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Detective Morgan Brookes #13
Two Broken Girls
"Sweat trickles down the girl’s spine as she dances around her bedroom. The curtains blow open and a gust of hot, humid air comes through the window. She has no idea she is being watched from the street below. The dainty chain around her neck will soon be his. Another keepsake. His second broken girl.
On the banks of the River Rothay, as the first rays of sunshine hit the fast-flowing water, Melody Carrick’s body lies lifeless, red strangulation marks where her gold cross necklace used to hang. Detective Morgan Brookes is certain the killer was surprised by early-morning dog walkers, and she won’t rest until she unearths the evidence she needs to stop his next attack.
But before Morgan has a chance to attend the post-mortem, seventeen-year-old Paige Evans rushes into the police station claiming her stepfather Alan kidnapped her best friend. He has an old wooden box full of jewellery that she believes are trophies. Morgan’s blood runs Melody’s necklace is tangled up in the chains.
Morgan races to Alan’s home, but on the way, she spots a young woman stumbling out of a nearby forest. She’s not Paige’s missing friend. Disorientated, with ropes cutting into her wrists and tears running down her face, the girl claims to have been abducted and then suddenly set free. By a man who looks nothing like Alan.
Chasing the most twisted killer of her career, can Morgan discover the connection between these terrible crimes? With two girl's lives already in ruins, can she find the latest innocent victim this monster has hidden in time?
An unputdownable thriller with twist after twist. Will have fans of Lisa Regan, Melinda Leigh and Rachel McLean desperately turning the pages hours after they were supposed to go to bed.
What readers are saying about Two Broken Girls:
‘Absolutely unputdownable page-turning twisty heart-stopping… Loved it from the first page until the last!’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Wow, I devoured this in one sitting… Fantastic… A massive five stars from me.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A one sitting book!… I was up all night reading, I had to finish!!!!’ NetGalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Obsessed… So much suspense… I literally can’t stop reading… I truly loved this book.’ readwithjessii, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘WOW… I ended up hooked and stuck on my chair most of the day reading it. Before I knew it, it was dinner time for my dogs wanting their dinner! WOW… Superb!’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Heart-stopping… So full of twists… Mind-blowing. I loved it, it’s so unputdownable.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Unputdownable, engrossing, heart pumping, heart-stopping, twisty… Superb.’ bookreviewercakemaker, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘I could not read it fast enough and boy I was NOT disappointed! I did not see the tw
On the banks of the River Rothay, as the first rays of sunshine hit the fast-flowing water, Melody Carrick’s body lies lifeless, red strangulation marks where her gold cross necklace used to hang. Detective Morgan Brookes is certain the killer was surprised by early-morning dog walkers, and she won’t rest until she unearths the evidence she needs to stop his next attack.
But before Morgan has a chance to attend the post-mortem, seventeen-year-old Paige Evans rushes into the police station claiming her stepfather Alan kidnapped her best friend. He has an old wooden box full of jewellery that she believes are trophies. Morgan’s blood runs Melody’s necklace is tangled up in the chains.
Morgan races to Alan’s home, but on the way, she spots a young woman stumbling out of a nearby forest. She’s not Paige’s missing friend. Disorientated, with ropes cutting into her wrists and tears running down her face, the girl claims to have been abducted and then suddenly set free. By a man who looks nothing like Alan.
Chasing the most twisted killer of her career, can Morgan discover the connection between these terrible crimes? With two girl's lives already in ruins, can she find the latest innocent victim this monster has hidden in time?
An unputdownable thriller with twist after twist. Will have fans of Lisa Regan, Melinda Leigh and Rachel McLean desperately turning the pages hours after they were supposed to go to bed.
What readers are saying about Two Broken Girls:
‘Absolutely unputdownable page-turning twisty heart-stopping… Loved it from the first page until the last!’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Wow, I devoured this in one sitting… Fantastic… A massive five stars from me.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A one sitting book!… I was up all night reading, I had to finish!!!!’ NetGalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Obsessed… So much suspense… I literally can’t stop reading… I truly loved this book.’ readwithjessii, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘WOW… I ended up hooked and stuck on my chair most of the day reading it. Before I knew it, it was dinner time for my dogs wanting their dinner! WOW… Superb!’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Heart-stopping… So full of twists… Mind-blowing. I loved it, it’s so unputdownable.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Unputdownable, engrossing, heart pumping, heart-stopping, twisty… Superb.’ bookreviewercakemaker, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘I could not read it fast enough and boy I was NOT disappointed! I did not see the tw
266 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 17, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
September 30, 2024
Another fantastic read in this series,this is book 13....Morgan and her team on a murder investigation of a girl named Melody. Another girl disappeared. Paige, her mother, is a drinker. Was it the same person who killed Melody?will they find her... another brilliant read one of my favourite authors and series.looking forward to reading the next instalment...
September 13, 2024
When college student Melody Carrick is found strangled to death on a riverbank with her gold cross necklace missing, Detective Morgan Brookes is heartsick; she knew Melody and her mother from the cafe she frequents. Another student, Paige Evans, appears at the police station to report that she thinks that Alan, the man living with her mother, kidnapped her best friend and he keeps a special box full of jewelry remnants. Could resolving the case be that simple? After all, this is Rydal Falls which seems to have more than its share of murders.
Another engrossing, fast paced read, this is the thirteenth in the Morgan Brookes series. It is the fourth I have read and it would work as a standalone. I like Morgan and although she does often find danger, she also frequently is involved in some amusing predicaments. I also enjoy
the collegial relationships within the investigative team.
I recommend this book/series for those who enjoy British police procedurals, mysteries, thrillers featuring capable female detectives with amiable supporting characters. I have added this series to my must read list.
Thanks to #NetGalley and @Bookouture for the DRC.
Another engrossing, fast paced read, this is the thirteenth in the Morgan Brookes series. It is the fourth I have read and it would work as a standalone. I like Morgan and although she does often find danger, she also frequently is involved in some amusing predicaments. I also enjoy
the collegial relationships within the investigative team.
I recommend this book/series for those who enjoy British police procedurals, mysteries, thrillers featuring capable female detectives with amiable supporting characters. I have added this series to my must read list.
Thanks to #NetGalley and @Bookouture for the DRC.
November 22, 2024
TWO BROKEN GIRLS is book 13 in a police procedural series featuring Detective Morgan Brookes by Helen Phifer. I have read all of the books in this series and this book is a definite winner! Although this book can be read as a standalone, I recommend reading the books in order to get a full history.
The books in the Detective Morgan Brookes Series:
1. One Left Alive (2020)
2. The Killer's Girl (2020)
3. The Hiding Place (2021)
4. First Girl to Die (2021)
5. Find the Girl (2022)
6. Sleeping Dolls (2022)
7. Silent Angel (2022)
8. Their Burning Graves (2022)
9. Hold Your Breath (2023)
10. Stolen Darlings (2023)
11. Save Her Twice (2024)
12. Poison Memories (2024)
13. Two Broken Girls (2024)
This is my review of Two Broken Girls.
The cast of the small control team includes:
DS Ben Matthews-Boss & partner
DC Morgan Brookes
DC Amy Smith
DC Cain Robson
Amber-Police Officer
The novel opens with the killer getting ready for his next kill. His method was strangulation with a rope, not messy, as he hated the smell of blood.
She walks out of her house, he is standing by his car with the hood open, pretending to have engine problem. He knows her and says “Hi Melody” and gives her a drive to college…but she never makes it there.
The next day Melody Carrick’s dead body was discovered by the riverside, with strangulation marks around her neck and her gold cross necklace missing.
DS Ben Matthews and DC Morgan Brookes head to the crime scene. She needs to stop his next attack.
But before Morgan has a chance to attend the post-mortem, seventeen-year-old Paige Evans rushes into the police station claiming her stepfather Alan Cooper
kidnapped her best friend, Alisa Halliday. He has an old wooden box full of jewelry that she believes are trophies.
When Morgan races to Alan’s home, she spots a young woman stumbling out of the forest. The girl, Chloe Smith claims to have been abducted and then suddenly set free. By a man who looks nothing like Alan.
Is there a connection between all three girls?
This was a well-written unputdownable thriller with a high level of suspense. I was kept guessing right until the end. A great read!
Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for my digital copy.
The books in the Detective Morgan Brookes Series:
1. One Left Alive (2020)
2. The Killer's Girl (2020)
3. The Hiding Place (2021)
4. First Girl to Die (2021)
5. Find the Girl (2022)
6. Sleeping Dolls (2022)
7. Silent Angel (2022)
8. Their Burning Graves (2022)
9. Hold Your Breath (2023)
10. Stolen Darlings (2023)
11. Save Her Twice (2024)
12. Poison Memories (2024)
13. Two Broken Girls (2024)
This is my review of Two Broken Girls.
The cast of the small control team includes:
DS Ben Matthews-Boss & partner
DC Morgan Brookes
DC Amy Smith
DC Cain Robson
Amber-Police Officer
The novel opens with the killer getting ready for his next kill. His method was strangulation with a rope, not messy, as he hated the smell of blood.
She walks out of her house, he is standing by his car with the hood open, pretending to have engine problem. He knows her and says “Hi Melody” and gives her a drive to college…but she never makes it there.
The next day Melody Carrick’s dead body was discovered by the riverside, with strangulation marks around her neck and her gold cross necklace missing.
DS Ben Matthews and DC Morgan Brookes head to the crime scene. She needs to stop his next attack.
But before Morgan has a chance to attend the post-mortem, seventeen-year-old Paige Evans rushes into the police station claiming her stepfather Alan Cooper
kidnapped her best friend, Alisa Halliday. He has an old wooden box full of jewelry that she believes are trophies.
When Morgan races to Alan’s home, she spots a young woman stumbling out of the forest. The girl, Chloe Smith claims to have been abducted and then suddenly set free. By a man who looks nothing like Alan.
Is there a connection between all three girls?
This was a well-written unputdownable thriller with a high level of suspense. I was kept guessing right until the end. A great read!
Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for my digital copy.
September 22, 2024
Detective Morgan Brookes book Thirteen.
Twisty heart-stopping crime thriller.
When melody Rydal is found dead through strangulation in Rydal Falls, the team are on the hunt for her killer, that goes on to an abduction and a missing girl, this book is so full of twists massive ones from all the characters included in this mind-blowing read.
I loved it , it's so unputdownable with a fantastic ending.
This author just keeps giving you her best in all her work.
A fantastic thriller once again from one of my favourite novel writer.
Twisty heart-stopping crime thriller.
When melody Rydal is found dead through strangulation in Rydal Falls, the team are on the hunt for her killer, that goes on to an abduction and a missing girl, this book is so full of twists massive ones from all the characters included in this mind-blowing read.
I loved it , it's so unputdownable with a fantastic ending.
This author just keeps giving you her best in all her work.
A fantastic thriller once again from one of my favourite novel writer.
April 18, 2025
Two Broken Girls by Helen Phifer is the 13th in the Detective Morgan Brookes series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Another good book in the series.
This one had a lot going on, and a lot of characters. The pace was fast and furious.
As always, the team and their camaraderie shone through. Their bickering and jibes make them a true family. I still have a bit of a problem with Morgan always going off on her own -- she just makes it harder for the team to concentrate on the case, since they are always worrying about her.
There's not a lot to say that I haven't said before. These books are really entertaining, with good plots, great characters, and although each could be read as a stand-alone, they are much better if you have the history.
OMG, I thought I was caught up....there's another one! Sort of YAY.
For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, my own synopsis of the book, and its author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
October 19, 2024
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book
man this one was a hard one to read... sometimes the subject matter just hits you harder
but it was great to catch up with morgan and the crew to see how they were all faring....
this one starts off with a murdered young girl... a popular girl who helped her mom at work and was hoping to do well back at college
when her body was found by a dog walker morgan and the rest of them started their investigation and it wasnt long before they had an idea this one was going to get bad.....
it was going to get a whole lot worse for morgan as well
gripping novel as always cant fault this author at all and look forward to reading the next book in this brilliant series
man this one was a hard one to read... sometimes the subject matter just hits you harder
but it was great to catch up with morgan and the crew to see how they were all faring....
this one starts off with a murdered young girl... a popular girl who helped her mom at work and was hoping to do well back at college
when her body was found by a dog walker morgan and the rest of them started their investigation and it wasnt long before they had an idea this one was going to get bad.....
it was going to get a whole lot worse for morgan as well
gripping novel as always cant fault this author at all and look forward to reading the next book in this brilliant series
October 23, 2024
Two Broken Girls is book 13 in the Morgan Brookes series by Helen Phifer. I got hooked on this series with the first book and look forward to each new entry! A man is out walking his dog along the river when he notices something out of place through the trees. When he goes to investigate he finds a young woman dead. She has red marks around her neck like she's been strangled. He calls the police immediately and can't stop screaming! When Morgan arrives she is horrified because she knows the victim. It's the daughter of the coffee shop owner in town and she's actually waited on Morgan before. Melody Carrick was such a nice young woman who was in college, but helped her mom in the coffee shop when she could. It was going to be very hard to tell Melody's mom about her daughter as Morgan had just seen her this morning when she stopped for a coffee.
When Morgan arrives back at the police station to attend the post mortem on Melody, there's a young woman waiting to see her. Paige Evans tells Morgan that her stepfather, Alan, has kidnapped her best friend. She claims Alan is obsessed with serial killers and watches documentaries about them constantly. She also tells Morgan that he has an old box filled with jewelry that she thinks he's taken from his victims. As Morgan rushes to find Alan, there's a young woman coming out of the woods with rope ties around her wrists and she's crying. She was abducted by a man, but he suddenly dropped her in the woods, and let her go. The man who took her looks nothing like Alan, so Morgan isn't sure if the cases are related or not.
Will Morgan, Ben, Cain, Amy and the rest of the team be able to figure out who this twisted killer is and why he's preying on young girls? What do the girls have in common? Is Alan behind these killings? Is Paige telling the truth about her stepfather? Is Paige in danger when Alan finds out she talked to the police? This book is so exciting you will race to the end! I thoroughly enjoyed Two Broken Girls and rate it 5 stars. If you've never read a book in the series Two Broken Girls can be read as a standalone with no problem. Two Broken Girls is available now and should not be missed! I'd like to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for an advanced copy of Two Broken Girls in exchange for a fair review. #TwoBrokenGirls
When Morgan arrives back at the police station to attend the post mortem on Melody, there's a young woman waiting to see her. Paige Evans tells Morgan that her stepfather, Alan, has kidnapped her best friend. She claims Alan is obsessed with serial killers and watches documentaries about them constantly. She also tells Morgan that he has an old box filled with jewelry that she thinks he's taken from his victims. As Morgan rushes to find Alan, there's a young woman coming out of the woods with rope ties around her wrists and she's crying. She was abducted by a man, but he suddenly dropped her in the woods, and let her go. The man who took her looks nothing like Alan, so Morgan isn't sure if the cases are related or not.
Will Morgan, Ben, Cain, Amy and the rest of the team be able to figure out who this twisted killer is and why he's preying on young girls? What do the girls have in common? Is Alan behind these killings? Is Paige telling the truth about her stepfather? Is Paige in danger when Alan finds out she talked to the police? This book is so exciting you will race to the end! I thoroughly enjoyed Two Broken Girls and rate it 5 stars. If you've never read a book in the series Two Broken Girls can be read as a standalone with no problem. Two Broken Girls is available now and should not be missed! I'd like to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for an advanced copy of Two Broken Girls in exchange for a fair review. #TwoBrokenGirls
September 30, 2024
Two broken Girls is book 13 in the Detective Morgan Brookes series, and it is another fast-paced thrilling read from the author. I just love this series. The author never disappoints.
When the body of student Melody Carrick is found dead on the riverbank. Morgan and Ben are on the case to find the killer. Morgan is distraught and she knows Melody from the café she visits, where her mother Jade is the owner.
When the detail of the murder is out. Local girl Paige Evans visit to Police as she thinks Alan her mother’s boyfriend maybe the kidnapped her best friend as he is a weirdo who watches a lot of True crime documentaries about murders, and he has a box with lots of parts of jewellery in it. Like trophies a would-be killer take from his victims. Morgan and team are stretched to the limit trying to deal with both cases.
The is another thrilling read from the author that I basically read in one sitting. I love the antics of Morgan who always seems to get herself in all sorts of trouble but still manages to find the perpetrator. I also like to see how the other members of the team are doing. They are all such likable characters. This is a great read and even though it is book 13 in the series. You can easily read it as a standalone. 5 stars from me.
When the body of student Melody Carrick is found dead on the riverbank. Morgan and Ben are on the case to find the killer. Morgan is distraught and she knows Melody from the café she visits, where her mother Jade is the owner.
When the detail of the murder is out. Local girl Paige Evans visit to Police as she thinks Alan her mother’s boyfriend maybe the kidnapped her best friend as he is a weirdo who watches a lot of True crime documentaries about murders, and he has a box with lots of parts of jewellery in it. Like trophies a would-be killer take from his victims. Morgan and team are stretched to the limit trying to deal with both cases.
The is another thrilling read from the author that I basically read in one sitting. I love the antics of Morgan who always seems to get herself in all sorts of trouble but still manages to find the perpetrator. I also like to see how the other members of the team are doing. They are all such likable characters. This is a great read and even though it is book 13 in the series. You can easily read it as a standalone. 5 stars from me.
February 12, 2025
4.5⭐
Detective Morgan Brookes is back in another delightfully gripping story. That sees Morgan and the team investigate the horrific murder of student Melody Carrick.
Whose mum Jade owns the local coffee shop. Which is a firm favourite with the team, especially Morgan. And leaves her desperate to get answers for Jade and find her daughter's killer.
So when a young girl enters the station hours later and claims to know the killer, Morgan jumps at the opportunity to investigate. However, Ben is not convinced that Paige is telling the truth.
And as Morgan races to catch up with Paige and interview her mother, she nearly runs over another young girl. One who is clearly terrified and claims to have been abducted and later dumped by a man driving a vehicle similar to that of Morgan's witness.
Which makes Morgan's search for the man Paige claims is the killer even more intense.
But is Paige really telling the truth? Or is the team looking in the wrong direction?
And with plenty of twists and turns, and a killer I did not see coming. This was another fantastic addition to the series, and I'm excited to read book fourteen next.
My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read Two Broken Girls.
Detective Morgan Brookes is back in another delightfully gripping story. That sees Morgan and the team investigate the horrific murder of student Melody Carrick.
Whose mum Jade owns the local coffee shop. Which is a firm favourite with the team, especially Morgan. And leaves her desperate to get answers for Jade and find her daughter's killer.
So when a young girl enters the station hours later and claims to know the killer, Morgan jumps at the opportunity to investigate. However, Ben is not convinced that Paige is telling the truth.
And as Morgan races to catch up with Paige and interview her mother, she nearly runs over another young girl. One who is clearly terrified and claims to have been abducted and later dumped by a man driving a vehicle similar to that of Morgan's witness.
Which makes Morgan's search for the man Paige claims is the killer even more intense.
But is Paige really telling the truth? Or is the team looking in the wrong direction?
And with plenty of twists and turns, and a killer I did not see coming. This was another fantastic addition to the series, and I'm excited to read book fourteen next.
My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read Two Broken Girls.
October 26, 2024
2.5/5 - I love this series overall. Fast paced and easy reads. This one was eh to me… not really into it.
September 30, 2024
This has fast become one of my all-time favourite series.
It's one of those book series that just gets better and better. With each new installment, you wait for the inevitable slump, but it just doesn't happen. I've devoured each and every one, BUT this has got to be my most favourite (so far).
The character execution is just perfect. With each new book you learn that little bit more, which not only keeps me constantly invested, it brings in that extra glimmer of understanding just how the characters work and how they've become who they are in the present. I'll admit I absolutely adore Cain. His whole presence just fills me with joy, and his banter with Morgan always brings a smile to my face. Everybody needs a Cain in their life! I'm also really starting to like Marc. His brusque demeanour is slowly thawing, as is the teams attitudes towards him.
In Book #13, the body of college student Melody Carrick is found strangled and dumped at the riverbank with her gold necklace missing. Morgan is heartbroken. She knew Melody as she helped out at her Mum Jade's coffee shop, a place she had visited just a few hours ago.
While the investigation gets underway, another student, Paige, arrives at the police station. She believes her mums ex-boyfriend is the killer. Not only does he give her the creeps, obsessing over local murder sites, he keeps a jewellery box full of old broken bits of jewellery... could this really be an open and shut case? For once, can Morgan have a simple case on her hands?
And then another girl goes missing!
As I've now come to expect (and LOVE) about this series, nothing is quite as simple. This is a really complex plot with multiple layers needing to be peeled. This is definitely not a book you can just skim through. It requires your focus and full attention, which isn't hard as it had me held vice like from the very beginning.
Morgan is one of those detectives who takes her role of keeping people safe to the extreme. She seems to be a magnet for dangerous situations but jumps straight in, without thought or regret, and this installment is no exception.
If you haven't yet read this series, what rock have you been hiding under? Get downloading, get comfy, and get reading.... you will not regret it!!!
Unputdownable, engrossing, heart pumping, heart stopping, twisty, and with a superb ending.
Huge thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC.
It's one of those book series that just gets better and better. With each new installment, you wait for the inevitable slump, but it just doesn't happen. I've devoured each and every one, BUT this has got to be my most favourite (so far).
The character execution is just perfect. With each new book you learn that little bit more, which not only keeps me constantly invested, it brings in that extra glimmer of understanding just how the characters work and how they've become who they are in the present. I'll admit I absolutely adore Cain. His whole presence just fills me with joy, and his banter with Morgan always brings a smile to my face. Everybody needs a Cain in their life! I'm also really starting to like Marc. His brusque demeanour is slowly thawing, as is the teams attitudes towards him.
In Book #13, the body of college student Melody Carrick is found strangled and dumped at the riverbank with her gold necklace missing. Morgan is heartbroken. She knew Melody as she helped out at her Mum Jade's coffee shop, a place she had visited just a few hours ago.
While the investigation gets underway, another student, Paige, arrives at the police station. She believes her mums ex-boyfriend is the killer. Not only does he give her the creeps, obsessing over local murder sites, he keeps a jewellery box full of old broken bits of jewellery... could this really be an open and shut case? For once, can Morgan have a simple case on her hands?
And then another girl goes missing!
As I've now come to expect (and LOVE) about this series, nothing is quite as simple. This is a really complex plot with multiple layers needing to be peeled. This is definitely not a book you can just skim through. It requires your focus and full attention, which isn't hard as it had me held vice like from the very beginning.
Morgan is one of those detectives who takes her role of keeping people safe to the extreme. She seems to be a magnet for dangerous situations but jumps straight in, without thought or regret, and this installment is no exception.
If you haven't yet read this series, what rock have you been hiding under? Get downloading, get comfy, and get reading.... you will not regret it!!!
Unputdownable, engrossing, heart pumping, heart stopping, twisty, and with a superb ending.
Huge thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC.
October 19, 2024
✅
I literally did not have any idea who the killer could be with reading Two Broken Girls. That’s a good thing right? It meant I had to keep reading on and on to find out.
Morgan and her team find themselves in the midst of a very complex case. Will they be able to stop more murders happening? There is so much going against them as they try to discover the truth and solve the case.
Once again we have Morgan taking off on her own just a bit too much. She makes me cringe with the danger she puts herself in.
I have to say, the team is pulling together more and more. Even the one guy I truly did not like in previous books is mellowing a bit.
If you are looking for series with a bad ass woman detective, this is a series you should think about reading.
I highly recommend reading the complete series starting with the first book. There is so much backstory to the characters that is important to know about.
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture and the author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
I literally did not have any idea who the killer could be with reading Two Broken Girls. That’s a good thing right? It meant I had to keep reading on and on to find out.
Morgan and her team find themselves in the midst of a very complex case. Will they be able to stop more murders happening? There is so much going against them as they try to discover the truth and solve the case.
Once again we have Morgan taking off on her own just a bit too much. She makes me cringe with the danger she puts herself in.
I have to say, the team is pulling together more and more. Even the one guy I truly did not like in previous books is mellowing a bit.
If you are looking for series with a bad ass woman detective, this is a series you should think about reading.
I highly recommend reading the complete series starting with the first book. There is so much backstory to the characters that is important to know about.
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture and the author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 16, 2024
Another great crime thriller from Helen Phifer.
Morgan and Ben are called when a teenage girl is found dead by the river.
A passerby finds her body and is in deep shock at what he has seen.
Morgan knows the girl’s Mum and it breaks her heart to tell her that she’s lost her daughter.
Another teenage girl asks to speak to Morgan as she’s concerned about the man her Mum has been seeing, and tellls Morgan he could be the killer.
Morgan and the team carry out their investigations and things start to get complicated as a teenager is abducted, then released, a woman is killed and another teenager is missing.
It’s a running joke with the team that trouble always finds Morgan, and this book is no exception.
This is a gripping crime thriller that I’d highly recommend.
Thanks to Bookouture for the opportunity to read this book.
Morgan and Ben are called when a teenage girl is found dead by the river.
A passerby finds her body and is in deep shock at what he has seen.
Morgan knows the girl’s Mum and it breaks her heart to tell her that she’s lost her daughter.
Another teenage girl asks to speak to Morgan as she’s concerned about the man her Mum has been seeing, and tellls Morgan he could be the killer.
Morgan and the team carry out their investigations and things start to get complicated as a teenager is abducted, then released, a woman is killed and another teenager is missing.
It’s a running joke with the team that trouble always finds Morgan, and this book is no exception.
This is a gripping crime thriller that I’d highly recommend.
Thanks to Bookouture for the opportunity to read this book.
August 8, 2025
I haven’t read in quite a while but these types of books are ALWAYS able to help me start reading again from reading slumps—I love the writing, I love how every single book gets more and more difficult to guess the ending and who it was, I was actually shocked because I couldn’t figure out who was the murderer. Not just that but this book had parts of it that were very confusing that I couldn’t guess parts to, and yet the author did such a lovely job making it add up in the ending. Which I absolutely love. Amazingly beautifully written, I totally recommend this series, and I’m SO excited to read the next book!!! Please keep coming out with these detective series’s Helen!!!!🙏🏼
October 9, 2024
Another Morgan Brookes novel and no sign of a let up in tension and murders in Rydal Falls. The action is fast paced as Ben, Morgan, Cain and Amy race to discover who murdered Melody Carrick and left her body on the riverbank. This one is close to home though as Melody is the daughter of Jade, Morgans beloved coffee shop owner.
Despite the seriousness there were many moments of light humour within the team, I'm loving reading more about Cain and Amy and even the abrupt anti social boss Marc seems to be thawing. The series is going from strength to strength and I'm loving it
Despite the seriousness there were many moments of light humour within the team, I'm loving reading more about Cain and Amy and even the abrupt anti social boss Marc seems to be thawing. The series is going from strength to strength and I'm loving it
October 17, 2024
Mayhem swirls around Morgan and does that woman ever have the hardest head!
Something fishy is going down in Ryder Falls but the team is all over it.
A guy in a white car is the prime suspect but which one is he??
When Morgan finally makes the connection can she stop the villain?
Morgan should also not drive cars!! She alone is responsible for the insurance premium increases.
I was focused mostly on Cain in this book because of his huge near hugs. I’d take one!!
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the early read.
Something fishy is going down in Ryder Falls but the team is all over it.
A guy in a white car is the prime suspect but which one is he??
When Morgan finally makes the connection can she stop the villain?
Morgan should also not drive cars!! She alone is responsible for the insurance premium increases.
I was focused mostly on Cain in this book because of his huge near hugs. I’d take one!!
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the early read.
October 20, 2024
Another brilliant book in the Morgan Brookes series. I just couldn't put it down a proper page turner. Highly recommended. Looking forward to next Morgan Brookes book already.
Read
October 26, 2024Another great read, fully recommend
September 14, 2025
just continued my binge listen and it didn't disappoint. well narrated
November 23, 2025
[3.5] this was soo good!
February 4, 2026
Helen has created a winning formula with this series, characters I have grown with and now feel like friends, murder mysteries that I rarely solve and plot twists that you don't see coming. You think you do but trust me you don't.
In Two broken girls , Melody is murdered and Paige is claiming her stepfather Alan murdered her and has a box full of jewellery that she thinks are trophies to prove it. Until another woman claims to have been abducted then released by a man looking nothing like him.
This had me on the edge of my seat, holding my breath and every other cliche known to readers of thrillers. An absolute heart stopper!
In Two broken girls , Melody is murdered and Paige is claiming her stepfather Alan murdered her and has a box full of jewellery that she thinks are trophies to prove it. Until another woman claims to have been abducted then released by a man looking nothing like him.
This had me on the edge of my seat, holding my breath and every other cliche known to readers of thrillers. An absolute heart stopper!
December 10, 2024
Just ok
I have been reading these books since the beginning. And I don't know what was a little bit off with this 1I felt like the 1 exchange between Declan and Ben got kind of weird at one point with the flirting I don't know what that was about. I thought that wasn't really needed. Spoiler alert for anyone else who's going to read this ... there wasn't any type of rational for what the killer did when you finally find out who it is. So you don't even know how that guy tied in to the story. He just gets captured and you never get your answer. Seemed rushed at the end.
I have been reading these books since the beginning. And I don't know what was a little bit off with this 1I felt like the 1 exchange between Declan and Ben got kind of weird at one point with the flirting I don't know what that was about. I thought that wasn't really needed. Spoiler alert for anyone else who's going to read this ... there wasn't any type of rational for what the killer did when you finally find out who it is. So you don't even know how that guy tied in to the story. He just gets captured and you never get your answer. Seemed rushed at the end.
January 20, 2025
I’ve always been a huge fan of Helen Phifer’s Detective Morgan Brookes series and have thoroughly enjoyed all the previous books. However, Two Broken Girls didn’t quite live up to my expectations. While it had its moments, it felt a bit repetitive compared to earlier installments.
Plot Summary
The story starts with the discovery of a young woman’s body in a remote area, setting off another intense murder investigation led by Morgan Brookes. As Morgan and her team dig deeper, they uncover a web of secrets, eventually linking the crime to a second victim. The tension builds as Morgan’s investigation leads her closer to the killer. As has happened in many of the previous books, Morgan ends up in the killer’s hands, fighting for her life.
While the premise and investigation kept me engaged, I found the ending a bit underwhelming. It felt rushed, and I didn’t get the sense of closure or satisfaction that I usually expect from this series.
My Thoughts
One thing I’ve always loved about this series is Morgan’s character. She’s strong, determined, and easy to connect with, but I feel like the storyline of her constantly ending up in the hands of the killer is starting to feel repetitive. It’s not that the plot itself isn’t different, but the structure of the story seems to follow the same pattern, which took away some of the excitement for me.
Another letdown was the ending. It felt flat compared to the usual gripping climaxes in this series. I kept waiting for a big twist or something surprising, but it just didn’t happen this time.
That said, I still appreciate Helen Phifer’s writing style. It’s fast-paced and engaging, which makes it easy to read. Even though this book didn’t fully meet my expectations, I’m still a fan of the series, and I look forward to the next installment.
Final Thoughts
Two Broken Girls is a decent addition to the series, but for me, it didn’t bring anything new to the table. I’d love to see some fresh storylines in the future that break away from the familiar formula. It’s still worth a read if you’ve been following the series, but it didn’t leave a lasting impression on me like some of the earlier books did.
Plot Summary
The story starts with the discovery of a young woman’s body in a remote area, setting off another intense murder investigation led by Morgan Brookes. As Morgan and her team dig deeper, they uncover a web of secrets, eventually linking the crime to a second victim. The tension builds as Morgan’s investigation leads her closer to the killer. As has happened in many of the previous books, Morgan ends up in the killer’s hands, fighting for her life.
While the premise and investigation kept me engaged, I found the ending a bit underwhelming. It felt rushed, and I didn’t get the sense of closure or satisfaction that I usually expect from this series.
My Thoughts
One thing I’ve always loved about this series is Morgan’s character. She’s strong, determined, and easy to connect with, but I feel like the storyline of her constantly ending up in the hands of the killer is starting to feel repetitive. It’s not that the plot itself isn’t different, but the structure of the story seems to follow the same pattern, which took away some of the excitement for me.
Another letdown was the ending. It felt flat compared to the usual gripping climaxes in this series. I kept waiting for a big twist or something surprising, but it just didn’t happen this time.
That said, I still appreciate Helen Phifer’s writing style. It’s fast-paced and engaging, which makes it easy to read. Even though this book didn’t fully meet my expectations, I’m still a fan of the series, and I look forward to the next installment.
Final Thoughts
Two Broken Girls is a decent addition to the series, but for me, it didn’t bring anything new to the table. I’d love to see some fresh storylines in the future that break away from the familiar formula. It’s still worth a read if you’ve been following the series, but it didn’t leave a lasting impression on me like some of the earlier books did.
October 19, 2024
Two Broken Girls is the 13th book in the Detective Morgan Brooks series. Morgan and her team are called to the site where a girl lays dead, strangled. Morgan knows Melody Carrick and her mother and she won't rest until she finds out who did this to her. Before the post-mortem occurs, Morgan gets a call from a teenager named Paige, who insists her stepfather kidnapped her best friend, and has a box of broken jewelry, probably trophies from previous kills. Morgan is rushing to his homes, when another girl stumbles out of the forest, claiming she was kidnapped, but he let her go. What is going on? Morgan is stumped, but will not stop until she finds this killer and stops him from killing anyone else.
I love this series, and this was one twisty story. Every time it looked like they might be on the right path, there was another twist that I wasn't expecting. One thing I really liked was how they treated Paige when it became obvious that she disliked Alan, and was not being truthful. They didn't let her get away with wasting time and lying to the police, a dangerous thing. I liked seeing the team together, even though there were a few times they took a beating. There wasn't as much about Morgan's personal life in this one, but we learned about some of her other colleagues. As the investigation played out, I had no idea who the culprit was, but that didn't matter, I went along for the ride and loved every minute of it. The ending was exciting and blew me away. Another amazing addition to this series.
I love this series, and this was one twisty story. Every time it looked like they might be on the right path, there was another twist that I wasn't expecting. One thing I really liked was how they treated Paige when it became obvious that she disliked Alan, and was not being truthful. They didn't let her get away with wasting time and lying to the police, a dangerous thing. I liked seeing the team together, even though there were a few times they took a beating. There wasn't as much about Morgan's personal life in this one, but we learned about some of her other colleagues. As the investigation played out, I had no idea who the culprit was, but that didn't matter, I went along for the ride and loved every minute of it. The ending was exciting and blew me away. Another amazing addition to this series.
December 15, 2024
A murdered girl. A missing girl. An escaped abduction victim. DC Morgan Brookes has had a busy morning where the crimes keep stacking up. Could there be a connection?
Two Broken Girls is the 13th book in the Morgan Brookes series of crime thriller/police procedurals set in the Lake District.
The day begins badly with the discovery of a murdered college student. Then another student arrives at the police station to report her best friend missing. On the way to investigate, Morgan is in a car crash swerving to avoid a third student who runs into the road begging for help. The police are stretched as they attempt to solve three crimes simultaneously.
I absolutely raced through this book, couldn't put it down (my only complaint is that it was over too soon). The plot is fast paced, chapters short and the characters felt authentic and real. Developments happen quickly and there were some great twists which kept me guessing. Most of the book is written to show the police investigation but there are also some chapters from the killer's perspective to increase tension and mystery.
The dynamic between the police characters sparkles and fizzes with humour, respect and compassion. There are several references (but no spoilers) to previous victims to show the continuing emotional effect on the police characters. Morgan is a great detective and her fearless attitude to policing gets her into the thick of the action and puts her frequently in danger!
Two Broken Girls is a very enjoyable police procedural and crime thriller with fab lead characters.
Two Broken Girls is the 13th book in the Morgan Brookes series of crime thriller/police procedurals set in the Lake District.
The day begins badly with the discovery of a murdered college student. Then another student arrives at the police station to report her best friend missing. On the way to investigate, Morgan is in a car crash swerving to avoid a third student who runs into the road begging for help. The police are stretched as they attempt to solve three crimes simultaneously.
I absolutely raced through this book, couldn't put it down (my only complaint is that it was over too soon). The plot is fast paced, chapters short and the characters felt authentic and real. Developments happen quickly and there were some great twists which kept me guessing. Most of the book is written to show the police investigation but there are also some chapters from the killer's perspective to increase tension and mystery.
The dynamic between the police characters sparkles and fizzes with humour, respect and compassion. There are several references (but no spoilers) to previous victims to show the continuing emotional effect on the police characters. Morgan is a great detective and her fearless attitude to policing gets her into the thick of the action and puts her frequently in danger!
Two Broken Girls is a very enjoyable police procedural and crime thriller with fab lead characters.
October 20, 2024
I had high expectations as I started this one and was not let down.
I love how Morgan is a walking ball of trouble, yet also a great detective. She finds herself into more of it than you would think possible. While I love a good police procedural, this is as much about the team as the case. There is both good and bad news for someone on the team. Their relationships are growing and strengthening. In addition to Morgan and her expert trouble seeking, there are a couple of other members that end up a little out of sorts. And through that, the team is supporting each other while tirelessly working to solve the case.
It’s fast paced and kept me guessing through plenty of suspects and some turns along the way. The plot is complex and layered and at one moment I had to go back a little and reread because my mind ventured off a little and I missed an important piece of information. I am sure my mind wanders on occasion, but I rarely go back to catch every detail.
There is also just a smidge of humor to give a break from the seriousness of the case.
This series is definitely on my list of must read series and I always look forward for the next installment. And though this is book 13 in the series, it can easily be picked up without reading the rest of the series. The author provides everything you need to follow and enjoy. But once you read it, you’ll want to go back and read the rest.
I love how Morgan is a walking ball of trouble, yet also a great detective. She finds herself into more of it than you would think possible. While I love a good police procedural, this is as much about the team as the case. There is both good and bad news for someone on the team. Their relationships are growing and strengthening. In addition to Morgan and her expert trouble seeking, there are a couple of other members that end up a little out of sorts. And through that, the team is supporting each other while tirelessly working to solve the case.
It’s fast paced and kept me guessing through plenty of suspects and some turns along the way. The plot is complex and layered and at one moment I had to go back a little and reread because my mind ventured off a little and I missed an important piece of information. I am sure my mind wanders on occasion, but I rarely go back to catch every detail.
There is also just a smidge of humor to give a break from the seriousness of the case.
This series is definitely on my list of must read series and I always look forward for the next installment. And though this is book 13 in the series, it can easily be picked up without reading the rest of the series. The author provides everything you need to follow and enjoy. But once you read it, you’ll want to go back and read the rest.
September 12, 2024
I sometimes wonder why do we have to sleep? I was deeply immersed in this gritty book and I did not want to put it down. When I realised it was already 1 in the morning, I reluctantly closed my Kindle and hoped the night would go fast so I could pick it back up the next day. Maybe it was my fault because I started to read in the late afternoon, but who can wait when this book is their next read?
The next day nothing could stop me diving back into the story following Morgan like a shadow because I just don't want to miss a thing.
Morgan is a great character. She does not have to make any effort because trouble will find her again and again. But that is what she lives for: helping people in any way she can and if that puts her in danger, so be it. She will never back off and there is only one way to go for her: straight ahead.
The police team is fabulous too. I love their interactions and the bond between them even though there are a few they would throttle happily sometimes.
I have a soft spot for Kane. He really is a big strong man with a big soft and warm heart. I can understand that Morgan feels a lot better after he has given her one of his bear hugs. :)
A story that is suspenseful and there is as per usual no waste of space by including details that don't add anything to the story. Perfect read. 5 stars
Thank you
The next day nothing could stop me diving back into the story following Morgan like a shadow because I just don't want to miss a thing.
Morgan is a great character. She does not have to make any effort because trouble will find her again and again. But that is what she lives for: helping people in any way she can and if that puts her in danger, so be it. She will never back off and there is only one way to go for her: straight ahead.
The police team is fabulous too. I love their interactions and the bond between them even though there are a few they would throttle happily sometimes.
I have a soft spot for Kane. He really is a big strong man with a big soft and warm heart. I can understand that Morgan feels a lot better after he has given her one of his bear hugs. :)
A story that is suspenseful and there is as per usual no waste of space by including details that don't add anything to the story. Perfect read. 5 stars
Thank you
October 9, 2024
Two Broken Girls
Helen Phifer
October 17, 2024
Down by the river banks of Rydal Falls a dog walker runs after Tumbles who has taken the lead. Arthur chases after the pup but he continues on, his nose bent on finding the scent ahead. Upon the discovery of his K-9, he sees the problem. A young girl lies in the river bed, her blue nail polish glistening. Calls to the police soon brought chaos to the area. Among them Ben and his lead detective, Morgan Brookes enter the scene. The girl lying on the forest floor is none other than the college miss who waits on their staff daily. It is Melody Carrick. The college student and daughter of the cafe owner.
Two Broken Girls will be published on October 17, 2024 by bookouture. This is Phifer’s thirteenth novel in the Detective Morgan Brookes series. Each has been excellent suspense novels. They bring us a different mystery from the English towns in the river area. This latest finds the local police questioning drivers of white SUVs that seem to be seen within the realms of the college and the area where some of the students live. Phifer gives readers another nailbiter. She never lets the cause or the assailant into view until the finale. Such an incredible series. I have read all 13 so far and look forward to her next. Enjoy her latest!
Helen Phifer
October 17, 2024
Down by the river banks of Rydal Falls a dog walker runs after Tumbles who has taken the lead. Arthur chases after the pup but he continues on, his nose bent on finding the scent ahead. Upon the discovery of his K-9, he sees the problem. A young girl lies in the river bed, her blue nail polish glistening. Calls to the police soon brought chaos to the area. Among them Ben and his lead detective, Morgan Brookes enter the scene. The girl lying on the forest floor is none other than the college miss who waits on their staff daily. It is Melody Carrick. The college student and daughter of the cafe owner.
Two Broken Girls will be published on October 17, 2024 by bookouture. This is Phifer’s thirteenth novel in the Detective Morgan Brookes series. Each has been excellent suspense novels. They bring us a different mystery from the English towns in the river area. This latest finds the local police questioning drivers of white SUVs that seem to be seen within the realms of the college and the area where some of the students live. Phifer gives readers another nailbiter. She never lets the cause or the assailant into view until the finale. Such an incredible series. I have read all 13 so far and look forward to her next. Enjoy her latest!
October 16, 2024
Two Broken Girls by Helen Phifer is the thirteenth book of this excellent Detective Morgan Brookes and what an excellent book this was. All Helen's books have been a 5 star read and this latest book was no different. WoW, it was full of twists and turns throughout which made this book a great page turner from start to finish and I ended up hooked and stuck on my chair most of the day reading it. Before I knew it, it was dinner time for my dogs wanting their dinner!
Melody Carrick lifeless body was found murdered on the riverbank. Morgan and Ben are called to the scene and they need to work fast to find out who murdered her. This murder is too close to home, as Melody is the daughter of Jade, Morgans beloved coffee shop owner.
Then another girls goes missing. The clock is ticking and they need to find out where this missing teenager is before its too late!
Morgan and her team are working around the clock to solve the murder of Melody Carrick and hopefully not another murder of this missing teenager.
To make things more complicated for Morgan and her team, another teen accuses her mother's boyfriend of kidnapping her best friend.
The team is frantic and pulled in all directions.
WoW.......This book was excellent. You can easily read it as a standalone. 5 stars.
Helen's books are remarkable and I highly recommend all of these. Superb!
Melody Carrick lifeless body was found murdered on the riverbank. Morgan and Ben are called to the scene and they need to work fast to find out who murdered her. This murder is too close to home, as Melody is the daughter of Jade, Morgans beloved coffee shop owner.
Then another girls goes missing. The clock is ticking and they need to find out where this missing teenager is before its too late!
Morgan and her team are working around the clock to solve the murder of Melody Carrick and hopefully not another murder of this missing teenager.
To make things more complicated for Morgan and her team, another teen accuses her mother's boyfriend of kidnapping her best friend.
The team is frantic and pulled in all directions.
WoW.......This book was excellent. You can easily read it as a standalone. 5 stars.
Helen's books are remarkable and I highly recommend all of these. Superb!
September 22, 2024
Two Broken Girls (Detective Morgan Brookes Book 13) by Helen Phifer is so good!
On the banks of the River Rothay, as the first rays of sunshine hit the fast-flowing water, Melody Carrick’s body lies lifeless, red strangulation marks where her gold cross necklace used to hang. Detective Morgan Brookes is certain the killer was surprised by early-morning dog walkers, and she won’t rest until she unearths the evidence she needs to stop his next attack.
But before Morgan has a chance to attend the post-mortem, seventeen-year-old Paige Evans rushes into the police station, claiming her stepfather Alan kidnapped her best friend. He has an old wooden box full of jewelry that she believes are trophies. Morgan’s blood runs cold: Melody’s necklace is tangled up in the chains.
Two Broken Birls is a twisty mystery and such a good crime thriller. I really enjoy Morgan Brookes and her team. I like how the author slowly unravels the suspense and mystery and throws in some red herrings that had my head swiveling because I couldn't keep up with who was involved and what would happen.
I love this series and am looking forward to more. A great addition to the series.
#TwoBrokenGirls #NetGalley @bookouture
On the banks of the River Rothay, as the first rays of sunshine hit the fast-flowing water, Melody Carrick’s body lies lifeless, red strangulation marks where her gold cross necklace used to hang. Detective Morgan Brookes is certain the killer was surprised by early-morning dog walkers, and she won’t rest until she unearths the evidence she needs to stop his next attack.
But before Morgan has a chance to attend the post-mortem, seventeen-year-old Paige Evans rushes into the police station, claiming her stepfather Alan kidnapped her best friend. He has an old wooden box full of jewelry that she believes are trophies. Morgan’s blood runs cold: Melody’s necklace is tangled up in the chains.
Two Broken Birls is a twisty mystery and such a good crime thriller. I really enjoy Morgan Brookes and her team. I like how the author slowly unravels the suspense and mystery and throws in some red herrings that had my head swiveling because I couldn't keep up with who was involved and what would happen.
I love this series and am looking forward to more. A great addition to the series.
#TwoBrokenGirls #NetGalley @bookouture
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