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Knife's Edge, Alaska #1
Dead of Winter
This first book only was published in Kindle Vella as Knife's Edge, Alaska, which is now the series name.
Welcome to Knife's Edge, Alaska, where the four Osprey brothers return from military service with shadows in their eyes and secrets in their hearts. As danger looms, new romances ignite, and these rugged men must fight for love…and survival.
Brock Osprey has spent years in the rugged Alaskan wilderness, far from civilization and even farther from his past. A former Navy Seal, Brock is now the unwilling protector of Knife's Edge, a remote town with more secrets than residents. But when FBI agent Ophelia Spilazi arrives to investigate the unsolved murder of his guardian—and recent unexplained deaths in the area—Brock's carefully guarded world is thrown into chaos.
Agent Ophelia Spilazi has one last chance to save her career, and Knife's Edge is her shot. The isolated town is full of secrets, and she's certain Brock knows more than he's letting on. The town's recent string of mysterious deaths only heightens her suspicion, but the more time she spends with the brooding Alaskan, the harder it becomes to ignore the dangerous chemistry between them.
As a brutal storm traps them in the isolated wilderness, Brock and Ophelia's growing attraction ignites, even as shadows from their pasts threaten to tear them apart. But with a dangerous conspiracy and powerful enemies lurking in the shadows, their only hope is to trust each other—before the wilderness consumes them both.
Welcome to Knife's Edge, Alaska, where the four Osprey brothers return from military service with shadows in their eyes and secrets in their hearts. As danger looms, new romances ignite, and these rugged men must fight for love…and survival.
Brock Osprey has spent years in the rugged Alaskan wilderness, far from civilization and even farther from his past. A former Navy Seal, Brock is now the unwilling protector of Knife's Edge, a remote town with more secrets than residents. But when FBI agent Ophelia Spilazi arrives to investigate the unsolved murder of his guardian—and recent unexplained deaths in the area—Brock's carefully guarded world is thrown into chaos.
Agent Ophelia Spilazi has one last chance to save her career, and Knife's Edge is her shot. The isolated town is full of secrets, and she's certain Brock knows more than he's letting on. The town's recent string of mysterious deaths only heightens her suspicion, but the more time she spends with the brooding Alaskan, the harder it becomes to ignore the dangerous chemistry between them.
As a brutal storm traps them in the isolated wilderness, Brock and Ophelia's growing attraction ignites, even as shadows from their pasts threaten to tear them apart. But with a dangerous conspiracy and powerful enemies lurking in the shadows, their only hope is to trust each other—before the wilderness consumes them both.
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 28, 2025
848 people are currently reading
20137 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Zanetti
120 books10k followersNew York Times, USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti has published more than seventy novels and novellas, which have been translated into several languages, with millions of copies sold world-wide. Her books have received Publisher’s Weekly and Kirkus starred reviews, favorable Washington Post and New York Times Book Reviews, and been included in Amazon best books of the year.
Rebecca has ridden in a locked Chevy trunk, has asked the unfortunate delivery guy to release her from a set of handcuffs, and has discovered the best silver mine shafts in which to bury a body…all in the name of research. Honest.
Rebecca has ridden in a locked Chevy trunk, has asked the unfortunate delivery guy to release her from a set of handcuffs, and has discovered the best silver mine shafts in which to bury a body…all in the name of research. Honest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 225 reviews
November 23, 2025
There’s just something about an Alaska-set romantic suspense that pulls me in and Dead of Winter delivers everything I crave and more. The wild, unforgiving backdrop of Knife’s Edge creates a perfect storm of isolation, tension, and slow-burn chemistry that kept me hooked from the very first page. Rebecca Zanetti has once again nailed that perfect balance of gripping suspense and emotionally charged romance her writing is exactly my taste.
If you love your romances with danger, depth, and a remote Alaskan setting that practically breathes on the page this is the book for you. I’m already counting down the days until the next installment in the Knife’s Edge series. Rebecca Zanetti does it again.
🎶"Dead Man's Arms" – Bishop Briggs
🎶"Human" – Rag'n'Bone Man
🎶"Love Me Like You Do" – Ellie Goulding
If you love your romances with danger, depth, and a remote Alaskan setting that practically breathes on the page this is the book for you. I’m already counting down the days until the next installment in the Knife’s Edge series. Rebecca Zanetti does it again.
🎶"Dead Man's Arms" – Bishop Briggs
🎶"Human" – Rag'n'Bone Man
🎶"Love Me Like You Do" – Ellie Goulding
January 29, 2025
Dead of Winter by Rebecca Zanetti
Knife’s Edge, Alaska series #1. Romantic suspense.
FBI Agent Ophelia Spilazi is ordered to go to Knife’s Edge, Alaska to find out who killed Hank Osprey. Winter is coming and in Knife’s Edge that means no outside access and dark, freezing temps for months.
Brock Osprey doesn’t want to bring the agent to his small town but he doesn’t really have a choice. As acting sheriff, though he doesn’t want the job, he needs to work with the FBI, not piss them off. A brutal storm isolates the town and brings Brock and Ophelia together and when someone starts shooting at her, he’s the first in line to protect her.
Everyone is telling Ophelia that Hank’s death was a hunting accident. But she knows there is more to the story. Are the four Osprey brothers covering for someone? And are the other mysterious deaths in the area connected or something to do with the government building at the edge of town?
Danger, snow, death, passion and silence. And more snow. It’s a fast moving and tense story as a murder is investigated and Ophelia learns the town’s quirky occupants and try to figure out who is lying.
1st in a series of 4. A few questions left unanswered. Steamy connections guarantee that Ophelia will stay. Now to find out who the next of the brothers will find his hea. We’ve already met the possibilities.
So much snow. Yes, it’s Alaska and the Pacific Northwest, so cold and snow are expected and realized in huge quantities. Maybe have a warm throw and a hot drink ready when you read this.
Knife’s Edge, Alaska series #1. Romantic suspense.
FBI Agent Ophelia Spilazi is ordered to go to Knife’s Edge, Alaska to find out who killed Hank Osprey. Winter is coming and in Knife’s Edge that means no outside access and dark, freezing temps for months.
Brock Osprey doesn’t want to bring the agent to his small town but he doesn’t really have a choice. As acting sheriff, though he doesn’t want the job, he needs to work with the FBI, not piss them off. A brutal storm isolates the town and brings Brock and Ophelia together and when someone starts shooting at her, he’s the first in line to protect her.
Everyone is telling Ophelia that Hank’s death was a hunting accident. But she knows there is more to the story. Are the four Osprey brothers covering for someone? And are the other mysterious deaths in the area connected or something to do with the government building at the edge of town?
Danger, snow, death, passion and silence. And more snow. It’s a fast moving and tense story as a murder is investigated and Ophelia learns the town’s quirky occupants and try to figure out who is lying.
1st in a series of 4. A few questions left unanswered. Steamy connections guarantee that Ophelia will stay. Now to find out who the next of the brothers will find his hea. We’ve already met the possibilities.
So much snow. Yes, it’s Alaska and the Pacific Northwest, so cold and snow are expected and realized in huge quantities. Maybe have a warm throw and a hot drink ready when you read this.
July 28, 2025
This is an entertaining, well-written, fast paced, steamy, romantic suspense novel. It has a strong and capable, likable female protagonist, a former military, engaging male protagonist, a harsh Alaska setting, supportive family, murder, mystery, suspense, twists and turns and a satisfying conclusion. I am looking forward to reading the next entry in this fabulous new series with great anticipation. I listened to the audio book, and the narrator, Ms. Ava Flynn, does an outstanding job voicing the characters.
February 18, 2025
Steeped in angst with a disjointed narrative that spans over a year and a whole lot of characters. This was a tough murder plot to follow and I'm not at all sure that I much care about the who or why. Throw in the insta-lust and the demand for total honesty and trust and it is a tough plot to swallow. I do have to say that I love Rebecca Zanetti, but this one is soooo not worthy of her.
FBI Special Agent Ophelia Spilazi is sent to Knife's Edge, Alaska by her boss to investigate the death of Hank Osprey over a year ago. Hank was an old buddy of her boss who didn't buy the hunting accident explanation of Hank's death. There is also the disappearance of a young woman and some strange occurrences that no one can quite explain. For Ophelia being sent to the end of the earth in the middle of winter and solving Hank's death may be the only way she can save her job. Trouble is secrets seem to abound and multiply in this small town and Ophelia is being targeted by a shooter.
Brock Osprey went on a walkabout after Hank's death. He returns to find he has been elected Sheriff, a job he doesn't want, but seems to want him. By bringing the FBI Agent to town, he feels responsible for her safety in the harsh Alaskan winter that is descending on them. Brock has his own secrets and demons, but protecting Ophelia soon becomes the most important thing in his life. The deeper Ophelia digs into Hank's death the more he needs to keep her safe.
The mysterious government research facility outside town, EVE, looms over the mysteries and connects to Hank and each of his four adopted children. Everyone has a secret, and it is Ophelia's job to find them out, even if it costs her the chance at true love.
FBI Special Agent Ophelia Spilazi is sent to Knife's Edge, Alaska by her boss to investigate the death of Hank Osprey over a year ago. Hank was an old buddy of her boss who didn't buy the hunting accident explanation of Hank's death. There is also the disappearance of a young woman and some strange occurrences that no one can quite explain. For Ophelia being sent to the end of the earth in the middle of winter and solving Hank's death may be the only way she can save her job. Trouble is secrets seem to abound and multiply in this small town and Ophelia is being targeted by a shooter.
Brock Osprey went on a walkabout after Hank's death. He returns to find he has been elected Sheriff, a job he doesn't want, but seems to want him. By bringing the FBI Agent to town, he feels responsible for her safety in the harsh Alaskan winter that is descending on them. Brock has his own secrets and demons, but protecting Ophelia soon becomes the most important thing in his life. The deeper Ophelia digs into Hank's death the more he needs to keep her safe.
The mysterious government research facility outside town, EVE, looms over the mysteries and connects to Hank and each of his four adopted children. Everyone has a secret, and it is Ophelia's job to find them out, even if it costs her the chance at true love.
Read
April 4, 2025DNF. I can’t take this bad storytelling, cheesy dialogue, and disjointed plot. This does not read like the Zanetti I’ve enjoyed before.
August 30, 2025
* 3.25⭐️ 2🌶️
* A romantic suspense novel where former Navy SEAL Brock Osprey must protect FBI Agent Ophelia Spilazi as she investigates murders in the isolated Alaskan town of Knife's Edge. While investigating a mysterious death, Ophelia and Brock find themselves drawn to each other amidst the dangerous, secret-filled town and the looming threat of a dangerous conspiracy.
* A romantic suspense novel where former Navy SEAL Brock Osprey must protect FBI Agent Ophelia Spilazi as she investigates murders in the isolated Alaskan town of Knife's Edge. While investigating a mysterious death, Ophelia and Brock find themselves drawn to each other amidst the dangerous, secret-filled town and the looming threat of a dangerous conspiracy.
February 18, 2025
Once again, this author masterfully blends heart-pounding suspense with steamy romance, making it nearly impossible to put this book down.
I’m drawn to characters who are a little broken, haunted by their past, or hiding secrets, and Zanetti delivers exactly that with Brock and Ophelia. I was immediately captivated by their world. While Ophelia is more than capable of handling herself, she’s unprepared for the dangers found within the elements of Knife’s Edge. Brock, the strong, protective alpha he is, can’t help but cast his shadow of protection over her. Their chemistry is electric from the start, but the road ahead is as stormy as what’s threatening the residents of the community.
This fast-paced, tension-filled story kept me on the edge of my seat. I tried to outpace the heroine in solving the case, but despite my best efforts, I was always one step behind—only to be completely stunned by the resolution. There are no obvious villains or forced twists; instead, the heroine holds her own, navigating a complex and gripping mystery.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
I’m drawn to characters who are a little broken, haunted by their past, or hiding secrets, and Zanetti delivers exactly that with Brock and Ophelia. I was immediately captivated by their world. While Ophelia is more than capable of handling herself, she’s unprepared for the dangers found within the elements of Knife’s Edge. Brock, the strong, protective alpha he is, can’t help but cast his shadow of protection over her. Their chemistry is electric from the start, but the road ahead is as stormy as what’s threatening the residents of the community.
This fast-paced, tension-filled story kept me on the edge of my seat. I tried to outpace the heroine in solving the case, but despite my best efforts, I was always one step behind—only to be completely stunned by the resolution. There are no obvious villains or forced twists; instead, the heroine holds her own, navigating a complex and gripping mystery.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
April 26, 2025
While I enjoyed this story, reading a Vella is not for me. The constant stopping to load the next part was distracting and annoying, especially when you don't know how many tokens it will be to continue the story. You have to remember to like each one and the author doesn't get paid if you don't crown the book. Who came up with this?
While I thoroughly enjoy Rebecca Zanetti's books, I will stick to reading those published as full stories and skip the Vella. It's a shame as I'd love to know more about the brothers.
While I thoroughly enjoy Rebecca Zanetti's books, I will stick to reading those published as full stories and skip the Vella. It's a shame as I'd love to know more about the brothers.
April 18, 2025
I loved this story!
So much so that I read it in one sitting (I couldn't put it down).
I needed to know who the killer was and why.
The characters, the writing, and story development were amazing!
What a great start to a new series!
I can't wait to read Christian's book!
So much so that I read it in one sitting (I couldn't put it down).
I needed to know who the killer was and why.
The characters, the writing, and story development were amazing!
What a great start to a new series!
I can't wait to read Christian's book!
April 2, 2025
So close
This had so many of the elements I love in a book - mystery, Alaska, a wolf dog, family ties, and interesting secondary characters....as well as the one thing I loathe, an annoying, unlikeable FMC. And yet the well written MMC (and side characters) all think she's wonderful despite being overly stubborn, stupidly independent to a fault, life in a wreck, bit*hy and constantly insecure. Everyone else in the book was well written so I know this was a deliberate choice. Dear Female Authors, please start doing a better job of writing the female "heroine". Y'all have got to be able to do a better job of sketching an strong FMC without making her a whiny, i don't need help from anyone, whoa is me I screw everything up, I'm super tough and can take on a Navy seal, type with the emotional availability of a cactus. Why do so many female authors seem to have such a low, or erroneous, opinion of women? It boggles the mind.
This had so many of the elements I love in a book - mystery, Alaska, a wolf dog, family ties, and interesting secondary characters....as well as the one thing I loathe, an annoying, unlikeable FMC. And yet the well written MMC (and side characters) all think she's wonderful despite being overly stubborn, stupidly independent to a fault, life in a wreck, bit*hy and constantly insecure. Everyone else in the book was well written so I know this was a deliberate choice. Dear Female Authors, please start doing a better job of writing the female "heroine". Y'all have got to be able to do a better job of sketching an strong FMC without making her a whiny, i don't need help from anyone, whoa is me I screw everything up, I'm super tough and can take on a Navy seal, type with the emotional availability of a cactus. Why do so many female authors seem to have such a low, or erroneous, opinion of women? It boggles the mind.
February 6, 2025
This one was just ok for me. I read 95% of it while getting my hair done and had I not been trapped there, I probably would have given it up. I found myself bored while reading and the only reason I kept going was I wanted to know who killed Hank. That knowledge came in the very last pages and was so anti-climatic. I didn't get the chemistry between the couple or why the brothers were so estranged, it all seemed off. Also, why would the FBI send someone to such a remote place for the reasons they did, it didn't add up for me.
July 17, 2025
4 Solid Stars!
This book started off strong, but it just didn't follow through.
I liked the setting, I liked Brock Osprey the protective Hero, and all of Brock’s brothers. I have to say I didn’t love the heroine FBI agent Ophelia Spilazi, she was pretty stubborn in her continuously & doggedly trying to pin the murder on one of the Osprey brothers, as this is a make or break case for her. It also seemed as the story/mystery ended very abruptly.
All in all, I liked this book but don’t really love it as I thought I would. It did have a great balance of mystery and romance and I love RZ’s books with strong family bonds, (like Rebecca Zanetti’s Sin Brother’s Series https://www.goodreads.com/series/9990... & the Blood Brother’s series https://www.goodreads.com/series/1792..., which I LOVED!!) so I’m definitely looking forward to reading the rest of the brothers books.
*Audiobook Review 🎧 Narration was good.
This book started off strong, but it just didn't follow through.
I liked the setting, I liked Brock Osprey the protective Hero, and all of Brock’s brothers. I have to say I didn’t love the heroine FBI agent Ophelia Spilazi, she was pretty stubborn in her continuously & doggedly trying to pin the murder on one of the Osprey brothers, as this is a make or break case for her. It also seemed as the story/mystery ended very abruptly.
All in all, I liked this book but don’t really love it as I thought I would. It did have a great balance of mystery and romance and I love RZ’s books with strong family bonds, (like Rebecca Zanetti’s Sin Brother’s Series https://www.goodreads.com/series/9990... & the Blood Brother’s series https://www.goodreads.com/series/1792..., which I LOVED!!) so I’m definitely looking forward to reading the rest of the brothers books.
*Audiobook Review 🎧 Narration was good.
August 22, 2025
I loved it. I love that this is located in Alaska and the small town vibe with all the quirky characters but also the mystery. I LOVE the four brothers. I like how Brock fell first and was very protective even though Olphelia is an FBI agent. I really couldn't figure out why they stonewalled her investigation until much later in the story. It had me wanting to get the answers as bad as she wanted them. I'm super excited for the next book. Christian is so intriguing to me so I can't wait to get his story.
May 2, 2025
Solid 4 for me! I really liked the pull between Olly and Brock. Olly’s last chance to stay in the FBI and sent to solve some deaths….murders?! Brock has just returned from a wilderness “walk about” and doesn’t want the interference of an FBI agent nor does he want the job of sheriff. I wasn’t expecting the end so much as I thought another character was guilty- but it was right for the story! We do get introduced to all the brothers so I’m looking forward to each store. Good start to the series I think.
October 8, 2025
This was good, but I'm really interested in the next book.
August 9, 2025
Zanetti is a go to author, and Dead of Winter had so many elements I love. A book series involving brothers, an Alaskan setting, and a suspenseful plot.
Brock Osprey is a former Navy Seal who just returned from a walkabout after the death of the man who raised him and his brothers. The town of Knife’s Edge has voted him in as the local Sheriff. A job he doesn’t want.
FBI agent Ophelia Spilazi arrives to investigate the unsolved murder of Brock’s guardian and other suspicious deaths, turning things upside down for Brock and his brothers.
I loved their first met and despite his protests, Brock feels responsible for Ophelia while she is investigating. He is protective by nature, particularly for his brothers. Each brother serves(d) in the military but are all slowly coming home. We meet them all and Zanetti teased me just enough that I cannot wait for their stories.
The suspenseful tale had some creepy elements to it, and it was easy to see why the brothers didn’t want Ophelia investigating. But someone is taking shots at Ophelia and Brock can’t allow that to stand. The tale that unfolds kept me guessing with twists, surprises and a stunner of an ending.
The romance was delightful with a slow burn feel despite the speed of it. The author reeled me in and melted my Kindle.
The next book Thaw of Spring belongs to Christian Osprey and promises another suspenseful and steamy tale. It will release September 2, 2025. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Brock Osprey is a former Navy Seal who just returned from a walkabout after the death of the man who raised him and his brothers. The town of Knife’s Edge has voted him in as the local Sheriff. A job he doesn’t want.
FBI agent Ophelia Spilazi arrives to investigate the unsolved murder of Brock’s guardian and other suspicious deaths, turning things upside down for Brock and his brothers.
I loved their first met and despite his protests, Brock feels responsible for Ophelia while she is investigating. He is protective by nature, particularly for his brothers. Each brother serves(d) in the military but are all slowly coming home. We meet them all and Zanetti teased me just enough that I cannot wait for their stories.
The suspenseful tale had some creepy elements to it, and it was easy to see why the brothers didn’t want Ophelia investigating. But someone is taking shots at Ophelia and Brock can’t allow that to stand. The tale that unfolds kept me guessing with twists, surprises and a stunner of an ending.
The romance was delightful with a slow burn feel despite the speed of it. The author reeled me in and melted my Kindle.
The next book Thaw of Spring belongs to Christian Osprey and promises another suspenseful and steamy tale. It will release September 2, 2025. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
September 4, 2023
This is currently only on Kindle Vella. its about 4 brothers - all former military - who all live in a small remote town in Alaska.
Brock Osprey story is first. He reluctantly is the sheriff of the small town and ends up having to escort FBI agent Ophelia Spilazi around as she investigates the old murder of the adopted father of the boys along with a missing person case. It's not long before someone is trying to kill Ophelia.
This was an engaging romantic suspense and you immediately fell in love the broody Osprey brothers.
What made it more interesting is at the end of each chapter the author wrote notes about the previous chapter. I hope we get the other 3 brothers' story soon.
Brock Osprey story is first. He reluctantly is the sheriff of the small town and ends up having to escort FBI agent Ophelia Spilazi around as she investigates the old murder of the adopted father of the boys along with a missing person case. It's not long before someone is trying to kill Ophelia.
This was an engaging romantic suspense and you immediately fell in love the broody Osprey brothers.
What made it more interesting is at the end of each chapter the author wrote notes about the previous chapter. I hope we get the other 3 brothers' story soon.
April 7, 2025
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨
First Impressions
Dead of Winter is the first book in the newest series by Rebecca Zanetti. I was really excited to see her get back to just some regular romantic suspense (not that I have an issue with her thrillers, but I need more romance in my books lol ). The Knife's Edge Alaska series is a series about 4 brothers, and seeing them each get a book. These men are tortured with military and secret ops backgrounds, and I was intrigued to see how this story would be handled. I will be honest, I just jumped into this one, I didn't even read the blurb. And I was okay with that lol The author really brings likeable characters into the story very quickly so that you become invested in their story. I found the danger elements mixed with the romance to be a true win here.
First Line
A brutal sun cut across the icy Alaskan landscape with a defiant glare, brightening instead of warming the frozen runway outside.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Brock Osprey
The Heroine: Aphelia Spilazi
Summary
Ophelia has come to the wilderness of Alaska to investigate a murder, a close friend of her boss. She runs into the Osprey brothers, specifically, Brock, who is the assumed Sheriff of the area, although he is constantly denying the title. The Osprey brothers are at the top of her list, as they are the boys that were fostered with the man who was murdered. But she is drawn to Brock, who is her escort of sorts. When she arrives, there are a string of mysterious deaths that seem connected and she is determined to make sense of what is happening while also trying to make sense of her chemistry with the sexy Osprey brother. Brock is alpha, possessive and commanding. And even though Ophelia can take care of herself, she is drawn to that strength and presence. But Ophelia and Brock will need to work together to find who the killer is...
What I Loved
This book was wild, rugged, sexy and plain fun!!! Rebecca Zanetti definitely delivered on this one. I am more used to read her through audio though, and so that might have been why I didn't connect with this story as I normally do. Her romantic suspense can be more suspense than romance sometimes though. But what we received from the romance was really wonderful. I loved the chemistry between Brock and Ophelia, and we see how well they get along here. I was so easily drawn into their love story. And surprisingly I enjoyed Ophelia's character very much despite her kick ass nature. I loved her vulnerability that is showcased in the story and you see her drive and determination but I also liked how she responded to Brock in many ways. Brock was the epitome of the perfect hero. I love a good alpha male and Zanetti writes them so deliciously. All of these brothers I am so eager for because they are full of mystery and I can't wait to see what evolves in their stories. The banter in this book was edgy and fun and evoked bursts of laughter constantly. The plot kept me on the edge of my seat, and if you love Alaska for a setting, then I highly recommend this one here.
What I Struggled With
The pacing of this book wasn't the best at times. Some of her suspense can be hard sometimes. I also wish the romance had been a bit more focused if I am being honest. I felt like the suspense plot was a bit more focused and I would have liked some more relationship focus as it felt a bit lacking at times in parts. This wasn't an issue I had, but some readers might struggle with the lack of number of spice in this book. So keep in mind its not as heavy as some of her other romances and is closer to the level she had in her thrillers.
Overall View
Dead of Winter is an edgy story to keep your toes curled from beginning to end with thrills, passion and laughter!
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Romantic Suspense, Contemporary Romance
Character Types: Alpha Hero and Heroine, Kick Ass, Law Enforcement
Themes: Danger/Suspense, Laughs/Giggles, Family Saga, Band of Brothers
Tropes: Forced Proximity
Book Perspective
3rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Both but more plot conflict
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Pamela Clare
Melinda Leigh
Anna Hackett
Song This Book Inspires
True Colors-Glee Cast
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes I would say its probably best to read these books in order
Steam/Spice Explanations
Simmering cup of tea---soft warm touches and light intimacy
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Blazing fire to the building-The prime focus is the sex scenes, scorching hot, and could burn one. Less focus on the emotional intimacy to the relationship.
September 19, 2023
I only read the first fourteen episodes, but I really enjoyed it! I'll purchase the story if published as a book!
March 23, 2025
3.5 stars.
Thank you to Goodreads and the publisher for the free ebook.
Dead of Winter (Knife’s Edge, Alaska book 1) is a romantic suspense novel set in the town of Knife’s Edge, Alaska. Special Agent Ophelia Spilazi has been sent there as a last chance to save her career with the FBI. There is at least one murder, and one missing person’s case that she’s to investigate. Once there, she works with the reluctant town sheriff, Brock Osprey, who might not be very forthright about what he knows. And as they work together, sparks start flying.
I enjoyed this book. I think the suspense part of the story worked better for me than the romance, but overall I liked the story. Reminded me a bit of a suspenseful Hallmark movie, but with a couple spicy scenes.
Thank you to Goodreads and the publisher for the free ebook.
Dead of Winter (Knife’s Edge, Alaska book 1) is a romantic suspense novel set in the town of Knife’s Edge, Alaska. Special Agent Ophelia Spilazi has been sent there as a last chance to save her career with the FBI. There is at least one murder, and one missing person’s case that she’s to investigate. Once there, she works with the reluctant town sheriff, Brock Osprey, who might not be very forthright about what he knows. And as they work together, sparks start flying.
I enjoyed this book. I think the suspense part of the story worked better for me than the romance, but overall I liked the story. Reminded me a bit of a suspenseful Hallmark movie, but with a couple spicy scenes.
July 2, 2025
4.5 stars. Really liked this one! Start of a new series set in the small town of Knife's Edge Alaska. Story centers around the four Osprey brothers (Ace, Brock, Christian, and Damien). Up first are Brock, the reluctant sheriff, and FBI agent Ophelia. Ophelia shows up to investigate a series of unexplained deaths in the area.
Small town secrets, cast of wiley, quirky characters, and bullets are flying. Fast-paced, suspenseful with plenty of action and a growing romance between Brock and Ophelia.
Fun read, had a few laughs along the way. Loved the Osprey brothers. I can't imagine the other 3 edging out Brock for favorite, but I can't wait to see what happens when it's Christian's turn next.
Small town secrets, cast of wiley, quirky characters, and bullets are flying. Fast-paced, suspenseful with plenty of action and a growing romance between Brock and Ophelia.
Fun read, had a few laughs along the way. Loved the Osprey brothers. I can't imagine the other 3 edging out Brock for favorite, but I can't wait to see what happens when it's Christian's turn next.
November 23, 2025
This book felt simultaneously rushed and dragged out. Even some of the action scenes I was like… wait, we’re getting shot at? The big reveal of the badd(ies) felt anticlimactic and the ending quite literally felt like someone was wrapping a bow on an overflowing narrative. Really fun writing, just not executed well.
January 16, 2025
Knife’s Edge, Alaska, is wild and remote. Practically inaccessible to the rest of the world in winter, its citizens are resilient and mutually self-reliant.
“𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘦𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘯𝘰 𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘒𝘯𝘪𝘧𝘦’𝘴 𝘌𝘥𝘨𝘦 - 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘦𝘱𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘷𝘰𝘭𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘶𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴.”
FBI Special Agent Ophelia Spilazi has been sent here to solve a homicide and a disappearance. There’s no reason to believe they are related, but Knife’s Edge is certainly a place where one can disappear to and never be found, whether by your own or another’s design. This is a Zanetti thriller that is so expertly composed that I could feel the chill of icy air and shiver at the sensation of utter isolation. Who did Ophelia cross to get sent here?
Ophelia needs to redeem herself within the Bureau and her boss has a vested interest in finding out who killed his old buddy Hank Osprey. By all accounts, no one in Knife’s Edge had reason to harm him. Could it have been one of Hank’s four adopted sons? Ace, Brock, Christian, and Damian are all ex-military and all four were uncharacteristically home from duty at the time of Hank’s death. Brock Osprey has the dubious distinction of transporting Agent Spilazi in from Anchorage and now he’s become her shadow.
“𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘷𝘦 𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘐 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘵𝘩 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘤𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 …”
I never fail to find Zanetti characters sexy and intriguing, and the spark between Ophelia and Brock starts early and keeps building. Ophelia is smart and capable, and yet the awkward outsider inside her yearns for the inclusiveness the townspeople offer and the protectiveness that Brock implacably provides. It seems everyone else in town is pulling for them, too.
“𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘣𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘢 𝘴𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘥 𝘸𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘤𝘳𝘶𝘮𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦.”
Brock and his brothers are super secretive, not only to “the Fed” but with each other. Despite Ophelia asking all the right questions, the mysteries around town only seem to increase! Will the reason Ophelia came to Knife’s Edge also be the tragedy that drives her and Brock apart? Honestly, I couldn’t figure out who killed Hank until it was revealed. Well done, Rebecca! Another masterfully crafted thriller.
(This is a review of the non-Vella full novel version of Dead of Winter.)
“𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘦𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘯𝘰 𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘒𝘯𝘪𝘧𝘦’𝘴 𝘌𝘥𝘨𝘦 - 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘦𝘱𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘷𝘰𝘭𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘶𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴.”
FBI Special Agent Ophelia Spilazi has been sent here to solve a homicide and a disappearance. There’s no reason to believe they are related, but Knife’s Edge is certainly a place where one can disappear to and never be found, whether by your own or another’s design. This is a Zanetti thriller that is so expertly composed that I could feel the chill of icy air and shiver at the sensation of utter isolation. Who did Ophelia cross to get sent here?
Ophelia needs to redeem herself within the Bureau and her boss has a vested interest in finding out who killed his old buddy Hank Osprey. By all accounts, no one in Knife’s Edge had reason to harm him. Could it have been one of Hank’s four adopted sons? Ace, Brock, Christian, and Damian are all ex-military and all four were uncharacteristically home from duty at the time of Hank’s death. Brock Osprey has the dubious distinction of transporting Agent Spilazi in from Anchorage and now he’s become her shadow.
“𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘷𝘦 𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘐 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘵𝘩 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘤𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 …”
I never fail to find Zanetti characters sexy and intriguing, and the spark between Ophelia and Brock starts early and keeps building. Ophelia is smart and capable, and yet the awkward outsider inside her yearns for the inclusiveness the townspeople offer and the protectiveness that Brock implacably provides. It seems everyone else in town is pulling for them, too.
“𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘣𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘢 𝘴𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘥 𝘸𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘤𝘳𝘶𝘮𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦.”
Brock and his brothers are super secretive, not only to “the Fed” but with each other. Despite Ophelia asking all the right questions, the mysteries around town only seem to increase! Will the reason Ophelia came to Knife’s Edge also be the tragedy that drives her and Brock apart? Honestly, I couldn’t figure out who killed Hank until it was revealed. Well done, Rebecca! Another masterfully crafted thriller.
(This is a review of the non-Vella full novel version of Dead of Winter.)
August 27, 2025
I love a good romantic suspense, so when I came across this one I decided to give it a go. The suspense part was pretty good and kept me flipping the pages, but the romance fell totally flat for me. I didn’t feel any chemistry between the MCs and frankly it also didn’t make any sense (yes, let’s hook up but I don’t trust you and might arrest you or one of your brothers tomorrow! And yes, I know you are lying to me but, whatever!). It almost seemed like the author was writing a suspense novel and added the ‘romance’ as an afterthought.
Also the h was totally useless as an FBI agent. Just asking everybody ‘Did you kill X?’ Doesn’t make you a cunning agent. And she kept getting in trouble and needing saving. So three stars only for the suspense and the scenery (love Alaska). I don’t think I’ll continu the series (as it is also not on KU)
Safety:
- OW: H had a ONS a year ago and this comes up like halfway in the book. h had befriended the OW at that point and they both lied to her. Turned out the OW still wants the H.
- No real OM
- No cheating
- No real separation
- Mentions cancer
Also the h was totally useless as an FBI agent. Just asking everybody ‘Did you kill X?’ Doesn’t make you a cunning agent. And she kept getting in trouble and needing saving. So three stars only for the suspense and the scenery (love Alaska). I don’t think I’ll continu the series (as it is also not on KU)
Safety:
- OW: H had a ONS a year ago and this comes up like halfway in the book. h had befriended the OW at that point and they both lied to her. Turned out the OW still wants the H.
- No real OM
- No cheating
- No real separation
- Mentions cancer
February 4, 2025
This book started off strong, but it just didn't follow through. Things I liked... the setting, the protective Hero, the brothers. Things that bothered me... the FBI agent that was pretty useless, her continuously trying to pin the murder on the brothers, the overuse of the scent of strawberries, the way the story/mystery hastily concluded.
June 16, 2022
I really liked this book. It was a great balance of mystery and romance and I love stories with strong family bonds and look forward to reading the other brothers stories.
Typically, I don’t really like The Novella format either with all the stops and waiting plus it usually ends up costing more than buying a full length book but if you read it when it’s already complete like I did it’s not too bad. Highly recommend this book and I plan to read more from this author!
Typically, I don’t really like The Novella format either with all the stops and waiting plus it usually ends up costing more than buying a full length book but if you read it when it’s already complete like I did it’s not too bad. Highly recommend this book and I plan to read more from this author!
February 20, 2025
This is not as good as some of her others.
July 3, 2025
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
3.5 hearts
I enjoy this author, although some of the stories don't seem very realistic. The setup for Dead of Winter is promising. There are four brothers with military and wilderness experience. Their father died about a year ago but no one has been arrested. Since Olivia's FBI boss was an old friend of the father, Hank, she is sent to investigate that case and some others.
She is flown into town by Brock, on the last plane before the town is snowed in for winter. Brock was elected sheriff but hasn't accepted the job. He's slightly worried about who did shoot his father, that it might be one of his brothers. So he doesn't really investigate. He is very competent and knowledgeable about the community and the people.
Olivia is called Ollie by the townspeople. She sadly does not seem competent. She just questions people bluntly without much finesse and doesn't seem to collect other evidence. She just keeps asking the same things to the same people. It's no wonder someone is trying to kill her now, but they are a bad shot.
Brock is very attracted to Ollie and now he must protect her. They spend most of their time together. The proximity moves them into a spicy sexual relationship. This seemed wrong to me since she came here right after a breakup with a co-worker. The whole story only lasts a week. Brock was very controlling in sex and I wasn't enjoying that either.
Anyway, the cases get solved and Ollie is going to continue working here and Brock will be the sheriff. I am interested in the stories about his three brothers and I like the Alaska setting.
Narration:
I'm not very familiar with Ava Flynn. I was comfortable with her voices for the characters. I appreciated how the performance allowed me to focus on the story. I was able to listen at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
3.5 hearts
I enjoy this author, although some of the stories don't seem very realistic. The setup for Dead of Winter is promising. There are four brothers with military and wilderness experience. Their father died about a year ago but no one has been arrested. Since Olivia's FBI boss was an old friend of the father, Hank, she is sent to investigate that case and some others.
She is flown into town by Brock, on the last plane before the town is snowed in for winter. Brock was elected sheriff but hasn't accepted the job. He's slightly worried about who did shoot his father, that it might be one of his brothers. So he doesn't really investigate. He is very competent and knowledgeable about the community and the people.
Olivia is called Ollie by the townspeople. She sadly does not seem competent. She just questions people bluntly without much finesse and doesn't seem to collect other evidence. She just keeps asking the same things to the same people. It's no wonder someone is trying to kill her now, but they are a bad shot.
Brock is very attracted to Ollie and now he must protect her. They spend most of their time together. The proximity moves them into a spicy sexual relationship. This seemed wrong to me since she came here right after a breakup with a co-worker. The whole story only lasts a week. Brock was very controlling in sex and I wasn't enjoying that either.
Anyway, the cases get solved and Ollie is going to continue working here and Brock will be the sheriff. I am interested in the stories about his three brothers and I like the Alaska setting.
Narration:
I'm not very familiar with Ava Flynn. I was comfortable with her voices for the characters. I appreciated how the performance allowed me to focus on the story. I was able to listen at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
February 1, 2025
Dead of Winter is the first book in a new romantic suspense series from Rebecca and I loved it. If you love to try and figure out a puzzle this book is for you! I love it when I can't figure out "who done it".
FBI agent, Ophelia Spilazi, is on special assignment in Knife's Edge, Alaska with the task of solving cold cases. This is a last chance for Ophelia as she is being punished for an error in judgement on the job. Ophelia is laser focused on closing these cases and gaining her career back what she doesn't account for is the broody, very good looking pssible sherrif of Knife's Edge.
Brock Osprey is back home after being honorably discharged from the Navy and is trying to assimilate to life outside the service. The town of Knife's Edge has elected him sherrif and he is fighting that election. The death of his father has taken a toll on him and his three brothers and left a whole in their family. Things pick up when the FBI shows up in town to investigate the death of his father and a missing persons case. Brock is knocked off his feet at the sight of Ophelia and the fact she is beautiful and smart is just icing on the cake.
The town of Knife's Edge is located in a remote part of Alaska and there is no shortage of dangers in and around the town.
FBI agent, Ophelia Spilazi, is on special assignment in Knife's Edge, Alaska with the task of solving cold cases. This is a last chance for Ophelia as she is being punished for an error in judgement on the job. Ophelia is laser focused on closing these cases and gaining her career back what she doesn't account for is the broody, very good looking pssible sherrif of Knife's Edge.
Brock Osprey is back home after being honorably discharged from the Navy and is trying to assimilate to life outside the service. The town of Knife's Edge has elected him sherrif and he is fighting that election. The death of his father has taken a toll on him and his three brothers and left a whole in their family. Things pick up when the FBI shows up in town to investigate the death of his father and a missing persons case. Brock is knocked off his feet at the sight of Ophelia and the fact she is beautiful and smart is just icing on the cake.
The town of Knife's Edge is located in a remote part of Alaska and there is no shortage of dangers in and around the town.
January 31, 2025
Brock Osprey is former SEAL and returned to Knife’s Edge Alaska with secrets. Brock and his brothers grew up in the Alaskan wilderness and return when their guardian dies. Brock is elected sheriff after the other dies but he won’t accept the job. Ophelia Spilazi is a FBI agent sent to investigate the death of Hank Osprey. They get trapped in a warming hut after Ophelia falls in the creek. While there, another body is found and then removed. A woman has been missing and Ophelia is investigating it too. Someone is taking shots at Ophelia and Brock is bound and determined to protect her even though she can’t take care of herself. Will Ophelia find the killer and the towns secrets or will it put a wedge between Brock and Ophelia?
Secrets. Forced proximity. Steamy. Now the beginning had me so confused. But once I read more, I wasn’t so confused. Really great story. Can’t wait for the other brother’s stories.
Secrets. Forced proximity. Steamy. Now the beginning had me so confused. But once I read more, I wasn’t so confused. Really great story. Can’t wait for the other brother’s stories.
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