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Agent Tori Hunter #7
Taken in the Cold
“Make sure you wrap up warm for school, honey. A blizzard is on the way.” Ten-year-old Teddy rolls his eyes at his mother. But then he hears a bang… By the time police arrive, Teddy’s mother is dead. His open school backpack is strewn across the hallway. And Teddy is nowhere to be found.
When gunshots ring out from an exclusive family home on the edge of Northern Pine Lake, Agent Tori Hunter races through the gathering snowstorm to discover that ten-year-old Teddy Marist has disappeared. His mother and her new boyfriend are dead in the family kitchen, breakfast still cooking on the stove. And racing to track down Teddy’s father, Tori finds he is missing too.
Local police are certain this is a simple case of a jealous ex-husband turned violent over his recent divorce. But interviewing everyone she can about Teddy’s father, Tori’s gut has her questioning if he would really kidnap his own child? And when Teddy’s father is found dead in a pool of blood at an abandoned vacation resort, Tori is devastated to be proven right.
Just as she’s desperately following a set of tire tracks leading away from the crime scene Tori gets a chilling phone Teddy is safe. But not for long. Meet me—alone. No guns. No backup.
Surrounded by the driving blizzard and the biggest storm Manchester Bay has seen for decades, Tori is determined to go it alone. But she knows the phone call means this case is about more than one lost little boy… and that a deadly, decades-old secret about the history of the abandoned resort could threaten the whole community.
With Teddy’s life—and the lives of those she loves—hanging in the balance, can Tori track down the kidnappers before it’s too late?
A totally addictive thriller that will have you racing through the pages, unable to put it down until you know the truth. Perfect for fans of Mary Stone, Charlie Donlea and Kendra Elliot.
Read what everyone’s saying about Taken in the Cold:
“Wow, did this one pack a punch… Superb… Has you gripped from the very first pages… Left me gasping outwardly… and holding my breath.” bookreviewercakemaker, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I read it in 24 hours with my heart in my mouth… So good!” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Wow… Sitting on the edge of my seat… A real rollercoaster from the very first page.” B for Bookreview, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Addictive crime thriller!... A pulse-racing mystery… A rollercoaster of a story… Now that I have finished this, l can finally get my breath back!!!!” coffeeandpages2021, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Clear your weekend, you won’t put this down!... A wild ride. Absolutely recommend.” MagicalMomReads, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“This one is a definite NAIL-BITER… hang on the edge of your seat… Heart-palpitating kind of read.
When gunshots ring out from an exclusive family home on the edge of Northern Pine Lake, Agent Tori Hunter races through the gathering snowstorm to discover that ten-year-old Teddy Marist has disappeared. His mother and her new boyfriend are dead in the family kitchen, breakfast still cooking on the stove. And racing to track down Teddy’s father, Tori finds he is missing too.
Local police are certain this is a simple case of a jealous ex-husband turned violent over his recent divorce. But interviewing everyone she can about Teddy’s father, Tori’s gut has her questioning if he would really kidnap his own child? And when Teddy’s father is found dead in a pool of blood at an abandoned vacation resort, Tori is devastated to be proven right.
Just as she’s desperately following a set of tire tracks leading away from the crime scene Tori gets a chilling phone Teddy is safe. But not for long. Meet me—alone. No guns. No backup.
Surrounded by the driving blizzard and the biggest storm Manchester Bay has seen for decades, Tori is determined to go it alone. But she knows the phone call means this case is about more than one lost little boy… and that a deadly, decades-old secret about the history of the abandoned resort could threaten the whole community.
With Teddy’s life—and the lives of those she loves—hanging in the balance, can Tori track down the kidnappers before it’s too late?
A totally addictive thriller that will have you racing through the pages, unable to put it down until you know the truth. Perfect for fans of Mary Stone, Charlie Donlea and Kendra Elliot.
Read what everyone’s saying about Taken in the Cold:
“Wow, did this one pack a punch… Superb… Has you gripped from the very first pages… Left me gasping outwardly… and holding my breath.” bookreviewercakemaker, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I read it in 24 hours with my heart in my mouth… So good!” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Wow… Sitting on the edge of my seat… A real rollercoaster from the very first page.” B for Bookreview, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Addictive crime thriller!... A pulse-racing mystery… A rollercoaster of a story… Now that I have finished this, l can finally get my breath back!!!!” coffeeandpages2021, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Clear your weekend, you won’t put this down!... A wild ride. Absolutely recommend.” MagicalMomReads, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“This one is a definite NAIL-BITER… hang on the edge of your seat… Heart-palpitating kind of read.
428 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2024
1285 people are currently reading
566 people want to read
About the author
Roger Stelljes
43 books765 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the McRyan Mystery Series and the Tori Hunter - Manchester Bay Mystery Series. The two crime series with over 3+ million downloads and 200,000+ reviews and ratings. Get the heart-stopping, action-packed thrillers that fans of John Sandford, Lee Child, Michael Connelly, James Patterson and Karin Slaughter will be hooked on by one of the best new authors in crime fiction.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
October 23, 2024
A Blizzard is on the way but that won’t stop a killer from taking the lives of two people and kidnapping a boy named Teddy! Hold onto your hats folks, because things are about to get dicey! Taken in the Cold is gripping, shocking, well thought out, captivating and tense. I loved the atmosphere. There is something about books which take places in snowy settings that get me every time. I love the chilling atmosphere and tension it provides. This book has a pulse pounding mystery and I was there for it every step of the way.
In Taken in the Cold, Agent Tori Hunter and Detective Braddock have their hands full. There is more going on than meets the eye in this book. As they dig deeper and follow leads, they learn that there is more to be learned as embezzlement also comes into play.
I loved the mystery and the investigation. I enjoyed getting both of their perspectives as they did their investigative work. This is not an easy case, but they pour everything they have into it. I love a well thought out plot and Roger Stelljes nailed it! He had me turning those pages, fully invested and wanting more.
This worked very well as a stand-alone book for me. I have recently listened to the first book in the series, Silenced Girls and thought it was extremely well done. It piqued my interest and when I saw this book was coming out, I jumped at the opportunity to read Taken in the Cold! I was thrilled that I did. I found this book to be well written, well thought out, perfectly plotted and full of tension.
I had both the audiobook and the kindle edition of the book which made for a fully immersive reading experience. I thought the narration on the audiobook was very well done. I am looking forward to reading more of Roger Stelljes books in the future!
Gripping, tense, atmospheric, and riveting!
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
In Taken in the Cold, Agent Tori Hunter and Detective Braddock have their hands full. There is more going on than meets the eye in this book. As they dig deeper and follow leads, they learn that there is more to be learned as embezzlement also comes into play.
I loved the mystery and the investigation. I enjoyed getting both of their perspectives as they did their investigative work. This is not an easy case, but they pour everything they have into it. I love a well thought out plot and Roger Stelljes nailed it! He had me turning those pages, fully invested and wanting more.
This worked very well as a stand-alone book for me. I have recently listened to the first book in the series, Silenced Girls and thought it was extremely well done. It piqued my interest and when I saw this book was coming out, I jumped at the opportunity to read Taken in the Cold! I was thrilled that I did. I found this book to be well written, well thought out, perfectly plotted and full of tension.
I had both the audiobook and the kindle edition of the book which made for a fully immersive reading experience. I thought the narration on the audiobook was very well done. I am looking forward to reading more of Roger Stelljes books in the future!
Gripping, tense, atmospheric, and riveting!
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
November 1, 2024
Happy publication day 🎉🥳
It rarely happens. but I was right. I predicted a couple of weeks ago that there’d be a book 7 on the way, and here it is in all its glory. I also mentioned that after book one I immediately wish listed the rest of the series. I was therefore a little apprehensive in going into book 7 having only read the first, that I might ruin the rest of the series for myself. However I’m really pleased to say that this wasn’t the case. This title works well as a standalone, there are enough references to the past that you connect with the characters and the story flows well. There are however loads of little teasers from throughout the rest of the series that left me still really wanting to read them. If you’d join me in offering up a prayer to the audible gods for 5 credits, please and thank you 😉
This is by far my favourite detective series for many years. It feels like the author has really done the work, there’s no paint by numbers here, and you really are going along with the story and of course the investigation. There’s a real gritty meat on the bones style to the writing. The character development is brilliant. The plot is solid, smart and bang up to date.
I loved the narration again this time around. I really couldn’t find anything to fault.
Loved it.
An easy 4 ⭐️
My thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture audio for this ALC
It rarely happens. but I was right. I predicted a couple of weeks ago that there’d be a book 7 on the way, and here it is in all its glory. I also mentioned that after book one I immediately wish listed the rest of the series. I was therefore a little apprehensive in going into book 7 having only read the first, that I might ruin the rest of the series for myself. However I’m really pleased to say that this wasn’t the case. This title works well as a standalone, there are enough references to the past that you connect with the characters and the story flows well. There are however loads of little teasers from throughout the rest of the series that left me still really wanting to read them. If you’d join me in offering up a prayer to the audible gods for 5 credits, please and thank you 😉
This is by far my favourite detective series for many years. It feels like the author has really done the work, there’s no paint by numbers here, and you really are going along with the story and of course the investigation. There’s a real gritty meat on the bones style to the writing. The character development is brilliant. The plot is solid, smart and bang up to date.
I loved the narration again this time around. I really couldn’t find anything to fault.
Loved it.
An easy 4 ⭐️
My thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture audio for this ALC
November 2, 2024
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC audiobook Taken in the Cold by Roger Stelljes.
I was fortunate enough to have been able to listen to the first book in the series a few weeks ago. I will admit that I skipped to the 7th book in the series to see if they had gotten any better. I feel like the first book was a bit too long and little too much extra information about Special Agent Tori Hunter.
After starting this book, I did realize that it would have been nice if I had listened/read the books in-between. I do not feel like it was necessary, I just felt like I had missed out on some exciting cases.
I feel like the author's books in this series got better with time. I enjoyed following Tori and her beau Will Braddock. It was a fast paced mystery from the start. It was twisty and I enjoyed the ride. I don't want to spoil the case but it was a good read.
I was fortunate enough to have been able to listen to the first book in the series a few weeks ago. I will admit that I skipped to the 7th book in the series to see if they had gotten any better. I feel like the first book was a bit too long and little too much extra information about Special Agent Tori Hunter.
After starting this book, I did realize that it would have been nice if I had listened/read the books in-between. I do not feel like it was necessary, I just felt like I had missed out on some exciting cases.
I feel like the author's books in this series got better with time. I enjoyed following Tori and her beau Will Braddock. It was a fast paced mystery from the start. It was twisty and I enjoyed the ride. I don't want to spoil the case but it was a good read.
November 1, 2024
This was so worth the wait. Right on par for this series it was non stop action right from the first page. I could not put this down. Tori and Braddock are such a dynamic duo. This series is so dang good. It has a bit of everything and a must read.
This series has such great character progression as well as a non stop crime thriller. If you are a fan of Lisa Regan then this series is a must. Trust me.
This series has such great character progression as well as a non stop crime thriller. If you are a fan of Lisa Regan then this series is a must. Trust me.
November 17, 2024
High quality fast paced audio. My Swindon audio outing with this series. It felt a long listen in places but due to the complexity of the crime and the mystery it needed to be. Perfect as a standalone listen as well. Loved rhe working it out and I did actually care what happened to teddy. I foubd the narrator good and engaging. The plot was overcomplicated in places but I think that was ti build tension. It wasn't just about solving a kidnapping it was who and why.
I found myself pleased I had listened till the end although I hope this is not the end of the saga.
Thank you netgallery and publisher and author and narrator fir this highly recommended 5 star listen
I found myself pleased I had listened till the end although I hope this is not the end of the saga.
Thank you netgallery and publisher and author and narrator fir this highly recommended 5 star listen
March 10, 2025
Can't wait to see what the next book brings to see what else tori and Brandon run i to...great series
November 14, 2024
"Taken in the Cold" by Roger Stelljes is book 7 in the Agent Tori Hunter series. It is a mystery and crime drama with quite a bit of action. If crime drama is your jam, check out this one.
This book is good, but rather too long. The audibook ran 13.5 hours. Kate Handford did a great job with the narration.
The story begins with a home invasion attack on a family, 2 murders, and the kidnapping of the family's 10 year old son. This is only the beginning. Tori Hunter and Will Braddock are on the case!
Characters - 3/5
Writing - 4/5
Plot - 4/5
Pacing - 3/5
Unputdownability - 3/5
Enjoyment - 3/5
Narration - 4/5
Cover - 4/5
Overall - 28/8 = 3 4/8 rounded up to 4 stars.
Thank you to Netgalley, Bookouture Audio, and Roger Stelljes for providing this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
This book is good, but rather too long. The audibook ran 13.5 hours. Kate Handford did a great job with the narration.
The story begins with a home invasion attack on a family, 2 murders, and the kidnapping of the family's 10 year old son. This is only the beginning. Tori Hunter and Will Braddock are on the case!
Characters - 3/5
Writing - 4/5
Plot - 4/5
Pacing - 3/5
Unputdownability - 3/5
Enjoyment - 3/5
Narration - 4/5
Cover - 4/5
Overall - 28/8 = 3 4/8 rounded up to 4 stars.
Thank you to Netgalley, Bookouture Audio, and Roger Stelljes for providing this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
November 10, 2024
Absolutely brilliant!
Wow, what a rollercoaster of a ride. Great characters, awesome plot and so many twists and turns. Loved every minute of it
Wow, what a rollercoaster of a ride. Great characters, awesome plot and so many twists and turns. Loved every minute of it
October 6, 2024
Clear your weekend, you won’t put this down!
This was my first book from the series and by the author, and even though it is book 7, there was quick character backstory and I was able to follow along. It can easily be read as a standalone. However, I was so intrigued by the authors story telling, I will be picking up the previous books. I particularly enjoyed the catchy chapter titles.
Set in a small town in Minnesota, Agent Tori Hunter and detective Braddock try and solve a case involving kidnapping, murder, and embezzlement. Was it a crime of passion or revenge? And how does the kidnapping of a ten year old boy fit in?
The authors descriptive writing had me right along side each character, from the most likeable characters to the antagonists, Each character story line was believable and I felt like I was on a wild ride. Absolutely recommend to any thriller and suspense reader.
This was my first book from the series and by the author, and even though it is book 7, there was quick character backstory and I was able to follow along. It can easily be read as a standalone. However, I was so intrigued by the authors story telling, I will be picking up the previous books. I particularly enjoyed the catchy chapter titles.
Set in a small town in Minnesota, Agent Tori Hunter and detective Braddock try and solve a case involving kidnapping, murder, and embezzlement. Was it a crime of passion or revenge? And how does the kidnapping of a ten year old boy fit in?
The authors descriptive writing had me right along side each character, from the most likeable characters to the antagonists, Each character story line was believable and I felt like I was on a wild ride. Absolutely recommend to any thriller and suspense reader.
October 4, 2024
Wow, the author really opened a can labeled 'action' for this book. He had me sitting on the edge of my seat rooting for Tori.
Batman had a sidekick Robin, with Batman being the more important character. In this story Tori filled the shoes of Batman, (or rather Batwoman ;)), but her sidekick stole the show as well as my heart. I am talking about 10 year old Teddy. He is brave, clever and cute and very grown up.
There are people who would move heaven and earth to get their revenge. They don't take any prisoners, but I was pleased to see there are some who see the light and try to make a bad thing a bit better.
This story was a real roller coaster from the very first page. Put on your body armor, fasten your seat belts you will need both :) ) and enjoy! 5 stars
Thank you
Batman had a sidekick Robin, with Batman being the more important character. In this story Tori filled the shoes of Batman, (or rather Batwoman ;)), but her sidekick stole the show as well as my heart. I am talking about 10 year old Teddy. He is brave, clever and cute and very grown up.
There are people who would move heaven and earth to get their revenge. They don't take any prisoners, but I was pleased to see there are some who see the light and try to make a bad thing a bit better.
This story was a real roller coaster from the very first page. Put on your body armor, fasten your seat belts you will need both :) ) and enjoy! 5 stars
Thank you
June 17, 2025
I was hooked by this story from the start. The story opens with a chilling scene: a mother and her new boyfriend are found dead in their kitchen, and her 10-year-old son, Teddy, is missing. I received a copy from Bookouture via Netgalley.
The emotional depth is something I liked a lot. Teddy is a well-crafted character—brave, smart, and surprisingly mature for his age. His bond with Tori adds a heartfelt layer to the story, especially as she relates to his situation through her own past. The suspense is on point, with twists that kept me guessing for a long time.
The setting is also great. The snowstorm in Manchester Bay adds to the atmosphere and heightens the stakes. I also appreciated how the book delves into a decades-old secret tied to an abandoned resort, adding extra depth to the plot.
I can't wait for the next book in this series!
4,5/5⭐️
The emotional depth is something I liked a lot. Teddy is a well-crafted character—brave, smart, and surprisingly mature for his age. His bond with Tori adds a heartfelt layer to the story, especially as she relates to his situation through her own past. The suspense is on point, with twists that kept me guessing for a long time.
The setting is also great. The snowstorm in Manchester Bay adds to the atmosphere and heightens the stakes. I also appreciated how the book delves into a decades-old secret tied to an abandoned resort, adding extra depth to the plot.
I can't wait for the next book in this series!
4,5/5⭐️
November 14, 2024
This was my second Tori Hunter book and I'm keen to jump into the third.
This book is a female-led mystery that follows Tori Hunter as she works to get to the bottom of her latest murder slash child abduction.
There are heaps of red herrings throughout, I was wrong more than once about the person pulling the strings.
My only critique is that I felt the cheese was laid on too thick for me with the romance between Tori and Braddock.
I would recommend this book to fans of female mystery books who love a quick and easy read.
4.0 ⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review
This book is a female-led mystery that follows Tori Hunter as she works to get to the bottom of her latest murder slash child abduction.
There are heaps of red herrings throughout, I was wrong more than once about the person pulling the strings.
My only critique is that I felt the cheese was laid on too thick for me with the romance between Tori and Braddock.
I would recommend this book to fans of female mystery books who love a quick and easy read.
4.0 ⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review
July 11, 2025
Loved it! Sad that I have no more in this series to read, hopefully more to come, definitely feels unfinished 🤞
October 25, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up.
Former FBI agent Tori Hunter is back! When shots ring out at a posh mansion, two adults are found dead on the scene, and a ten-year-old boy is missing just before a huge winter storm is supposed to hit Manchester Bay, Minnesota, Tori quickly jumps back into action and joins forces with her partner / local Sheriff Braddock to solve the mystery and try to find the child.
I only recently listened to the first book in this series and fell in love with Tori, Braddock and their local gang of crime-solvers in Manchester Bay. "Taken in the Cold" is book no. 7 in the series, but it works well as a standalone (I didn't have time to read books 2-6, though they are high on my TBR list, and I followed along any new developments just fine; plus, the necessary character backstories from book 1 get covered, helping anyone who is completely new to this series).
Overall, I'm still very much taken by the series. Tori is as fearless, capable and feisty as ever, and she and Braddock once again work well together. I was also totally sucked in by the mystery in this book, and flew through it in a single sitting because it kept me engrossed, though the ending felt a bit lackluster, maybe because of the books very eerie and sinister beginning that had me expecting the end of the world.
What I absolutely did not like about this particular book - and this is a small issue on my part - is that a lot of pages were wasted just repeating (mostly gunfire) sounds - i.e. "Pang pang pang!". I was willing to overlook it once or twice, but it was used so often in a few scenes that it started to grate on my nerves, and felt a bit like lazy writing (why not describe what the gunfire sounds like instead of simply printing the actual noise?).
Other than that, this was a near-flawless mystery in an excellent series that will have me coming back for more.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
"Taken in the Cold" is slated to be released on November 1, 2024.
Former FBI agent Tori Hunter is back! When shots ring out at a posh mansion, two adults are found dead on the scene, and a ten-year-old boy is missing just before a huge winter storm is supposed to hit Manchester Bay, Minnesota, Tori quickly jumps back into action and joins forces with her partner / local Sheriff Braddock to solve the mystery and try to find the child.
I only recently listened to the first book in this series and fell in love with Tori, Braddock and their local gang of crime-solvers in Manchester Bay. "Taken in the Cold" is book no. 7 in the series, but it works well as a standalone (I didn't have time to read books 2-6, though they are high on my TBR list, and I followed along any new developments just fine; plus, the necessary character backstories from book 1 get covered, helping anyone who is completely new to this series).
Overall, I'm still very much taken by the series. Tori is as fearless, capable and feisty as ever, and she and Braddock once again work well together. I was also totally sucked in by the mystery in this book, and flew through it in a single sitting because it kept me engrossed, though the ending felt a bit lackluster, maybe because of the books very eerie and sinister beginning that had me expecting the end of the world.
What I absolutely did not like about this particular book - and this is a small issue on my part - is that a lot of pages were wasted just repeating (mostly gunfire) sounds - i.e. "Pang pang pang!". I was willing to overlook it once or twice, but it was used so often in a few scenes that it started to grate on my nerves, and felt a bit like lazy writing (why not describe what the gunfire sounds like instead of simply printing the actual noise?).
Other than that, this was a near-flawless mystery in an excellent series that will have me coming back for more.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
"Taken in the Cold" is slated to be released on November 1, 2024.
October 28, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC in audiobook format.
Roger Stelljes’ Taken in the Cold is a gripping addition to the Agent Tori Hunter series, blending intense crime-solving with the chilling atmosphere of a Minnesota winter. This seventh installment keeps the stakes high and the suspense palpable, making it a must-listen for fans of the genre.
Kate Handford’s narration is a standout feature of this audiobook. Her ability to convey the urgency and emotional depth of the story enhances the overall experience. Handford’s clear and expressive voice brings each character to life, from the determined Agent Tori Hunter to the desperate victims and cunning antagonists. Her pacing is impeccable, maintaining the tension and keeping listeners engaged throughout.
The novel opens with a bang—literally—as ten-year-old Teddy Marist goes missing amidst a snowstorm, and gunshots are heard. Agent Tori Hunter is thrust into a complex investigation. Stelljes masterfully weaves multiple plot threads together, creating a narrative that is both intricate and fast-paced. The twists and turns are well-timed, ensuring that the suspense never lets up.
Tori Hunter continues to be a compelling protagonist, characterized by her relentless pursuit of justice and her personal struggles. Stelljes does an excellent job of developing her character further, revealing new layers of her personality and backstory. The supporting cast, including Detective Braddock and the various suspects, are equally well-drawn, adding depth and realism to the story.
The small-town Minnesota setting is vividly depicted, with the harsh winter conditions adding an extra layer of tension to the narrative. Stelljes’ descriptions of the snow-covered landscapes and the biting cold create a palpable sense of place, immersing listeners in the story’s environment. The setting not only enhances the mood but also plays a crucial role in the plot, influencing the characters’ actions and decisions.
Taken in the Cold explores themes of trust, betrayal, and the lengths to which people will go to protect their secrets. Stelljes delves into the psychological aspects of crime, examining the motivations and fears of the perpetrators and the victims. The novel also touches on the impact of trauma and the resilience required to overcome it, adding emotional depth to the thriller.
Taken in the Cold is a thoroughly addictive crime thriller that will keep listeners on the edge of their seats. Stelljes’ skillful storytelling, combined with Handford’s exceptional narration, makes for a compelling and immersive audiobook experience.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of the Agent Tori Hunter series or new to Stelljes’ work, this book is sure to satisfy your craving for suspense and intrigue.
Roger Stelljes’ Taken in the Cold is a gripping addition to the Agent Tori Hunter series, blending intense crime-solving with the chilling atmosphere of a Minnesota winter. This seventh installment keeps the stakes high and the suspense palpable, making it a must-listen for fans of the genre.
Kate Handford’s narration is a standout feature of this audiobook. Her ability to convey the urgency and emotional depth of the story enhances the overall experience. Handford’s clear and expressive voice brings each character to life, from the determined Agent Tori Hunter to the desperate victims and cunning antagonists. Her pacing is impeccable, maintaining the tension and keeping listeners engaged throughout.
The novel opens with a bang—literally—as ten-year-old Teddy Marist goes missing amidst a snowstorm, and gunshots are heard. Agent Tori Hunter is thrust into a complex investigation. Stelljes masterfully weaves multiple plot threads together, creating a narrative that is both intricate and fast-paced. The twists and turns are well-timed, ensuring that the suspense never lets up.
Tori Hunter continues to be a compelling protagonist, characterized by her relentless pursuit of justice and her personal struggles. Stelljes does an excellent job of developing her character further, revealing new layers of her personality and backstory. The supporting cast, including Detective Braddock and the various suspects, are equally well-drawn, adding depth and realism to the story.
The small-town Minnesota setting is vividly depicted, with the harsh winter conditions adding an extra layer of tension to the narrative. Stelljes’ descriptions of the snow-covered landscapes and the biting cold create a palpable sense of place, immersing listeners in the story’s environment. The setting not only enhances the mood but also plays a crucial role in the plot, influencing the characters’ actions and decisions.
Taken in the Cold explores themes of trust, betrayal, and the lengths to which people will go to protect their secrets. Stelljes delves into the psychological aspects of crime, examining the motivations and fears of the perpetrators and the victims. The novel also touches on the impact of trauma and the resilience required to overcome it, adding emotional depth to the thriller.
Taken in the Cold is a thoroughly addictive crime thriller that will keep listeners on the edge of their seats. Stelljes’ skillful storytelling, combined with Handford’s exceptional narration, makes for a compelling and immersive audiobook experience.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of the Agent Tori Hunter series or new to Stelljes’ work, this book is sure to satisfy your craving for suspense and intrigue.
November 3, 2024
Book Tour 📚
and
R E V I E W 🗒🖋
Title: Taken In The Cold
Author: Roger Stelljes
Publisher: Bookouture
Genre: Crime/Mystery
Thank you so much @bookouture for the #gifted copy and having me along on this book tour!
I reviewed and loved Book 6 in the Tori Hunter series last year, and was excited to see how Book 7 fared - Roger Stelljes is a maestro at spinning a twisted mystery/thriller which kept me on my toes!
When gunshots ring out from a family home, Agent Tori Hunter races through the gathering snowstorm to discover that ten-year-old Teddy Marist has disappeared. His mother and her new boyfriend are dead in the family kitchen, breakfast still cooking on the stove. And racing to track down Teddy’s father, Barry Marist, Tori finds he is missing too.
Local police are certain this is a simple case of a jealous ex-husband turned violent over his recent divorce. But interviewing everyone she can about Barry, Tori’s gut has her questioning if he would really kidnap his own child? When Barry's body is discovered at an abandoned holiday resort, Tori's worst suspicions are confirmed. With a blizzard looming that threatens to cut off contact, access and answers for Tori Hunter, the question is if she will be able to save Teddy in time and find the perpetrators behind the murders?
I was drawn in from the first page. Roger Stelljes is a powerful, convincing storyteller and is great at delivering beyond what it says on the packet; you will never be dissatisfied after reading his books. Be prepared for a fast-paced storyline, a slick writing style, memorable characters and drama and action that unfolds with each turn of the page! (At this point, I can safely say Roger Stelljes is the king of writing car-chases in fiction!) However, there was also a vulnerability and softness and Stelljes was able to capture this emotion through fantastic character development; I was really rooting for Tori, Braddock and the team to bring Teddy justice. I had my heart in my mouth and was gasping out loud at so many *shockers* - a thriller has to be unpredictable and engaging in equal parts which this book finally did for me. I know I want to read the other books in the series now and complete the set.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 - highly recommend this one if you're a crime/thriller fan. You won't regret it!
⁉️ What is the name of your favourite thriller?
and
R E V I E W 🗒🖋
Title: Taken In The Cold
Author: Roger Stelljes
Publisher: Bookouture
Genre: Crime/Mystery
Thank you so much @bookouture for the #gifted copy and having me along on this book tour!
I reviewed and loved Book 6 in the Tori Hunter series last year, and was excited to see how Book 7 fared - Roger Stelljes is a maestro at spinning a twisted mystery/thriller which kept me on my toes!
When gunshots ring out from a family home, Agent Tori Hunter races through the gathering snowstorm to discover that ten-year-old Teddy Marist has disappeared. His mother and her new boyfriend are dead in the family kitchen, breakfast still cooking on the stove. And racing to track down Teddy’s father, Barry Marist, Tori finds he is missing too.
Local police are certain this is a simple case of a jealous ex-husband turned violent over his recent divorce. But interviewing everyone she can about Barry, Tori’s gut has her questioning if he would really kidnap his own child? When Barry's body is discovered at an abandoned holiday resort, Tori's worst suspicions are confirmed. With a blizzard looming that threatens to cut off contact, access and answers for Tori Hunter, the question is if she will be able to save Teddy in time and find the perpetrators behind the murders?
I was drawn in from the first page. Roger Stelljes is a powerful, convincing storyteller and is great at delivering beyond what it says on the packet; you will never be dissatisfied after reading his books. Be prepared for a fast-paced storyline, a slick writing style, memorable characters and drama and action that unfolds with each turn of the page! (At this point, I can safely say Roger Stelljes is the king of writing car-chases in fiction!) However, there was also a vulnerability and softness and Stelljes was able to capture this emotion through fantastic character development; I was really rooting for Tori, Braddock and the team to bring Teddy justice. I had my heart in my mouth and was gasping out loud at so many *shockers* - a thriller has to be unpredictable and engaging in equal parts which this book finally did for me. I know I want to read the other books in the series now and complete the set.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 - highly recommend this one if you're a crime/thriller fan. You won't regret it!
⁉️ What is the name of your favourite thriller?
January 8, 2025
Book Review: Taken in the Cold by Roger Stelljes
Rating: 4 Stars
So, I just finished Taken in the Cold, and what a ride! Roger Stelljes really knows how to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Let me give you a quick rundown of the story. It kicks off with ten-year-old Teddy getting a classic mom reminder to bundle up for school because a blizzard is headed their way. Sounds pretty typical, right? Well, it takes a dark turn when Teddy’s mother is found dead in their home, and Teddy is nowhere to be found. Talk about an opening that grabs you by the collar!
Agent Tori Hunter jumps into action as she races against time and the blizzard to find Teddy. The situation escalates quickly as it becomes clear that there’s more to this tragedy than meets the eye. While local police are leaning toward a jealous ex-husband theory, Tori’s instincts tell her otherwise. The plot thickens when she discovers that Teddy's father is also missing, leading to a shocking revelation that adds layers to an already complex story.
What I love about this book is how Stelljes masterfully blends suspense with character development. Tori is such a compelling protagonist—determined and resourceful, yet vulnerable in her own way. And as she digs deeper into the case, we uncover some chilling secrets surrounding the abandoned vacation resort that tie everything together.
I have to say, I thoroughly enjoy the hell out of this series. The writing is top-notch, and the pacing is just right—never too rushed or too slow. The plot is intricately woven with great character arcs that keep you invested from start to finish. I mean, it really does have it all!
If you’re a fan of thrillers with well-developed characters and gripping storylines, I can’t recommend Taken in the Cold enough. I’m already itching to dive into the next book in the series. So, if you haven't picked it up yet, what are you waiting for? Grab a cozy blanket (because, you know, blizzard vibes) and get ready for a wild read!
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
Rating: 4 Stars
So, I just finished Taken in the Cold, and what a ride! Roger Stelljes really knows how to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Let me give you a quick rundown of the story. It kicks off with ten-year-old Teddy getting a classic mom reminder to bundle up for school because a blizzard is headed their way. Sounds pretty typical, right? Well, it takes a dark turn when Teddy’s mother is found dead in their home, and Teddy is nowhere to be found. Talk about an opening that grabs you by the collar!
Agent Tori Hunter jumps into action as she races against time and the blizzard to find Teddy. The situation escalates quickly as it becomes clear that there’s more to this tragedy than meets the eye. While local police are leaning toward a jealous ex-husband theory, Tori’s instincts tell her otherwise. The plot thickens when she discovers that Teddy's father is also missing, leading to a shocking revelation that adds layers to an already complex story.
What I love about this book is how Stelljes masterfully blends suspense with character development. Tori is such a compelling protagonist—determined and resourceful, yet vulnerable in her own way. And as she digs deeper into the case, we uncover some chilling secrets surrounding the abandoned vacation resort that tie everything together.
I have to say, I thoroughly enjoy the hell out of this series. The writing is top-notch, and the pacing is just right—never too rushed or too slow. The plot is intricately woven with great character arcs that keep you invested from start to finish. I mean, it really does have it all!
If you’re a fan of thrillers with well-developed characters and gripping storylines, I can’t recommend Taken in the Cold enough. I’m already itching to dive into the next book in the series. So, if you haven't picked it up yet, what are you waiting for? Grab a cozy blanket (because, you know, blizzard vibes) and get ready for a wild read!
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
November 13, 2024
The story begins with two dead bodies and a missing ten year old boy named Teddy. Teddy was routinely getting ready for school when he hears a gunshot. When the police arrive they find Teddy’s mom and her new boyfriend dead and Teddy’s backpack is open with the contents strewn about the hall. In the attempt to reach the Teddy’s father, Tori discovers he is missing as well.
The police are quick to assume this is a classic case of jealousy where ex husband kills wife and boyfriend, then kidnaps son. Tori’s gut tells her that this is not the case. Why would he kidnap his own son? Things don’t add up.
Can this race against the clock be accomplished in time to save the life of young Teddy?
I enjoyed hearing the perspective of the kidnappers that had Teddy as well as the point of view of law enforcement. I was running in detective mode trying to figure out the outcome but was still surprised.
As Tori and Detective Braddock dig deeper and follow leads, they learn that there is much more behind the killings and kidnapping than originally suspected.
Grab a blanket and clear the weekend before beginning the search for Teddy which is compounded by the Blizzard conditions set in a frigid Minnesota winter.
The story is packed with action, suspense, revenge, intrigue, and secrets!
I read thus one as a stand alone even though it was number 7 in the Agent Tori Hunter series and had no problem keeping up.
I suggest you read the book instead of listening due to the narrator who is very good, but since the onomatopoeia were written in the book the narrator had to read them. Therefore there were many many bang bangs and ping pings which sounded rather cheesy read aloud. It’d been better if it spoke, gunshot rang out, pinging off the railing and so forth.
I highly recommend!
The police are quick to assume this is a classic case of jealousy where ex husband kills wife and boyfriend, then kidnaps son. Tori’s gut tells her that this is not the case. Why would he kidnap his own son? Things don’t add up.
Can this race against the clock be accomplished in time to save the life of young Teddy?
I enjoyed hearing the perspective of the kidnappers that had Teddy as well as the point of view of law enforcement. I was running in detective mode trying to figure out the outcome but was still surprised.
As Tori and Detective Braddock dig deeper and follow leads, they learn that there is much more behind the killings and kidnapping than originally suspected.
Grab a blanket and clear the weekend before beginning the search for Teddy which is compounded by the Blizzard conditions set in a frigid Minnesota winter.
The story is packed with action, suspense, revenge, intrigue, and secrets!
I read thus one as a stand alone even though it was number 7 in the Agent Tori Hunter series and had no problem keeping up.
I suggest you read the book instead of listening due to the narrator who is very good, but since the onomatopoeia were written in the book the narrator had to read them. Therefore there were many many bang bangs and ping pings which sounded rather cheesy read aloud. It’d been better if it spoke, gunshot rang out, pinging off the railing and so forth.
I highly recommend!
December 2, 2024
Roger Stelljes delivers another thrilling installment in the Tori Hunter series with Taken in the Cold. This seventh book showcases the author's signature fast-paced and descriptive writing style while immersing readers in a chilling blizzard-bound mystery.
As someone who read the first book in the series and jumped ahead to the seventh, I was excited to dive back into Tori Hunter’s world. Thankfully, it is written in a way that makes this book accessible as a standalone novel. While I didn’t read books two through six, I never felt lost, as the story stands on its own without relying too heavily on prior installments.
This book is a classic "follow the money" tale, steeped in mystery and danger. Although well-executed, this theme didn’t captivate me as much as the classic murder investigation from the first book. As a result, I found myself less invested in this story.
One critique I had of the first book also applies here: the story felt drawn out. At nearly 500 pages, I believe Taken in the Cold could have been 100 pages shorter without losing its impact. A tighter narrative might have helped sustain my attention in the middle sections.
That said, the real strength of this series lies in its characters. Tori Hunter is as compelling as ever, and her character development from book one to book seven is a highlight. I particularly enjoyed seeing her relationship with Will evolve into something more solid and meaningful, adding a humanizing layer to the story’s high-stakes action.
Overall, while this book didn’t grip me as much as the first, it’s still a well-crafted mystery that will satisfy fans of the series. I look forward to catching up on the other books and continuing to follow Tori’s journey in the future.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me a digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
As someone who read the first book in the series and jumped ahead to the seventh, I was excited to dive back into Tori Hunter’s world. Thankfully, it is written in a way that makes this book accessible as a standalone novel. While I didn’t read books two through six, I never felt lost, as the story stands on its own without relying too heavily on prior installments.
This book is a classic "follow the money" tale, steeped in mystery and danger. Although well-executed, this theme didn’t captivate me as much as the classic murder investigation from the first book. As a result, I found myself less invested in this story.
One critique I had of the first book also applies here: the story felt drawn out. At nearly 500 pages, I believe Taken in the Cold could have been 100 pages shorter without losing its impact. A tighter narrative might have helped sustain my attention in the middle sections.
That said, the real strength of this series lies in its characters. Tori Hunter is as compelling as ever, and her character development from book one to book seven is a highlight. I particularly enjoyed seeing her relationship with Will evolve into something more solid and meaningful, adding a humanizing layer to the story’s high-stakes action.
Overall, while this book didn’t grip me as much as the first, it’s still a well-crafted mystery that will satisfy fans of the series. I look forward to catching up on the other books and continuing to follow Tori’s journey in the future.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me a digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
October 15, 2024
Former FBI Special Agent Tori Hunter is back again this time trying to solve a double homicide that occurs right before a large blizzard hits Manchester Bay. As the snow begins to fall the first morning, a jogger coming back from a run is shot in his garage and his girlfriend is shot in the kitchen. His girlfriend’s ten year old son is taken captive. Tori and Braddock are called to investigate. While initially they are drawn to the ex-husband, who is missing, they expand their search when he is found dead at the resort his father owned and committed suicide at. Tori, Braddock, and the rest of the gang race not only to bring the killers to justice, but to save ten year old Teddy Marist from his captors.
Mr. Stelljes seems to keep upping his game with this series. The book is a page turner, and the action is nonstop right from page one. There are so many layers to the plot, and just when you think the book is ready to end, another layer is revealed. This book is so much more than just a kidnapping. The way Mr. Stelljes strings you along is excellent and really keeps you engaged. The setting of Northern at the onset of a blizzard had me wishing for snow and cold weather. Tori and her gang are great characters that keep growing with each novel, but I found the villains in this novel to also be very intriguing and full of depth.
Each book in the series can be read by itself, but I would fully recommend diving into them all. The Tori Hunter series is one of the most underrated series out there, and Mr. Stelljes is excellent at telling a story. This was an easy five star, and a very quick read. You won’t regret picking this one up. Thank you to NetGalley, Roger Stelljes, and Bookouture for a free advanced readers copy for an honest review.
Mr. Stelljes seems to keep upping his game with this series. The book is a page turner, and the action is nonstop right from page one. There are so many layers to the plot, and just when you think the book is ready to end, another layer is revealed. This book is so much more than just a kidnapping. The way Mr. Stelljes strings you along is excellent and really keeps you engaged. The setting of Northern at the onset of a blizzard had me wishing for snow and cold weather. Tori and her gang are great characters that keep growing with each novel, but I found the villains in this novel to also be very intriguing and full of depth.
Each book in the series can be read by itself, but I would fully recommend diving into them all. The Tori Hunter series is one of the most underrated series out there, and Mr. Stelljes is excellent at telling a story. This was an easy five star, and a very quick read. You won’t regret picking this one up. Thank you to NetGalley, Roger Stelljes, and Bookouture for a free advanced readers copy for an honest review.
October 31, 2024
Soooo.... I hadn't read this author before last week...when I received Book #1 from NetGalley.
Now I've read this one (which is actually book #7 in the series, but the 2nd I've read of his) ...ANDDDDD....I believe I have a new favorite author!!
Tori Hunter (ex FBI Agent) and Will Braddock (Detective with the Sheriff's Office) return in this book for more adventures. =0
We open up with multiple shootings in a private home, AND, a child is missing....
So, Tori is pulled in as her expertise was always in child abduction...and as they investigate, the plot ABSOLUTELY thickens.... and twists and turns abound... and every time I thought that I might just have it all figured out.... I was wrong!
This one is a definite NAIL BITER, hang on the edge of your seat, heart palpitating kind of read. If you are not up for the task, do NOT pick this one up. IF you ARE, then please ENJOY!!
#TakenInTheCold by #RogerStelljes and narrated beautifully by #KateHandford.
5+ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ✨✨✨💫💫💫 for me!
Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #BookoutureAudio for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
***** This one is DUE TO BE RELEASED TOMORROW, 11/1/24!! So, look 👀 for it then! *****
Feel free to like, follow and friend me on: Goodreads,
Insta @ #BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine.
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
Now I've read this one (which is actually book #7 in the series, but the 2nd I've read of his) ...ANDDDDD....I believe I have a new favorite author!!
Tori Hunter (ex FBI Agent) and Will Braddock (Detective with the Sheriff's Office) return in this book for more adventures. =0
We open up with multiple shootings in a private home, AND, a child is missing....
So, Tori is pulled in as her expertise was always in child abduction...and as they investigate, the plot ABSOLUTELY thickens.... and twists and turns abound... and every time I thought that I might just have it all figured out.... I was wrong!
This one is a definite NAIL BITER, hang on the edge of your seat, heart palpitating kind of read. If you are not up for the task, do NOT pick this one up. IF you ARE, then please ENJOY!!
#TakenInTheCold by #RogerStelljes and narrated beautifully by #KateHandford.
5+ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ✨✨✨💫💫💫 for me!
Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #BookoutureAudio for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
***** This one is DUE TO BE RELEASED TOMORROW, 11/1/24!! So, look 👀 for it then! *****
Feel free to like, follow and friend me on: Goodreads,
Insta @ #BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine.
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
November 3, 2024
Now I have been engrossed in every installment of this series, but wow, did this one pack a punch. Personally, this one felt slightly different, don't get me wrong, the story was there, the characters were ever present and the plot was as encapsulating as always BUT the action that came with book #7 was superb.
In the chlling atmosphere of a Minnisota witer, ten year old Teddy Marist witnesses his step father and mother killed before he is then abducted but not before he makes a phone call to his father Barry Marist, a local bank worker.
Former FBI Agent Tori Hunter has been on leave since her last harrowing case with her colleague and partner,, local Sheriff Braddock, unsure whether she has it in her to take on any more cases when Braddock calls. Knowing she has to help, missing children being her speciality, Tori jumps straight into the case.
With local police believing its a simple case of a jealous ex-husband, killing his wife and kidnapping his own child, they are ready to close the case, but Tori's gut is telling her otherwise. When Barry's body is then found in an abandoned holday resort, a resort that used to belong to his late father, Tori knows her gut was right.
Who has Teddy, and can they get to him in time?
This is a tale packed to the rafters with action ,suspense, intrigue, revenge, and secrets. Stelljes is a master at storytelling in a way that has you gripped from the very first pages. A complex, multi layered plot that left me gasping outwardly at points and holding my breath at others!
Huge thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC.
In the chlling atmosphere of a Minnisota witer, ten year old Teddy Marist witnesses his step father and mother killed before he is then abducted but not before he makes a phone call to his father Barry Marist, a local bank worker.
Former FBI Agent Tori Hunter has been on leave since her last harrowing case with her colleague and partner,, local Sheriff Braddock, unsure whether she has it in her to take on any more cases when Braddock calls. Knowing she has to help, missing children being her speciality, Tori jumps straight into the case.
With local police believing its a simple case of a jealous ex-husband, killing his wife and kidnapping his own child, they are ready to close the case, but Tori's gut is telling her otherwise. When Barry's body is then found in an abandoned holday resort, a resort that used to belong to his late father, Tori knows her gut was right.
Who has Teddy, and can they get to him in time?
This is a tale packed to the rafters with action ,suspense, intrigue, revenge, and secrets. Stelljes is a master at storytelling in a way that has you gripped from the very first pages. A complex, multi layered plot that left me gasping outwardly at points and holding my breath at others!
Huge thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC.
October 30, 2024
Acting as a consultant, Tori Hunter jumps in to help Will Braddock with a fast-moving case concerning the abduction of a child after the murder of his parents. As if the abduction wasn't pressing enough, Hunter & Braddock must race against the incoming blizzard, chasing unknown assailants across a treacherous snow-covered landscape of northern Minnesota.
I really enjoyed this one! As with each of the books in this series, you could definitely read as a standalone and not feel lost but as a fan of the series I enjoy knowing all of the backstory with the characters. I enjoy all of the books in this series but this one I especially loved for the setting. The incoming blizzard was written so vividly it could have been another character. It reminded me a lot of the way Ragnar Jonasson writes his books about Iceland and I absolutely loved it. I was reading this in New York in the warm beginning of fall but at certain points could feel like cold of Minnesota winter. Just really well done. I also really liked the layers of this case and how it took off in a direction I wasn't expecting. The only thing I didn't love was that it definitely felt like the first half of the book was almost completely separate from the second half in the way they each had their own complete arcs, it could almost have been two books. Still, it was really well done and kept me interested the entire time. If you're not already reading this author you're missing out, definitely pick up this series!
I really enjoyed this one! As with each of the books in this series, you could definitely read as a standalone and not feel lost but as a fan of the series I enjoy knowing all of the backstory with the characters. I enjoy all of the books in this series but this one I especially loved for the setting. The incoming blizzard was written so vividly it could have been another character. It reminded me a lot of the way Ragnar Jonasson writes his books about Iceland and I absolutely loved it. I was reading this in New York in the warm beginning of fall but at certain points could feel like cold of Minnesota winter. Just really well done. I also really liked the layers of this case and how it took off in a direction I wasn't expecting. The only thing I didn't love was that it definitely felt like the first half of the book was almost completely separate from the second half in the way they each had their own complete arcs, it could almost have been two books. Still, it was really well done and kept me interested the entire time. If you're not already reading this author you're missing out, definitely pick up this series!
November 3, 2024
I like how I read this as the weather has shifted colder. Manchester Bay can keep the snow, but when I time reads like this, I feel a little more connected.
I’ve been reading popcorn thrillers as of late and really appreciated the complex layered case that Tori and Braddock are investigating. It was ever changing as they discovered clues and kept my interest from the first page through to the end. The tension was ratcheted up as they searched for a missing boy. This kept the pace moving along since time was critical. I knew all wasn’t what it seemed from the start since there were multiple points of view feeding my facts, but I had no idea what the reasons were for the kidnapping of Teddy.
Tori is a strong and determined woman and her vulnerabilities make her relatable. I rooted for throughout the book and there was a moment she might have needed it, but her capable skills help her see things that others don’t.
This one would work extremely well as a stand alone when it is well into the series. It seemed to be uber focused on the case and less on their personal lives which is the part that usually carries from book to book.
This is the first time I’ve listened to one in this series and Kate Handford did a great job narrating the book. She easily conveyed the urgency of the case and emotions that surrounded it. It worked great as an audiobook.
It’s another great addition to the series.
I’ve been reading popcorn thrillers as of late and really appreciated the complex layered case that Tori and Braddock are investigating. It was ever changing as they discovered clues and kept my interest from the first page through to the end. The tension was ratcheted up as they searched for a missing boy. This kept the pace moving along since time was critical. I knew all wasn’t what it seemed from the start since there were multiple points of view feeding my facts, but I had no idea what the reasons were for the kidnapping of Teddy.
Tori is a strong and determined woman and her vulnerabilities make her relatable. I rooted for throughout the book and there was a moment she might have needed it, but her capable skills help her see things that others don’t.
This one would work extremely well as a stand alone when it is well into the series. It seemed to be uber focused on the case and less on their personal lives which is the part that usually carries from book to book.
This is the first time I’ve listened to one in this series and Kate Handford did a great job narrating the book. She easily conveyed the urgency of the case and emotions that surrounded it. It worked great as an audiobook.
It’s another great addition to the series.
October 23, 2024
Roger Stelljes is in my top list of authors and as soon as I see a new book of his I request it straight away or purchase it without even reading the blurb. I have been reading his books for years and have never been disappointed.
Once again “Taken In the Cold” falls straight into this category. Constantly kept on the edge this book had me from page one and did not let up until the thrilling end, it is expertly crafted. The setting is chilling, not just in respect to the weather but also the story Roger has presented us with.
Detective Braddock and Agent Hunter have now got a serious case to solve, and the weather is going to make there work so much harder. Ten-year-old Teddy Marist has disappeared, his mother is beside herself, so the hunt is on to try to find out what has happened to this young child. The local police seem to think this is a domestic situation but as more facts come to light, Braddick and Hunter realise there is a lot more to this.
Full of action and suspense, this one had me reading late into the night, I did not want to put it down and once again the author does not disappoint. A fabulous thriller that really was a wild ride and another fantastic addition to this series.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advanced copy of the book, all opinions expressed are my own.
Once again “Taken In the Cold” falls straight into this category. Constantly kept on the edge this book had me from page one and did not let up until the thrilling end, it is expertly crafted. The setting is chilling, not just in respect to the weather but also the story Roger has presented us with.
Detective Braddock and Agent Hunter have now got a serious case to solve, and the weather is going to make there work so much harder. Ten-year-old Teddy Marist has disappeared, his mother is beside herself, so the hunt is on to try to find out what has happened to this young child. The local police seem to think this is a domestic situation but as more facts come to light, Braddick and Hunter realise there is a lot more to this.
Full of action and suspense, this one had me reading late into the night, I did not want to put it down and once again the author does not disappoint. A fabulous thriller that really was a wild ride and another fantastic addition to this series.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advanced copy of the book, all opinions expressed are my own.
October 31, 2024
Action packed crime thriller!
Even though this is the 7th book in the series and only the second installment I’ve read (just #1), I can say that this is definitely one of the better ones out there. I enjoyed the plot and how the investigation came together with all of its twists and turns. I like the characters, especially Tori Hunter and Chief Detective Braddock. Despite the gap between 1 and 7, I never felt lost as there was plenty of backstory and I was able to catch up quickly.
Though this involves domestic terrorism and also a few other issues like embezzlement and kidnapping, it all flows well and moves quickly. I like the writing style and also the vivid descriptions of the Minnesota weather and the lakes areas.
I was able to listen to the audiobook while following along in the e-book ARC (both provided by the publishers) and I highly recommend you do that if you can. The narrator did a great job voicing all the characters and adding an appropriate amount of dramatic flair to the story. Listening while reading definitely enhanced my enjoyment of the book.
Can’t wait for the next in series. Only sorry that I missed 2 through 6! I’ve given up on many series lately but I’m making an exception with this one.
Even though this is the 7th book in the series and only the second installment I’ve read (just #1), I can say that this is definitely one of the better ones out there. I enjoyed the plot and how the investigation came together with all of its twists and turns. I like the characters, especially Tori Hunter and Chief Detective Braddock. Despite the gap between 1 and 7, I never felt lost as there was plenty of backstory and I was able to catch up quickly.
Though this involves domestic terrorism and also a few other issues like embezzlement and kidnapping, it all flows well and moves quickly. I like the writing style and also the vivid descriptions of the Minnesota weather and the lakes areas.
I was able to listen to the audiobook while following along in the e-book ARC (both provided by the publishers) and I highly recommend you do that if you can. The narrator did a great job voicing all the characters and adding an appropriate amount of dramatic flair to the story. Listening while reading definitely enhanced my enjoyment of the book.
Can’t wait for the next in series. Only sorry that I missed 2 through 6! I’ve given up on many series lately but I’m making an exception with this one.
January 27, 2025
The writing and dialogue is clunky and it only gets worse as we meander and limp our way to the end. This novel could have easily been 100 pages shorter without the endless, unnecessary repetition, which is pure filler. It feels like the author both conceptualized the story and scribbled it out in an afternoon without bothering to go back and re-read. Then he went directly to (self?) publishing. (I read a KU copy). Both the idea and the writing is sloppy. This book needs a good editor who is familiar with proper sentence structure and correct punctuation. I also can’t stand how, like in all his other books in this series, the author continues to write how things sound. The gun goes “Crack! Boom!” The phone goes “Riiiing!” Well, duh. I didn’t sign up to read a graphic novel. More showing, less telling is required.
Although these problems exist in the previous books in the series, it was the character development of the two main protagonists that kept me interested. In this book, they felt like cardboard cutouts, which is how I feel he always portrays the criminally inclined characters. Their motivation for committing their crimes is not well developed or explained. They are anti-government. Yawn.
Although these problems exist in the previous books in the series, it was the character development of the two main protagonists that kept me interested. In this book, they felt like cardboard cutouts, which is how I feel he always portrays the criminally inclined characters. Their motivation for committing their crimes is not well developed or explained. They are anti-government. Yawn.
October 26, 2024
Taken in the Cold by Roger Stelljes
Narrated by Kate Handford
Provided by NetGalley
Warning: YMMV
This book has been very well received so far, so the following opinion might be unpopular. If you’re new to the mystery/thriller genre, this book might be your jam. But if like me, you’re an aficionado, then I think there would be little here to keep you interested.
The author’s works are quite popular, but I’ve decided they’re just not to my taste.
This is my second book in the Tori Hunter series and although there wasn’t as much filler as in Silenced Girls (the first in the series) there was still no lack here. I found myself zoning out numerous times, and most disappointingly, once during an action scene that initially had me nailed to my chair. The chase began so well, but being dragged off into characters thoughts and myriad directions, slowed the chase so much that I zoned out. When I caught myself thinking of other things and dragged myself back, the chase was still going, and the characters were still receiving directions.
I read for interest and/or entertainment. Sadly, this book catered little to either.
Narrated by Kate Handford
Provided by NetGalley
Warning: YMMV
This book has been very well received so far, so the following opinion might be unpopular. If you’re new to the mystery/thriller genre, this book might be your jam. But if like me, you’re an aficionado, then I think there would be little here to keep you interested.
The author’s works are quite popular, but I’ve decided they’re just not to my taste.
This is my second book in the Tori Hunter series and although there wasn’t as much filler as in Silenced Girls (the first in the series) there was still no lack here. I found myself zoning out numerous times, and most disappointingly, once during an action scene that initially had me nailed to my chair. The chase began so well, but being dragged off into characters thoughts and myriad directions, slowed the chase so much that I zoned out. When I caught myself thinking of other things and dragged myself back, the chase was still going, and the characters were still receiving directions.
I read for interest and/or entertainment. Sadly, this book catered little to either.
November 11, 2024
Well another fantastic book by Roger Stelljes, I was only introduced to this author when I listened to book 1 not so long ago and I loved it so I haven't been able to read the others in between. Which is where I'd maybe get a little more of the personal story of Tori and Will as it grew over the series.
This however can be read very easily as a stand alone based on the fact it's a completely new case that Tori and Will are working on, also nice to see they are both together in all ways. I would like to have read the others just as a personal preference, but I really didn't feel it took anything away from the story itself.
Truly only deterective series, as I stated in my first review of Silenced Girls, that I feel the urge to follow on and continue to.
The only slight fault for me was with the narration which overall I enjoyed however the sound affects of what would be gunshots was a little tiresome and almost like something I'd imagine hearing in a children's book just slightly takes the seriousness of the story away a little for me but this is just a me thing!
With thanks to Netgalley & Bookouture Audio for this ALC.
This however can be read very easily as a stand alone based on the fact it's a completely new case that Tori and Will are working on, also nice to see they are both together in all ways. I would like to have read the others just as a personal preference, but I really didn't feel it took anything away from the story itself.
Truly only deterective series, as I stated in my first review of Silenced Girls, that I feel the urge to follow on and continue to.
The only slight fault for me was with the narration which overall I enjoyed however the sound affects of what would be gunshots was a little tiresome and almost like something I'd imagine hearing in a children's book just slightly takes the seriousness of the story away a little for me but this is just a me thing!
With thanks to Netgalley & Bookouture Audio for this ALC.
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