree Taggart, her boyfriend Matt and their family. I also enjoyed having defense lawyer Morgan Dane (from one of Leigh's other series) have more than a passing role in this book and witnessing these two strong women going head-to-head was great!
I usually find that Leigh blends the family aspects well with suspense, but this time I found the tension to be lacking. We went through the paces but, besides one scene, I didn't feel on the edge of my seat. And while I didn't identify the culprit, it also felt like it was a bit out of left field with a weak reason for the murders.
I can't help but get the feeling like the series is winding down as the characters get more settled in their personal lives. I'm hoping there's one last book to end this series on a very high and tense high note.
This is a series where you can get suspense without the gore and a side of small-town family life. And while this wasn't my favourite book in the series, I eagerly look forward to reading more books in this author's many series in the future.
This is a good pick for fans of:
Kendra Elliot (Mercy Kilpatrick series)
Robert Dugoni (Tracy Crosswhite series)
Lisa Regan (Josie Quinn series)
Now in double digits, this tenth book in the series allowed me to reconnect with Sheriff Bree Taggart, her boyfriend Matt and their family. I also enjoyed having defense lawyer Morgan Dane (from one of Leigh's other series) have more than a passing role in this book and witnessing these two strong women going head-to-head was great!
I usually find that Leigh blends the family aspects well with suspense, but this time I found the tension to be lacking. We went through the paces but, besides one scene, I didn't feel on the edge of my seat. And while I didn't identify the culprit, it also felt like it was a bit out of left field with a weak reason for the murders.
I can't help but get the feeling like the series is winding down as the characters get more settled in their personal lives. I'm hoping there's one last book to end this series on a very high and tense high note.
This is a series where you can get suspense without the gore and a side of small-town family life. And while this wasn't my favourite book in the series, I eagerly look forward to reading more books in this author's many series in the future.
This is a good pick for fans of:
Kendra Elliot (Mercy Kilpatrick series)
Robert Dugoni (Tracy Crosswhite series)
Lisa Regan (Josie Quinn series)
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