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Detective Megan Carpenter #4
Stillwater Island
Alternate cover edition of this ASIN B09FYF6SRB can be found here
“Mommy, I’m scared.” Marlena’s precious boy lies with his little arm thrown over her thigh. It’s pitch-black, and she can hear seagulls. She realises they must be near water, and a new panic rises in her.
At 2 a.m. one icy winter morning, in the smart suburbs of Jefferson County, local father Ben Parker reports his wife Marlena and their little boy missing.
Rushing to the impressive family home, Detective Megan Carpenter finds the halls adorned with pictures of the beautiful, stay-at-home mom and their bright-eyed son. But that’s not all she finds…
A bottle of prenatal vitamins in the bathroom cabinet reveal that Marlena is pregnant. Why didn’t Ben mention this in his panicked call to the police?
Digging deeper into their seemingly perfect marriage, Megan’s fear begins to grow. The couple are separated, there’s talk of an affair, and the neighbors report loud fights. And then, Megan tracks a young woman believed to be Ben’s secret girlfriend, only to find her lifeless body in a secluded wood.
Ben’s watch lies in the undergrowth, and Megan’s team think she’s cracked the case, but she’s sure something’s not right. Ben’s family has wealth including a private island, and connections in high places. Is someone trying to block their investigation?
As Megan starts to wonder if the answer lies on the Parkers’ closely guarded island, just offshore, a shocking revelation makes her question everything. With a killer on the loose, can Megan find the missing pieces to the most complex case of her career and bring Marlena and her little boy home alive? Or will it be too late to save them?
Previously titled Vanishing Point
“Mommy, I’m scared.” Marlena’s precious boy lies with his little arm thrown over her thigh. It’s pitch-black, and she can hear seagulls. She realises they must be near water, and a new panic rises in her.
At 2 a.m. one icy winter morning, in the smart suburbs of Jefferson County, local father Ben Parker reports his wife Marlena and their little boy missing.
Rushing to the impressive family home, Detective Megan Carpenter finds the halls adorned with pictures of the beautiful, stay-at-home mom and their bright-eyed son. But that’s not all she finds…
A bottle of prenatal vitamins in the bathroom cabinet reveal that Marlena is pregnant. Why didn’t Ben mention this in his panicked call to the police?
Digging deeper into their seemingly perfect marriage, Megan’s fear begins to grow. The couple are separated, there’s talk of an affair, and the neighbors report loud fights. And then, Megan tracks a young woman believed to be Ben’s secret girlfriend, only to find her lifeless body in a secluded wood.
Ben’s watch lies in the undergrowth, and Megan’s team think she’s cracked the case, but she’s sure something’s not right. Ben’s family has wealth including a private island, and connections in high places. Is someone trying to block their investigation?
As Megan starts to wonder if the answer lies on the Parkers’ closely guarded island, just offshore, a shocking revelation makes her question everything. With a killer on the loose, can Megan find the missing pieces to the most complex case of her career and bring Marlena and her little boy home alive? Or will it be too late to save them?
Previously titled Vanishing Point
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 7, 2021
4016 people are currently reading
1905 people want to read
About the author
Gregg Olsen
116 books7,087 followersThroughout his career, Gregg Olsen has demonstrated an ability to create a detailed narrative that offers readers fascinating insights into the lives of people caught in extraordinary circumstances.
A #1 New York Times bestselling author, Olsen has written ten nonfiction books, ten novels, and contributed a short story to a collection edited by Lee Child.
The award-winning author has been a guest on dozens of national and local television shows, including educational programs for the History Channel, Learning Channel, and Discovery Channel. He has also appeared on Good Morning America, The Early Show, The Today Show, FOX News; CNN, Anderson Cooper 360, MSNBC, Entertainment Tonight, CBS 48 Hours, Oxygen’s Snapped, Court TV’s Crier Live, Inside Edition, Extra, Access Hollywood, and A&E’s Biography.
In addition to television and radio appearances, the award-winning author has been featured in Redbook, USA Today, People, Salon magazine, Seattle Times, Los Angeles Times and the New York Post.
The Deep Dark was named Idaho Book of the Year by the ILA and Starvation Heights was honored by Washington’s Secretary of State for the book’s contribution to Washington state history and culture.
Olsen, a Seattle native, lives in Olalla, Washington with his wife and Suri (a mini dachshund so spoiled she wears a sweater).
A #1 New York Times bestselling author, Olsen has written ten nonfiction books, ten novels, and contributed a short story to a collection edited by Lee Child.
The award-winning author has been a guest on dozens of national and local television shows, including educational programs for the History Channel, Learning Channel, and Discovery Channel. He has also appeared on Good Morning America, The Early Show, The Today Show, FOX News; CNN, Anderson Cooper 360, MSNBC, Entertainment Tonight, CBS 48 Hours, Oxygen’s Snapped, Court TV’s Crier Live, Inside Edition, Extra, Access Hollywood, and A&E’s Biography.
In addition to television and radio appearances, the award-winning author has been featured in Redbook, USA Today, People, Salon magazine, Seattle Times, Los Angeles Times and the New York Post.
The Deep Dark was named Idaho Book of the Year by the ILA and Starvation Heights was honored by Washington’s Secretary of State for the book’s contribution to Washington state history and culture.
Olsen, a Seattle native, lives in Olalla, Washington with his wife and Suri (a mini dachshund so spoiled she wears a sweater).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 214 reviews
November 24, 2021
This fourth book in Gregg Olsen's Detective Megan Carpenter series centres around a missing woman and her four year old son. Megan is called out in the early hours of the morning by the woman's husband Ben who last saw them a week ago when he and his wife had a blazing row and he moved out. Megan is immediately suspicious of Ben who is evasive in answering her questions and doesn't seem that concerned about his missing wife and child. His ongoing behaviour in lying to her and avoiding straight answers leads her to be convinced he knows something about their disappearance but finding enough evidence to arrest him proves to be a problem.
This episode is slower in pace that the first three books of the series, focussing solely on the missing woman and child. While Megan seemed somewhat blinkered, focussing mainly on Ben without considering other suspects, this is probably what would happen in the real world under the circumstances, especially with a slippery, slimy character like Ben.
I enjoyed seeing the ongoing development of Megan's new partner Ronnie, as well as Megan's growing appreciation of her and the banter that is developing between the two of them. Megan is a great character, strong but flawed, not always playing by the rules (much to her Sheriff's chagrin) but always on the side of justice and the victim. I found the flashbacks to her own childhood and tapes made with her psychologist a tad repetitive now we're into the fourth book, as she is becoming more confident in her own ability and should be moving on from the past and putting her demons to rest. Despite the slower pace, the book is an engrossing read with plenty of action in the twisty finale.
With thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a copy to read
This episode is slower in pace that the first three books of the series, focussing solely on the missing woman and child. While Megan seemed somewhat blinkered, focussing mainly on Ben without considering other suspects, this is probably what would happen in the real world under the circumstances, especially with a slippery, slimy character like Ben.
I enjoyed seeing the ongoing development of Megan's new partner Ronnie, as well as Megan's growing appreciation of her and the banter that is developing between the two of them. Megan is a great character, strong but flawed, not always playing by the rules (much to her Sheriff's chagrin) but always on the side of justice and the victim. I found the flashbacks to her own childhood and tapes made with her psychologist a tad repetitive now we're into the fourth book, as she is becoming more confident in her own ability and should be moving on from the past and putting her demons to rest. Despite the slower pace, the book is an engrossing read with plenty of action in the twisty finale.
With thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a copy to read
October 12, 2021
The Megan Carpenter series has been and continues to be a decent police procedural, although I’ve been less enthralled with books 3&4 than the first two. Megan has a violent backstory and the reader is given glimpses into it. But for a true sense of understanding, this should not be read as a stand-alone. This is a series best read in order.
This time, Megan is called out at 2 AM for a missing person report on a mother and child. The husband is the one to call it in, but turns out the parents are separated and have a history of domestic violence. And, oh, he’s squirrelly as all get out. And the more I learned about him, the more I wanted him to be guilty, the same as Megan.
The book does a good job of keeping the reader in suspense and moving along at a brisk pace. I liked that Olsen allowed Megan to be fixated on a single suspect, which so often happens with real policing. I would have been the same. The ending wasn’t a surprise, because any good mystery reader expects a twist at the end.
Both Megan and Ronnie are well written characters. It’s been especially fun to see how they are bonding as partners. I was less interested in the bad guys, who took on cliched qualities.
Once again, I fault the publisher for giving away too much in the synopsis and recommend going into this one blind.
My thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of this book.
This time, Megan is called out at 2 AM for a missing person report on a mother and child. The husband is the one to call it in, but turns out the parents are separated and have a history of domestic violence. And, oh, he’s squirrelly as all get out. And the more I learned about him, the more I wanted him to be guilty, the same as Megan.
The book does a good job of keeping the reader in suspense and moving along at a brisk pace. I liked that Olsen allowed Megan to be fixated on a single suspect, which so often happens with real policing. I would have been the same. The ending wasn’t a surprise, because any good mystery reader expects a twist at the end.
Both Megan and Ronnie are well written characters. It’s been especially fun to see how they are bonding as partners. I was less interested in the bad guys, who took on cliched qualities.
Once again, I fault the publisher for giving away too much in the synopsis and recommend going into this one blind.
My thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of this book.
February 17, 2022
This is book 4 in the Megan Carpenter series and probably the best so far. Compared to the prior instalments this one is not as graphic and Megan spends less time dwelling on the past.
Megan and her work partner Ronnie become involved in the disappearance of a little boy and his mother, Marlena. Right from the start there is something 'not quite right' with the reaction of Ben, the father/husband. As they dig deeper it appears that Ben is hiding a lot more than having possibly kidnapping his family.
Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to review this eARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
Megan and her work partner Ronnie become involved in the disappearance of a little boy and his mother, Marlena. Right from the start there is something 'not quite right' with the reaction of Ben, the father/husband. As they dig deeper it appears that Ben is hiding a lot more than having possibly kidnapping his family.
Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to review this eARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
December 20, 2021
It may be that I haven’t read the first three Megan Carpenter thrillers, but I was not as impressed with this book as the author would like me to be. I think Megan is a decent main character but the story was sometimes hard to follow with all those complicated happenings in Megan’s past, followed by the even more complicated family issues with the other two families that play a large role in this story – the family from which Marlena and Benny are missing, and the family that plays a role in Marlena’s and Megan’s family. It is hard to explain without giving too much away. I kept going back in the story to try and remember who was who and which role they played in the past and the present. The book is not bad but it could have done with less characters or less complications in past and present.
I think it’s a very good book for fans of the series doesn’t work very well as a stand alone.
Thanks to NetGalley for this review copy.
I think it’s a very good book for fans of the series doesn’t work very well as a stand alone.
Thanks to NetGalley for this review copy.
February 7, 2022
Stillwater Island (was originally to be titled Vanishing Point) by Gregg Olsen is the fourth in the Detective Megan Carpenter Tapes series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books)
Megan Carpenter is a detective in Port Townsend, Washington. Her childhood was a nightmare, with a mother who did little but lie, and a father Alex, who was a serial killer. Her uncle, Michael Rader, was just as bad. Her brother Hayden, who she tried to protect, joined the Army, and has never forgiven her for what she did. She is re-living her childhood by listening to tapes made by a therapist, who is the only one who knows her full story. As a detective, she works under her friend and mentor, Sheriff Tony Gray, and now has a young partner Detective Ronnie Marsh.
My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions)
Marlena wakes to find her asthmatic 4 year old son Bennie laying next to her. She has no idea where she is, but her thoughts keep going to the news of a few days ago, when the body of a pregnant woman and her two children were found hidden in a barrel. Marlena is pregnant too.
Megan and Ronnie are called when Ben Parker reports his wife and son missing. This case hits a little close to home for her boss, as it is Tony's niece and nephew who are missing.
Megan is determined to find them, but she is met with one lie after the next. Ben Parker does not seem to be the loving husband and father that he tries to portray. The neighbours report loud fights, there is talk of an affair, and his own father doesn't trust him.
My Opinions:
I really think these books should be read in order. Although Megan's background is repeated often (a little too often), her relationships with others builds slowly throughout the different books. I feel that reading them in order gives you a better understanding of her current life.
This was quite good, but I felt it was a little long. Olsen can be a little long winded at times, and it was evident in this book. The case brought back a lot of Megan's memories of her own life, so it often felt like I was reading two stories. But overall, both stories were interesting.
I really like Megan, and love the banter between her and Ronnie, and her and Tony. The dialog in the book is often light and "fun". Megan's relationships with her co-workers are becoming closer, and I like the characters around her.
The book showed how a first impression can sometimes create tunnel vision, and if you are stubborn (as is one of Megan's traits), it can create problems. The book also delved into families, and how not every family is perfect. I'm hoping a little honesty between Megan and her brother will surface soon....although I have wished that before.
Anyway, the twists were good (although a little predictable), and the overall plot was good. As always, the writing was straight-forward.
I am looking forward to the next in the series!
BTW, not sure where the title came from?
For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
January 5, 2022
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Stillwater Island' by Gregg Olsen.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Gregg Olsen, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 7th December 2021.
This is the first book I have read by this author. It was previously titled 'Vanishing Point'.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful cover and intriguing sounding synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'Perfect for fans of Robert Dugoni, Michael Connelly and James Patterson.' I am a fan of James Patterson so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue, 63 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in the USA 🇺🇸.
This book is written in a mix of third and first person perspective and the main protagonist is Detective Megan Carpenter. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. If there are several protagonists you also get to see more of what is going on. The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything. To have the benefit of both first and third person perspective ensures you don't miss out on anything.
'Stillwater Island' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Gregg discusses/includes a child in distress.
OMG!!! WOW!!! JUST WOW!!! GREGG WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN ALL MY LIFE?!?!? ONE OF THE BEST SERIES' I'VE EVER READ!!!
This book is written in such a fantastic and vivid way that Gregg just has the reader hook, line and sinker. You don't only see what is going on around you but you hear the water lapping and feel the tension and suspense throughout. This book was previously called 'Vanishing Pont' but the title was changed to 'Stillwater Island' which I also think suits it perfectly along with the cover and synopsis.
I was completely hooked from the first page until the last. This really is a series you can sink your teeth into. It is absolutely rammed full of suspense, lies, secrets, tension, explosive revelations and so so much more, absolutely everything you could want in a psychological thriller. You start off with the one storyline but as you continue into the depth of the pages more are revealed until you have layer upon layer of mystery and you get completely absorbed by it all. This book was completely unputdownable and I cannot believe it has taken me so long to find this fantastic author!! I have already added previous books onto my wishlist and am looking forward to future ones too. I would love to see this book turned into a movie which is guaranteed to be a block buster!! This has got to be one of the best books I have read. The atmosphere had a gothic dark feel to me, especially on the Island and I just became completely absorbed until I came to the last page which definitely left me wanting more. Many of the chapters left you on a cliffhanger so I could not just end on one or two more and stayed up until early hours of the morning addicted.
Although this is the fourth book in the series I had absolutely no problems reading it without the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.
It is always worrying when starting a new series as you have no idea who the characters are. It is very important for me to bond with not only the lead protagonists but I find it important that I get along with other members of the team too. In this case I am pleased to say that I had absolutely nothing to worry about!!
Each of the characters were realistic, strong and each one came to life for me. Omg Meg!!! I absolutely LOVE MEG!!! There were so many times I jist had to tell my partner, who does not read, about her I actually lost count. The biggest shock was that he also fell on love with her and actually said it sounded like something he could sink his teeth into. I never thought I would say this but Meg is actually on par with Kim Stone who has always been my favourite female lead. The fact that she is female is always a bonus for me, being female myself I always enjoy meeting strong female roles. It is not often I have read a book by a male authour who has gotten the female lead so perfect but Gregg you have managed it!! Meg has made me laugh so many times. She is feisty, kick butt, takes no attitude, sarcastic and sometimes a downright b***h but OMG I ABSOLUTELY LOVE HER!! One of the best things about her is that although you see this hard she'll to her you know she has a sad past and is vulnerable but rather than it tearing her down you can see she has built herself up on it. It wasn't only Meg who made this book for me but also her partner Ronnie who, although seems to be the complete opposite to Megan and is sweet and caring it is fantastic to see how, not only is Meg so obviously rubbing off on her but how they make such an amazing team together even being opposites. I also adored Tony who was an absolutely fantastic boss and knew when to help Megan and Ronnie out but also when to have a stern word. This is a team I cannot wait to meet again over and over!!
ABSOLUTELY LOVE, LOVE, LOVED THIS BOOK AND AM WAITING IMPATIENTLY FOR THE NEXT ADDICTIVE BOOK!!!
A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS TO GREGG WHO HAS JUST MADE NOT ONLY MY TOP 3 MALE AUTHOR LIST BUT ALSO MY TOP 3 SERIES LIST!!!
Overall an absolutely addictive, heart racing, page turning book with one absolutely amazing sarcastic and hilarious female lead. A definite must read!!!
Some of my favourite quotes/sentences in this book include the following:
😂 Way too many too list but this one especially tickled me..
"“You don’t know anything. Do you think this is a book where the bad # tells it all at the end? You’re so full of crap.” I've # a word not to give anything away and spoil anything for future readers.
Genres covered in this book include Mystery, Thriller, Suspense, Psychological Thriller, Hardboiled, Psychological Fiction and Police Procedural amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Robert Dugoni, Michael Connelly and James Patterson.
360 pages.
This book is just £2.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#StillwaterIsland #Bookouture #GreggOlsen #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@GreggOlsen @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Review for 'Stillwater Island' by Gregg Olsen.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Gregg Olsen, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 7th December 2021.
This is the first book I have read by this author. It was previously titled 'Vanishing Point'.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful cover and intriguing sounding synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'Perfect for fans of Robert Dugoni, Michael Connelly and James Patterson.' I am a fan of James Patterson so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue, 63 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in the USA 🇺🇸.
This book is written in a mix of third and first person perspective and the main protagonist is Detective Megan Carpenter. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. If there are several protagonists you also get to see more of what is going on. The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything. To have the benefit of both first and third person perspective ensures you don't miss out on anything.
'Stillwater Island' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Gregg discusses/includes a child in distress.
OMG!!! WOW!!! JUST WOW!!! GREGG WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN ALL MY LIFE?!?!? ONE OF THE BEST SERIES' I'VE EVER READ!!!
This book is written in such a fantastic and vivid way that Gregg just has the reader hook, line and sinker. You don't only see what is going on around you but you hear the water lapping and feel the tension and suspense throughout. This book was previously called 'Vanishing Pont' but the title was changed to 'Stillwater Island' which I also think suits it perfectly along with the cover and synopsis.
I was completely hooked from the first page until the last. This really is a series you can sink your teeth into. It is absolutely rammed full of suspense, lies, secrets, tension, explosive revelations and so so much more, absolutely everything you could want in a psychological thriller. You start off with the one storyline but as you continue into the depth of the pages more are revealed until you have layer upon layer of mystery and you get completely absorbed by it all. This book was completely unputdownable and I cannot believe it has taken me so long to find this fantastic author!! I have already added previous books onto my wishlist and am looking forward to future ones too. I would love to see this book turned into a movie which is guaranteed to be a block buster!! This has got to be one of the best books I have read. The atmosphere had a gothic dark feel to me, especially on the Island and I just became completely absorbed until I came to the last page which definitely left me wanting more. Many of the chapters left you on a cliffhanger so I could not just end on one or two more and stayed up until early hours of the morning addicted.
Although this is the fourth book in the series I had absolutely no problems reading it without the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.
It is always worrying when starting a new series as you have no idea who the characters are. It is very important for me to bond with not only the lead protagonists but I find it important that I get along with other members of the team too. In this case I am pleased to say that I had absolutely nothing to worry about!!
Each of the characters were realistic, strong and each one came to life for me. Omg Meg!!! I absolutely LOVE MEG!!! There were so many times I jist had to tell my partner, who does not read, about her I actually lost count. The biggest shock was that he also fell on love with her and actually said it sounded like something he could sink his teeth into. I never thought I would say this but Meg is actually on par with Kim Stone who has always been my favourite female lead. The fact that she is female is always a bonus for me, being female myself I always enjoy meeting strong female roles. It is not often I have read a book by a male authour who has gotten the female lead so perfect but Gregg you have managed it!! Meg has made me laugh so many times. She is feisty, kick butt, takes no attitude, sarcastic and sometimes a downright b***h but OMG I ABSOLUTELY LOVE HER!! One of the best things about her is that although you see this hard she'll to her you know she has a sad past and is vulnerable but rather than it tearing her down you can see she has built herself up on it. It wasn't only Meg who made this book for me but also her partner Ronnie who, although seems to be the complete opposite to Megan and is sweet and caring it is fantastic to see how, not only is Meg so obviously rubbing off on her but how they make such an amazing team together even being opposites. I also adored Tony who was an absolutely fantastic boss and knew when to help Megan and Ronnie out but also when to have a stern word. This is a team I cannot wait to meet again over and over!!
ABSOLUTELY LOVE, LOVE, LOVED THIS BOOK AND AM WAITING IMPATIENTLY FOR THE NEXT ADDICTIVE BOOK!!!
A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS TO GREGG WHO HAS JUST MADE NOT ONLY MY TOP 3 MALE AUTHOR LIST BUT ALSO MY TOP 3 SERIES LIST!!!
Overall an absolutely addictive, heart racing, page turning book with one absolutely amazing sarcastic and hilarious female lead. A definite must read!!!
Some of my favourite quotes/sentences in this book include the following:
😂 Way too many too list but this one especially tickled me..
"“You don’t know anything. Do you think this is a book where the bad # tells it all at the end? You’re so full of crap.” I've # a word not to give anything away and spoil anything for future readers.
Genres covered in this book include Mystery, Thriller, Suspense, Psychological Thriller, Hardboiled, Psychological Fiction and Police Procedural amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Robert Dugoni, Michael Connelly and James Patterson.
360 pages.
This book is just £2.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#StillwaterIsland #Bookouture #GreggOlsen #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@GreggOlsen @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
October 17, 2021
This is the fourth in a series featuring Detective Megan Carpenter, but it's a first for me. I had no trouble following the story, though I suppose I'd like to have learned more about Megan's deeply troubled past (which no doubt was detailed in previous books). This one begins as Megan and partner Ronnie Marsh are informed that a husband has called in to report his wife and son missing. But almost from the git-go, the husband, Ben Parker, becomes the prime suspect; he and his missing wife have a history of domestic violence (he recently moved out), and he has a beautiful girlfriend. Worse, he tells lie after lie to the police.
Therein, I think, lies my only "issue" with the story; led by Megan and Ronnie, both of whom are convinced that Ben is guilty, set out to prove themselves right rather than seriously investigating others as, to me at least, is required of professional law enforcement officers. On the other hand, almost no one else likes Ben, either - including his filthy rich father, who literally owns an entire island. When Ben's girlfriend turns up dead, well, the case against Ben grows even stronger.
As in any good police procedural, few things are as they seem - and the race to find the missing mother and son (as well as who, if anyone, kidnapped them) and whether or not, or to what extent, Ben was involved provides for an engaging adventure right to the end. Thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for giving me the opportunity to read a pre-release copy.
Therein, I think, lies my only "issue" with the story; led by Megan and Ronnie, both of whom are convinced that Ben is guilty, set out to prove themselves right rather than seriously investigating others as, to me at least, is required of professional law enforcement officers. On the other hand, almost no one else likes Ben, either - including his filthy rich father, who literally owns an entire island. When Ben's girlfriend turns up dead, well, the case against Ben grows even stronger.
As in any good police procedural, few things are as they seem - and the race to find the missing mother and son (as well as who, if anyone, kidnapped them) and whether or not, or to what extent, Ben was involved provides for an engaging adventure right to the end. Thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for giving me the opportunity to read a pre-release copy.
December 10, 2021
Detective Megan Carpenter has kept her job despite a rather murky past. Often triggered by childhood memories, Megan still manages to fully invest herself into her latest case - that of missing mother Marlena and her little boy. Megan and her team were made aware of the disturbing situation by Marlena's husband Ben. Despite his apparently grave concern, per normal, he is the prime suspect until and if facts prove otherwise.
Megan is worried from the outset. For one thing, the child has asthma. Also, when going through their home, Megan spots prenatal vitamins. A sick child and a pregnant mother. Time is definitely of the essence.
The more Megan talks to Ben, the more she is sure of his guilt. How to prove it is another thing entirely. When it is discovered that Ben has not been living at home with is family, and in fact, has a girlfriend, Megan is even more sure of his guilt. Other disturbing facts start to be made clear along the way.
Stillwater Island is the exciting and equally thrilling fourth book in the Detective Megan Carpenter series. Megan is a complex character, and readers are often privy to her dark thoughts while she works her difficult cases. However, despite a rather difficult and impossible to forget past, Megan proves that she is worthy of being a detective and works hard at her job. I love her grit and her attitude. This book was definitely a page-turner and I was on tenterhooks from the very first page. I cannot wait for the next book in the series.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Megan is worried from the outset. For one thing, the child has asthma. Also, when going through their home, Megan spots prenatal vitamins. A sick child and a pregnant mother. Time is definitely of the essence.
The more Megan talks to Ben, the more she is sure of his guilt. How to prove it is another thing entirely. When it is discovered that Ben has not been living at home with is family, and in fact, has a girlfriend, Megan is even more sure of his guilt. Other disturbing facts start to be made clear along the way.
Stillwater Island is the exciting and equally thrilling fourth book in the Detective Megan Carpenter series. Megan is a complex character, and readers are often privy to her dark thoughts while she works her difficult cases. However, despite a rather difficult and impossible to forget past, Megan proves that she is worthy of being a detective and works hard at her job. I love her grit and her attitude. This book was definitely a page-turner and I was on tenterhooks from the very first page. I cannot wait for the next book in the series.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
December 8, 2021
Stillwater Island by Gregg Olsen
I give this book 4.5 stars
She slumps against the cold concrete wall with her precious boy lying stretched out next to her, his little arm thrown over her thigh. Someone stirs in the deep shadows of the room, stands over them and whispers, “that’s right. Sleep. It will all be over soon,” before bolting the door shut.
Book 5 in a series but can be read as a standalone as mentions of the backstory are neatly sprinkled in.
Gregg Olsens writing style is addictive he draws you into each dark,twisted and suspenseful instalment of this police based series and leaves you wanting more.The characters relationships and their own stories and dynamics especially Megan and Ronnie are just as important to me as the crimes they are investigating!
A binge worthy series!
Thank you to Netgalley,Gregg Olsen and Bookouture for my chance to read and review this series
I give this book 4.5 stars
She slumps against the cold concrete wall with her precious boy lying stretched out next to her, his little arm thrown over her thigh. Someone stirs in the deep shadows of the room, stands over them and whispers, “that’s right. Sleep. It will all be over soon,” before bolting the door shut.
Book 5 in a series but can be read as a standalone as mentions of the backstory are neatly sprinkled in.
Gregg Olsens writing style is addictive he draws you into each dark,twisted and suspenseful instalment of this police based series and leaves you wanting more.The characters relationships and their own stories and dynamics especially Megan and Ronnie are just as important to me as the crimes they are investigating!
A binge worthy series!
Thank you to Netgalley,Gregg Olsen and Bookouture for my chance to read and review this series
October 15, 2021
Wow, this book had me gripped from the beginning until the end. What a well thought out and clever story, I thoroughly enjoyed this. I had not ready the first three books in this series before I started and wondered if this would affect they way I perceived this book but I should not have worried. Megan Carpenter is a great character, a strong woman dealing with her own demons, but I loved her and delighted in getting to know her as the book moved forward. The story and plot are strong and this was another book I found myself reading to the early hours when I should have been sleeping. I would highly recommend this book to others. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read the book in exchange for an honest review.
January 11, 2023
Megan & Ronnie are one of the best detective duos in a very long time. They're different but in s refreshingly unique way. Stillwater Island was a great book in this series. I've always loved Gregg Olsens book's for the no-nonsense & tell it as it is style of writing. Stillwater Island was it, but something felt off-ish compared to the previous books in the series. Maybe it was because there was a person of interest offered right up in the first few chapters. This is the only reason for a 4star review. But if you've read any of the previous Megan Carpenter books you will know nothing is as it seems. The plot was as outrageous as the characters in the book - in a good way offcourse. Megan's internal monologues throughout the book are the best reading material! The twist/suspense at the end was surprising. This wasn't as nail-biting as the other books in this series but it was a good one time read!
I can't wait for the next adventures Megan & Ronnie go on! Thank you Netgalley, Bookouture & Gregg Olsen for this arc!
I can't wait for the next adventures Megan & Ronnie go on! Thank you Netgalley, Bookouture & Gregg Olsen for this arc!
December 13, 2021
I have not read previous books in this series - I did not have an issue keeping up with the characters, nuances, etc. It may have enhanced my understanding of Megan but did not hold me back.
Megan is called to the house of Marlena and her son Bennie - they have gone missing. The husband, Ben, called the police; due to a recent separation, Ben has been staying at the cabin. Not only does his behavior seem off to Megan, Ben can't pinpoint the day they could have vanished.
Together, Ronnie and Megan begin their investigation - Ben, the son of a wealthy businessman; Cyrus, Ben's father; Helen, Megan's mother; neighbors.
Marlena had few friends - typical in a controlling and possibly abusive relationship. Ben failed to mention Marlena is pregnant.
Great characters - I really enjoy Megan's blunt, make it happen regardless of the rules personality. Looking forward to the next in the series.
Megan is called to the house of Marlena and her son Bennie - they have gone missing. The husband, Ben, called the police; due to a recent separation, Ben has been staying at the cabin. Not only does his behavior seem off to Megan, Ben can't pinpoint the day they could have vanished.
Together, Ronnie and Megan begin their investigation - Ben, the son of a wealthy businessman; Cyrus, Ben's father; Helen, Megan's mother; neighbors.
Marlena had few friends - typical in a controlling and possibly abusive relationship. Ben failed to mention Marlena is pregnant.
Great characters - I really enjoy Megan's blunt, make it happen regardless of the rules personality. Looking forward to the next in the series.
December 19, 2021
This is the 4th book in this series but it’s my first and also the first by this author and WOW!!
It started with a bang- with the first page being right there with the kidnapped victims and her son.
The storyline was great and I must admit I feel like I preferred Ronnie - Megan’s partner and up and coming detective protégée than Megan herself. Perhaps - and I’m only guessing here that I would be more empathetic to Megan if I had read the first 3 books but I think the author does a great job in giving us her back story succinctly here.
I felt the story got a little far fetched towards the end and lost its way. All in all a great read and I’m going to read the more by this author.
A big thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the ARC.
It started with a bang- with the first page being right there with the kidnapped victims and her son.
The storyline was great and I must admit I feel like I preferred Ronnie - Megan’s partner and up and coming detective protégée than Megan herself. Perhaps - and I’m only guessing here that I would be more empathetic to Megan if I had read the first 3 books but I think the author does a great job in giving us her back story succinctly here.
I felt the story got a little far fetched towards the end and lost its way. All in all a great read and I’m going to read the more by this author.
A big thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the ARC.
December 11, 2021
This is the fourth book in the Detective Megan Carpenter series by Gregg Olsen.
Detective Megan Carpenter from Jefferson County Sheriff's Office is called to the home of Ben Parker when he reports the disappearances of his wife Marlena and little boy, Bennie. Upon arrival, she discovers two things; Marlena is pregnant, revealed by the prenatal vitamins in the bathroom; the Parkers are separated. Who is a young woman believed to be Ben’s secret girlfriend, discovered lifeless in a secluded wood? With Deputy Ronnie Marsh as her sidekick, Megan begins to unravel the clues that will lead them to the killer, the task a little less clear-cut and far more high-risk than she could ever have expected.
The characters are compelling as well as memorable and Megan is definitely someone to cheer for. Her character feels genuine, though flawed and I like her for her determination and gutsiness. The supporting characters are all well-rounded, their relationships very believable. Stillwater Island is a fast-paced, action-packed, page-turner and the tension is ratcheted up constantly in this race against time. Gregg Olsen's writing skill shines through as he deftly negotiates a guileful storyline around a beat the clock crime investigation. Although Stillwater Island is the fourth instalment in the series, it was easily read as a standalone. Full of little gems that refine a solid plot, the story grabbed me and held on till the very end. I am inspired to read the series opener, Snow Creek, as well as excitedly anticipating book five.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
Detective Megan Carpenter from Jefferson County Sheriff's Office is called to the home of Ben Parker when he reports the disappearances of his wife Marlena and little boy, Bennie. Upon arrival, she discovers two things; Marlena is pregnant, revealed by the prenatal vitamins in the bathroom; the Parkers are separated. Who is a young woman believed to be Ben’s secret girlfriend, discovered lifeless in a secluded wood? With Deputy Ronnie Marsh as her sidekick, Megan begins to unravel the clues that will lead them to the killer, the task a little less clear-cut and far more high-risk than she could ever have expected.
The characters are compelling as well as memorable and Megan is definitely someone to cheer for. Her character feels genuine, though flawed and I like her for her determination and gutsiness. The supporting characters are all well-rounded, their relationships very believable. Stillwater Island is a fast-paced, action-packed, page-turner and the tension is ratcheted up constantly in this race against time. Gregg Olsen's writing skill shines through as he deftly negotiates a guileful storyline around a beat the clock crime investigation. Although Stillwater Island is the fourth instalment in the series, it was easily read as a standalone. Full of little gems that refine a solid plot, the story grabbed me and held on till the very end. I am inspired to read the series opener, Snow Creek, as well as excitedly anticipating book five.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
February 23, 2023
Outstanding. The best book in the Megan Carpenter series. A mother and her young son have gone missing, and all evidence points to her husband as the culprit. Enter Detective Carpenter and her partner Ronnie Marsh. The team must work quickly to try to avoid the worst possible outcome. They're all over the place, interviewing and questioning potential witnesses. The dialogue is incredible. A must read. Highly recommended.
October 7, 2024
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Mystery / Thriller
*Rating* 3.5
*Thoughts*
Stillwater Island is the Fourth installment in author Gregg Olsen's Detective Megan Carpenter's series. When Marlena Parker and her 4-year-old son Bennie go missing, Jefferson County Police Department gets the call. With partner Ronnie Marsh, who is a woman who has shown the depths to her character and her abilities, has become like family for Megan. Especially since her brother Hayden hasn't exactly been open to forgiving her for what she did in the past.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Mystery / Thriller
*Rating* 3.5
*Thoughts*
Stillwater Island is the Fourth installment in author Gregg Olsen's Detective Megan Carpenter's series. When Marlena Parker and her 4-year-old son Bennie go missing, Jefferson County Police Department gets the call. With partner Ronnie Marsh, who is a woman who has shown the depths to her character and her abilities, has become like family for Megan. Especially since her brother Hayden hasn't exactly been open to forgiving her for what she did in the past.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
December 30, 2021
This is the 4th in the crime thriller series featuring Detective Megan Carpenter and I would definitely advise the reader to check out the previous installments as those contain vital backstory information about the main character.
Washington State: A mother and son are missing and, naturally, the husband is the main suspect in this current case confronting Megan and her partner, Detective Ronnie Marsh. This is typical police procedural with the detectives honing in on the bad guy but the reader knows there is probably going to be a surprise in the mix.
I like Megan and really enjoyed the interaction between the two women detectives. Megan has quite the history and is the typical hot mess as the result of her past, but she is funny and quirky about it. The narrative moves along, but I never felt any tension or suspense -- nor was I too concerned with the Parker family.
It's a solid addition to the series but just wasn't as exciting or thrilling as expected.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review. Looks like this is my last book for 2021 and it was nice to close out on a good note.
Washington State: A mother and son are missing and, naturally, the husband is the main suspect in this current case confronting Megan and her partner, Detective Ronnie Marsh. This is typical police procedural with the detectives honing in on the bad guy but the reader knows there is probably going to be a surprise in the mix.
I like Megan and really enjoyed the interaction between the two women detectives. Megan has quite the history and is the typical hot mess as the result of her past, but she is funny and quirky about it. The narrative moves along, but I never felt any tension or suspense -- nor was I too concerned with the Parker family.
It's a solid addition to the series but just wasn't as exciting or thrilling as expected.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review. Looks like this is my last book for 2021 and it was nice to close out on a good note.
August 1, 2022
4 stars
The fourth book in the Detective Megan Carpenter series by Gregg Olsen. Megan Carpenter is a damaged woman, having had to struggle through a series of false lives before finally landing with the Sheriff's Department of Jefferson County in Washington State. Few people know much of her history and nobody knows too much, even her brother who she has just recently reconnected with. Even with her lifetime of emotional baggage, she is a top notch detective. This is another in a string of difficult cases.
She is called into a missing person case. She is wondering why she is specifically required until she learns the missing person is the Sheriff's niece and her young son. It doesn't take much time for the husband/father to come under serious suspicion but any evidence directly pointing to him is elusive.
Megan and her new partner, Ronnie, continue to work wonders together, though. It's another race to the finish to finding mother and son and the conclusion to the case.
Along the way, Megan even makes progress with her relationship with her estranged brother. Maybe, in some book soon, we'll also learn more about her mother.
The fourth book in the Detective Megan Carpenter series by Gregg Olsen. Megan Carpenter is a damaged woman, having had to struggle through a series of false lives before finally landing with the Sheriff's Department of Jefferson County in Washington State. Few people know much of her history and nobody knows too much, even her brother who she has just recently reconnected with. Even with her lifetime of emotional baggage, she is a top notch detective. This is another in a string of difficult cases.
She is called into a missing person case. She is wondering why she is specifically required until she learns the missing person is the Sheriff's niece and her young son. It doesn't take much time for the husband/father to come under serious suspicion but any evidence directly pointing to him is elusive.
Megan and her new partner, Ronnie, continue to work wonders together, though. It's another race to the finish to finding mother and son and the conclusion to the case.
Along the way, Megan even makes progress with her relationship with her estranged brother. Maybe, in some book soon, we'll also learn more about her mother.
December 10, 2021
This is another riveting police crime thriller
More of a mystery than a search for a killer.
It starts when a pregnant Mum and her son disappear
When her husband, Ben, reports it things aren't so clear.
After many loud rows, the couple are parted,
With rumours of affairs that have been started.
But now they want to know where are his wife and their son?
Megan Carpenter is determined to find them before she's done.
I really enjoyed the developing rapport
Between Megan and Ronnie as they explore
The families involved and what they all know
Who would benefit from making them go?
With a wealthy family and many clues,
And memories from her past that Megan wants to lose,
Can Megan find the Mum and son in time
And bring the perpetrator to justice for this crime?
It is another fascinating read
That crime thriller readers really need.
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
I throughly enjoyed reading it and this is my honest review.
More of a mystery than a search for a killer.
It starts when a pregnant Mum and her son disappear
When her husband, Ben, reports it things aren't so clear.
After many loud rows, the couple are parted,
With rumours of affairs that have been started.
But now they want to know where are his wife and their son?
Megan Carpenter is determined to find them before she's done.
I really enjoyed the developing rapport
Between Megan and Ronnie as they explore
The families involved and what they all know
Who would benefit from making them go?
With a wealthy family and many clues,
And memories from her past that Megan wants to lose,
Can Megan find the Mum and son in time
And bring the perpetrator to justice for this crime?
It is another fascinating read
That crime thriller readers really need.
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
I throughly enjoyed reading it and this is my honest review.
December 17, 2021
The Detective Megan Carpenter series is a police procedural that is always full of mystery. Stillwater Island is action packed with so much going on, you really need to think about where it may be going. And, even then you may not know or, guess correct.
As always, Megan takes you on a wild ride full of intrigue and suspenseful twists. Her unique sense of humor and quirky dialogue will make you smile.
I like Gregg Olsen’s writing style. His writing keeps you intrigued and engrossed throughout the book.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
As always, Megan takes you on a wild ride full of intrigue and suspenseful twists. Her unique sense of humor and quirky dialogue will make you smile.
I like Gregg Olsen’s writing style. His writing keeps you intrigued and engrossed throughout the book.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
December 7, 2021
A woman and her young son have gone missing. Detective Megan Carter is in charge of the case. There are no signs of a struggle and the husband is not acting how you would expect under the circumstances. There are all sorts of twist along the way to the final resolution. This book will keep you guessing. Thank you to net galley for an advanced readers copy.
September 19, 2024
Well Goodreads Family, I finished the book. I gave the book 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Again Detective Megan Carpenter solves the case. One thing is for sure; you will never guess the ending!! Next is book 5 but it doesn’t come out till 9/24. Can’t wait to read it…
November 22, 2024
Book #4 in this series did not disappoint! Very suspenseful - great unexpected ending - still wanting more so I am on the read #5!
August 6, 2022
A missing person case with a good twisty plot, great characters and plenty of action.
November 4, 2021
*Thank you to Bookouture, Gregg Olsen, and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
Previously published at https://www.mysteryandsuspense.com/va...
“She has a boyfriend, so don’t get your hopes up. “Anything else before we begin?” I ask. Like maybe a foot rub? Or I could shoot you in both kneecaps.
– Megan Carpenter, Vanishing Point
Marlena Parker, and her four-year-old son, Benny, are missing. It is 2am and Detective Megan Carpenter receives a call from Marlena’s estranged husband, Ben, that he has gone to their house, and they are not there. There are no signs of a struggle and nothing missing. Ben is the son of Cyrus Parker, one of the richest men in America. Marlena Parker also is the niece of a sheriff in the Jefferson County Police department, Tony, who is also Megan’s boss.
This is the fourth book in the compulsive and intriguing, often funny, Megan Carpenter series by the amazing Gregg Olsen. Megan is determined to find Marlena and Bennie with very few clues, a lying husband and a very powerful family. And a boss, who is on top of her at every step to get this solved because of his personal connection. The pace of Vanishing Point moves very quickly and is her voice throughout. Out of all four books, I find this one to show the best side of Megan. She is introspective, funny, and relatable. We also hear more of Megan’s tough childhood and how it relates to who she is today.
Ronnie Marsh, Megan’s partner, really shines in this book, compared to the last three. She is witty, smart, and makes brilliant decisions. Megan and Ronnie are convinced that Ben Parker is guilty of abduction and potential murder. When interviewing Marlena’s friends and family, she finds that Marlena’s relationship with Ben is physically and emotionally abusive. Relating this to her own past, she is determined to find them alive, with or without Ben’s help.
Olsen has done it again with this fourth installment, Vanishing Point. It is funny, suspenseful, and addictive. I wish we had seen more of her relationship with the lumberjack. He is only alluded to through phone calls and text messages, but I really enjoyed them together in Silent Ridge. I also enjoyed some characters in this book, including Marlena’s crazy neighbor, Mrs. Green. As police procedurals, nothing is what it seems, and it is an adventure to find out who has abducted a mother and her young son. And is Ben the abductor, or has someone done a great job of setting him up? There are so many enjoyable twists and turns and interesting characters. Gregg Olsen does not disappoint.
Previously published at https://www.mysteryandsuspense.com/va...
“She has a boyfriend, so don’t get your hopes up. “Anything else before we begin?” I ask. Like maybe a foot rub? Or I could shoot you in both kneecaps.
– Megan Carpenter, Vanishing Point
Marlena Parker, and her four-year-old son, Benny, are missing. It is 2am and Detective Megan Carpenter receives a call from Marlena’s estranged husband, Ben, that he has gone to their house, and they are not there. There are no signs of a struggle and nothing missing. Ben is the son of Cyrus Parker, one of the richest men in America. Marlena Parker also is the niece of a sheriff in the Jefferson County Police department, Tony, who is also Megan’s boss.
This is the fourth book in the compulsive and intriguing, often funny, Megan Carpenter series by the amazing Gregg Olsen. Megan is determined to find Marlena and Bennie with very few clues, a lying husband and a very powerful family. And a boss, who is on top of her at every step to get this solved because of his personal connection. The pace of Vanishing Point moves very quickly and is her voice throughout. Out of all four books, I find this one to show the best side of Megan. She is introspective, funny, and relatable. We also hear more of Megan’s tough childhood and how it relates to who she is today.
Ronnie Marsh, Megan’s partner, really shines in this book, compared to the last three. She is witty, smart, and makes brilliant decisions. Megan and Ronnie are convinced that Ben Parker is guilty of abduction and potential murder. When interviewing Marlena’s friends and family, she finds that Marlena’s relationship with Ben is physically and emotionally abusive. Relating this to her own past, she is determined to find them alive, with or without Ben’s help.
Olsen has done it again with this fourth installment, Vanishing Point. It is funny, suspenseful, and addictive. I wish we had seen more of her relationship with the lumberjack. He is only alluded to through phone calls and text messages, but I really enjoyed them together in Silent Ridge. I also enjoyed some characters in this book, including Marlena’s crazy neighbor, Mrs. Green. As police procedurals, nothing is what it seems, and it is an adventure to find out who has abducted a mother and her young son. And is Ben the abductor, or has someone done a great job of setting him up? There are so many enjoyable twists and turns and interesting characters. Gregg Olsen does not disappoint.
November 27, 2021
This is book 4 in the Detective Megan Carpenter series - a great series about a detective with a traumatic and mysterious past. No need to read the first 3, but it's likely to be a bit more enjoyable by knowing all the characters.
In this book, Megan is called out in the night to locate missing Marelena and her son by the husband who happens to be estranged from the family. There are several chapters from Marlena's point of view as she tries to make sense of her surroundings. The rest is Megan doggedly chasing down whom she thinks is guilty. My only complaint is that there were very few suspects and the book leads you to the guilty party fairly early with few twists. There is still plenty suspense in whether the police will locate the missing woman and her son in time and identifying whom is the guilty party and why. Previous novels were a bit more action packed but I enjoyed this novel just the same. I am always interested in learning more about Megan and enjoyed learning more about her partner Ronnie. To me, I am also happy that her relationship with her boss is not toxic as is the usual norm is police procedurals. It's nice to have a supportive boss!
I recommend this book to those who love Megan Carpenter, Gregg Olson in general and those who like a good police procedural. The writing is great, and the chase is enjoyable. #StillwaterIsland #MeganCarpenter #NetGalley
In this book, Megan is called out in the night to locate missing Marelena and her son by the husband who happens to be estranged from the family. There are several chapters from Marlena's point of view as she tries to make sense of her surroundings. The rest is Megan doggedly chasing down whom she thinks is guilty. My only complaint is that there were very few suspects and the book leads you to the guilty party fairly early with few twists. There is still plenty suspense in whether the police will locate the missing woman and her son in time and identifying whom is the guilty party and why. Previous novels were a bit more action packed but I enjoyed this novel just the same. I am always interested in learning more about Megan and enjoyed learning more about her partner Ronnie. To me, I am also happy that her relationship with her boss is not toxic as is the usual norm is police procedurals. It's nice to have a supportive boss!
I recommend this book to those who love Megan Carpenter, Gregg Olson in general and those who like a good police procedural. The writing is great, and the chase is enjoyable. #StillwaterIsland #MeganCarpenter #NetGalley
December 7, 2021
I love Megan. She is hardly ever afraid and she has been through a lot. She is hard as a rock, but she does have a soft spot which she does not show very often.
She makes me smile very often. She thinks A, but says B which can be very funny.
Megan is a loner, but she has found a kindred spirit in her partner Ronnie. Their background could not be more different, but that does not stop them from making a great team. You just have to love them.
People live in the same street, but when something is not right they often keep themselves to themselves. They often claim afterwards they always had the feeling there was a problem, but nobody did anything. What if they were wrong? What if they would be shouted at for interfering?
I honestly do not know what I would do. Sometimes a feeling is not enough, but what if that feeling could have prevented a tragedy?
Will Megan and Ronnie’s prime suspect be exposed or is there more to it than the eye could see?
I am a number one fan of the duo. I really am looking forward to the next book. 5 stars
Thank you, Gregg Olsen and Bookouture
She makes me smile very often. She thinks A, but says B which can be very funny.
Megan is a loner, but she has found a kindred spirit in her partner Ronnie. Their background could not be more different, but that does not stop them from making a great team. You just have to love them.
People live in the same street, but when something is not right they often keep themselves to themselves. They often claim afterwards they always had the feeling there was a problem, but nobody did anything. What if they were wrong? What if they would be shouted at for interfering?
I honestly do not know what I would do. Sometimes a feeling is not enough, but what if that feeling could have prevented a tragedy?
Will Megan and Ronnie’s prime suspect be exposed or is there more to it than the eye could see?
I am a number one fan of the duo. I really am looking forward to the next book. 5 stars
Thank you, Gregg Olsen and Bookouture
October 9, 2021
This is book 4 of the fabulous Detective Megan Carpenter series and just devoured it. This is a series that is so compulsive and it has become better and better with each book it’s a thrilling read that kept me guessing throughout and the pace just never let up.
I think what is special about the series is that with each read we come to know more about Megan and her horrific past and how she is dealing with all that life had thrown at her, I have found myself really rooting for her more and more. The other characters are all so well written and we also get to know more about them which I really thought added to the my enjoyment of the book and I especially like Ronnie who is become a favourite of mine.
So an exceptional read with a fantastic plot and characters, I loved the book and can’t wait for the next, many thanks to Gregg Olsen for a book I couldn’t put down.
My thanks also to NetGalley and Bookouture for giving me the chance to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
I think what is special about the series is that with each read we come to know more about Megan and her horrific past and how she is dealing with all that life had thrown at her, I have found myself really rooting for her more and more. The other characters are all so well written and we also get to know more about them which I really thought added to the my enjoyment of the book and I especially like Ronnie who is become a favourite of mine.
So an exceptional read with a fantastic plot and characters, I loved the book and can’t wait for the next, many thanks to Gregg Olsen for a book I couldn’t put down.
My thanks also to NetGalley and Bookouture for giving me the chance to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 29, 2021
To be honest this is the first book I've read in this series. In saying that, I requested the book immediately from NetGalley as soon as I seen Gregg Olsen was the Author. After reading, "If You Tell" and "Abandoned Prayers" by him, he has now become one of my favorite true crime Authors.
Although this book is fiction, if I had not known he wrote it, I still would have guessed.
Olsen has a raw writing style which I love in thriller/suspense Novels, as well as true crime. His writing stands out and is a unique in style.
This book, even though I read it out of order, was phenomenal.
It was easy to keep up with and could be a stand-alone which is another star given.
The storyline was whip-smart. I could not put this masterfully powered crime novel down.
The characters, very well developed and it's left me longing to read the entire series.
So, a 5 star for me.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for approving my request.
Although this book is fiction, if I had not known he wrote it, I still would have guessed.
Olsen has a raw writing style which I love in thriller/suspense Novels, as well as true crime. His writing stands out and is a unique in style.
This book, even though I read it out of order, was phenomenal.
It was easy to keep up with and could be a stand-alone which is another star given.
The storyline was whip-smart. I could not put this masterfully powered crime novel down.
The characters, very well developed and it's left me longing to read the entire series.
So, a 5 star for me.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for approving my request.
October 18, 2021
A good crime thriller. The story revolves around a married couple, Ben and Marlena and their child. A murder is happened and Ben is the prime suspect. He's abusive to his wife and son. Everyone can vouch for that. Detective Megan Carpenter is investigating the case and upon investigation she found that he's having an affair with a woman. And then a second body is found. Who killed them and why? Is Ben guilty of murder? Or has someone framed him? To know more, please read this book. What I Like?:- 1 The narration, which is simple and to the point. 2 A group of good characters including protagonist and the antagonist. 3 Twists and turns within the plot. What I Don't Like?:- 1 It's length. It could be short a little. Overall it's a good crime thriller and fans of this series must read it. Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for giving me an advanced copy of this crime thriller.
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