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A Killing Cold
'A Killing Cold is a gripping tale, full of dizzying twists and turns! It is packed with suspense and kept me frantically turning pages until the very end!'
Freida McFadden
A whirlwind romance.
When Theodora Scott met Connor - wealthy, charming, and a member of the powerful Dalton family - she fell in love in an instant. Six months later, he's brought her to Idlewood, his family's isolated winter retreat, to win over his skeptical relatives.
Stay away from Connor Dalton.
Theo has tried to ignore the threatening messages on her phone, but she can't ignore the footprints in the snow outside her window or the cabin's strange familiar feeling. Then, Theo finds something a photo of herself as a child. A photo taken at Idlewood.
I've been here before.
Theo has almost no recollection of her earliest years, but now she begins to piece together the fragments of her memories. Someone here has a shocking secret that they will do anything to keep hidden, and Theo is in terrible danger. Because the Daltons do not lose, and discovering what happened at Idlewood may cost Theo everything.
Praise for A Killing Cold
'Utterly riveting . . . A stunner - dark, unflinching, and as twisty and sharp as a tangle of thorns.' Riley Sager
'So good.' Emily Henry
'Unexpected plot twists, deep psychological perspicacity, and an endlessly interesting dance between past and present that evokes the dread and intensity of Gillian Flynn's Sharp Objects.' New York Times Book Review
Freida McFadden
A whirlwind romance.
When Theodora Scott met Connor - wealthy, charming, and a member of the powerful Dalton family - she fell in love in an instant. Six months later, he's brought her to Idlewood, his family's isolated winter retreat, to win over his skeptical relatives.
Stay away from Connor Dalton.
Theo has tried to ignore the threatening messages on her phone, but she can't ignore the footprints in the snow outside her window or the cabin's strange familiar feeling. Then, Theo finds something a photo of herself as a child. A photo taken at Idlewood.
I've been here before.
Theo has almost no recollection of her earliest years, but now she begins to piece together the fragments of her memories. Someone here has a shocking secret that they will do anything to keep hidden, and Theo is in terrible danger. Because the Daltons do not lose, and discovering what happened at Idlewood may cost Theo everything.
Praise for A Killing Cold
'Utterly riveting . . . A stunner - dark, unflinching, and as twisty and sharp as a tangle of thorns.' Riley Sager
'So good.' Emily Henry
'Unexpected plot twists, deep psychological perspicacity, and an endlessly interesting dance between past and present that evokes the dread and intensity of Gillian Flynn's Sharp Objects.' New York Times Book Review
359 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 4, 2025
2326 people are currently reading
94618 people want to read
About the author
Kate Alice Marshall
20 books5,859 followersKate Alice Marshall is the author of thrillers and horror for all ages. Her YA and Middle grade books include I AM STILL ALIVE, RULES FOR VANISHING, and THIRTEENS. Her adult thrillers include WHAT LIES IN THE WOODS and NO ONE CAN KNOW.
She lives outside of Seattle with her husband, two dogs named Vonnegut and Octavia, and two kids. They all conspire to keep her on her toes.
She lives outside of Seattle with her husband, two dogs named Vonnegut and Octavia, and two kids. They all conspire to keep her on her toes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 7,114 reviews
June 25, 2025
This was a lot of fun! Super atmospheric, isolated setting, lots of secrets and rich people being terrible. I was wrong about sooo many twists 🙃
February 10, 2025
A whirlwind romance.
When Theodora Scott met Connor—wealthy, charming, and a member of the powerful Dalton family—she fell in love in an instant. Six months later, he’s brought her to Idlewood, his family’s isolated winter retreat, to win over his skeptical relatives.
Stay away from Connor Dalton.
Theo has tried to ignore the threatening messages on her phone, but she can’t ignore the footprints in the snow outside the cabin window or the strange sense of familiarity she has about this place. Then, in a disused cabin, Theo finds something impossible: a photo of herself as a child. A photo taken at Idlewood.
I’ve been here before.
Theo has almost no recollection of her earliest years, but now she begins to piece together the fragments of her memories. Someone here has a shocking secret that they will do anything to keep hidden, and Theo is in terrible danger. Because the Daltons do not lose, and discovering what happened at Idlewood may cost Theo everything.
This was a chilling, exciting, gripping and twisty read! There are family dark secrets with jaw dropping moments that will shock you. The twists kept coming with some surprises! Twist after twist! It was mind-blowing! There are lots of lies and the story gets intense.
There are some very unlikable characters and some very likable characters. My favorite character was Theo. I felt so sorry for her. The characters were very well done.
The family was a wealthy dysfunctional family. They lived in a mansion and I didn't know who to trust. I couldn't listen to the audiobook fast enough to find out what was going to happen next!
I was hooked straight from the beginning to the very end. It was fast-paced and I could not put it down. It was very atmospheric. It also is a domestic family drama and a psychological thriller. I really loved it! There also is a snowstorm in the story that makes it even more chilling.
I listened to the audiobook and it was fantastic.
I want to thank Netgalley and Macmillan Audio for the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Now Available!
When Theodora Scott met Connor—wealthy, charming, and a member of the powerful Dalton family—she fell in love in an instant. Six months later, he’s brought her to Idlewood, his family’s isolated winter retreat, to win over his skeptical relatives.
Stay away from Connor Dalton.
Theo has tried to ignore the threatening messages on her phone, but she can’t ignore the footprints in the snow outside the cabin window or the strange sense of familiarity she has about this place. Then, in a disused cabin, Theo finds something impossible: a photo of herself as a child. A photo taken at Idlewood.
I’ve been here before.
Theo has almost no recollection of her earliest years, but now she begins to piece together the fragments of her memories. Someone here has a shocking secret that they will do anything to keep hidden, and Theo is in terrible danger. Because the Daltons do not lose, and discovering what happened at Idlewood may cost Theo everything.
This was a chilling, exciting, gripping and twisty read! There are family dark secrets with jaw dropping moments that will shock you. The twists kept coming with some surprises! Twist after twist! It was mind-blowing! There are lots of lies and the story gets intense.
There are some very unlikable characters and some very likable characters. My favorite character was Theo. I felt so sorry for her. The characters were very well done.
The family was a wealthy dysfunctional family. They lived in a mansion and I didn't know who to trust. I couldn't listen to the audiobook fast enough to find out what was going to happen next!
I was hooked straight from the beginning to the very end. It was fast-paced and I could not put it down. It was very atmospheric. It also is a domestic family drama and a psychological thriller. I really loved it! There also is a snowstorm in the story that makes it even more chilling.
I listened to the audiobook and it was fantastic.
I want to thank Netgalley and Macmillan Audio for the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Now Available!
March 17, 2025
4.5 🌟 I really liked this one! Kind of a slow start, but really smart & interesting. Super creepy, super messed up, and I was looking in a million directions trying to figure it all out!
December 11, 2024
Secrets, lies, twists, turns, and a shocking reveal that I did not see coming! Talk about a jaw dropping shocker! A Killing Cold was instantly gripping and had me fully invested wondering who I could trust, what would happen next, and what happened all those years ago!
Connor Dalton and Theodora (Theo)Scott fell head over heels when they met six months ago. Conner has brought Theo to Idlewood, his family's winter retreat, to introduce her to his family. They give her a cold questioning welcome while Theo can't help feeling that she has been to his family's retreat before. Plus, she is getting menacing messages telling her to stay away from Conner!
I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed the narration. I also loved the setting of this book. It hit all the bells and whistles for me. The isolated winter retreat provided that trapped feeling that I loved. The cottages made for a lovely setting but with skepticism and doubt hoovering around every corner, it was not as picture perfect or the winter wonderland as it first appeared.
I enjoyed the characters, even the unlikeable ones. Readers know that something terrible happened at the winter retreat years ago which added to the mystery, the tension, mounting sense of danger and kept my interest piqued throughout this gripping and fabulous book!
Thank you to Macmillan Audio 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 📖
Connor Dalton and Theodora (Theo)Scott fell head over heels when they met six months ago. Conner has brought Theo to Idlewood, his family's winter retreat, to introduce her to his family. They give her a cold questioning welcome while Theo can't help feeling that she has been to his family's retreat before. Plus, she is getting menacing messages telling her to stay away from Conner!
I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed the narration. I also loved the setting of this book. It hit all the bells and whistles for me. The isolated winter retreat provided that trapped feeling that I loved. The cottages made for a lovely setting but with skepticism and doubt hoovering around every corner, it was not as picture perfect or the winter wonderland as it first appeared.
I enjoyed the characters, even the unlikeable ones. Readers know that something terrible happened at the winter retreat years ago which added to the mystery, the tension, mounting sense of danger and kept my interest piqued throughout this gripping and fabulous book!
Thank you to Macmillan Audio 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 📖
February 4, 2025
HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY!
Outlier alert!
Maybe it’s just because I have read so many of these types of thrillers, but A Killing Cold failed to engage me. I really enjoyed What Lies in the Woods, but No One Can Know was not very memorable. Unfortunately, my reading of A Killing Cold was similar to Marshall’s second adult thriller.
What happened?
This is the same tired old plot where characters are trapped on a cold, secluded retreat and find themselves in danger from themselves. The OTT plot is so far fetched that you really need to believe in fate for it to work. The one dimensional characters failed to keep my interest, and I never really cared about any of them. You WILL find plenty of twists in this book, but they felt a bit gratuitous.
I am considering parting ways with this author for now. Plenty of other reviewers have enjoyed this book, so please check out their reviews as well!
3/5 stars
Expected publication date: 2/4/25
Thank you to Edelweiss and Flat Iron books for the ARC of A Killing Cold in exchange for an honest review.
Outlier alert!
Maybe it’s just because I have read so many of these types of thrillers, but A Killing Cold failed to engage me. I really enjoyed What Lies in the Woods, but No One Can Know was not very memorable. Unfortunately, my reading of A Killing Cold was similar to Marshall’s second adult thriller.
What happened?
This is the same tired old plot where characters are trapped on a cold, secluded retreat and find themselves in danger from themselves. The OTT plot is so far fetched that you really need to believe in fate for it to work. The one dimensional characters failed to keep my interest, and I never really cared about any of them. You WILL find plenty of twists in this book, but they felt a bit gratuitous.
I am considering parting ways with this author for now. Plenty of other reviewers have enjoyed this book, so please check out their reviews as well!
3/5 stars
Expected publication date: 2/4/25
Thank you to Edelweiss and Flat Iron books for the ARC of A Killing Cold in exchange for an honest review.
March 7, 2025
Secrets, twists, and lies, oh my! A complex tale filled with jaw-dropping reveals and ratcheting suspense, A Killing Cold was a clear demonstration of Ms. Marshall’s storytelling prowess. From the endearing love story between Theo and Connor to the isolated setting that felt atmospheric in the extreme, there simply wasn’t a moment where this plot let me down. Starting off somewhat slow, there was a constant, underlying sense of foreboding as an IV drip of revelations pushed the plot into a fast-paced explosion of spine-chilling action. Throughout this dynamite read, though, there wasn’t a moment where I had even an inkling of what was going to happen. After all, the last one hundred pages had me spinning in the best possible way.
At first glance this über-wealthy family seemed to have it all. The enigmatic newcomer, however, quickly showed their true colors. Both unlikeable and suspicious, I intermittently distrusted each and every member of the close-knit Dalton clan—up to and including Connor himself. And while they and some of the events that transpired weren’t necessarily always realistic, the scenarios played out perfectly for this thriller snob. So much so, in fact, that it just couldn’t have been better. You see, via first-person narration and plenty of flashbacks, the mystery of what happened years ago at the Daltons’ winter retreat was unwound layer by layer until the pulse-pounding last third utterly blew me away.
All in all, I couldn’t have loved this novel more if I tried. With rich people behaving badly, a naïve newcomer stepping into the fold, and a deep, dark, mysterious past, there simply wasn’t anything there not to love. Throw in the fact that it all revolved around my absolute favorite trope of the locked room mystery variety, and it just couldn’t go wrong. It even had a contemporary Agatha Christie-esque vibe in all of her expertly plotted whodunnit glory. Yet the best piece of the puzzle was the conclusion. Sure to divide readers, it nevertheless had me grinning with glee. So if you love palpable tension, relentless pacing, and nerve-shredding dread, be sure to grab this one ASAP! Rating of 5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
A whirlwind romance.
When Theodora Scott met Connor―wealthy, charming, and a member of the powerful Dalton family―she fell in love in an instant. Six months later, he’s brought her to Idlewood, his family’s isolated winter retreat, to win over his skeptical relatives.
Stay away from Connor Dalton.
Theo has tried to ignore the threatening messages on her phone, but she can’t ignore the footprints in the snow outside the cabin window or the strange sense of familiarity she has about this place. Then, in a disused cabin, Theo finds something impossible: a photo of herself as a child. A photo taken at Idlewood.
I’ve been here before.
Theo has almost no recollection of her earliest years, but now she begins to piece together the fragments of her memories. Someone here has a shocking secret that they will do anything to keep hidden, and Theo is in terrible danger. Because the Daltons do not lose, and discovering what happened at Idlewood may cost Theo everything.
Thank you to Kate Alice Marshall and Flatiron Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: February 4, 2025
Content warning: child abuse, being drugged, gun violence, infidelity, mention of: teenage pregnancy, miscarriage
At first glance this über-wealthy family seemed to have it all. The enigmatic newcomer, however, quickly showed their true colors. Both unlikeable and suspicious, I intermittently distrusted each and every member of the close-knit Dalton clan—up to and including Connor himself. And while they and some of the events that transpired weren’t necessarily always realistic, the scenarios played out perfectly for this thriller snob. So much so, in fact, that it just couldn’t have been better. You see, via first-person narration and plenty of flashbacks, the mystery of what happened years ago at the Daltons’ winter retreat was unwound layer by layer until the pulse-pounding last third utterly blew me away.
All in all, I couldn’t have loved this novel more if I tried. With rich people behaving badly, a naïve newcomer stepping into the fold, and a deep, dark, mysterious past, there simply wasn’t anything there not to love. Throw in the fact that it all revolved around my absolute favorite trope of the locked room mystery variety, and it just couldn’t go wrong. It even had a contemporary Agatha Christie-esque vibe in all of her expertly plotted whodunnit glory. Yet the best piece of the puzzle was the conclusion. Sure to divide readers, it nevertheless had me grinning with glee. So if you love palpable tension, relentless pacing, and nerve-shredding dread, be sure to grab this one ASAP! Rating of 5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
A whirlwind romance.
When Theodora Scott met Connor―wealthy, charming, and a member of the powerful Dalton family―she fell in love in an instant. Six months later, he’s brought her to Idlewood, his family’s isolated winter retreat, to win over his skeptical relatives.
Stay away from Connor Dalton.
Theo has tried to ignore the threatening messages on her phone, but she can’t ignore the footprints in the snow outside the cabin window or the strange sense of familiarity she has about this place. Then, in a disused cabin, Theo finds something impossible: a photo of herself as a child. A photo taken at Idlewood.
I’ve been here before.
Theo has almost no recollection of her earliest years, but now she begins to piece together the fragments of her memories. Someone here has a shocking secret that they will do anything to keep hidden, and Theo is in terrible danger. Because the Daltons do not lose, and discovering what happened at Idlewood may cost Theo everything.
Thank you to Kate Alice Marshall and Flatiron Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: February 4, 2025
Content warning: child abuse, being drugged, gun violence, infidelity, mention of: teenage pregnancy, miscarriage
January 20, 2025
i think this is her best work yet! if you liked THE FAMILY GAME by Catherine Steadman, check this out. lots of similarities—rich people behaving badly, a secluded setting/wealthy mansion, a normal woman (albeit with secrets!) marrying into a rich family (who doesn’t want to openly accept her) and some unexpected deaths 👀
there are so many secrets and plot twists in this one that it’s impossible to be bored. and it starts quick too! deff not a slow burn which i appreciated. also some chapters are like 2 pages long—so this moves quick!
i typically don’t love locked door thrillers/thrillers set in one secluded space but the eerie chilling winter location was a vibe, especially reading it during a chilly January weekend. it was very atmospheric and the setting was a character in itself which i always enjoy in a thriller ❄️☃️
the backhalf had a ton of action and some surprising and kinda savage plot points 🔪 lots of whodunnit vibes and untrustworthy characters—the author did a good job of making you suspect almost everyone to be involved in the crimes.
the ending was a bit wrapped up for my personal thriller taste, but i’m happy it was much stronger than the ending of her last book… iykyk😆
worth the read and a quick binge! out Feb 4, thanks to Flatiron for a gifted early copy 🩵
there are so many secrets and plot twists in this one that it’s impossible to be bored. and it starts quick too! deff not a slow burn which i appreciated. also some chapters are like 2 pages long—so this moves quick!
i typically don’t love locked door thrillers/thrillers set in one secluded space but the eerie chilling winter location was a vibe, especially reading it during a chilly January weekend. it was very atmospheric and the setting was a character in itself which i always enjoy in a thriller ❄️☃️
the backhalf had a ton of action and some surprising and kinda savage plot points 🔪 lots of whodunnit vibes and untrustworthy characters—the author did a good job of making you suspect almost everyone to be involved in the crimes.
the ending was a bit wrapped up for my personal thriller taste, but i’m happy it was much stronger than the ending of her last book… iykyk😆
worth the read and a quick binge! out Feb 4, thanks to Flatiron for a gifted early copy 🩵
April 10, 2025
When the queen of winter-set thrillers releases another mystery, you dive in with high expectations.
This is yet another twisty, intriguing, fast-paced, and well-developed thriller I couldn’t put down, much like her other works, despite my strong dislike for the entire Dalton family. Their dysfunctionality, ruthlessness, and lack of soul reminded me of the notorious Dalton brothers from the Lucky Luke series! They’re an irritatingly dysfunctional bunch, making me question how Connor fits in, and if being part of this family means he’s inherently evil.
The story centers around Theodora Scott, an ordinary girl who works at a bookstore, orphaned and raised by an abusive, dysfunctional adoptive family. She claims they’re all dead, but is she telling the truth, or hiding a dark secret about her past? Theodora has no memories before she turned four, only vague images of a woman in a red scarf—possibly her mother—telling her to run from an unknown danger.
Theodora meets Connor Dalton, a member of a threateningly wealthy and powerful family, through her best friend at an art show. She feels an immediate, inexplicable connection with him. Their whirlwind romance quickly turns into an engagement, and soon Theodora finds herself on the way to the Dalton family’s isolated winter retreat to meet them. The experience is intimidating—only Alexis, Connor’s older sister, seems to be on her side. Alexis’ wife, Paloma, and their son, Sebastian, may be her only allies amidst the family: authoritarian grandmother Louise gives her hostile vibes, suspicious mother Rose questions her motives, and the spoiled, black sheep younger brother, Trevor, is quick to label her a gold-digger and, Uncle Nick also gives her a somewhat cold and hostile shoulder. It seems like she’s stumbled into the worst possible family.
As if dealing with the Daltons wasn't enough, Theodora begins receiving threatening texts telling her to stay away from Connor, followed by a letter at her cabin, indicating that someone in the family wants her gone. She becomes intrigued by the mystery surrounding the death of Connor’s father, Liam, and an empty cabin called Dragonfly—just like the tattoo she bears. Inside the abandoned cabin, she finds a photo of herself as a child, posing with Liam Dalton. How could that be? Then, memories start flooding back. She realizes she’s been here before, with her mother, the woman in the scarf, and a dangerous man wearing antlers chasing them. But who was he, and why? Could Connor know about her connection to this place, and is he drawing her into some sick game? The Daltons seem determined to keep a dark secret buried, and Theodora must uncover the truth about who she really is and what happened to her mother, even if it puts her life in danger.
Overall, the last third of the book was truly mind-blowing. While some of the explanations felt far-fetched and coincidental, the pacing, building tension, climax, and shocking revelations made the journey worthwhile.
I’m excited to read more from Kate Alice Marshall, who consistently delivers twisty YA and adult thrillers. This is another highly recommendable addition to her works!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Flatiron Books for providing me with this unputdownable thriller's digital review copy in exchange for my honest opinions.
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This is yet another twisty, intriguing, fast-paced, and well-developed thriller I couldn’t put down, much like her other works, despite my strong dislike for the entire Dalton family. Their dysfunctionality, ruthlessness, and lack of soul reminded me of the notorious Dalton brothers from the Lucky Luke series! They’re an irritatingly dysfunctional bunch, making me question how Connor fits in, and if being part of this family means he’s inherently evil.
The story centers around Theodora Scott, an ordinary girl who works at a bookstore, orphaned and raised by an abusive, dysfunctional adoptive family. She claims they’re all dead, but is she telling the truth, or hiding a dark secret about her past? Theodora has no memories before she turned four, only vague images of a woman in a red scarf—possibly her mother—telling her to run from an unknown danger.
Theodora meets Connor Dalton, a member of a threateningly wealthy and powerful family, through her best friend at an art show. She feels an immediate, inexplicable connection with him. Their whirlwind romance quickly turns into an engagement, and soon Theodora finds herself on the way to the Dalton family’s isolated winter retreat to meet them. The experience is intimidating—only Alexis, Connor’s older sister, seems to be on her side. Alexis’ wife, Paloma, and their son, Sebastian, may be her only allies amidst the family: authoritarian grandmother Louise gives her hostile vibes, suspicious mother Rose questions her motives, and the spoiled, black sheep younger brother, Trevor, is quick to label her a gold-digger and, Uncle Nick also gives her a somewhat cold and hostile shoulder. It seems like she’s stumbled into the worst possible family.
As if dealing with the Daltons wasn't enough, Theodora begins receiving threatening texts telling her to stay away from Connor, followed by a letter at her cabin, indicating that someone in the family wants her gone. She becomes intrigued by the mystery surrounding the death of Connor’s father, Liam, and an empty cabin called Dragonfly—just like the tattoo she bears. Inside the abandoned cabin, she finds a photo of herself as a child, posing with Liam Dalton. How could that be? Then, memories start flooding back. She realizes she’s been here before, with her mother, the woman in the scarf, and a dangerous man wearing antlers chasing them. But who was he, and why? Could Connor know about her connection to this place, and is he drawing her into some sick game? The Daltons seem determined to keep a dark secret buried, and Theodora must uncover the truth about who she really is and what happened to her mother, even if it puts her life in danger.
Overall, the last third of the book was truly mind-blowing. While some of the explanations felt far-fetched and coincidental, the pacing, building tension, climax, and shocking revelations made the journey worthwhile.
I’m excited to read more from Kate Alice Marshall, who consistently delivers twisty YA and adult thrillers. This is another highly recommendable addition to her works!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Flatiron Books for providing me with this unputdownable thriller's digital review copy in exchange for my honest opinions.
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March 18, 2025
4⭐
Genre ~ psychological thriller
Setting ~ Colorado (I think)
Publication date ~ February 4, 2025
Publisher ~ Macmillan Audio
Est Page Count ~ 304 (48 chapters)
Audio length ~ 9 hours 41 minutes
Narrator ~ Karissa Vacker
POV ~ single 1st, present tense
Featuring ~ rich man/poor woman, opposites attract, flashbacks, nightmares, locked in feel
(Theo)dora (24) is spending some time at her fiance, Connor’s, family estate. This will be the first time she’s meeting them since their courtship has been short. Something seems familiar with the area, but she’s not sure what. She was adopted and has little knowledge about her past. We see through the eyes of flashbacks and nightmares of a little girl, which made the plot more intriguing.
Ahh, a rich family with secrets, not something we see that often. Bahaha, just kidding. They’re as snooty and snobby as you’d expect. Grandma really takes the cake and ices it with a triple layer of animosity.
We’ve get an isolated woods, no cell service, locked ‘room’ feel, which worked really well as Theo tried to piece together her nightmares.
Overall, a solid thriller with secrets that were secretive and twists that were twistable.
Narration notes:
She does a fabulous job, as usual.
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ X
Genre ~ psychological thriller
Setting ~ Colorado (I think)
Publication date ~ February 4, 2025
Publisher ~ Macmillan Audio
Est Page Count ~ 304 (48 chapters)
Audio length ~ 9 hours 41 minutes
Narrator ~ Karissa Vacker
POV ~ single 1st, present tense
Featuring ~ rich man/poor woman, opposites attract, flashbacks, nightmares, locked in feel
(Theo)dora (24) is spending some time at her fiance, Connor’s, family estate. This will be the first time she’s meeting them since their courtship has been short. Something seems familiar with the area, but she’s not sure what. She was adopted and has little knowledge about her past. We see through the eyes of flashbacks and nightmares of a little girl, which made the plot more intriguing.
Ahh, a rich family with secrets, not something we see that often. Bahaha, just kidding. They’re as snooty and snobby as you’d expect. Grandma really takes the cake and ices it with a triple layer of animosity.
We’ve get an isolated woods, no cell service, locked ‘room’ feel, which worked really well as Theo tried to piece together her nightmares.
Overall, a solid thriller with secrets that were secretive and twists that were twistable.
Narration notes:
She does a fabulous job, as usual.
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ X
December 21, 2024
Let’s set the stage…wealthy family, secluded retreat, blizzard conditions.
All the ingredients for a crafty thriller.
Theodora (Theo) and Connor met, fell in love and were engaged all within six months. Now it’s time for her to meet his family. What better way than to join his family at their secluded winter compound. Strange though... no one seems overly welcoming. Hmmm.
Theo has a few questions that keep nagging her:
1. Who’s texting her messages warning her to stay away from Connor, and why?
2. Why does this compound feel oddly familiar? Is it possible she’s been here before?
Turns out this isn’t the winter wonder-land getaway Theo was hoping for. And soon she’ll be fearing for her life before the vacation is over!
As the layers of secrets and lies unraveled, the tension increased giving readers a very suspenseful read (audio.)
🎧 Review: Narration provided by Karissa Vacker. Need I say more? She was as amazing as always, once again breathing life into every single character, young and old.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio
All the ingredients for a crafty thriller.
Theodora (Theo) and Connor met, fell in love and were engaged all within six months. Now it’s time for her to meet his family. What better way than to join his family at their secluded winter compound. Strange though... no one seems overly welcoming. Hmmm.
Theo has a few questions that keep nagging her:
1. Who’s texting her messages warning her to stay away from Connor, and why?
2. Why does this compound feel oddly familiar? Is it possible she’s been here before?
Turns out this isn’t the winter wonder-land getaway Theo was hoping for. And soon she’ll be fearing for her life before the vacation is over!
As the layers of secrets and lies unraveled, the tension increased giving readers a very suspenseful read (audio.)
🎧 Review: Narration provided by Karissa Vacker. Need I say more? She was as amazing as always, once again breathing life into every single character, young and old.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio
July 24, 2025
A Killing Cold is tense and fast-paced. It's also the epitome of a Winter Thriller. I loved the setting and atmosphere most of all. It felt cold and claustrophobic the entire time.
Theo is trapped at her new fiance's family retreat and it's clear someone doesn't want her there. When she discovers a clue to her past at the property, she's flabbergasted.
How can this be? Has she been here before?
I liked following along with Theo as she was thrust into the lion's den that is her fiance, Connor's, family. They've had a whirlwind romance, so Theo hasn't had much opportunity to meet them and she's nervous as heck.
As she should be...
It's clear from the start Theo isn't being completely transparent with them about her past, and as the story progresses, you learn a lot more about that.
Regardless of where she came from though, her upbringing was very different from Theo's and his siblings. Their family is extremely wealthy, and as with most wealthy families, they're used to getting away with a certain amount of things.
While I was reading this, the dynamics amongst Connor and his brother and sister, kept reminding me of the sibling relationships in Succession. If you are a fan of that show, I definitely recommend you check this one out. I think you'll understand pretty quickly what I mean.
I also loved and appreciated how much the weather and landscape was made a part of this story. It felt dark and very cold. Also, due to inclement weather, they do get literally trapped at the estate.
This gave it an air of desperation and suffocation it may not have had otherwise. Atmosphere is my number one want in any book, and it was definitely delivered here.
Marshall kept me on my toes with this one and successfully kept me guessing. While I thought the ending had some moments where it veered into convoluted territory, overall, I think it was a fun and intriguing story.
I would highly recommend the audiobook, as well, should you have that format available to you. It's narrated by one of my all-time faves, Karissa Vacker, and I feel like she did a fantastic job bringing Theo's perspective to life!
Thank you to the publisher, Macmillan Audio, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I'm looking forward to whatever KAM writes next!!
Theo is trapped at her new fiance's family retreat and it's clear someone doesn't want her there. When she discovers a clue to her past at the property, she's flabbergasted.
How can this be? Has she been here before?
I liked following along with Theo as she was thrust into the lion's den that is her fiance, Connor's, family. They've had a whirlwind romance, so Theo hasn't had much opportunity to meet them and she's nervous as heck.
As she should be...
It's clear from the start Theo isn't being completely transparent with them about her past, and as the story progresses, you learn a lot more about that.
Regardless of where she came from though, her upbringing was very different from Theo's and his siblings. Their family is extremely wealthy, and as with most wealthy families, they're used to getting away with a certain amount of things.
While I was reading this, the dynamics amongst Connor and his brother and sister, kept reminding me of the sibling relationships in Succession. If you are a fan of that show, I definitely recommend you check this one out. I think you'll understand pretty quickly what I mean.
I also loved and appreciated how much the weather and landscape was made a part of this story. It felt dark and very cold. Also, due to inclement weather, they do get literally trapped at the estate.
This gave it an air of desperation and suffocation it may not have had otherwise. Atmosphere is my number one want in any book, and it was definitely delivered here.
Marshall kept me on my toes with this one and successfully kept me guessing. While I thought the ending had some moments where it veered into convoluted territory, overall, I think it was a fun and intriguing story.
I would highly recommend the audiobook, as well, should you have that format available to you. It's narrated by one of my all-time faves, Karissa Vacker, and I feel like she did a fantastic job bringing Theo's perspective to life!
Thank you to the publisher, Macmillan Audio, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I'm looking forward to whatever KAM writes next!!
May 10, 2025
3.5⭐️
Second read from this author, and let me tell you, Marshall really knows how to keep you hooked. I love how we’re given little breadcrumbs throughout. It keeps the pacing just right and had me on the edge of my seat, needing answers to all the questions piling up.
Every character was clearly hiding something, and I couldn’t wait for their secrets to start unraveling. I especially liked the main character. She’s not exempt from the secret keeping, and she’s both intriguing and definitely always looking for trouble. I cared about what happened to her, which made me care about the whole story even more. Plus, I enjoyed the cold, atmospheric setting paired with a ruthless family willing to do anything to protect their own.
While I really enjoyed the ride, most of the reveals landed just okay for me. Not bad, just not mind blowing.
I still finished the book feeling pretty satisfied, even if I wasn’t totally blown away.
Second read from this author, and let me tell you, Marshall really knows how to keep you hooked. I love how we’re given little breadcrumbs throughout. It keeps the pacing just right and had me on the edge of my seat, needing answers to all the questions piling up.
Every character was clearly hiding something, and I couldn’t wait for their secrets to start unraveling. I especially liked the main character. She’s not exempt from the secret keeping, and she’s both intriguing and definitely always looking for trouble. I cared about what happened to her, which made me care about the whole story even more. Plus, I enjoyed the cold, atmospheric setting paired with a ruthless family willing to do anything to protect their own.
While I really enjoyed the ride, most of the reveals landed just okay for me. Not bad, just not mind blowing.
I still finished the book feeling pretty satisfied, even if I wasn’t totally blown away.
December 23, 2024
I've been mentally referring to this last year as the great thriller slump of 2024. No matter how well-written or unique the premise, I just couldn't get into the genre. Enter, A Killing Cold by Kate Alice Marshall.
This book not only kept me entertained throughout but also kept me guessing what would happen next. I went into this one expecting it to fall short but thankfully my expectations were exceeded!
Gripping, unexpected twists, suspenseful, and fast-paced, this book is the perfect winter thriller! Filled with truly detestable characters and a loveable protagonist, A Killing Cold is a cat-and-mouse game that readers will enjoy! A Killing Cold is my third book by Kate Alice Marshall and she never fails to disappoint. If you're looking for a slump buster, look no further!
I'm not sure that the great thriller slump has entirely been broken but after finishing and loving A Killing Cold, I do feel hopeful that I can once again enjoy my beloved thrillers!
A Killing Cold by Kate Alice Marshall will be available on February 4. Many thanks to Flatiron Books for the gifted copy!!
This book not only kept me entertained throughout but also kept me guessing what would happen next. I went into this one expecting it to fall short but thankfully my expectations were exceeded!
Gripping, unexpected twists, suspenseful, and fast-paced, this book is the perfect winter thriller! Filled with truly detestable characters and a loveable protagonist, A Killing Cold is a cat-and-mouse game that readers will enjoy! A Killing Cold is my third book by Kate Alice Marshall and she never fails to disappoint. If you're looking for a slump buster, look no further!
I'm not sure that the great thriller slump has entirely been broken but after finishing and loving A Killing Cold, I do feel hopeful that I can once again enjoy my beloved thrillers!
A Killing Cold by Kate Alice Marshall will be available on February 4. Many thanks to Flatiron Books for the gifted copy!!
January 9, 2025
2 stars
If felt the entire time the author was trying hard to create suspense where there wasn't any.
The book is very repetitive and the whole premise is pretty unrealistic and unappealing.
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for allowing me read this book!
If felt the entire time the author was trying hard to create suspense where there wasn't any.
The book is very repetitive and the whole premise is pretty unrealistic and unappealing.
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for allowing me read this book!
January 24, 2025
Get the popcorn 🍿 popping and the hot chocolate ☕️ bombs dropping because this winter ❄️ thriller is combining chilling tropes for an explosive romp where the elements are dangerous, but the secrets are deadly.
Theo and Connor travel to his wealthy family’s secluded winter estate, Idlewild. Connor’s family’s reluctance to warm to Theo makes her feel discomfort, but there’s more. Idlewild produces an eerie sense of familiarity for her. She receives phone messages warning her away. When she enters an abandoned cabin fragments begin to emerge one more disturbing than the last. Too many things don’t add up.
Could Connor have an ulterior motive for bringing her here?
What does a past she can’t remember have to do with her future?
I was stranded in the midst of a snow ❄️ and ice 🧊 storm while listening to this which is rare for my neck of the woods and it added to the ambience.
I had to suspend belief in a few places, but honestly it didn’t detract from how much I liked this. The audio narrated by Karissa Vacker is an absolute dream.
A riveting listen 🎧 that I didn’t want to end!
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for providing the Advanced Listening Copy for review. All opinions are my own.
Theo and Connor travel to his wealthy family’s secluded winter estate, Idlewild. Connor’s family’s reluctance to warm to Theo makes her feel discomfort, but there’s more. Idlewild produces an eerie sense of familiarity for her. She receives phone messages warning her away. When she enters an abandoned cabin fragments begin to emerge one more disturbing than the last. Too many things don’t add up.
Could Connor have an ulterior motive for bringing her here?
What does a past she can’t remember have to do with her future?
I was stranded in the midst of a snow ❄️ and ice 🧊 storm while listening to this which is rare for my neck of the woods and it added to the ambience.
I had to suspend belief in a few places, but honestly it didn’t detract from how much I liked this. The audio narrated by Karissa Vacker is an absolute dream.
A riveting listen 🎧 that I didn’t want to end!
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for providing the Advanced Listening Copy for review. All opinions are my own.
January 9, 2025
i swear to god everyone’s getting paid to rate this so highly. the writing was poor, the twists were guessable in the first 20 pages. at less than 300 pages this was still too long.
April 25, 2025
PHENOMENAL!!! Thank you NetGalley and Flatiron Books for granting me access to this book in exchange for an honest review.
MIND BLOWING!! INCREDIBLE!! ADDICTIVE!! Kate Alice Marshall delivers once again!! "A Killing Cold" is an utterly gripping, chilling, and atmospheric psychological thriller that I could NOT put down! It had me on the edge of my seat, constantly wondering who I could trust. Just when I thought I had it figured out, another crazy whirlwind twist hit me.
This book is packed with everything I love in a thriller! From dark family secrets, dangerous and deadly lies, a dysfunctional wealth family, no cell phone service, a secluded, wintery mountain retreat, threatening messages, suppressed memories and a shocking reveal!! OH MY!!😮
The tension builds page by page until you're holding your breath. I devoured this in one sitting! I just wanted to scream to get out!! Easily one of the most suspenseful, bingeable reads I've picked up in a long time. I wholeheartedly recommend this unputdownable, stunning masterpiece and it deserves all the stars!!!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
MIND BLOWING!! INCREDIBLE!! ADDICTIVE!! Kate Alice Marshall delivers once again!! "A Killing Cold" is an utterly gripping, chilling, and atmospheric psychological thriller that I could NOT put down! It had me on the edge of my seat, constantly wondering who I could trust. Just when I thought I had it figured out, another crazy whirlwind twist hit me.
This book is packed with everything I love in a thriller! From dark family secrets, dangerous and deadly lies, a dysfunctional wealth family, no cell phone service, a secluded, wintery mountain retreat, threatening messages, suppressed memories and a shocking reveal!! OH MY!!😮
The tension builds page by page until you're holding your breath. I devoured this in one sitting! I just wanted to scream to get out!! Easily one of the most suspenseful, bingeable reads I've picked up in a long time. I wholeheartedly recommend this unputdownable, stunning masterpiece and it deserves all the stars!!!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 12, 2025
Never trust a family with a dark history. A couple falls in love quickly and he brings her home to his family. His wealthy family. Who don't approve. But why? Every single one of his relatives has a reason to hide something, and as the secrets unfold, it's clearly an exaggeration of reality but oh so enticing to discover the true nefarious ones from the purely just selfish ones. I always enjoy these types of settings and this one didn't let down. I knew the culprit was not the first one identified, but why was always the big question. Good writing. Must love intense plots with a few headshaking moments. Will keep reading the author's work.
January 9, 2025
1.5 stars...didn't like it, but felt I had to know what happened, so I finished it. The ending was so dumb. Like, let's try to trick people by changing the villian 3 times in the last few pages. UGH. So ridiculous. Now I couldn't even tell you who truly did what. I'm just so irritated that I wasted 2 days of my time on this nonsense. I love thrillers with huge twists...who doesn't? But changing who the culprit is several times in the last few pages just for an attempt at a twist is stupid. UGH again.
January 25, 2025
Whirlwind Romance Meets Dark Family Secrets
Theo and Connor’s romance starts like a fairy tale—love at first sight. But don’t expect a heartwarming happily-ever-after. Connor, an influential family's wealthy and charismatic member, sweeps Theo off her feet in just six whirlwind months. Yet when he whisks her away to his family’s secluded winter estate for their approval, the dream quickly descends into something sinister.
Theo is met not with open arms but with warnings, threatening messages, and strange occurrences that scream danger. This is no ordinary family—they’re hiding something dark and twisted, buried deep in the icy retreat.
Suspense and Dizzying Twists
The more Theo digs, the more familiar—and dangerous—things feel. Memories of her past resurface, adding another layer of dread to the already suffocating atmosphere.
Yes, it’s twisty—maybe even a bit too twisty at times. Just when I thought I cracked the case, another twist hits, and the cycle keeps going, twist after twist. Normally, that kind of relentless plotting might wear on me, but I couldn’t stop turning the pages (or, in my case, pressing play). It’s the kind of story where you side-eye every character because everyone’s guilty or hiding something.
Atmosphere That Chills You to the Bone
The isolated family compound, surrounded by a harsh winter landscape, is the perfect setting for this thriller.
A Few Challenges but Still Hooked
I listened to the audiobook, and I’ll admit, the dizzying twists and multiple characters sometimes made it tough to follow. I had to hit pause more than once to regroup. But even with that, I couldn’t stop coming back for more.
Twists, secrets, and a Wintry Chill
A Killing Cold is a snowstorm of suspense, secrets, and danger. The tension builds like ice creeping over a window, and just when you think you’ve cracked it, another twist shatters your theories. The characters are like icebergs, with so much hidden beneath the surface, and the twists come fast enough to leave you spinning.
If you’re in the mood for a thriller with chilling secrets, buried memories, and a wintry setting that will make you shiver, this one’s for you. Just be ready to buckle up for the ride—you’re in for a dizzying one!
A Witches Words Buddy read with Mary Beth!
I received an audiobook from the publisher through NetGalley
Theo and Connor’s romance starts like a fairy tale—love at first sight. But don’t expect a heartwarming happily-ever-after. Connor, an influential family's wealthy and charismatic member, sweeps Theo off her feet in just six whirlwind months. Yet when he whisks her away to his family’s secluded winter estate for their approval, the dream quickly descends into something sinister.
Theo is met not with open arms but with warnings, threatening messages, and strange occurrences that scream danger. This is no ordinary family—they’re hiding something dark and twisted, buried deep in the icy retreat.
Suspense and Dizzying Twists
The more Theo digs, the more familiar—and dangerous—things feel. Memories of her past resurface, adding another layer of dread to the already suffocating atmosphere.
Yes, it’s twisty—maybe even a bit too twisty at times. Just when I thought I cracked the case, another twist hits, and the cycle keeps going, twist after twist. Normally, that kind of relentless plotting might wear on me, but I couldn’t stop turning the pages (or, in my case, pressing play). It’s the kind of story where you side-eye every character because everyone’s guilty or hiding something.
Atmosphere That Chills You to the Bone
The isolated family compound, surrounded by a harsh winter landscape, is the perfect setting for this thriller.
A Few Challenges but Still Hooked
I listened to the audiobook, and I’ll admit, the dizzying twists and multiple characters sometimes made it tough to follow. I had to hit pause more than once to regroup. But even with that, I couldn’t stop coming back for more.
Twists, secrets, and a Wintry Chill
A Killing Cold is a snowstorm of suspense, secrets, and danger. The tension builds like ice creeping over a window, and just when you think you’ve cracked it, another twist shatters your theories. The characters are like icebergs, with so much hidden beneath the surface, and the twists come fast enough to leave you spinning.
If you’re in the mood for a thriller with chilling secrets, buried memories, and a wintry setting that will make you shiver, this one’s for you. Just be ready to buckle up for the ride—you’re in for a dizzying one!
A Witches Words Buddy read with Mary Beth!
I received an audiobook from the publisher through NetGalley
September 5, 2025
When a storm ❄️🌪️traps you in a house full of secrets, lies, and shady characters… buckle up! 🕵️♀️🔪
This thriller had everything: family drama 👨👩👦, betrayals 🤯, shocking twists 🔄, and a closed-door setting that cranked up the tension 😱. Nobody could be trusted, and I loved every shady moment. 👀💀
The beginning was a little slow ⏳, but once I hit about a third in, secrets started flying left and right 💥📖, lies unraveling, drama exploding, and suspense that had me glued to the pages 📚🔥. The short, snappy chapters made it a fast, bingeable read. ⚡🍿
And that ending?! 🙌👏 Bold, dramatic, and the perfect payoff. 💯 What could’ve been 3 stars turned into a rock-solid 4 ⭐ thanks to that finale. 🎉
My first Kate Alice Marshall read and definitely not my last, because I am hooked now! 😍✨ Can’t wait to dive into more of her twisty worlds. 🌌🔍
This thriller had everything: family drama 👨👩👦, betrayals 🤯, shocking twists 🔄, and a closed-door setting that cranked up the tension 😱. Nobody could be trusted, and I loved every shady moment. 👀💀
The beginning was a little slow ⏳, but once I hit about a third in, secrets started flying left and right 💥📖, lies unraveling, drama exploding, and suspense that had me glued to the pages 📚🔥. The short, snappy chapters made it a fast, bingeable read. ⚡🍿
And that ending?! 🙌👏 Bold, dramatic, and the perfect payoff. 💯 What could’ve been 3 stars turned into a rock-solid 4 ⭐ thanks to that finale. 🎉
My first Kate Alice Marshall read and definitely not my last, because I am hooked now! 😍✨ Can’t wait to dive into more of her twisty worlds. 🌌🔍
Read
December 30, 2024Why I Love It
By Rachael Burlette
I’ve always loved Kate Alice Marshall’s books. She has a knack for creating new and exciting stories in a genre that can sometimes fall into tired tropes. After I read No One Can Know, I remembered thinking, how could she possibly top this book? Then A Killing Cold landed on my desk and I devoured it immediately. For longtime fans, it should be no surprise when I say that Kate Alice Marshall has created another twisty thriller that is impossible to put down. I would even go so far as to say this is her best one yet.
Our story follows Theo and Connor, a recently engaged couple on their way to Connor’s remote family retreat for their annual winter break. Theo is head over heels for Connor, but upon arriving at Idlewood, she begins to receive threatening messages telling her to leave, and Connor’s family seems to be hiding something. For Connor’s sake, Theo tries to carry on, but after she finds a photo of herself as a child in one of the cabins, pieces of her childhood memories start to return to her. She’s been to Idlewood before…and she may be in more danger than she ever could have imagined.
If you love a little family drama mixed with a wintry locked-room setting and secrets galore, A Killing Cold is the book for you. So, what are you waiting for? Grab a blanket and something warm to drink and enjoy this chilly thriller.
By Rachael Burlette
I’ve always loved Kate Alice Marshall’s books. She has a knack for creating new and exciting stories in a genre that can sometimes fall into tired tropes. After I read No One Can Know, I remembered thinking, how could she possibly top this book? Then A Killing Cold landed on my desk and I devoured it immediately. For longtime fans, it should be no surprise when I say that Kate Alice Marshall has created another twisty thriller that is impossible to put down. I would even go so far as to say this is her best one yet.
Our story follows Theo and Connor, a recently engaged couple on their way to Connor’s remote family retreat for their annual winter break. Theo is head over heels for Connor, but upon arriving at Idlewood, she begins to receive threatening messages telling her to leave, and Connor’s family seems to be hiding something. For Connor’s sake, Theo tries to carry on, but after she finds a photo of herself as a child in one of the cabins, pieces of her childhood memories start to return to her. She’s been to Idlewood before…and she may be in more danger than she ever could have imagined.
If you love a little family drama mixed with a wintry locked-room setting and secrets galore, A Killing Cold is the book for you. So, what are you waiting for? Grab a blanket and something warm to drink and enjoy this chilly thriller.
January 10, 2025
4.5⭐️ A woman is invited to her fiancés family retreat where she realizes they are hiding a very big secret.
If you are looking for a winter thriller that’s as atmospheric as it is thrilling, look no further. Kate Alice Marshall is amazing at creating these dark and eerie settings and then following up with unique characters you won’t soon forget. I was so immersed in this story and trying to figure out exactly what this family was hiding, before I knew it, I had flown through the entire book.
🎧 Karissa Vacker does an exceptional job bringing this story to life. There were so many scenes where I felt as though I was literally in the story, and I think her narration only amplified that feeling. I highly recommend this one on audio or as an immersive read.
Read if you like:
▪️domestic suspense
▪️isolated settings
▪️family dramas
▪️twisty books
Thank you Macmillan Audio for the gifted copy.
If you are looking for a winter thriller that’s as atmospheric as it is thrilling, look no further. Kate Alice Marshall is amazing at creating these dark and eerie settings and then following up with unique characters you won’t soon forget. I was so immersed in this story and trying to figure out exactly what this family was hiding, before I knew it, I had flown through the entire book.
🎧 Karissa Vacker does an exceptional job bringing this story to life. There were so many scenes where I felt as though I was literally in the story, and I think her narration only amplified that feeling. I highly recommend this one on audio or as an immersive read.
Read if you like:
▪️domestic suspense
▪️isolated settings
▪️family dramas
▪️twisty books
Thank you Macmillan Audio for the gifted copy.
December 4, 2024
Kate Alice Marshall… this was SO GOOD! I devoured this story in two days! I was completely hooked from the beginning! Wow!
Conner and Theo (a woman) are newly engaged after a short whirlwind romance. He has asked her to come meet his family and stay a few weeks. His family, the Daltons are godly rich.
His family has a gorgeous retreat with six cabins high on an isolated mountain. Once there, Theo gets the feeling that she’s been there before many years ago. However, her visions and memories are not very good ones.
Something terrible happened and she’s about to find out what that was.
The setting was perfect! Scenes of winter were beautifully described. A perfect December read as this takes place right before Christmas. I have finally read a seasonal read and ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!
Don’t sleep on this. Add it to your TBR IMMEDIATELY!
Massive thanks to Flatiron and Kate Alice Marshall for the gifted copy and NetGalley for the arc.
— Release date February 2025
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Conner and Theo (a woman) are newly engaged after a short whirlwind romance. He has asked her to come meet his family and stay a few weeks. His family, the Daltons are godly rich.
His family has a gorgeous retreat with six cabins high on an isolated mountain. Once there, Theo gets the feeling that she’s been there before many years ago. However, her visions and memories are not very good ones.
Something terrible happened and she’s about to find out what that was.
The setting was perfect! Scenes of winter were beautifully described. A perfect December read as this takes place right before Christmas. I have finally read a seasonal read and ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!
Don’t sleep on this. Add it to your TBR IMMEDIATELY!
Massive thanks to Flatiron and Kate Alice Marshall for the gifted copy and NetGalley for the arc.
— Release date February 2025
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 21, 2025
3.5 stars
Review: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZT2Uph1QC/
If you liked… (part 4): https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZT2G9dxNe/
Review: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZT2Uph1QC/
If you liked… (part 4): https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZT2G9dxNe/
January 5, 2025
Mixed feelings about this one!!!
Pros: compelling protagonist who you’ll root for as she navigates a *very* toxic family and their secrets; strong sense of place (chilly/wintry setting, perfect for the season!); Gothic vibes; good pacing in the first half of the book.
Cons: for me personally, the second half of the book slowed way down pacing-wise and I struggled to stay invested as the book reached its conclusion. The other thing that really threw me off was how much this book reminded me of Hannah Morrissey’s book THE WIDOWMAKER - I absolutely loved that book and I couldn’t help but compare this one to it, which I realize isn’t totally fair of me but…. Just is what it is!!
All in all, I’m glad I read this one but can’t say I *loved* it.
Pros: compelling protagonist who you’ll root for as she navigates a *very* toxic family and their secrets; strong sense of place (chilly/wintry setting, perfect for the season!); Gothic vibes; good pacing in the first half of the book.
Cons: for me personally, the second half of the book slowed way down pacing-wise and I struggled to stay invested as the book reached its conclusion. The other thing that really threw me off was how much this book reminded me of Hannah Morrissey’s book THE WIDOWMAKER - I absolutely loved that book and I couldn’t help but compare this one to it, which I realize isn’t totally fair of me but…. Just is what it is!!
All in all, I’m glad I read this one but can’t say I *loved* it.
April 20, 2025
I’m just saying what if she killed all of them lol oops
June 23, 2025
“A Killing Cold” is a riveting audiobook that immerses listeners in a suspenseful mystery filled with chilling twists and intricate character dynamics. From the outset, the narrative generates a tense atmosphere, beautifully enhanced by Karissa Vacker’s skillful narration, which brings vivid descriptions and haunting soundscapes to life.
Moments of slower pacing allow deeper character exploration and ultimately enrich the listening experience. The plot is packed with unexpected turns, keeping audiences engaged as they attempt to decipher motivations and secrets. As each revelation unfolds, preconceived notions are challenged, adding layers of intrigue that heighten the overall tension.
The novel excels in developing complex characters that elicit powerful emotional responses, drawing listeners into their journeys. This nuanced character portrayal invites empathy while also prompting critical judgments of their flaws. The writing style is immersive and descriptive, creating a perfect balance of tension and emotional depth, with expertly managed pacing leading to a heart-pounding climax.
Overall, “A Killing Cold” is a masterfully crafted thriller that promises to captivate seasoned fans and newcomers to the genre, ensuring a gripping and unforgettable experience that lingers well beyond the final page.
Thank you, Macmillan Audio and NetGalley, for providing the audio in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are solely my own.
Moments of slower pacing allow deeper character exploration and ultimately enrich the listening experience. The plot is packed with unexpected turns, keeping audiences engaged as they attempt to decipher motivations and secrets. As each revelation unfolds, preconceived notions are challenged, adding layers of intrigue that heighten the overall tension.
The novel excels in developing complex characters that elicit powerful emotional responses, drawing listeners into their journeys. This nuanced character portrayal invites empathy while also prompting critical judgments of their flaws. The writing style is immersive and descriptive, creating a perfect balance of tension and emotional depth, with expertly managed pacing leading to a heart-pounding climax.
Overall, “A Killing Cold” is a masterfully crafted thriller that promises to captivate seasoned fans and newcomers to the genre, ensuring a gripping and unforgettable experience that lingers well beyond the final page.
Thank you, Macmillan Audio and NetGalley, for providing the audio in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are solely my own.
April 19, 2025
A good atmospheric thriller ride!
Theodora Scott meets Connor Dalton, sparking a belief in love at first sight. The couple quickly becomes inseparable. After six months together, Connor invites her to his wealthy family’s retreat, Idlewood. Theo is nervous about meeting his family, and she’s right to feel uneasy. Upon arriving, she finds no one making an effort to include or welcome her. To make matters worse, she receives cryptic messages warning her to stay away from Connor. Strangely, she also feels an inexplicable sense of familiarity with the place and finds herself drawn to an empty cabin called Dragonfly. Her dragonfly tattoo only deepens the mystery—what’s the connection?
I listened to the audio version of A Killing Cold, which helped me keep track of the characters across present-day scenes and flashbacks. The novel delivered several twists—some I anticipated, others caught me off guard. I also appreciated the denouement; it felt satisfying without being overly perfect.
This is my second book by Kate Alice Marshall, having enjoyed What Lies in the Woods as well. I’m eager to read more of her work.
Cliffhanger: No
4/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Macmillan Audio via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Theodora Scott meets Connor Dalton, sparking a belief in love at first sight. The couple quickly becomes inseparable. After six months together, Connor invites her to his wealthy family’s retreat, Idlewood. Theo is nervous about meeting his family, and she’s right to feel uneasy. Upon arriving, she finds no one making an effort to include or welcome her. To make matters worse, she receives cryptic messages warning her to stay away from Connor. Strangely, she also feels an inexplicable sense of familiarity with the place and finds herself drawn to an empty cabin called Dragonfly. Her dragonfly tattoo only deepens the mystery—what’s the connection?
I listened to the audio version of A Killing Cold, which helped me keep track of the characters across present-day scenes and flashbacks. The novel delivered several twists—some I anticipated, others caught me off guard. I also appreciated the denouement; it felt satisfying without being overly perfect.
This is my second book by Kate Alice Marshall, having enjoyed What Lies in the Woods as well. I’m eager to read more of her work.
Cliffhanger: No
4/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Macmillan Audio via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
July 16, 2025
“A Killing Cold”, by Kate Alice Marshall
a generous 3 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️
TW: depicts both adult and child abuse and hunting/killing of deers (with arrows!! How cruel is that?)
This was my first book by this author and I will probably forget about it very fast.
I did not find the concept that original. I felt that I had read the same book too many times.
I do love stories involving dysfunctional families and good plausible twists.
I don’t like stories that includes coincidence on base on “fate” factor, as it makes that world too small.
The setting is very atmospheric, as it takes place at an isolated mountain mansion owned by a wealthy family, where there is of course, no cell reception.
The main protagonist is a 24 years old woman, but I thought she was 17 or 18.
The characters were quite shallow and uninteresting.
The romance factor was also very shallow and unbelievable.
I didn’t find the “secrets” and twists that surprising or remarkable, but thought that the author tried too hard to impress.
I feel bad for rating this book, as it’s clearly not for me.
Anyways…
E-book (Kobo): 319 pages (default), 98k words
a generous 3 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️
TW: depicts both adult and child abuse and hunting/killing of deers (with arrows!! How cruel is that?)
This was my first book by this author and I will probably forget about it very fast.
I did not find the concept that original. I felt that I had read the same book too many times.
I do love stories involving dysfunctional families and good plausible twists.
I don’t like stories that includes coincidence on base on “fate” factor, as it makes that world too small.
The setting is very atmospheric, as it takes place at an isolated mountain mansion owned by a wealthy family, where there is of course, no cell reception.
The main protagonist is a 24 years old woman, but I thought she was 17 or 18.
The characters were quite shallow and uninteresting.
The romance factor was also very shallow and unbelievable.
I didn’t find the “secrets” and twists that surprising or remarkable, but thought that the author tried too hard to impress.
I feel bad for rating this book, as it’s clearly not for me.
Anyways…
E-book (Kobo): 319 pages (default), 98k words
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