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Remote: The Six
A serial killer is rampaging across the country, tying families to chairs--arranged in puzzling tableaus--then murdering them, without leaving a trace of evidence.
FBI Special Agent Lukas Stark has been hunting the Tableau Killer for eighteen months but is always two steps behind in a maze of dead ends. He has no understanding of why the killer stages the scenes so meticulously or chooses entire families. Burning out, Stark is forced to take on a new partner, Gilles Garnier.
Garnier, an odd loner with a vague past, claims he's a remote viewer who "sees" people, places, and events far away--remote--as if they're right in front of him. Stark knows this sort. Cons. Wannabes desperate to worm their way onto a sensational case. Stark dismisses his new partner as a fraud ... until Garnier precisely describes a new Tableau Killer crime scene from hundreds of miles away.
As Stark and Garnier track the Tableau Killer across the country, they start to believe they finally have the advantage. But Garnier's ability to remote view fails him and leaves him ill and weak. Then Stark realizes how the killer has stayed ahead of them all this time. The reason is more terrifying than either man can fathom.
They face a killer who may be unstoppable, and stand at the abyss of a conspiracy so ominous, it shakes their reality to the core.
FBI Special Agent Lukas Stark has been hunting the Tableau Killer for eighteen months but is always two steps behind in a maze of dead ends. He has no understanding of why the killer stages the scenes so meticulously or chooses entire families. Burning out, Stark is forced to take on a new partner, Gilles Garnier.
Garnier, an odd loner with a vague past, claims he's a remote viewer who "sees" people, places, and events far away--remote--as if they're right in front of him. Stark knows this sort. Cons. Wannabes desperate to worm their way onto a sensational case. Stark dismisses his new partner as a fraud ... until Garnier precisely describes a new Tableau Killer crime scene from hundreds of miles away.
As Stark and Garnier track the Tableau Killer across the country, they start to believe they finally have the advantage. But Garnier's ability to remote view fails him and leaves him ill and weak. Then Stark realizes how the killer has stayed ahead of them all this time. The reason is more terrifying than either man can fathom.
They face a killer who may be unstoppable, and stand at the abyss of a conspiracy so ominous, it shakes their reality to the core.
306 pages, Hardcover
Published April 8, 2025
22 people are currently reading
4923 people want to read
About the author
Eric Rickstad
14 books1,052 followersEric Rickstad is a New York Times and International bestselling novelist.
His latest novel, LILITH, will be published on March 19, 2024.
His previous novel, I AM NOT WHO YOU THINK I AM, was a New York Times Thriller of the Year.
He also wrote WHAT REMAINS OF HER, REAP, and The Canaan Crime Series — LIE IN WAIT, THE SILENT GIRLS, and THE NAMES OF DEAD GIRLS— which has sold more than a half million copies worldwide.
He lives in Vermont.
His latest novel, LILITH, will be published on March 19, 2024.
His previous novel, I AM NOT WHO YOU THINK I AM, was a New York Times Thriller of the Year.
He also wrote WHAT REMAINS OF HER, REAP, and The Canaan Crime Series — LIE IN WAIT, THE SILENT GIRLS, and THE NAMES OF DEAD GIRLS— which has sold more than a half million copies worldwide.
He lives in Vermont.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
May 6, 2025
Hot damn that was freaking fantastic! Dark, intense, and deeply disturbing, Remote: The Six was everything I could want in a novel. From the distinct dual POVs—including a night-stalking villain—to the massively original serial killer premise, there wasn’t a moment in this fast-paced, mind-tripping read that didn’t have me spellbound to the pages. And let me tell you, while it was a cross between police procedural and thriller (with a paranormal edge), there was a very realistic feel running throughout this brilliant stunner. So much so, in fact, that I was legitimately shocked that I didn’t wake up with honest-to-goodness bad dreams thanks to a plot that was the stuff of spine-chilling nightmares.
As for the characters, I couldn’t get over how genuine they all felt. With a FBI agent trying to track down a killer and his new partner who had, shall we say, unusual abilities, they cornered the market on being unique. And while each persona was immensely well-written, it was the plot that won me over completely. Fast and furious right out of the gate, it came at me from all sides as I raced through the pages. I mean, I quite literally couldn’t put the book down and finished it in one single sitting. I do need to warn you, however, that this book is DARK, graphic, and twisted. So if you’re even the least little bit squeamish, you might want to rethink this believable read.
All said and done, though, I couldn’t have loved this first book in a series more if I tried. I mean, even the cliffhanger ending didn’t put me off, which is highly unusual for this lover of wrapped-up conclusions. As for everything that came before the finale, I can’t express how much I loved this twisty whodunnit, which oozed with suspense, depravity, and unending dread. After all, as much as I didn’t want to be immersed in the horror at times, I was physically there 100%. I even got up at one point to check my closets and lock all of my doors. So if you’re ready for one heck of a ride, I highly recommend going into this one blind. Just be sure to turn the lights on before diving in. Rating of 5 stars.
Thank you to Eric Rickstad and Blackstone Publishing for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: April 8, 2025
Content warning: breaking and entering, murder, mention of: extreme violence (not performed on the page)
***NOTE: For all of you who just have to read the synopsis first, here it is. Just know that it was oh so much better without having peeked at it before diving in.
SYNOPSIS:
A serial killer is rampaging across the country, tying families to chairs—arranged in puzzling tableaus—then murdering them, without leaving a trace of evidence.
FBI Special Agent Lukas Stark has been hunting the Tableau Killer for eighteen months but is always two steps behind in a maze of dead ends. He has no understanding of why the killer stages the scenes so meticulously or chooses entire families. Burning out, Stark is forced to take on a new partner, Gilles Garnier.
Garnier, an odd loner with a vague past, claims he’s a remote viewer who “sees” people, places, and events far away—remote—as if they’re right in front of him. Stark knows this sort. Cons. Wannabes desperate to worm their way onto a sensational case. Stark dismisses his new partner as a fraud…until Garnier precisely describes a new Tableau Killer crime scene from hundreds of miles away.
As Stark and Garnier track the Tableau Killer across the country, they start to believe they finally have the advantage. But Garnier’s ability to remote-view fails him and leaves him ill and weak. Then Stark realizes how the killer has stayed ahead of them all this time. The reason is more terrifying than either man can fathom.
They face a killer who may be unstoppable, and stand at the abyss of a conspiracy so ominous, it shakes their reality to the core.
As for the characters, I couldn’t get over how genuine they all felt. With a FBI agent trying to track down a killer and his new partner who had, shall we say, unusual abilities, they cornered the market on being unique. And while each persona was immensely well-written, it was the plot that won me over completely. Fast and furious right out of the gate, it came at me from all sides as I raced through the pages. I mean, I quite literally couldn’t put the book down and finished it in one single sitting. I do need to warn you, however, that this book is DARK, graphic, and twisted. So if you’re even the least little bit squeamish, you might want to rethink this believable read.
All said and done, though, I couldn’t have loved this first book in a series more if I tried. I mean, even the cliffhanger ending didn’t put me off, which is highly unusual for this lover of wrapped-up conclusions. As for everything that came before the finale, I can’t express how much I loved this twisty whodunnit, which oozed with suspense, depravity, and unending dread. After all, as much as I didn’t want to be immersed in the horror at times, I was physically there 100%. I even got up at one point to check my closets and lock all of my doors. So if you’re ready for one heck of a ride, I highly recommend going into this one blind. Just be sure to turn the lights on before diving in. Rating of 5 stars.
Thank you to Eric Rickstad and Blackstone Publishing for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: April 8, 2025
Content warning: breaking and entering, murder, mention of: extreme violence (not performed on the page)
***NOTE: For all of you who just have to read the synopsis first, here it is. Just know that it was oh so much better without having peeked at it before diving in.
SYNOPSIS:
A serial killer is rampaging across the country, tying families to chairs—arranged in puzzling tableaus—then murdering them, without leaving a trace of evidence.
FBI Special Agent Lukas Stark has been hunting the Tableau Killer for eighteen months but is always two steps behind in a maze of dead ends. He has no understanding of why the killer stages the scenes so meticulously or chooses entire families. Burning out, Stark is forced to take on a new partner, Gilles Garnier.
Garnier, an odd loner with a vague past, claims he’s a remote viewer who “sees” people, places, and events far away—remote—as if they’re right in front of him. Stark knows this sort. Cons. Wannabes desperate to worm their way onto a sensational case. Stark dismisses his new partner as a fraud…until Garnier precisely describes a new Tableau Killer crime scene from hundreds of miles away.
As Stark and Garnier track the Tableau Killer across the country, they start to believe they finally have the advantage. But Garnier’s ability to remote-view fails him and leaves him ill and weak. Then Stark realizes how the killer has stayed ahead of them all this time. The reason is more terrifying than either man can fathom.
They face a killer who may be unstoppable, and stand at the abyss of a conspiracy so ominous, it shakes their reality to the core.
April 12, 2025
Thank you Eric Rickstad for sending me a copy of Remote: TheSix
Now you know that I am a fan of deeply dark and intense crime books. This booked ticked all the boxes for me. It was graphic, it was messed up, disturbing and it was unique. The start of a new series and already I am eager for the next book.
A serial killer has been terrorising families and the FBI are nowhere near finding them. Special agent Lukas Stark is in charge when the killer strikes again. He is forced to team up with Giles Garnier, a man who calls himself a viewer. He can see people and things and what they are doing now remotely. Now Lukas is skeptical and does not want this man around but he is not given a choice
That is all you need to know going in. Just trust me when I say that you are going to love this book and hen holding out for more like I am. I read the second part of this on the plane trip to Japan, it was late, it was dark and so quiet that I may have spooked myself a few times. Just sensational.
Publishing in April, the next book in June I believe.
Now you know that I am a fan of deeply dark and intense crime books. This booked ticked all the boxes for me. It was graphic, it was messed up, disturbing and it was unique. The start of a new series and already I am eager for the next book.
A serial killer has been terrorising families and the FBI are nowhere near finding them. Special agent Lukas Stark is in charge when the killer strikes again. He is forced to team up with Giles Garnier, a man who calls himself a viewer. He can see people and things and what they are doing now remotely. Now Lukas is skeptical and does not want this man around but he is not given a choice
That is all you need to know going in. Just trust me when I say that you are going to love this book and hen holding out for more like I am. I read the second part of this on the plane trip to Japan, it was late, it was dark and so quiet that I may have spooked myself a few times. Just sensational.
Publishing in April, the next book in June I believe.
July 2, 2025
I’d previously read and enjoyed a couple of novels by this author: I’m Not Who You Think I Am, which I enjoyed, and Lilith which I absolutely loved. The latter, in particular, surprised me enough to encourage me to look out for Rickstad’s future titles. I approached this one, his latest, in the assumption that it would be a crime fiction novel, but most likely with a different slant on events to many other writers in this genre. It delivered – big time!
FBI Special Agent Lucas Stark is hunting a brutal serial killer, one that ritually kills whole families. Clues are thin on the ground, and of a potential perpetrator, there is no sign. Stark is living remotely from his family and denying himself sleep as he hops between cheap motels across the country in a desperate effort to find something that might give him a chance of hunting down this animal. Then his boss brings him some help – not that Stark particularly wants it – in the form of Gilles Garnier, a trained ‘remote viewer’ who has been in a government program since childhood. This guy is not FBI trained or even FBI employed, and Stark has no belief that he’s going to prove to be of any help whatsoever. In fact, he’s sure that he’ll simply act as an irritation and might even push the investigation into more dark, unhelpful corners.
As additional cases come to light, we learn more about the nature of these killings. It’s horrific, hard to imagine, hard even to read. This isn’t simple crime fiction. It’s now moved into the realms of horror and maybe even science fiction. The relationship between Stark and Garnier remains tense and seemingly ever on the verge of boiling over into something worse. And to add to the tension there’s a sub-plot here concerning a dark episode in Stark’s past: an evil deed carried out by his father, for which he was imprisoned. Except it now seems that he might be on the verge of release.
There are elements to this story that had I realised they were to be introduced I’d have avoided the book completely. Yet, it’s so well done here that despite myself I found that I was riveted to the page, eager to understand where the story was going to take us next, and to find out who was carrying out these executions and why. It really is one of the most compelling mysteries I’ve read in a long time. I'll certainly now be seeking out more tales from Mr Rickstad's back catalogue.
My thanks to Blackstone Publishing for providing a copy of this book via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
FBI Special Agent Lucas Stark is hunting a brutal serial killer, one that ritually kills whole families. Clues are thin on the ground, and of a potential perpetrator, there is no sign. Stark is living remotely from his family and denying himself sleep as he hops between cheap motels across the country in a desperate effort to find something that might give him a chance of hunting down this animal. Then his boss brings him some help – not that Stark particularly wants it – in the form of Gilles Garnier, a trained ‘remote viewer’ who has been in a government program since childhood. This guy is not FBI trained or even FBI employed, and Stark has no belief that he’s going to prove to be of any help whatsoever. In fact, he’s sure that he’ll simply act as an irritation and might even push the investigation into more dark, unhelpful corners.
As additional cases come to light, we learn more about the nature of these killings. It’s horrific, hard to imagine, hard even to read. This isn’t simple crime fiction. It’s now moved into the realms of horror and maybe even science fiction. The relationship between Stark and Garnier remains tense and seemingly ever on the verge of boiling over into something worse. And to add to the tension there’s a sub-plot here concerning a dark episode in Stark’s past: an evil deed carried out by his father, for which he was imprisoned. Except it now seems that he might be on the verge of release.
There are elements to this story that had I realised they were to be introduced I’d have avoided the book completely. Yet, it’s so well done here that despite myself I found that I was riveted to the page, eager to understand where the story was going to take us next, and to find out who was carrying out these executions and why. It really is one of the most compelling mysteries I’ve read in a long time. I'll certainly now be seeking out more tales from Mr Rickstad's back catalogue.
My thanks to Blackstone Publishing for providing a copy of this book via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
January 20, 2025
ARC for review. To be published July 22, 2025.
3 stars.
The first in a proposed series, FBI agent Lukas Starknis chasing a serial killer who targets entire families. After multiple such killings his superior introduces him to someone he will be forced to work with, Gilles Garnier.
Garnier is a remote viewer, which means sometimes he can tune in to what another person is seeing in real time, allegedly. Stark doesn’t believe in it, but later comes around to the fact that Garnier has abilities…but so does the killer and the two share a remarkable past. Can the killer be stopped?
Well, of course, because this is a book, and it was a fairly decent crime novel with some issues (Stark is after a serial killer who, in terms of serial killers is killing constantly- why doesn’t he already have a partner plus a whole team working with him? They really put just one person on the case?) I don’t know that I’m going to read more in the series. Are you interested in remote viewing? You’ll probably like it a lot.
3 stars.
The first in a proposed series, FBI agent Lukas Starknis chasing a serial killer who targets entire families. After multiple such killings his superior introduces him to someone he will be forced to work with, Gilles Garnier.
Garnier is a remote viewer, which means sometimes he can tune in to what another person is seeing in real time, allegedly. Stark doesn’t believe in it, but later comes around to the fact that Garnier has abilities…but so does the killer and the two share a remarkable past. Can the killer be stopped?
Well, of course, because this is a book, and it was a fairly decent crime novel with some issues (Stark is after a serial killer who, in terms of serial killers is killing constantly- why doesn’t he already have a partner plus a whole team working with him? They really put just one person on the case?) I don’t know that I’m going to read more in the series. Are you interested in remote viewing? You’ll probably like it a lot.
April 16, 2025
I enjoyed this crime thriller, and it took me on a wild ride that I was not expecting. I am interested in continuing this series as the books continue to be released, as it definitely ended with a cliffhanger.
As FBI agent Stark investigates a serial killer, terrorizing the country by murdering entire families, Stark becomes increasingly frustrated with the progression of this case. He wants nothing more than to catch this guy, but when his superior suggests an unorthodox approach, he is hesitant. When Garnier shows up to assist, Stark immediately wants him to leave and never return as his investigative methods are far-fetched, a bit unbelievable, and hard to take serious. But when Garnier’s expertise shows helpful, Stark is forced to look at this case from a different set of lenses.
Format: 🎧 8 hrs 30 minutes
Perfect for: Serial Killer & crime novel fanatics
Impeccable writing style & great narration in the audiobook! An overall good read that I would recommend. Thank you Blackstone Publishing and NetGalley for this advanced listening copy. All opinions are my own.
As FBI agent Stark investigates a serial killer, terrorizing the country by murdering entire families, Stark becomes increasingly frustrated with the progression of this case. He wants nothing more than to catch this guy, but when his superior suggests an unorthodox approach, he is hesitant. When Garnier shows up to assist, Stark immediately wants him to leave and never return as his investigative methods are far-fetched, a bit unbelievable, and hard to take serious. But when Garnier’s expertise shows helpful, Stark is forced to look at this case from a different set of lenses.
Format: 🎧 8 hrs 30 minutes
Perfect for: Serial Killer & crime novel fanatics
Impeccable writing style & great narration in the audiobook! An overall good read that I would recommend. Thank you Blackstone Publishing and NetGalley for this advanced listening copy. All opinions are my own.
July 21, 2025
Ooh! This was a bit good. A serial killer thriller with a Sci fi twist that I completely inhaled.
Fast, paced. heart thudding tension, from the very first chapter that didn’t let up til the end!
Recommended if you’re on the look out for something a little bit different.
Great narration!
Huge thanks to Blackstone Publishing audio books and NetGalley for this opportunity to review this audiobook which is available now 🎧
Fast, paced. heart thudding tension, from the very first chapter that didn’t let up til the end!
Recommended if you’re on the look out for something a little bit different.
Great narration!
Huge thanks to Blackstone Publishing audio books and NetGalley for this opportunity to review this audiobook which is available now 🎧
March 5, 2025
This is a serial killer crime novel but it has a bit of a twist to it.
A sophisticated and devious serial killer is brutally murdering families and leaving behind no evidence. FBI Agent Lukas Stark forcibly partners up with Gilles Garnier after failing to catch the killer for over a year and a half. Gilles Garnier claims to have a unique ability to "remote" view. This allows him to look into the lives of people and also view places from afar. Stark is skeptical but has no choice but to work together with Garnier.
Not to say that I "enjoyed" reading about these brutal murders, but they thoroughly intrigued me. This book kept me wanting more. I wanted to learn more about the families and what they went through and why they went through it. I was incredibly immersed in this story. I listened to the audiobook and thought the narration was extremely well done. The narrator, Ari Fliakos, spoke clearly and was great at conveying the emotions in the story.
While I enjoyed the remote viewing piece of this book, it honestly wasn't my favorite part either. I thought the story was strong enough without it to the point where the remote viewing was a bit underwhelming to me. That's just me nitpicking though!
The writing was fantastic, the story was compelling, and the murders were brutal and thought-provoking.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ALC. All opinions are my own.
TW: blood, child abuse, child death, death, death of parent, drug use, gore, injury detail, murder, physical abuse, stalking, torture, violence
A sophisticated and devious serial killer is brutally murdering families and leaving behind no evidence. FBI Agent Lukas Stark forcibly partners up with Gilles Garnier after failing to catch the killer for over a year and a half. Gilles Garnier claims to have a unique ability to "remote" view. This allows him to look into the lives of people and also view places from afar. Stark is skeptical but has no choice but to work together with Garnier.
Not to say that I "enjoyed" reading about these brutal murders, but they thoroughly intrigued me. This book kept me wanting more. I wanted to learn more about the families and what they went through and why they went through it. I was incredibly immersed in this story. I listened to the audiobook and thought the narration was extremely well done. The narrator, Ari Fliakos, spoke clearly and was great at conveying the emotions in the story.
While I enjoyed the remote viewing piece of this book, it honestly wasn't my favorite part either. I thought the story was strong enough without it to the point where the remote viewing was a bit underwhelming to me. That's just me nitpicking though!
The writing was fantastic, the story was compelling, and the murders were brutal and thought-provoking.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ALC. All opinions are my own.
TW: blood, child abuse, child death, death, death of parent, drug use, gore, injury detail, murder, physical abuse, stalking, torture, violence
April 5, 2025
5 Mind-Blowing Stars!
This thrilling ride is set against the stunning backdrop of Colorado—my home state! I’ve visited many of the cities mentioned in the story, making it even more captivating. As a huge fan of psychological thrillers, especially those with mind-reading twists and elements focused on the psyche, this book freaking blew me away!
"Remote: The Six" perfectly blends intensity and intrigue; I couldn’t get enough! The narrator, a fresh voice for me, brought the characters to life with remarkable skill, creating an atmospheric and eerily irresistible experience. I can’t recommend it enough!
The story revolves around a serial killer who violently murders entire families. When the case stalls, FBI Agent Lukas Stark must take on an unconventional partner, Gilles Garnier. Garnier claims to be a remote viewer who can "see" people, places, and events from afar as if they were right before him.
This book had my heart racing with every twist and turn. I couldn’t read it fast enough! The intensity is off the charts, and the vivid writing immerses you so deeply that it might haunt your dreams!
Now, a heads-up—this book isn’t for everyone. It’s dark and deeply disturbing, not shying away from graphic and brutal details. It’s definitely not for the faint of heart, but if you can handle it, it’s an incredible ride!
This is my first experience with Eric Rickstad, and I’m thrilled that several of his other books are patiently waiting on my TBR list. His writing pulled me in and left me craving more! The next book, "Remote: The Five," is set to release in July, and I am so excited! It’s been ages since I’ve felt this jazzed about a series!
Thanks to the author and Blackstone Audio for providing this ALC via NetGalley. All opinions are my own and were left voluntarily.
This thrilling ride is set against the stunning backdrop of Colorado—my home state! I’ve visited many of the cities mentioned in the story, making it even more captivating. As a huge fan of psychological thrillers, especially those with mind-reading twists and elements focused on the psyche, this book freaking blew me away!
"Remote: The Six" perfectly blends intensity and intrigue; I couldn’t get enough! The narrator, a fresh voice for me, brought the characters to life with remarkable skill, creating an atmospheric and eerily irresistible experience. I can’t recommend it enough!
The story revolves around a serial killer who violently murders entire families. When the case stalls, FBI Agent Lukas Stark must take on an unconventional partner, Gilles Garnier. Garnier claims to be a remote viewer who can "see" people, places, and events from afar as if they were right before him.
This book had my heart racing with every twist and turn. I couldn’t read it fast enough! The intensity is off the charts, and the vivid writing immerses you so deeply that it might haunt your dreams!
Now, a heads-up—this book isn’t for everyone. It’s dark and deeply disturbing, not shying away from graphic and brutal details. It’s definitely not for the faint of heart, but if you can handle it, it’s an incredible ride!
This is my first experience with Eric Rickstad, and I’m thrilled that several of his other books are patiently waiting on my TBR list. His writing pulled me in and left me craving more! The next book, "Remote: The Five," is set to release in July, and I am so excited! It’s been ages since I’ve felt this jazzed about a series!
Thanks to the author and Blackstone Audio for providing this ALC via NetGalley. All opinions are my own and were left voluntarily.
January 7, 2025
I adored Lilith so knew I would love this one as well! FBI's Lukas Stark is working the Tableau Killer case as entire families have been discovered, tied up in chairs facing each other so they are aware they will each be killed. Now Stark is partnered with Gilles Garnier as he can "see" things "remotely" and can predict where the killer will strike again. It all goes back to The Mentors and a program involving Q, a genius at manipulating others for his own pleasure. It's creepy-good and of course leaves the door open for a sequel! Yikes!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
March 7, 2025
The story is fast paced and frightening. Stark and Garnier are flawed but likeable characters that I was rooting for. I’m excited that this is book #1 in a series and I’ll be looking forward to the next one! Ari Fliakos is excellent as the narrator on the audiobook production.
April 9, 2025
Thank you to Blackstone Audio for the ALC and to Eric Rickstad for the lovely signed ARC to review.
This was an intense, thrilling, and fantastic read! The audio is excellent, and note this one is dark, which I loved. This is the first in a series which I am very glad about, this was a fantastic plot about a serial killer aka the ‘Tableau Killer’ who has been hunted by FBI Special Agent Lukas Stark for 18 months with no luck. Then he gets a new partner who is a remote viewer, meaning he ‘sees’ people, places, events far away as if they are in front of him. Stark doesn’t buy it, but by the end of this he has no choice, and I was on the edge of my dang seat until the very end. This one was SO GOOD and you need this one now if you have not read it.
This was an intense, thrilling, and fantastic read! The audio is excellent, and note this one is dark, which I loved. This is the first in a series which I am very glad about, this was a fantastic plot about a serial killer aka the ‘Tableau Killer’ who has been hunted by FBI Special Agent Lukas Stark for 18 months with no luck. Then he gets a new partner who is a remote viewer, meaning he ‘sees’ people, places, events far away as if they are in front of him. Stark doesn’t buy it, but by the end of this he has no choice, and I was on the edge of my dang seat until the very end. This one was SO GOOD and you need this one now if you have not read it.
July 1, 2025
Holy COW, this book had me in a complete and utter vice, I tell you. It was amazing! I could not put this down. It was so original and fascinating, and I thought the characterization was fabulous. The cliffhanger has me waiting for November with bated breath. I can’t wait to see what happens next!
January 17, 2025
Pretty good start to another series from Rickstad about the search for a serial killer who is targeting families for an unknown reason. Our lead FBI agent Stark is paired with a mystery man with possible connections to the killer, and who can "remote track", to hunt him down. Nothing particularly original here but it's well done and keeps you interested. The ending obviously sets up the next chapter with Stark and his new partner Garnier searching for more killers. Not the best I've read from Rickstad but good enough to keep me reading the series. Thanks to Netgally for the free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 22, 2025
I really loved the way this one started. Rickstad has a knack for really gruesome storytelling, with vivid imagery that does not leave you anytime soon. Unfortunately about a third of the way in I started to dislike the characters so strongly that I struggled to continue. I liked the concept, and found the remote viewing angle unusual and interesting. Government conspiracies are, of course, nothing new and that element did not bother me either - but I really struggled to connect with both protagonists, and without some element of character connectivity, I found myself less invested in the ultimate outcome than I thought I would be given the way this one started.
I did not at all like the way Stark treated his family. I found Garnier grating. In a book where everyone seems to have ulterior motives - none of which are good - I even found the characters I was supposed to empathize with unsympathetic and it made a difficult read even more so. This was not my favorite of Rickstad's works and I do not think I will continue with the series. His writing and storytelling are every bit as compelling as always. There's nothing wrong with this one, it's just not for me.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my obligation-free review copy.
I did not at all like the way Stark treated his family. I found Garnier grating. In a book where everyone seems to have ulterior motives - none of which are good - I even found the characters I was supposed to empathize with unsympathetic and it made a difficult read even more so. This was not my favorite of Rickstad's works and I do not think I will continue with the series. His writing and storytelling are every bit as compelling as always. There's nothing wrong with this one, it's just not for me.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my obligation-free review copy.
March 19, 2025
4.5⭐️ rounded up -- publishing April 8th, 2025
A serial killer is tying families to chairs to face each other, then murdering them - some of the most sadistic scenes Stark has seen. FBI Special Agent Lukas Stark has been hunting the Tableau Killer for eighteen months but is always two steps behind. In his latest case, there is a single child unaccounted for -- it's a race against the clock to find him. But he can't do it alone. He has no understanding of why the killer stages the scenes so meticulously or chooses entire families.
In walks Gilles Garnier, (what I pictured to be a goth type) loner -- he claims he’s a "remote viewer" who “sees” people, places, and events far away as if they’re right in front of him. Herein lies a government conspiracy so ominous, it shakes their reality to the core.
Thoughts: I LOVED this strange, wild case! I have never read anything like it before! I was gifted the audio and the narrator was meticulous with his voice changes to reflect the characters as best he could -- totally giving the creep vibes at times.
I love NetGalley because it introduces me to authors I've never heard of before -- this guy has quite the backlog and I've already begun following him on Instagram and have added two more to my TBR. This book was written as a whole and was likely divided in pieces from his publishers to create a series - as the last line of this one, starts the next book, set to release this summer (Remote: The Five). I cannot wait to continue the ride! Thanks to the publisher for the chance to read early and review.
A serial killer is tying families to chairs to face each other, then murdering them - some of the most sadistic scenes Stark has seen. FBI Special Agent Lukas Stark has been hunting the Tableau Killer for eighteen months but is always two steps behind. In his latest case, there is a single child unaccounted for -- it's a race against the clock to find him. But he can't do it alone. He has no understanding of why the killer stages the scenes so meticulously or chooses entire families.
In walks Gilles Garnier, (what I pictured to be a goth type) loner -- he claims he’s a "remote viewer" who “sees” people, places, and events far away as if they’re right in front of him. Herein lies a government conspiracy so ominous, it shakes their reality to the core.
Thoughts: I LOVED this strange, wild case! I have never read anything like it before! I was gifted the audio and the narrator was meticulous with his voice changes to reflect the characters as best he could -- totally giving the creep vibes at times.
I love NetGalley because it introduces me to authors I've never heard of before -- this guy has quite the backlog and I've already begun following him on Instagram and have added two more to my TBR. This book was written as a whole and was likely divided in pieces from his publishers to create a series - as the last line of this one, starts the next book, set to release this summer (Remote: The Five). I cannot wait to continue the ride! Thanks to the publisher for the chance to read early and review.
April 19, 2025
I'm with Stark, the "remote viewing" had me rolling my eyes... didn't need it, kinda ruined it.
March 10, 2025
I was LUCKY to get an ARC of this book; my very 1st one! So I'm excited to leave one of the 1st reviews. 😊
This book has an interesting plot. It encompasses the FBI, clandestine programs, serial killers, and special abilities to see through the eyes of others. I was really guessing on the ending throughout the whole book and how the bigger picture would end. I feel like there were some details that didn't come to fruition, but it also paves the way for a sequel, so maybe those will be tied up in the next book. If you're a fan of crime/pyschological thrillers, this is definitely a good read.
This book has an interesting plot. It encompasses the FBI, clandestine programs, serial killers, and special abilities to see through the eyes of others. I was really guessing on the ending throughout the whole book and how the bigger picture would end. I feel like there were some details that didn't come to fruition, but it also paves the way for a sequel, so maybe those will be tied up in the next book. If you're a fan of crime/pyschological thrillers, this is definitely a good read.
July 28, 2025
This is such a unique story. I was sucked in throughout. It’s fast paced. I really enjoyed this duo investigating together. They start out as a sort of enemies to friends/respect type thing. This is definitely a police procedural but it’s a bit sci fi too which added an extra layer. If you like Stranger Things, it gave me a little tiny bit of that vibe with Eleven and the experiments and stuff.
I’m excited for the next book. Definitely want to see what happens next.
I’m excited for the next book. Definitely want to see what happens next.
April 8, 2025
Suspenseful, addictive, and twisty!
In this absorbing first instalment in the Remote series, The Six, Rickstad has written a sharp, sinister thrill ride featuring the consumed, relentless FBI Special Agent Lukas Stark and his new strangely talented partner Gilles Garnier as they join forces to hunt a cold, calculating serial killer who has a penchant for reenacting the same heinous crime over and over and somehow always seems to be one step ahead.
The writing is taut and intense. The characters are meticulous, persistent, and tormented. And the plot is an engrossing, eerie whodunit full of twists, turns, obsession, depravity, violence, and murder, all interwoven with a dab of the supernatural.
Overall, Remote: The Six is a fast-paced, tortuous, disturbing tale by Rickstad that not only leaves you eager for me but also spending a little time contemplating the idea of remote viewing and the potentially horrific consequences and evil it could lead to.
In this absorbing first instalment in the Remote series, The Six, Rickstad has written a sharp, sinister thrill ride featuring the consumed, relentless FBI Special Agent Lukas Stark and his new strangely talented partner Gilles Garnier as they join forces to hunt a cold, calculating serial killer who has a penchant for reenacting the same heinous crime over and over and somehow always seems to be one step ahead.
The writing is taut and intense. The characters are meticulous, persistent, and tormented. And the plot is an engrossing, eerie whodunit full of twists, turns, obsession, depravity, violence, and murder, all interwoven with a dab of the supernatural.
Overall, Remote: The Six is a fast-paced, tortuous, disturbing tale by Rickstad that not only leaves you eager for me but also spending a little time contemplating the idea of remote viewing and the potentially horrific consequences and evil it could lead to.
July 18, 2025
3.5 stars
The Six by Eric Rickstad is the first in a new crime series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Blackstone Publishing, and the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed this book, and look forward to more in the series. Yes, I had some issues with it, which we'll get to shortly, but overall, this should prove interesting. I liked the remote-viewing angle to this crime series.
The overall plot was interesting, and I liked the premise. The writing was really good. Be warned that there is gore, but that doesn't bother me, so I'm good.
I really liked the characters. Garnier, in particular. Stark is a good agent, but with some of his "stunts", I can't see his marriage lasting. I also don't quite understand (unless I missed the explanation), why Stark did not already have a partner? So his stunts, and his lack of a partner are a bit problematic for me.
The other thing I found annoying was the ending. I did NOT like the ending. I hate when authors leave a book with a cliff-hanger. Do they not think their book is good enough? That people will not buy the next in the series? I don't get it.
Anyway, I, for one, will be looking for the next in the series!
For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
January 11, 2025
Eric Rickstad is an author I frequently recommend. I Am Not Who You Think I Am and What Remains of Her are absolutely brilliant mysteries. Remote: The Six is a different style than those two. It's more sci-fi with characters capable of remote viewing. Unfortunately, this one wasn't my favorite. The murders are gruesome and heartbreaking and the hunt for the serial killer is interesting, but I didn't like the characters. Stark's behavior annoyed me, and I hated the way he treated his family. I felt bad for Garnier, but he was always sick and in pain and whining about it. I mean, I would too, but it doesn't make for a fun read. The climax of the book was exciting, and I enjoyed the reveals afterwards. It does end abruptly but it sets up the next book nicely. I'm not sure if I will continue the series or not. I would like to know what happens next, but the characters would have to be less obnoxious next time.
Thank you NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for the ARC.
Thank you NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for the ARC.
April 13, 2025
Thank you to Blackstone Publishing and Eric Rickstad for the ARC!
"You want me to find a man who doesn't exist, and hand him over to a program that doesn't exist…”
“Remote the Six” was a wild nonstop race against time. The opening pages had me on the edge of my seat trying to figure how this story was going to play out. That level of tension didn’t let up at all; if anything, it amplified as the story went on. Told from dual points of view, each viewpoint only added to the thrill. The frustration of our MMC, Special Agent Lukas, was relatable as he tried to stop a serial killer. And then he is paired up with a new partner, Giles Garnier, who has a special ability to remotely “see” people. Lukas’s doubt was understandable until Garnier describes a crime scene he’s never seen from across the country. I really enjoyed Lukas and Garnier’s partnership, how they worked together even though they didn’t always understand each other. Then there was the mystery of who was Q, really? How were they going to stop him?
The secrets Garnier revealed introduced Lukas to a whole new, unbelievable world. It gave the story a bit of a sci-fi feel, similar to the writing style of Blake Crouch. In some ways it gave me “Stranger Things” vibes too. All in all, this was a fantastic blending of mystery, sci-fi and heart.
Finally, this story ended on such a cliffhanger! I am happy to know this is the start of a series because I need to know where the story is going from here!
“Remote the Six” is out now. This review will be shared to my Instagram blog (@books_by_the_bottle) shortly :)
"You want me to find a man who doesn't exist, and hand him over to a program that doesn't exist…”
“Remote the Six” was a wild nonstop race against time. The opening pages had me on the edge of my seat trying to figure how this story was going to play out. That level of tension didn’t let up at all; if anything, it amplified as the story went on. Told from dual points of view, each viewpoint only added to the thrill. The frustration of our MMC, Special Agent Lukas, was relatable as he tried to stop a serial killer. And then he is paired up with a new partner, Giles Garnier, who has a special ability to remotely “see” people. Lukas’s doubt was understandable until Garnier describes a crime scene he’s never seen from across the country. I really enjoyed Lukas and Garnier’s partnership, how they worked together even though they didn’t always understand each other. Then there was the mystery of who was Q, really? How were they going to stop him?
The secrets Garnier revealed introduced Lukas to a whole new, unbelievable world. It gave the story a bit of a sci-fi feel, similar to the writing style of Blake Crouch. In some ways it gave me “Stranger Things” vibes too. All in all, this was a fantastic blending of mystery, sci-fi and heart.
Finally, this story ended on such a cliffhanger! I am happy to know this is the start of a series because I need to know where the story is going from here!
“Remote the Six” is out now. This review will be shared to my Instagram blog (@books_by_the_bottle) shortly :)
September 15, 2025
I feel like this book should also have been listed in the speculative category or something. When things started to happen, I was caught off guard and double checked the categories to make sure that I hadn’t missed something. I won’t spoil it here since it’s not really spelled out initially, but it was something that caught me off guard.
In all, I thought that the writing was well done, the scenes were maybe a little too gruesome, and the storyline was somewhat unbelievable with the distance the perpetrator was supposed to have covered. But, the story did hold my attention.
At times some of the descriptions of one of the characters and his exhaustion became tedious to me, but I did enjoy the wrap up on this one.
I will say I’m getting tired of the storyline that always involves some type of law-enforcement officer, whose wife is disgruntled with them for their job. For once I’d love to see a supportive wife in this type of situation, but I think that would’ve made this a different book.
In all, it wasn’t my favorite book, but I definitely wanted to get to the end to see what happened so I did like aspects of it! The narrator did a great job.
I would recommend this to those who don’t mind a slightly more gruesome approach to a serial killer story and are open to alternative approaches to solving crime in their crime stories.
Note: strong language.
Meeting: 3.3*
—-
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this advanced listening copy. All opinions are my own.
In all, I thought that the writing was well done, the scenes were maybe a little too gruesome, and the storyline was somewhat unbelievable with the distance the perpetrator was supposed to have covered. But, the story did hold my attention.
At times some of the descriptions of one of the characters and his exhaustion became tedious to me, but I did enjoy the wrap up on this one.
I will say I’m getting tired of the storyline that always involves some type of law-enforcement officer, whose wife is disgruntled with them for their job. For once I’d love to see a supportive wife in this type of situation, but I think that would’ve made this a different book.
In all, it wasn’t my favorite book, but I definitely wanted to get to the end to see what happened so I did like aspects of it! The narrator did a great job.
I would recommend this to those who don’t mind a slightly more gruesome approach to a serial killer story and are open to alternative approaches to solving crime in their crime stories.
Note: strong language.
Meeting: 3.3*
—-
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this advanced listening copy. All opinions are my own.
April 12, 2025
I really enjoyed the writing and the fast pace of this book. The serial killer angle was interesting and unique, as was the addition of "remote viewing." I really liked the mystery of why the killer was doing what he was. It kept me reading.
However, I had trouble connecting to any of the characters. I thought Stark was annoying and his behavior inexcusable. He sets up hidden cameras in his house to watch his wife and son, without their consent, just so he can feel better because he's never home. He is so mean and rude to Garnier, even when the guy gets results. It also made no sense to me that he would be the only officer searching for a killer who is killing multiple whole families. I also saw no reason for why Q would go after his family. Garnier was portrayed as pathetic and ill the entire story. He admits in the beginning that he is the worst of the "remote viewers," yet he is just starting to deteriorate, whereas Q apparently has deteriorated so much that he is experimenting with how to get his remote viewing back. But, Q is able to remote view a million times more and better than Garnier. It just made no sense to me.
Another issue I had was this eARC had no formatting. Usually that doesn't bother me, but in this book, it was so difficult to keep track of who was saying what.
I have mixed feelings about the ending. I liked that there was more to the story, mainly because I still had a lot of questions, but I didn't like how it didn't feel like a completed book. You have to read more of the series if you want to understand. I prefer individual books to come to a complete close, even if they are part of a series, and not to end with a continuation.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
However, I had trouble connecting to any of the characters. I thought Stark was annoying and his behavior inexcusable. He sets up hidden cameras in his house to watch his wife and son, without their consent, just so he can feel better because he's never home. He is so mean and rude to Garnier, even when the guy gets results. It also made no sense to me that he would be the only officer searching for a killer who is killing multiple whole families. I also saw no reason for why Q would go after his family. Garnier was portrayed as pathetic and ill the entire story. He admits in the beginning that he is the worst of the "remote viewers," yet he is just starting to deteriorate, whereas Q apparently has deteriorated so much that he is experimenting with how to get his remote viewing back. But, Q is able to remote view a million times more and better than Garnier. It just made no sense to me.
Another issue I had was this eARC had no formatting. Usually that doesn't bother me, but in this book, it was so difficult to keep track of who was saying what.
I have mixed feelings about the ending. I liked that there was more to the story, mainly because I still had a lot of questions, but I didn't like how it didn't feel like a completed book. You have to read more of the series if you want to understand. I prefer individual books to come to a complete close, even if they are part of a series, and not to end with a continuation.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2025
Remote The Six by Eric Rickstad. Thanks to the author for the gifted signed Arc ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
FBI agent Stark has been assigned the Tableau Killer serial killer case where families are tied to chairs in puzzling tableaus and murdered. He’s partnered with an odd loner with a past claiming to be a remote viewer who “sees” remote events as they are close.
This was a unique serial killer story, different from others I’ve read (and I’ve read many). The back history was very interesting as some is based on true American history that you can look up and learn more about. It was very fast paced and flew by. This will be the first in a series and I’m interested in reading the next.
“What was worse? Parents hearing their children tormented and taken from them, or children hearing their parents beg for their children to be spared?”
Remote The Six comes out 4/8.
FBI agent Stark has been assigned the Tableau Killer serial killer case where families are tied to chairs in puzzling tableaus and murdered. He’s partnered with an odd loner with a past claiming to be a remote viewer who “sees” remote events as they are close.
This was a unique serial killer story, different from others I’ve read (and I’ve read many). The back history was very interesting as some is based on true American history that you can look up and learn more about. It was very fast paced and flew by. This will be the first in a series and I’m interested in reading the next.
“What was worse? Parents hearing their children tormented and taken from them, or children hearing their parents beg for their children to be spared?”
Remote The Six comes out 4/8.
May 2, 2025
A disturbing, fast-moving thriller that exposes a secret human experiment that forged and exploited telepathic abilities in children, who, as adults, have not adjusted well to society. One such person is working with the FBI to capture another member of the experiment who is on a family killing spree and must be stopped.
The characters were somewhat annoying, with much unhelpful hostility that only adds to the tension of the book. It was like an episode of Criminal Minds, where the bad guy is eyeing the agent's family, and I kept thinking of the Hotchner and Foyet plotline from the TV series.
It's violent, tense, plot-driven, conspiracy adjacent, full of paranoia and dread. I was invested and wanted to finish the book as fast as possible to get to the solution, but I'm not entirely sure I'd read more in what will obviously be a series.
The characters were somewhat annoying, with much unhelpful hostility that only adds to the tension of the book. It was like an episode of Criminal Minds, where the bad guy is eyeing the agent's family, and I kept thinking of the Hotchner and Foyet plotline from the TV series.
It's violent, tense, plot-driven, conspiracy adjacent, full of paranoia and dread. I was invested and wanted to finish the book as fast as possible to get to the solution, but I'm not entirely sure I'd read more in what will obviously be a series.
March 8, 2025
Oh Jesus jehoshaphat jiminy crickets what the heck was that ending. I AM MAD. What happens next?! YOU CAN DO ME LIKE THIS, ERIC! Go to your room and think about what you've done. My lanta.
Anyways, hey guys, this was a pretty good book. Freaky deaky donuts special government program, police procedural-ish stuff, using a guy that can 'see things' to help sold a string if murders, just stuff you'd experience on a casual Tuesday, right? Oh, the fbi agent is also a tad unstable, and uhh, yeah, his father? Baddy, mcbad baddddd. Just a whole lot of crazy going on, and I was here for it.
Anyways, hey guys, this was a pretty good book. Freaky deaky donuts special government program, police procedural-ish stuff, using a guy that can 'see things' to help sold a string if murders, just stuff you'd experience on a casual Tuesday, right? Oh, the fbi agent is also a tad unstable, and uhh, yeah, his father? Baddy, mcbad baddddd. Just a whole lot of crazy going on, and I was here for it.
May 4, 2025
This one was wild! Families tied up in creepy tableaus, zero evidence left behind, and a killer always two steps ahead?? I was hooked. Stark and Garnier are such an unexpected duo—one’s all logic, the other “sees” things from miles away (yep, remote viewing gets real weird real fast). It gave mystery, suspense, and that cliffhanger?? I screamed. I need book 2 right now.
April 9, 2025
This is definitely a welcoming, different kind of thriller!!! so twisted and dark I love it! I cannot wait for book 2!!
February 19, 2025
Thank you, Blackstone Publishing, for the advanced copy!
I need the second one, but the first isn’t even officially released yet 🥲
This sucks you in from the first 10 pages and doesn’t let you go the entire time.
TW : death/murder of children
I need the second one, but the first isn’t even officially released yet 🥲
This sucks you in from the first 10 pages and doesn’t let you go the entire time.
TW : death/murder of children
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