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Cara Kennedy #2
Village in the Dark
Detective Cara Kennedy thought she’d lost her husband and son in an accident, but harrowing evidence has emerged that points to murder--and she will stop at nothing to find the truth in this riveting mystery from the author of City Under One Roof.
On a frigid February day, Anchorage Detective Cara Kennedy stands by the graves of her husband and son, watching as their caskets are raised from the earth. It feels sacrilegious, but she has no choice. Aaron and Dylan disappeared on a hike a year ago, their bones eventually found and buried. But shocking clues have emerged that foul play was involved, potentially connecting them to a string of other deaths and disappearances.
Somehow tied to the mystery is Mia Upash, who grew up in an isolated village called Unity, a community of women and children in hiding from abusive men. Mia never imagined the trouble she would find herself in when she left home to live in Man’s World. Although she remains haunted by the tragedy of what happened to the man and the boy in the woods, she has her own reasons for keeping quiet.
Aided by police officer Joe Barkowski and other residents of Point Mettier, Cara’s investigation will lead them on a dangerous path that puts their lives and the lives of everyone around them in mortal jeopardy.
On a frigid February day, Anchorage Detective Cara Kennedy stands by the graves of her husband and son, watching as their caskets are raised from the earth. It feels sacrilegious, but she has no choice. Aaron and Dylan disappeared on a hike a year ago, their bones eventually found and buried. But shocking clues have emerged that foul play was involved, potentially connecting them to a string of other deaths and disappearances.
Somehow tied to the mystery is Mia Upash, who grew up in an isolated village called Unity, a community of women and children in hiding from abusive men. Mia never imagined the trouble she would find herself in when she left home to live in Man’s World. Although she remains haunted by the tragedy of what happened to the man and the boy in the woods, she has her own reasons for keeping quiet.
Aided by police officer Joe Barkowski and other residents of Point Mettier, Cara’s investigation will lead them on a dangerous path that puts their lives and the lives of everyone around them in mortal jeopardy.
288 pages, Paperback
First published February 13, 2024
176 people are currently reading
18873 people want to read
About the author
Iris Yamashita
4 books300 followersIris is the Academy Award-nominated screenwriter for the script "Letters From Iwo Jima" directed by Clint Eastwood. The film was nominated for 4 Oscars including “Best Picture” and “Best Original Screenplay.”
City Under One Roof is her debut mystery novel and the first in the Cara Kennedy series, set in a tiny Alaskan town where all the residents lives in a single high-rise building. The book was Crime Fiction Lover's Editor's Choice for Best Debut Crime Novel of the year and was named one of the Best Thrillers of the year by Washington Post as well as one of the Best Crime Fiction of the year by Library Journal and one of the Best Fiction Books of the year by Reader's Digest.
Village in the Dark is her follow up novel to City Under One Roof.
City Under One Roof is her debut mystery novel and the first in the Cara Kennedy series, set in a tiny Alaskan town where all the residents lives in a single high-rise building. The book was Crime Fiction Lover's Editor's Choice for Best Debut Crime Novel of the year and was named one of the Best Thrillers of the year by Washington Post as well as one of the Best Crime Fiction of the year by Library Journal and one of the Best Fiction Books of the year by Reader's Digest.
Village in the Dark is her follow up novel to City Under One Roof.
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February 6, 2024
Iris Yamashita blends unique settings with diverse and memorable characters in this atmospheric mystery novel.
Village in the Dark
is thought-provoking, clever, and full of secrets. Cara Kennedy, a detective from Anchorage who is on disability, watches as the caskets of her husband and son are raised from the ground. Cara believes foul play may have been involved and intends to send them to a private lab for testing. Mia Upash grew up in the isolated village of Unity, but left it and is working at a diner. However, she’s haunted by past events. Cara is aided in her investigation by police officer Joe Barkowski and other residents of Point Mettier. This town can only be reached for part of the year via a tunnel, snowmobile, or helicopter. During the tourist season, a ferry is operated.
Several characters play major roles in the story and the points of view alternate between Cara, Mia, and Ellie. Cara is haunted by her past. She suffers from PTSD and her grief can overwhelm her at times, but she is normally a great detective. Mia is full of secrets and still learning how to survive away from Unity. Ellie lives in Point Mettier and operates an inn there. Joe is still recovering from recent injuries, but is anxious to get back to work.
The characterization is well-done. Readers get insight into the characters and their secrets as the story progresses. Their actions, reactions, feelings, and thoughts provide clues to their personality traits that helped me understand their larger roles in the story.
The premise for this novel is excellent and the mystery is riveting. The settings and atmosphere are terrific. The plot is complex and multi-layers with twists and surprises. The ending is action-packed and intense.
Overall, this story is gripping, thought-provoking, and emotional, with great world-building. It’s the second book in the series which should be read in order. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author and seeing where she takes the characters next.
Berkley Publishing Group and Iris Yamashita provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for February 13, 2024.
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My 3.86 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Several characters play major roles in the story and the points of view alternate between Cara, Mia, and Ellie. Cara is haunted by her past. She suffers from PTSD and her grief can overwhelm her at times, but she is normally a great detective. Mia is full of secrets and still learning how to survive away from Unity. Ellie lives in Point Mettier and operates an inn there. Joe is still recovering from recent injuries, but is anxious to get back to work.
The characterization is well-done. Readers get insight into the characters and their secrets as the story progresses. Their actions, reactions, feelings, and thoughts provide clues to their personality traits that helped me understand their larger roles in the story.
The premise for this novel is excellent and the mystery is riveting. The settings and atmosphere are terrific. The plot is complex and multi-layers with twists and surprises. The ending is action-packed and intense.
Overall, this story is gripping, thought-provoking, and emotional, with great world-building. It’s the second book in the series which should be read in order. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author and seeing where she takes the characters next.
Berkley Publishing Group and Iris Yamashita provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for February 13, 2024.
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My 3.86 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
November 18, 2025
I eagerly devoured the preceding adventure of Detective Cara Kennedy in "City Under One Roof," and my anticipation for this sequel had been building since the spine-tingling cliffhanger that hinted at a possible connection between the deaths of Cara's husband and son and the departed gang member, Michael Lovansky. Why would a notorious gang member, whom she had never encountered, possess a family photo featuring her alongside random individuals?
Before delving into the sequel and unveiling the resolution to the central enigma, let's recap the journey thus far: Cara Kennedy, an aspiring detective at the Anchorage Police Department, grappled with the profound loss of her husband Aaron, a manager at a pharmatech company's research division, and her six-year-old son Dylan, whose remains were tragically discovered in the Talkeetna wilderness. Her focus turned to cases involving missing persons and dismembered body parts, which included a series of extremities washing ashore along the Pacific Northwest and Canadian coastlines. This pursuit led her to the enigmatic enclave of Point Mettier—a remote city accessed through a constricting tunnel—where its 205 inhabitants inhabited a single towering condominium. Remarkably, Cara untangled the web of a seemingly unrelated murder, a resolution independent of her own personal losses.
Within this cityscape, she successfully resolved a gang-related crime, securing a second chance at love with Officer J. B., someone whose existence teetered on the brink during a gang altercation.
However, tethered by an inexplicable link to her past, Cara's curiosity crystallizes when she stumbles upon Ellie, the manager of Point Meittier, who too shares a connection to those photographs. Ellie's son, recently lost to an overdose, is among the figures in those images, prompting an unlikely alliance born of shared grief. Their partnership as grieving mothers embarks on a quest for the truth.
Cara's investigations unearth a startling revelation—individuals within those photographs are either deceased or missing. Among them is Mia Upash, whose trail leads Cara to Unity, an insular village. Unity houses women and children who have retreated from the clutches of abusive men, dwelling by their own code and subsisting through hunting, fishing, and embracing the bounties of nature. Mia's departure from the sanctuary to the world beyond, driven by love, thrusts her into peril, casting her into a cabin hidden within the woods. Could Mia's journey hold the answers to the myriad missing and deceased individuals?
Cara's relentless pursuit uncovers yet another seismic revelation, setting her on a perilous trajectory—one that may ensnare not only herself but also her compatriot in crime, J. B.
The second installment in this series proved to be a fast-paced, heart-pounding page-turner that held me captive, making it virtually impossible to relinquish. My return to Point Meittier offered the delight of further immersion into the lives of its distinctive, resilient, and singular characters. The gratifying culmination of their narratives, devoid of any loose ends, is the cherry atop this literary endeavor.
Deserving of my esteemed five stars, I wholeheartedly recommend indulging in both volumes of this series. My heartfelt gratitude extends to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for generously granting me access to the digital advance copy of this intellectually riveting and exceptional work, in exchange for my candid insights.
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Before delving into the sequel and unveiling the resolution to the central enigma, let's recap the journey thus far: Cara Kennedy, an aspiring detective at the Anchorage Police Department, grappled with the profound loss of her husband Aaron, a manager at a pharmatech company's research division, and her six-year-old son Dylan, whose remains were tragically discovered in the Talkeetna wilderness. Her focus turned to cases involving missing persons and dismembered body parts, which included a series of extremities washing ashore along the Pacific Northwest and Canadian coastlines. This pursuit led her to the enigmatic enclave of Point Mettier—a remote city accessed through a constricting tunnel—where its 205 inhabitants inhabited a single towering condominium. Remarkably, Cara untangled the web of a seemingly unrelated murder, a resolution independent of her own personal losses.
Within this cityscape, she successfully resolved a gang-related crime, securing a second chance at love with Officer J. B., someone whose existence teetered on the brink during a gang altercation.
However, tethered by an inexplicable link to her past, Cara's curiosity crystallizes when she stumbles upon Ellie, the manager of Point Meittier, who too shares a connection to those photographs. Ellie's son, recently lost to an overdose, is among the figures in those images, prompting an unlikely alliance born of shared grief. Their partnership as grieving mothers embarks on a quest for the truth.
Cara's investigations unearth a startling revelation—individuals within those photographs are either deceased or missing. Among them is Mia Upash, whose trail leads Cara to Unity, an insular village. Unity houses women and children who have retreated from the clutches of abusive men, dwelling by their own code and subsisting through hunting, fishing, and embracing the bounties of nature. Mia's departure from the sanctuary to the world beyond, driven by love, thrusts her into peril, casting her into a cabin hidden within the woods. Could Mia's journey hold the answers to the myriad missing and deceased individuals?
Cara's relentless pursuit uncovers yet another seismic revelation, setting her on a perilous trajectory—one that may ensnare not only herself but also her compatriot in crime, J. B.
The second installment in this series proved to be a fast-paced, heart-pounding page-turner that held me captive, making it virtually impossible to relinquish. My return to Point Meittier offered the delight of further immersion into the lives of its distinctive, resilient, and singular characters. The gratifying culmination of their narratives, devoid of any loose ends, is the cherry atop this literary endeavor.
Deserving of my esteemed five stars, I wholeheartedly recommend indulging in both volumes of this series. My heartfelt gratitude extends to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for generously granting me access to the digital advance copy of this intellectually riveting and exceptional work, in exchange for my candid insights.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
medium blog
March 21, 2024
Over a year ago, Detective Cara Kennedy’s husband, Aaron, and son, Dylan, vanished while on a hike in the Talkeetna wilderness of Alaska. After the bodies of a man and young boy were discovered, however, Cara buried her family and tried to move on—a feat she didn’t exactly pull off. Now on disability following a possible career ending move, Cara is intent on determining what happened to Aaron and Dylan. Especially given the new clue she found during her last case, which just might point to foul play.
The only recourse Cara really has after all of this time, however, is to exhume the two bodies she buried. Hopefully, a full examination of their remains will reveal a clue. Given that she’d chosen not to before the funeral, she can only hope. After all, she doesn’t have much to lose now that she’s no longer an active detective for the Anchorage Police. What she doesn’t expect, though, is to be led in the direction of multiple other disappearances and possible deaths.
Before Cara knows it, however, her off-the-books digging is begins to land her and several of the residents of Point Mettier—including her new love interest, Officer Joe Barkowski—in a world of trouble. The kind of trouble that can only be solved by hiding or the sharp rebuke of a gun. Just what happened to Aaron and her darling son? And will Cara live to see the very answers she seeks before paying the ultimate price?
Phew. Village in the Dark was one action-packed, suspenseful tale. The second book in Yamashita’s Cara Kennedy series, this one picked up right where the debut left off. Perfect to curl up with on a cold winter’s night, I finished this quick, easy read in under twenty-four hours. After all, with dynamite characters and an adrenaline-fueled plot, I was driven to read late into the night.
The top-notch cast of characters was easily my favorite piece to this attention-grabbing read. Eccentric and utterly original, each delivered something special to the plot. Adding to the appeal were the multiple POVs, which provided a foundation for deep backstories to each of the narrators. Even better, however, was the captivating character development from book one in the series. Needless to say, while Village in the Dark could easily be read as a stand-alone, I definitely suggest reading them in order in order to not miss out on even a morsel.
As for the storyline, it was complex and well-layered as the threads began to knit together right before my eyes. With a pulse-pounding climax and a happily every conclusion, this crime fiction novel turned thriller served up one shocking twist. Add in the unique setting of the Alaskan wilderness alongside the city of Anchorage, and I was as happy as a clam by the end of the novel.
Just the same, there were a few flaws in the ointment. From the sometimes stilted dialogue which felt unnatural here and there to an overarching over-the-top feel, I had a hard time falling into the story some of the time. Plus, there were a few spots where the storyline dragged just a bit. I do have to say, however, that even those minor irritations weren’t enough to deter me from loving this book.
All in all, Yamashita has somehow managed to do it yet again. Crafting killer premises out of the unfamiliar Alaskan territory, the evil motivations, treacherous lies, and well-guarded secrets were pure gold to this thriller lover. Even better, the short chapters and non-stop suspense meant for quite the enjoyable ride. So while there were a few weak spots, I still completely recommend this thoroughly epic book, which kept me on the edge of my seat from the very first page. Rating of 4 stars.
Thank you to Iris Yamashita and Berkley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: February 13, 2024
Trigger warning: loss of a spouse and son, mention of: drug trafficking, dementia
The only recourse Cara really has after all of this time, however, is to exhume the two bodies she buried. Hopefully, a full examination of their remains will reveal a clue. Given that she’d chosen not to before the funeral, she can only hope. After all, she doesn’t have much to lose now that she’s no longer an active detective for the Anchorage Police. What she doesn’t expect, though, is to be led in the direction of multiple other disappearances and possible deaths.
Before Cara knows it, however, her off-the-books digging is begins to land her and several of the residents of Point Mettier—including her new love interest, Officer Joe Barkowski—in a world of trouble. The kind of trouble that can only be solved by hiding or the sharp rebuke of a gun. Just what happened to Aaron and her darling son? And will Cara live to see the very answers she seeks before paying the ultimate price?
Phew. Village in the Dark was one action-packed, suspenseful tale. The second book in Yamashita’s Cara Kennedy series, this one picked up right where the debut left off. Perfect to curl up with on a cold winter’s night, I finished this quick, easy read in under twenty-four hours. After all, with dynamite characters and an adrenaline-fueled plot, I was driven to read late into the night.
The top-notch cast of characters was easily my favorite piece to this attention-grabbing read. Eccentric and utterly original, each delivered something special to the plot. Adding to the appeal were the multiple POVs, which provided a foundation for deep backstories to each of the narrators. Even better, however, was the captivating character development from book one in the series. Needless to say, while Village in the Dark could easily be read as a stand-alone, I definitely suggest reading them in order in order to not miss out on even a morsel.
As for the storyline, it was complex and well-layered as the threads began to knit together right before my eyes. With a pulse-pounding climax and a happily every conclusion, this crime fiction novel turned thriller served up one shocking twist. Add in the unique setting of the Alaskan wilderness alongside the city of Anchorage, and I was as happy as a clam by the end of the novel.
Just the same, there were a few flaws in the ointment. From the sometimes stilted dialogue which felt unnatural here and there to an overarching over-the-top feel, I had a hard time falling into the story some of the time. Plus, there were a few spots where the storyline dragged just a bit. I do have to say, however, that even those minor irritations weren’t enough to deter me from loving this book.
All in all, Yamashita has somehow managed to do it yet again. Crafting killer premises out of the unfamiliar Alaskan territory, the evil motivations, treacherous lies, and well-guarded secrets were pure gold to this thriller lover. Even better, the short chapters and non-stop suspense meant for quite the enjoyable ride. So while there were a few weak spots, I still completely recommend this thoroughly epic book, which kept me on the edge of my seat from the very first page. Rating of 4 stars.
Thank you to Iris Yamashita and Berkley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: February 13, 2024
Trigger warning: loss of a spouse and son, mention of: drug trafficking, dementia
December 29, 2024
**3.5-stars rounded up**
Village in the Dark is the 2nd-book in the Cara Kennedy mystery series. Let it be known right outta the gate that I haven't read the 1st-book yet.
That's right, I'm picking them up out of order...
I know some of you may disagree with my pattern for doing this, but with Adult Mystery series, I sort of just pick up the ones that sound like they have the most intriguing mystery elements. Then if I really enjoy the characters and setting, I'll go back and read the prior books.
I'm happy to report that I would love to go back and read the 1st-book, and any others that happen to come after this. I had fun with the mystery and did become attached to Cara and her intriguing personal story.
In this story, we do follow Cara Kennedy, who is a Detective in Anchorage, Alaska. We learn at the start that Cara is grieving the fairly recent loss of her husband, Aaron, and their young son, Dylan.
The boys went out on a camping trip and never returned. Their bodies were later found at the bottom of a cliff. It was believed an accident, but new evidence points to foul play.
Cara is devastated. She was upset enough believing they accidentally met their demise, but to learn someone else actually took them from her. She needs to find the truth.
We also get the perspectives of two other women related to the crime. It's unclear for a good portion of the story how everything fits together, but as the pieces started to fall into place, that's when it really picked up for me.
I loved the setting. There's something about mysteries set in Alaska that just feel more dangerous and intriguing to me. The harsh landscape, the remote areas, it pushes the tension levels in really pleasing ways.
I definitely enjoyed Cara's perspective the most out of the three, but I did enjoy how the three came together and I think overall, it was well-executed.
As mentioned above, I would absolutely pick up any more books in this series that are released. I do plan to go back and read the 1st-book, City Under One Roof, soon. I am interested to see if Cara's husband and son are in that book, and if so, what those relationships were like.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys Adult Mystery series following Detective protagonists. Bonus points if you enjoy mysteries set in remote areas such as Alaska. I really enjoyed learning about Cara's community and the surrounding areas; very interesting.
Thank you to the publisher, Berkley, for providing me with a copy to read and review.
I'm excited to have a new Detective to follow!
Village in the Dark is the 2nd-book in the Cara Kennedy mystery series. Let it be known right outta the gate that I haven't read the 1st-book yet.
That's right, I'm picking them up out of order...
I know some of you may disagree with my pattern for doing this, but with Adult Mystery series, I sort of just pick up the ones that sound like they have the most intriguing mystery elements. Then if I really enjoy the characters and setting, I'll go back and read the prior books.
I'm happy to report that I would love to go back and read the 1st-book, and any others that happen to come after this. I had fun with the mystery and did become attached to Cara and her intriguing personal story.
In this story, we do follow Cara Kennedy, who is a Detective in Anchorage, Alaska. We learn at the start that Cara is grieving the fairly recent loss of her husband, Aaron, and their young son, Dylan.
The boys went out on a camping trip and never returned. Their bodies were later found at the bottom of a cliff. It was believed an accident, but new evidence points to foul play.
Cara is devastated. She was upset enough believing they accidentally met their demise, but to learn someone else actually took them from her. She needs to find the truth.
We also get the perspectives of two other women related to the crime. It's unclear for a good portion of the story how everything fits together, but as the pieces started to fall into place, that's when it really picked up for me.
I loved the setting. There's something about mysteries set in Alaska that just feel more dangerous and intriguing to me. The harsh landscape, the remote areas, it pushes the tension levels in really pleasing ways.
I definitely enjoyed Cara's perspective the most out of the three, but I did enjoy how the three came together and I think overall, it was well-executed.
As mentioned above, I would absolutely pick up any more books in this series that are released. I do plan to go back and read the 1st-book, City Under One Roof, soon. I am interested to see if Cara's husband and son are in that book, and if so, what those relationships were like.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys Adult Mystery series following Detective protagonists. Bonus points if you enjoy mysteries set in remote areas such as Alaska. I really enjoyed learning about Cara's community and the surrounding areas; very interesting.
Thank you to the publisher, Berkley, for providing me with a copy to read and review.
I'm excited to have a new Detective to follow!
February 12, 2024
VILLAGE IN THE DARK is the stunning, highly visual sequel to Author Iris Yamashita's award-winning debut novel CITY UNDER ONE ROOF. If you missed book one, I highly advise you grab and read it before the release of this sequel although Yamashita does a fantastic job of filling in much needed background information on the characters and events from book one, all of which are critical to the continuing overall series story arc in VILLAGE IN THE DARK. Clear your calendar and throw another log on the fire before cracking the cover on this one because you're sure to get lost in a fantasy-like wonderland of atypical, charismatic characters doing their best to survive.
Anchorage Detective Cara Kennedy remains on leave a year after the mental trauma of losing her husband and son in CITY UNDER ONE ROOF. Additional information has surfaced indicating their deaths may not have been a tragic accident as previously indicated, but rather linked to the disappearance and/or deaths of other area residents. Thus, on a brutally cold February day, Cara stands by and watches with dread as the caskets of her husband and son are lifted from the frozen earth so an autopsy can be performed. The shocking results send her traveling back through the two-and-a-half-mile, highly claustrophobic tunnel to Point Mettier, a community of misfits, oddballs and eccentric recluses as well as those seeking shelter from abusive relationships. A place where all two hundred and five residents live in one high rise, including Officer J.B. Barkowski with whom Cara's exploring a relationship. Still reeling from the autopsy results, Cara's more determined than ever to get to the bottom of her family's disappearance. She's joined in her search by J.B. and Ellie, a peculiar woman who's certain her own son's suspicious death is connected because he's pictured alongside others who've disappeared in a photograph taken from a deceased gang member. As the trio embarks on a treacherous, suicidal mission, they’re joined by another local, Mia. The more they dig, the more it's clear someone will do anything to prevent the truth from surfacing. Attempts on Cara's life escalate, putting her and those around her in danger. They're getting close to uncovering the truth . . . but at what cost?
VILLAGE IN THE DARK is an intense, all-consuming suspense thriller that's narrated by three diverse, charismatic women - Cara, Ellie and Mia. As the story progresses, readers learn how each of these women are connected and what they stand to lose when the truth is finally revealed. A lightning fast-pace is driven by a dark tone of malice as characters and readers are propelled forward through blinding, breathtaking twists and turns. The author’s expert utilization of short, highly detailed, high-octane chapters with changing points of view keeps readers on their toes as they soar through pages permeated with suspense, action and one shocker after another. The author's cast of characters is one of the most diverse, colorful and engaging groups I've ever met. Kudos to Yamashita for highlighting the importance of community and the heavy, heartbreaking theme of domestic violence against women and children, especially Indigenous women, via characters seeking to escape "man's world" to live in a safe haven, a singular community known as Unity.
Author Iris Yamashita has brilliantly crafted a one-of-a-kind, irresistible, highly atmospheric suspense thriller in VILLAGE IN THE DARK. The author's masterly story telling talent is evident as is her artistry and gift for creating diverse, sometimes flamboyant, characters one can't help but love. The action is heart stopping, the characters straight out of a fairy tale and the plot line twisted. I'll be singing the praises of this amazing book and series for some time to come. Highly recommended to fans of CITY UNDER ONE ROOF, obviously, but also to fans of unique, artfully crafted suspense thrillers.
Special thanks to Berkley Publishing and Author Iris Yamashita for an arc of this title for review as well as for a book tour invitation. All opinions expressed are my own. This review is published in Mystery & Suspense Magazine and is also available on my blog Cross My Heart Reviews. It is scheduled for release Feb. 13, 2024. I had the honor of interviewing Author Iris Yamashita and that interview is also published in Mystery & Suspense Magazine. Many thanks to the author for this interview.
Anchorage Detective Cara Kennedy remains on leave a year after the mental trauma of losing her husband and son in CITY UNDER ONE ROOF. Additional information has surfaced indicating their deaths may not have been a tragic accident as previously indicated, but rather linked to the disappearance and/or deaths of other area residents. Thus, on a brutally cold February day, Cara stands by and watches with dread as the caskets of her husband and son are lifted from the frozen earth so an autopsy can be performed. The shocking results send her traveling back through the two-and-a-half-mile, highly claustrophobic tunnel to Point Mettier, a community of misfits, oddballs and eccentric recluses as well as those seeking shelter from abusive relationships. A place where all two hundred and five residents live in one high rise, including Officer J.B. Barkowski with whom Cara's exploring a relationship. Still reeling from the autopsy results, Cara's more determined than ever to get to the bottom of her family's disappearance. She's joined in her search by J.B. and Ellie, a peculiar woman who's certain her own son's suspicious death is connected because he's pictured alongside others who've disappeared in a photograph taken from a deceased gang member. As the trio embarks on a treacherous, suicidal mission, they’re joined by another local, Mia. The more they dig, the more it's clear someone will do anything to prevent the truth from surfacing. Attempts on Cara's life escalate, putting her and those around her in danger. They're getting close to uncovering the truth . . . but at what cost?
VILLAGE IN THE DARK is an intense, all-consuming suspense thriller that's narrated by three diverse, charismatic women - Cara, Ellie and Mia. As the story progresses, readers learn how each of these women are connected and what they stand to lose when the truth is finally revealed. A lightning fast-pace is driven by a dark tone of malice as characters and readers are propelled forward through blinding, breathtaking twists and turns. The author’s expert utilization of short, highly detailed, high-octane chapters with changing points of view keeps readers on their toes as they soar through pages permeated with suspense, action and one shocker after another. The author's cast of characters is one of the most diverse, colorful and engaging groups I've ever met. Kudos to Yamashita for highlighting the importance of community and the heavy, heartbreaking theme of domestic violence against women and children, especially Indigenous women, via characters seeking to escape "man's world" to live in a safe haven, a singular community known as Unity.
Author Iris Yamashita has brilliantly crafted a one-of-a-kind, irresistible, highly atmospheric suspense thriller in VILLAGE IN THE DARK. The author's masterly story telling talent is evident as is her artistry and gift for creating diverse, sometimes flamboyant, characters one can't help but love. The action is heart stopping, the characters straight out of a fairy tale and the plot line twisted. I'll be singing the praises of this amazing book and series for some time to come. Highly recommended to fans of CITY UNDER ONE ROOF, obviously, but also to fans of unique, artfully crafted suspense thrillers.
Special thanks to Berkley Publishing and Author Iris Yamashita for an arc of this title for review as well as for a book tour invitation. All opinions expressed are my own. This review is published in Mystery & Suspense Magazine and is also available on my blog Cross My Heart Reviews. It is scheduled for release Feb. 13, 2024. I had the honor of interviewing Author Iris Yamashita and that interview is also published in Mystery & Suspense Magazine. Many thanks to the author for this interview.
December 16, 2023
3.5 STARS! - I wish the synopsis of the book would include whether it’s part of a series in which you need to read the prior books. A missed opportunity. This one would’ve been so much better had it been called out.
~~~~~~~~~~~
I feel a bit sad – Most of the book was spent tying things together while trying to figure out the complete story since I had missed book number one. I feel it is a lost opportunity for the reader and I hope that even the word Sequel would be included on the book cover for the potential reader.
Be that as it may, the story is a unique and interesting tale that is loaded with memorable, deep characters who are the epitome of tough Alaskans. Thick-skinned, wary of strangers, loners, survivors; including those trying to hide from society.
The author has crafted a story that is complex and deeply inner-twined with book one. In this sequel, the main character, Cara, and others are being hunted as they are searching for answers in the murder of her husband and child.
With detailed descriptions and short, concentrated chapters, each page ramps up the reader with meticulous action, crime sprees, and murder; teasing us with twists and turns along the way. The climax is intense and fast-paced with surprises along the way.
Village in the Dark is an impressive read that will get your attention. It’s a good thriller shot through with suspenseful action.
~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/village-in-t...
~~~~~~~~~~~
I feel a bit sad – Most of the book was spent tying things together while trying to figure out the complete story since I had missed book number one. I feel it is a lost opportunity for the reader and I hope that even the word Sequel would be included on the book cover for the potential reader.
Be that as it may, the story is a unique and interesting tale that is loaded with memorable, deep characters who are the epitome of tough Alaskans. Thick-skinned, wary of strangers, loners, survivors; including those trying to hide from society.
The author has crafted a story that is complex and deeply inner-twined with book one. In this sequel, the main character, Cara, and others are being hunted as they are searching for answers in the murder of her husband and child.
With detailed descriptions and short, concentrated chapters, each page ramps up the reader with meticulous action, crime sprees, and murder; teasing us with twists and turns along the way. The climax is intense and fast-paced with surprises along the way.
Village in the Dark is an impressive read that will get your attention. It’s a good thriller shot through with suspenseful action.
~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/village-in-t...
February 13, 2024
Surviving the loss of her husband and son, Detective Cara Kennedy will stop at nothing to find the truth of what happened to them that fateful hiking trip. Following their disappearance and recovery a year earlier, Cara has since unearthed clues that foul play might have been at hand.
I am nothing short of impressed by Iris Yamashita’s follow up to her debut CITY UNDER ONE ROOF. From the go, this book is as atmospheric as it is suspenseful and the evidence of her screenwriting talent shines through in spades. While this felt like a movie at times, including an action packed back half, the writing was also lyrical and quiet with a great amount of character depth, even among the more tertiary characters.
To be completely transparent, I did not realize that this was part of a series until I began reading it. And while I think this can be read and enjoyed as a standalone, there is a certain amount of character and world building in the first book that would have enhanced the reading experience. However, the author does an excellent job of filling in the gaps and introducing us to the characters in an organic and unforced way, which was very much appreciated.
I did this as an immersive read, reading with both my eyes and ears, and have to commend this full cast of narrators for the fantastic job they did breathing life into each of these very multi-dimensional characters, while simultaneously giving us all of the wonderful dark and gritty vibes that make these types of police procedurals so much fun, even while dealing with heavier themes.
Read if you like:
•atmospheric reads
•Alaskan setting
•action packed plot lines
•detective series
•memorable characters
•multiple POVs
Thank you {partners} @berkleypub and @prhaudio for the gifted copies.
Pubs: Feb. 13, 2024
I am nothing short of impressed by Iris Yamashita’s follow up to her debut CITY UNDER ONE ROOF. From the go, this book is as atmospheric as it is suspenseful and the evidence of her screenwriting talent shines through in spades. While this felt like a movie at times, including an action packed back half, the writing was also lyrical and quiet with a great amount of character depth, even among the more tertiary characters.
To be completely transparent, I did not realize that this was part of a series until I began reading it. And while I think this can be read and enjoyed as a standalone, there is a certain amount of character and world building in the first book that would have enhanced the reading experience. However, the author does an excellent job of filling in the gaps and introducing us to the characters in an organic and unforced way, which was very much appreciated.
I did this as an immersive read, reading with both my eyes and ears, and have to commend this full cast of narrators for the fantastic job they did breathing life into each of these very multi-dimensional characters, while simultaneously giving us all of the wonderful dark and gritty vibes that make these types of police procedurals so much fun, even while dealing with heavier themes.
Read if you like:
•atmospheric reads
•Alaskan setting
•action packed plot lines
•detective series
•memorable characters
•multiple POVs
Thank you {partners} @berkleypub and @prhaudio for the gifted copies.
Pubs: Feb. 13, 2024
January 22, 2025
Welp, in normal Susan fashion I jumped into book 2 without reading book 1, but I didn't feel I missed anything. In fact, it was so well done, I felt like I knew the characters so well, as if I did experience book 1. The character development is that good.
I really loved this book, the multi POV and varying timelines were expertly executed. It was atmospheric, taking me all the way to Alaska and immersing me in the lives of characters. There was tons of strong woman energy, good twists and a dash of love. There was intense action balanced with emotional depth.
So very good.
I really loved this book, the multi POV and varying timelines were expertly executed. It was atmospheric, taking me all the way to Alaska and immersing me in the lives of characters. There was tons of strong woman energy, good twists and a dash of love. There was intense action balanced with emotional depth.
So very good.
February 9, 2024
Cara Kennedy is an Anchorage detective and she still mourns the deaths of her husband and young son. However, she has recently learned that their deaths may not have been accidental and is determined to discover the truth. Having previously solved a difficult murder case, Cara soon finds herself torn between her need for answers as well as a new case involving a victim named Mia Upash.
However, Cara is on disability, as she has not coped well the loss of her family. Yet she remains strongly determined to investigate matters as much as she can. For starters, she has the bodies of her husband and son exhumed and is shocked at what she discovers.
Meanwhile, there is more than one narration in this second book in the Cara Kennedy series by Iris Yamashita. The first book in this engaging series was City Under One Roof. Both books are quite good, and in this case Cara finds herself pitted against Ellie the woman who manages a unique building in Port Mettier, someone she has never quite got along with. Meanwhile, Mia, the newest victim, also has a point of view as the story develops.
Cara finds herself investigating in the small village of Unity, which is a safe haven for women needing protection from their abusers. What Cara soon finds provides a sharp twist in this story. Meanwhile, Cara had entered into a relationship with a cop she met in Port Mettier and it was interesting in this second book in the series the direction their relationship has taken, especially with more on the investigation regarding her family.
This second book in the series was an excellent read and kept my attention from beginning to end. The relationships between the characters as well as the mix of old and new cases kept me riveted to the story. As this story is strongly connected to the first book, City Under One Roof, these books should be read in order. I cannot wait to read the next book in this series.
Many thanks to Berkley and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
However, Cara is on disability, as she has not coped well the loss of her family. Yet she remains strongly determined to investigate matters as much as she can. For starters, she has the bodies of her husband and son exhumed and is shocked at what she discovers.
Meanwhile, there is more than one narration in this second book in the Cara Kennedy series by Iris Yamashita. The first book in this engaging series was City Under One Roof. Both books are quite good, and in this case Cara finds herself pitted against Ellie the woman who manages a unique building in Port Mettier, someone she has never quite got along with. Meanwhile, Mia, the newest victim, also has a point of view as the story develops.
Cara finds herself investigating in the small village of Unity, which is a safe haven for women needing protection from their abusers. What Cara soon finds provides a sharp twist in this story. Meanwhile, Cara had entered into a relationship with a cop she met in Port Mettier and it was interesting in this second book in the series the direction their relationship has taken, especially with more on the investigation regarding her family.
This second book in the series was an excellent read and kept my attention from beginning to end. The relationships between the characters as well as the mix of old and new cases kept me riveted to the story. As this story is strongly connected to the first book, City Under One Roof, these books should be read in order. I cannot wait to read the next book in this series.
Many thanks to Berkley and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
February 2, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
soon after we find something big out at the end of book one, this one picks up right where we left off and it’s another amazing, fast paced mystery that keeps you wanting more and more answers. iris not only writes an amazing mystery, but my gosh, she writes an intriguing community with such complex characters with feelings you cannot help but feel. iris did such an amazing job of combining all that is needed into a great book and delivering. i actually love these characters so much, i need more! this book was amazing and i highly recommend this series!
soon after we find something big out at the end of book one, this one picks up right where we left off and it’s another amazing, fast paced mystery that keeps you wanting more and more answers. iris not only writes an amazing mystery, but my gosh, she writes an intriguing community with such complex characters with feelings you cannot help but feel. iris did such an amazing job of combining all that is needed into a great book and delivering. i actually love these characters so much, i need more! this book was amazing and i highly recommend this series!
February 14, 2024
This is the second book in the Cara Kennedy series. It’s best read in order.
In the last book Detective Cara Kennedy found a picture of her dead son and husband on a drug dealer’s phone suggesting that a hiking accident wasn’t the cause of their death. She teams up with Ellie, one of the residents in Point Mettier, and Joe Barkowski “JB”, the officer Cara worked with in the first book, to track down answers. Also factoring in this story is Mia, a young woman from a village apart and hidden from society.
There are three POVs: Cara, Ellie, and Mia, which are connected to the case, but as a reader you’re not sure how. I enjoyed each of the women’s perspectives, all very different in age and situation.
Cara’s was one I was familiar with as she was one of the main characters in the last book and this is a continuation of the mystery behind the death of her husband and son. I was enraged for her as things were revealed!
Ellie was kind of a crochety old woman the last book, the owner of the “Inn” in Point Mettier, a busy body with hints of a shady past. Through her POV we get her history, and I admired her for it! Ellie was a tough woman with courage and determination, and I liked her spunk!
I was eager to find out Mia’s connection, as she was obviously trying to stay under the radar.
I loved getting back to Point Mettier, Alaska and getting to know the characters more in this installment! It’s an interesting, unique setting, living so isolated in their condo-tower city, only accessible through a tunnel or by sea. It’s sort of self-governed being so out there. There’s a little romance, too, even though it’s not the focus of the story.
I really enjoyed Village in the Dark! It was exciting and suspenseful with twists I didn’t see coming! I hope there are more Cara Kennedy mysteries to come!
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy courtesy of Berkley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
In the last book Detective Cara Kennedy found a picture of her dead son and husband on a drug dealer’s phone suggesting that a hiking accident wasn’t the cause of their death. She teams up with Ellie, one of the residents in Point Mettier, and Joe Barkowski “JB”, the officer Cara worked with in the first book, to track down answers. Also factoring in this story is Mia, a young woman from a village apart and hidden from society.
There are three POVs: Cara, Ellie, and Mia, which are connected to the case, but as a reader you’re not sure how. I enjoyed each of the women’s perspectives, all very different in age and situation.
Cara’s was one I was familiar with as she was one of the main characters in the last book and this is a continuation of the mystery behind the death of her husband and son. I was enraged for her as things were revealed!
Ellie was kind of a crochety old woman the last book, the owner of the “Inn” in Point Mettier, a busy body with hints of a shady past. Through her POV we get her history, and I admired her for it! Ellie was a tough woman with courage and determination, and I liked her spunk!
I was eager to find out Mia’s connection, as she was obviously trying to stay under the radar.
I loved getting back to Point Mettier, Alaska and getting to know the characters more in this installment! It’s an interesting, unique setting, living so isolated in their condo-tower city, only accessible through a tunnel or by sea. It’s sort of self-governed being so out there. There’s a little romance, too, even though it’s not the focus of the story.
I really enjoyed Village in the Dark! It was exciting and suspenseful with twists I didn’t see coming! I hope there are more Cara Kennedy mysteries to come!
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy courtesy of Berkley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 10, 2024
Cara, Anchorage Detective, lost her husband and son a year ago. Now, she is having their bodies exhumed because evidence has come to light potentially linking them to a string of other deaths and disappearances.
These are tied to Mia, who grew up in an isolated village called Unity, a community of women and children hiding from abusive men. Mia never imagined the trouble she would find when she left, but she remains haunted by a tragedy of what happened to the man and the boy she knew from the woods.
Cara’s investigation will lead her on a dangerous path that puts her life, and those around her in mortal jeopardy, but what if the pay off is bigger than she ever imagined?
This was a really good book and I enjoyed it, but I strongly suggest you read the first in the series before reading this one. There is a lot of backstory that would have been useful to know prior to reading this one, but after reading this one I’d love to go back and get more of the characters. Once I got into the story, things started to pick up and I became really invested in how things were going to work out. I enjoyed getting this story from the three women’s different perspectives, they were all so different and unique. I enjoyed all the character’s stories and the overarching plot of this one. I did feel that the romance between Cara and J.B. was a little off, but it was fairly understandable given that Cara’s husband and son were murdered in the previous book. I also loved the beautiful scenery that was present in this book, makes me want to head to Alaska right now…except it’s a little cold for me.
Thank you so much to Berkley @Berkleypub for inviting me to read this one on @Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
These are tied to Mia, who grew up in an isolated village called Unity, a community of women and children hiding from abusive men. Mia never imagined the trouble she would find when she left, but she remains haunted by a tragedy of what happened to the man and the boy she knew from the woods.
Cara’s investigation will lead her on a dangerous path that puts her life, and those around her in mortal jeopardy, but what if the pay off is bigger than she ever imagined?
This was a really good book and I enjoyed it, but I strongly suggest you read the first in the series before reading this one. There is a lot of backstory that would have been useful to know prior to reading this one, but after reading this one I’d love to go back and get more of the characters. Once I got into the story, things started to pick up and I became really invested in how things were going to work out. I enjoyed getting this story from the three women’s different perspectives, they were all so different and unique. I enjoyed all the character’s stories and the overarching plot of this one. I did feel that the romance between Cara and J.B. was a little off, but it was fairly understandable given that Cara’s husband and son were murdered in the previous book. I also loved the beautiful scenery that was present in this book, makes me want to head to Alaska right now…except it’s a little cold for me.
Thank you so much to Berkley @Berkleypub for inviting me to read this one on @Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 16, 2024
At the conclusion of City Under One Roof (see my review), Detective Cara Kennedy became aware of a photo of her presumed dead husband and son on the cell of a criminal; shortly thereafter, a mysterious caller, either a prank or real, says they’re alive. As Village in the Dark begins, Cara is exhuming the bodies–presumably–of her husband and son to see how they died. What she doesn’t expect is the DNA test to inform her that these are not the bodies of her husband and son. This news places Cara back at square one. Are her husband and son still alive? What exactly did happen to them?
Like City Under One Roof, Village in the Dark has three narrators: Cara; Ellie Wright who runs the “inn” in Point Mettier and has a colorful, bank-robbing past; and Mia Upash, a young woman who leaves her hometown of Unity that lives off the grid to see what life is like in Man’s World. All three characters become entwined by the evolving set of circumstances.
Again Iris Yamashita has created a tight, well-paced story with twists and enough action to keep the veteran mystery reader satisfied. I also enjoyed the characters, especially Ellie Wright who proved herself to be a force to be reckoned with.
It was unclear at the end of Village in the Dark whether there will be more in the series, unlike at the end of the previous book. However, I hope that Yamashita gives us more either continuing with this fascinating story and locale or something equally fresh and intriguing.
Many thanks to the publisher for sending me a copy.
Like City Under One Roof, Village in the Dark has three narrators: Cara; Ellie Wright who runs the “inn” in Point Mettier and has a colorful, bank-robbing past; and Mia Upash, a young woman who leaves her hometown of Unity that lives off the grid to see what life is like in Man’s World. All three characters become entwined by the evolving set of circumstances.
Again Iris Yamashita has created a tight, well-paced story with twists and enough action to keep the veteran mystery reader satisfied. I also enjoyed the characters, especially Ellie Wright who proved herself to be a force to be reckoned with.
It was unclear at the end of Village in the Dark whether there will be more in the series, unlike at the end of the previous book. However, I hope that Yamashita gives us more either continuing with this fascinating story and locale or something equally fresh and intriguing.
Many thanks to the publisher for sending me a copy.
February 12, 2024
Alaskan noir!
Cara Kennedy is a hardened detective in a remote Alaskan village. She’s grieving. Bones had been found, presumed to be her missing husband and son. She buried them. Only now that question is moot. Was it an accident or murder. Cara has their bodies resumed. That is the beginning.
Three POV’s to the tale merge, Cara’s, Mia Updash from the remote village of Unity, and Ellie Wright, owner of the Cozy Condo Inn at Point Mettier.
I found the plot strung out. I lost interest but kept plodding on. The latter half picked up, chillingly so. Damage done however, and Village in the Dark just didn’t recover from my first impressions. I was left with too many uh’s!
Despite the fabulous setting and gritty overtones I just wasn’t won over.
A Berkley Group ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
Cara Kennedy is a hardened detective in a remote Alaskan village. She’s grieving. Bones had been found, presumed to be her missing husband and son. She buried them. Only now that question is moot. Was it an accident or murder. Cara has their bodies resumed. That is the beginning.
Three POV’s to the tale merge, Cara’s, Mia Updash from the remote village of Unity, and Ellie Wright, owner of the Cozy Condo Inn at Point Mettier.
I found the plot strung out. I lost interest but kept plodding on. The latter half picked up, chillingly so. Damage done however, and Village in the Dark just didn’t recover from my first impressions. I was left with too many uh’s!
Despite the fabulous setting and gritty overtones I just wasn’t won over.
A Berkley Group ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
January 16, 2025
Duplicitous, intense, and atmospheric!
In this intriguing, second instalment in the Cara Kennedy series, Village in the Dark, we head back to Alaska, where Anchorage Detective Cara Kennedy now finds herself having to relive the devastating tragedy of losing her husband and son when new clues seem to tie their murders to another crime and she makes the difficult decision to exhume their bodies, treks back to the isolated village of Pont Mettier to ask for help, and allows the romance between herself and the recuperating Officer Barkowski to blossom even further.
The prose is sharp and brisk. The characters are strong, relentless, and resourceful. And the plot unfolds quickly into a menacing tale of mischief, mayhem, corruption, manipulation, betrayal, coercion, greed, violence, and murder.
Overall, Village in the Dark is a tight, captivating, sinister tale by Yamashita that is also dark, intricate, and entertaining.
In this intriguing, second instalment in the Cara Kennedy series, Village in the Dark, we head back to Alaska, where Anchorage Detective Cara Kennedy now finds herself having to relive the devastating tragedy of losing her husband and son when new clues seem to tie their murders to another crime and she makes the difficult decision to exhume their bodies, treks back to the isolated village of Pont Mettier to ask for help, and allows the romance between herself and the recuperating Officer Barkowski to blossom even further.
The prose is sharp and brisk. The characters are strong, relentless, and resourceful. And the plot unfolds quickly into a menacing tale of mischief, mayhem, corruption, manipulation, betrayal, coercion, greed, violence, and murder.
Overall, Village in the Dark is a tight, captivating, sinister tale by Yamashita that is also dark, intricate, and entertaining.
June 6, 2024
I didn't really enjoy reading this book, there was anticipation for the next thing to happen sometimes, but most of the book was slow and made for a confusing plot. I also was not a fan of the ending, and seemed to me that it was an attempt to add more interest to the book. I did like parts of the representation and topics in the book, but the story was just not great.
February 18, 2024
I'd give it 3&1/2 stars.
May 6, 2024
Village in the Dark by Iris Yamashita is the second in a detective series set in Alaska.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Berkley Publishing 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)
Anchorage Detective Cara Kennedy has been on medical leave for failing the psych evaluation, while grieving the loss of her husband Aaron and six-year old son Dylan, after the camping trip that was meant to renew their relationship went awry. Their bones were not found for nine months. Originally, Cara had thought it was an accident, but has recently found that things are pointing toward murder. She found pictures of her family on a thugs camera while in Point Mettier, a small Alaskan town which can only be accessed by a tunnel. Almost all of the 205 residents of the town live in a single high-rise building. That's where she met Police Officer JB Barkowski
My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions)
Cara is about to exhume the bodies of her husband and son, looking for clues that they may have been murdered. A picture of them has been found on the phone of a criminal. Another picture on that same phone turned out to be the son of Ellie, a resident of the condo in Point Mettier. Further investigation shows that there seem to be a number of dead or missing people in these photos.
Meanwhile, we learn a little about Mia, a woman who grew up in a small women-run community called Unity. Mia has changed her name and moved around a lot, She knew Cara's husband.
Cara and others will put their lives on the line to find out what is going on.
My Opinions:
I had problems with this one.
I continue to like the characters of Point Mettier. They are well thought-out, had depth, and are really interesting. A really intriguing group, with very diverse backgrounds, and a lot of secrets.
However, I definitely struggled with the writing. It seemed very dis-jointed between Ellie's story, Mia's story, and Cara's story. Yes, it all came together, but it just wasn't smooth. As well, the book was overly detailed, and really dragged. Nothing really happened in the first half, and I came close to giving up. Thankfully, the second half was much better -- it sort of evened things out. The plot was very predictable, and I had already guessed much from reading the first book. However, the identity of one of the criminals was a real surprise...and I loved that.
Anyway, I know some are going to absolutely love this book so take a chance, and I recommend that you read the first one before jumping in to this one, only so that you understand that Cara has a relationship with Point Mettier.
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), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
February 13, 2024
3/5
Thank you Berkley Publishing for the advanced reading copy!
SYNOPSIS --
Detective Cara Kennedy is determined to get answers, one way or another. After exhuming the bodies of her husband and son, disappeared last year after a hike, she finds answers she NEVER expected, to questions she never even thought to ask. With new players in the game and new rules that Cara could never have predicted, she finds herself down the twisting road of an investigation and into corners darker than she's ever seen.
This book was pretty quick and easy to get through. I love reading about Alaska — it feels sooo far off and different from the Midwest! I liked the first book in the series a lot more, but this one wasn’t bad! It had a slower start but really picked up and burst into chaos in the second half. I was pretty surprised by a few of the events, though some seemed too far fetched to be believable. The Unity village was a super fascinating setting to add in to the second book, too! I enjoyed reading more about Cara and the other characters from Point Mettier, and I'd read another book in the series if there are more in the future!
Thank you Berkley Publishing for the advanced reading copy!
SYNOPSIS --
Detective Cara Kennedy is determined to get answers, one way or another. After exhuming the bodies of her husband and son, disappeared last year after a hike, she finds answers she NEVER expected, to questions she never even thought to ask. With new players in the game and new rules that Cara could never have predicted, she finds herself down the twisting road of an investigation and into corners darker than she's ever seen.
This book was pretty quick and easy to get through. I love reading about Alaska — it feels sooo far off and different from the Midwest! I liked the first book in the series a lot more, but this one wasn’t bad! It had a slower start but really picked up and burst into chaos in the second half. I was pretty surprised by a few of the events, though some seemed too far fetched to be believable. The Unity village was a super fascinating setting to add in to the second book, too! I enjoyed reading more about Cara and the other characters from Point Mettier, and I'd read another book in the series if there are more in the future!
November 7, 2023
This is a sequel to City Under One Roof, continuing Det. Cara Kennedy’s life in Alaska. My honest review is that I like these books, but I’m not entirely sure why. This one had a pretty convoluted plot where you had to suspend reality quite a bit, but that’s almost the appeal. Somehow it works, but this might not be for everyone. If you enjoyed City Under One Roof, you will enjoy this one as well.
February 16, 2024
City Under One Roof was one of my favorite books of 2023. I was shocked to discover this was a debut effort and I was tantalized by the open plot threads that gave hope that there would be a follow up book. Village in the Dark was just that book and it was well worth the anticipation.
Village in the Dark is part of an ongoing story and not good starting point since the main mystery and most of the characters’ situations are carry over. Newcomers should definitely read City Under One Roof first.
I’ll do my best not to spoiler. Cara Kennedy, an Anchorage Police detective on forced mental health leave has recently solved a case with the teamwork of the police and people of Point Mettier, ‘the city under one roof’ and at the end of that case, she was given a chilling clue that her husband and son’s deaths might not have been an accident. She is following up on this clue when her detecting stirs up a hornet’s nest with a gang and leads her to track down the other people in the pictures on a dead gang member’s phone with the help of new romance interest, Officer Joe Barkowski, and the irascible Ellie from Point Mettier.
Cara shares the narration with Ellie whose backstory and the new circumstances around her adult son’s death are given lots of page time. But, a third woman, the mysterious Mia who comes from an off grid village also has a parallel storyline running. I had the feeling that the three separate stories would converge at some point and what a great fistful of surprises when they do.
I enjoyed the tantalizing hints as the three women’s stories came out. Instead of taking away the tension as I got a grasp of just what was going on, the tension mounted as it became obvious that Cara and the others are up against a big time formidable foe and they don’t realize the danger until late.
There was a huge climax scene and a well done finish that wrapped things up well. Unlike the last book, this one didn’t leave any major plot threads dangling, but I sure do hope there are more thrilling Alaska-set murder mysteries for Cara and the other eclectic folks at Point Mettier to solve. Start with the first book, but murder mystery fans who enjoy exotic locations and colorful cultural situations should definitely pick these up.
I rec'd a print ARC from Berkley to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Caffeinated Reviewer. Feb 14, 2024.
Village in the Dark is part of an ongoing story and not good starting point since the main mystery and most of the characters’ situations are carry over. Newcomers should definitely read City Under One Roof first.
I’ll do my best not to spoiler. Cara Kennedy, an Anchorage Police detective on forced mental health leave has recently solved a case with the teamwork of the police and people of Point Mettier, ‘the city under one roof’ and at the end of that case, she was given a chilling clue that her husband and son’s deaths might not have been an accident. She is following up on this clue when her detecting stirs up a hornet’s nest with a gang and leads her to track down the other people in the pictures on a dead gang member’s phone with the help of new romance interest, Officer Joe Barkowski, and the irascible Ellie from Point Mettier.
Cara shares the narration with Ellie whose backstory and the new circumstances around her adult son’s death are given lots of page time. But, a third woman, the mysterious Mia who comes from an off grid village also has a parallel storyline running. I had the feeling that the three separate stories would converge at some point and what a great fistful of surprises when they do.
I enjoyed the tantalizing hints as the three women’s stories came out. Instead of taking away the tension as I got a grasp of just what was going on, the tension mounted as it became obvious that Cara and the others are up against a big time formidable foe and they don’t realize the danger until late.
There was a huge climax scene and a well done finish that wrapped things up well. Unlike the last book, this one didn’t leave any major plot threads dangling, but I sure do hope there are more thrilling Alaska-set murder mysteries for Cara and the other eclectic folks at Point Mettier to solve. Start with the first book, but murder mystery fans who enjoy exotic locations and colorful cultural situations should definitely pick these up.
I rec'd a print ARC from Berkley to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Caffeinated Reviewer. Feb 14, 2024.
February 19, 2024
Wow! Fast paced, quick read! Great follow-up to the first book. Excited for the next!
On medical disability, Cara continues to push the investigation into the deaths of her husband and son.
Ellie learns of her son's death - rule an overdose. She partners with Cara to uncover the truth.
Mia weaves her own story between these women - a strong young woman, detailing the treacherous truth behind a massively powerful pharmaceutical company.
Loved the writing, to the point and fast paced plot. Excellent read.
On medical disability, Cara continues to push the investigation into the deaths of her husband and son.
Ellie learns of her son's death - rule an overdose. She partners with Cara to uncover the truth.
Mia weaves her own story between these women - a strong young woman, detailing the treacherous truth behind a massively powerful pharmaceutical company.
Loved the writing, to the point and fast paced plot. Excellent read.
May 6, 2024
Found this hard cover book at local library. A tale about policewoman Cara Kennedy who is on leave and pursuing her own investigation following the death of her spouse and son. Loved the information carefully woven into the story about indigenous beliefs and practices. If statistics in the book are true, more women go missing in Alaska than any of the other 49 states.
February 12, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ VILLAGE IN THE DARK is the impressive sequel to the debut novel, CITY UNDER ONE ROOF. I don’t think you absolutely have to read book one, but I likely enjoyed the sequel more because I was well acquainted with the characters and their stories. I don’t remember much about the mystery from the first book, but Yamashita’s characters definitely stuck with me over the past year.
CITY UNDER ONE ROOF is set in a Point Mettier, an Alaskan town where all the residents live in the same high-rise building and VILLAGE IN THE DARK expands on that a bit. The characters venture between Point Mettier, Anchorage, and the isolated Alaskan wilderness.
VILLAGE IN THE DARK is perfectly atmospheric and suspenseful and the characters are so well-crafted. I’m always on the hunt for more procedural and detective stories, especially those with diverse characters and the Cara Kennedy series definitely delivers. Yamashita, an accomplished screen writer, brings to life a riveting cast of unique individuals that are equal parts lovable and frustrating.
Statistics show that 85% of women in Alaska will experience violence in their lifetime and I found certain aspects of this book pertaining to intimate partner violence and abuse really eye opening. We have a toll booth operator who is constantly on the lookout for dangerous ex-husbands and an entire village of women and children living in isolation to protect themselves from abusers. As difficult as it is to think about, I really loved the sense of community that Yamashita created with both books and even though none of her characters are perfect, they truly protect their own.
I usually avoid a book’s synopsis but I think this one is really well done. It gives away just enough information without spoiling key plot points.
🎧I listened to this as an audiobook thanks to PRH Audio! It was incredibly well done with multiple very talented narrators.
🥳Pub Day: FEB 13!
CITY UNDER ONE ROOF is set in a Point Mettier, an Alaskan town where all the residents live in the same high-rise building and VILLAGE IN THE DARK expands on that a bit. The characters venture between Point Mettier, Anchorage, and the isolated Alaskan wilderness.
VILLAGE IN THE DARK is perfectly atmospheric and suspenseful and the characters are so well-crafted. I’m always on the hunt for more procedural and detective stories, especially those with diverse characters and the Cara Kennedy series definitely delivers. Yamashita, an accomplished screen writer, brings to life a riveting cast of unique individuals that are equal parts lovable and frustrating.
Statistics show that 85% of women in Alaska will experience violence in their lifetime and I found certain aspects of this book pertaining to intimate partner violence and abuse really eye opening. We have a toll booth operator who is constantly on the lookout for dangerous ex-husbands and an entire village of women and children living in isolation to protect themselves from abusers. As difficult as it is to think about, I really loved the sense of community that Yamashita created with both books and even though none of her characters are perfect, they truly protect their own.
I usually avoid a book’s synopsis but I think this one is really well done. It gives away just enough information without spoiling key plot points.
🎧I listened to this as an audiobook thanks to PRH Audio! It was incredibly well done with multiple very talented narrators.
🥳Pub Day: FEB 13!
March 16, 2024
3.5 rounding up. This is the second book with Detective Cara Kennedy and it was pretty good. I thought we would return to the city under one roof but that was not to be and I was a bit disappointed. The plot is still filled with action but it was a lot more of what I have read before - corrupt pharma, remote Alaska and lots of coverup.
The book picks up exactly where it left off on the last one with Cara seeing a photo of her dead husband and kid on the phone of a hired gun and realizing they might not have died in a hiking accident. As she rushes to investigate this there are number of other POVs that track the City’s other residents trying to take revenge for the murder of someone else’s son and a young woman named Mia who is from a remote village that is a safe haven for women and children.
It all wrapped a little too tidy for me but there was one reveal I didn’t see coming so points for that. This is a quick and engaging read but definitely read the first book first or you’ll spend a lot of time trying to catch up.
The book picks up exactly where it left off on the last one with Cara seeing a photo of her dead husband and kid on the phone of a hired gun and realizing they might not have died in a hiking accident. As she rushes to investigate this there are number of other POVs that track the City’s other residents trying to take revenge for the murder of someone else’s son and a young woman named Mia who is from a remote village that is a safe haven for women and children.
It all wrapped a little too tidy for me but there was one reveal I didn’t see coming so points for that. This is a quick and engaging read but definitely read the first book first or you’ll spend a lot of time trying to catch up.
July 17, 2024
This book picks up where the last book left off with the widowed police detective from Anchorage on disability after failing a psyche evaluation. It's a fast ride to startling revelations. Lots of action and shoot em ups. Have no idea where the author will take Cara in the third book.
February 28, 2024
Detective Cara Kennedy thought she’d lost her husband and son in an accident, but harrowing evidence has emerged that points to murder. Not only that, but a string of other deaths and disappearances are potentially connected too.
I thoroughly enjoyed this atmospheric thriller! The isolation of this tiny Alaskan village is such a captivating backdrop for a police procedural. I loved that both of these books showcase a cast of strong female characters. Both mysteries kept me guessing, and while you don’t technically have to read one book to read the other, I wouldn’t want to miss out on either one!
Each book is told from three perspectives, with a different narrator for each POV, and they all do a great job of bringing their characters to life. The same narrator voices Cara in both books, which is a nice touch of continuity that I really enjoyed.
I thoroughly enjoyed this atmospheric thriller! The isolation of this tiny Alaskan village is such a captivating backdrop for a police procedural. I loved that both of these books showcase a cast of strong female characters. Both mysteries kept me guessing, and while you don’t technically have to read one book to read the other, I wouldn’t want to miss out on either one!
Each book is told from three perspectives, with a different narrator for each POV, and they all do a great job of bringing their characters to life. The same narrator voices Cara in both books, which is a nice touch of continuity that I really enjoyed.
January 21, 2025
Just did not hold my interest and found myself spacing out quite often. It was not what I was expecting unfortunately.
February 13, 2024
Thank you Netgalley and Berkley for a copy of this book.
3.5⭐️
An atmosphere police/detective murder mystery set in a small village in Alaska.
This is the second in the series and I feel it would have been even better if I read that first. Which is my fault! I definitely recommend reading that first.
This book has three POVs, Cara, Ellie and Mia. Cara, a police officer, just lost her husband and son in a terrible accident. Ellie learns of her son’s death, which is deemed an overdose. We learn of Mia’s story which involves working at a big pharmaceutical company leads us to where she is today which links to the other two ladies. After twists and turns we find out that the deaths and disappearances are related to one another. And they set on a dangerous path to learn the truth.
This is a fast paced thriller that will have you hooked. Be sure to read the first book and preorder the sequel today!
3.5⭐️
An atmosphere police/detective murder mystery set in a small village in Alaska.
This is the second in the series and I feel it would have been even better if I read that first. Which is my fault! I definitely recommend reading that first.
This book has three POVs, Cara, Ellie and Mia. Cara, a police officer, just lost her husband and son in a terrible accident. Ellie learns of her son’s death, which is deemed an overdose. We learn of Mia’s story which involves working at a big pharmaceutical company leads us to where she is today which links to the other two ladies. After twists and turns we find out that the deaths and disappearances are related to one another. And they set on a dangerous path to learn the truth.
This is a fast paced thriller that will have you hooked. Be sure to read the first book and preorder the sequel today!
March 1, 2024
Must say I was hooked to the premise of the first one, and excited about the second book, but there were only a few chapters — about the life of indigenous women in their community and Mia — where I enjoyed the writing and characters. Love the attention directed toward Alaska Native women. I live in a random part of the world not nearly close to Alaska, but I'm glad that the violence directed at indigenous communities is made increasingly visible and harder to ignore.
The pacing is great, descriptions easy to read, story is far-fetched but interesting... But the prose is quite juvenile, for lack of better words, and emotionally superficial. The conflict is easily solved. I blinked and the story was finished: no time for immersion. As commented by another reviewer: I don't quite know why I like it.
It's easy to binge because it feels like reading a summary of chapters. Screenplay style slightly over-the-top attention to details and quite memorable comparisons like "under an agitated sky the color of rinse water". Maybe that's the trap of this style of writing: because we're all looking for something visual and easy to focus on with our narrowing attention spans.
Can't lie, still kinda hooked to this series.
The pacing is great, descriptions easy to read, story is far-fetched but interesting... But the prose is quite juvenile, for lack of better words, and emotionally superficial. The conflict is easily solved. I blinked and the story was finished: no time for immersion. As commented by another reviewer: I don't quite know why I like it.
It's easy to binge because it feels like reading a summary of chapters. Screenplay style slightly over-the-top attention to details and quite memorable comparisons like "under an agitated sky the color of rinse water". Maybe that's the trap of this style of writing: because we're all looking for something visual and easy to focus on with our narrowing attention spans.
Can't lie, still kinda hooked to this series.
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