What do you think?
Rate this book
Colby Agency: The Next Generation #3
Memory Of Murder
Was her mother guilty?
A daughter needs to know.
Born to a jailed mother convicted of murdering her husband, Anne Griffin has tried to put her past behind her. The two were always painfully estranged. But when ace Colby investigator Jack Brenner arrives at Anne’s door with new evidence, she decides to help him reexamine the thirty-year-old cold case. One clue is the journal her now-deceased mother kept, vehemently claiming her innocence. But as Anne and Jack come closer to the truth—and each other—danger follows them. Someone wants a secret to stay buried.
From Harlequin Seek thrills. Solve crimes. Justice served.
Discover more action-packed stories in the Colby The Next Generation series. All books are stand-alone with uplifting endings but were published in the following
Book 1: A Colby Christmas Rescue
Book 2: Alibi for Murder
Book 3: Memory of Murder
Book 4: Witness to Murder
A daughter needs to know.
Born to a jailed mother convicted of murdering her husband, Anne Griffin has tried to put her past behind her. The two were always painfully estranged. But when ace Colby investigator Jack Brenner arrives at Anne’s door with new evidence, she decides to help him reexamine the thirty-year-old cold case. One clue is the journal her now-deceased mother kept, vehemently claiming her innocence. But as Anne and Jack come closer to the truth—and each other—danger follows them. Someone wants a secret to stay buried.
From Harlequin Seek thrills. Solve crimes. Justice served.
Discover more action-packed stories in the Colby The Next Generation series. All books are stand-alone with uplifting endings but were published in the following
Book 1: A Colby Christmas Rescue
Book 2: Alibi for Murder
Book 3: Memory of Murder
Book 4: Witness to Murder
221 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 30, 2025
About the author
Debra Webb
577 books2,546 followersDEBRA WEBB is the USA Today bestselling author of more than 180 novels, including reader favorites the Finley O'Sullivan and Devlin & Falco series. She is the recipient of the prestigious Romantic Times Career Achievement Award for Romantic Suspense as well as numerous Reviewers Choice Awards. In 2012 Debra was honored as the first recipient of the esteemed L. A. Banks Warrior Woman Award for her courage, strength, and grace in the face of adversity. Recently Debra was awarded the distinguished Centennial Award for having achieved publication of her 100th novel.
With more than ten million books in print in numerous languages and countries, Debra’s love of storytelling goes back to her childhood when her mother bought her an old typewriter in a tag sale. Born in Alabama, Debra grew up on a farm. She spent every available hour exploring the world around her and creating her stories. She wrote her first story at age nine and her first romance at thirteen. It wasn’t until she spent three years working for the Commanding General of the US Army in Berlin behind the Iron Curtain and a five-year stint in NASA’s Shuttle Program that she realized her true calling. A collision course between suspense and romance was set. Since then she has expanded her work into some of the darkest places the human psyche dares to go. Visit Debra at www.debrawebb.com.
With more than ten million books in print in numerous languages and countries, Debra’s love of storytelling goes back to her childhood when her mother bought her an old typewriter in a tag sale. Born in Alabama, Debra grew up on a farm. She spent every available hour exploring the world around her and creating her stories. She wrote her first story at age nine and her first romance at thirteen. It wasn’t until she spent three years working for the Commanding General of the US Army in Berlin behind the Iron Curtain and a five-year stint in NASA’s Shuttle Program that she realized her true calling. A collision course between suspense and romance was set. Since then she has expanded her work into some of the darkest places the human psyche dares to go. Visit Debra at www.debrawebb.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
October 4, 2025
This was a great murder mystery whodunnit. If you like reading murder mysteries you will enjoy this book. The story is immersive and it keeps you wondering who the actual killer is. I was surprised that my random guess was correct. I like how the author had the main character go through so many different stages of grief to end up looking forward to the future, which you don’t think will happen. It is an enjoyable read.
August 18, 2025
definitely unexpected. This book is a journey for justice.
Anne has never met her bio mom, even though she tried. Her bio father was murdered before she was born. She was thrust into the system and shuffled around from one foster home to another, no one showed her love. She learned not to trust but made something of herself anyway.
Jack is in a good place in life, he has a dream job and things going well. He is passionate about his work and won't stop until he finds the truth.
He and Anne dive into this journey for truth, they will face challenges and hopefully find the truth safely. You will not be able to stop reading.
Anne has never met her bio mom, even though she tried. Her bio father was murdered before she was born. She was thrust into the system and shuffled around from one foster home to another, no one showed her love. She learned not to trust but made something of herself anyway.
Jack is in a good place in life, he has a dream job and things going well. He is passionate about his work and won't stop until he finds the truth.
He and Anne dive into this journey for truth, they will face challenges and hopefully find the truth safely. You will not be able to stop reading.
September 24, 2025
Colby Agency investigator Jack Brenner is on the case, enlisting the help of Anne Griffin, a young woman whose mother was convicted of killing her father. Anne had no idea that her mother might be innocent until Jack showed up with a journal that enlightened her about a lot of things that happened in her mom’s life. Jack and Anne travel to the small town of Crystal Lake, where the crime occurred, to investigate her father’s death and discover the truth about what happened to him, even it it meant that Anne’s mother Mary Morton was actually guilty. There, they stir up a hornet’s nest of lies and secrets that lead to their being in constant danger from an unknown source. With their lives on the line and Mary’s innocence at stake, they continue to pursue the truth wherever it may lead them. I loved the intense drama and the way the mom’s journal was part of the story, giving insight to her life before and after her imprisonment. Many of the characters were not likable since they were suspects in a murder that may have led to an innocent young teacher being jailed for the rest of her life, but all of the characters were dynamic and interesting, adding depth to an absorbing story. As I read, I was totally invested in the story, which read much like a true crime tale from the “Innocence Project.” There were plenty of red herrings to keep me guessing and I was shocked at the big reveal at the end. I loved that I did not figure out what was really going on! This is a fast-paced and compelling story that is brilliantly plotted by an author who knows how to build suspense. Fans of the author and of riveting suspense don’t want to miss this one!
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of the book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of the book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
September 24, 2025
If you are looking for a quick, easy read, this book is a good one. I recommend the audiobook Megan Tusing brings it to life. This book has suspense and romance. It's well written and keeps you enthralled from the first page. A must-read if mystery and thrillers are your genre.
Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Audio, and Debra Webb for the opportunity to to this book.
Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Audio, and Debra Webb for the opportunity to to this book.
September 26, 2025
This book starts with a box full of personal items from a prisoner that has recently dies. Mary always maintained that she didn’t kill her boyfriend. Her daughter, Anne, who never met her bio mom is not interested in finding out anything about whether she was guilty or not until Jack from the Colby Agency knocks on her door and convinces her that she needs to help him to find out if Mary was really guilty or not. The hunt for the guilty person and following the clues is very exciting and keeps you wanting to know what is going to happen next.
The ending was a bit abrupt but still a good book just the same.
I want to thank NetGalley, author Debra Webb, and publisher, Harlequinn Intrigue for an advanced copy of this audio book in exchange for my honest review.
The ending was a bit abrupt but still a good book just the same.
I want to thank NetGalley, author Debra Webb, and publisher, Harlequinn Intrigue for an advanced copy of this audio book in exchange for my honest review.
September 1, 2025
That ending was certainly shocking! I am really enjoying this series. I found it sad that Anne’s parents had both died before she got to know them. It was also sad that Ann was born while her mother was in prison. I thought the plot was so interesting. This was a very good read!
September 16, 2025
This is book 3 in the Colby Agency: The Next Generation series, but you don’t have to read the others first—it works fine as a standalone. In this one, we get to see more of investigator Jack as he helps Ann dig into her past and find out the truth about her parents. The big question is whether her mom really killed her dad.
I really enjoyed this book! To me, it felt more mystery-driven than the first two, which I liked. And the ending definitely surprised me—I wasn’t expecting it to go the way it did.
I really enjoyed this book! To me, it felt more mystery-driven than the first two, which I liked. And the ending definitely surprised me—I wasn’t expecting it to go the way it did.
September 6, 2025
Title: Memory of Murder
Series: Colby The Next Generation series. Book #3
Author: Debra Webb
Format: 🎧
Narrator: Megan Tusing
Publisher: Harlequin Audio
Genre: Mystery Thriller
Pub Date: September 30, 2025
My Rating: 4.5 Stars!
Pages: 224
Story is told from the POV of Anne Griffin- Present Day and Mary Morton via her Journal during the past thirty years..
Anne Griffin was born in jail as her mother Mary Morton was convicted of murdering Anne’s father and Mary’s husband.
Anne was moved from foster home to another then another. They just didn’t work for her. No one really wanted to raise a child of a murderer- including family members. But Anne survived on her own and wanted to keep her past behind her.
When Jack Brenner a Colby investigator arrives at Anne’s door with new evidence, Anne is still very angry and she doesn’t want to do anything about it. However, his evidence is that her mother may have been wrongly accused and sentences. This got her attention and although nervous about bring her past she decides to help him reexamine the thirty-year-old cold case. One clue is the journal her now-deceased biological mother kept, claiming her innocence.
But as Anne and Jack come closer to the truth—and each other¬¬¬¬¬—danger follows them. Someone wants a secret to stay buried.
Story is based in the Chicago suburbs an area that I am familiar with. I remember Barrington being very beautiful also a place for the rich . I did smile at the street names – ‘Plum Tree Road’ and “Rolling Hills Drive ‘as we lived on ‘Burning Tree Lane’ so this type of street name seemed to be popular in NW Cook County. Our neighborhood wasn’t where the rich settled but was perfect for a young family. We loved living there It was a new area with schools and churches nearby. I cried when told my husband had been transferred to Southern California.
Anne and Jack work well together and are both sure Anne’s mother did NOT pull the trigger that killer her father. Although they have no proof they
do have several that are suspects.
,
Aww this is my kind of a thriller plus Anne and Jack have the beginning of a sweet romance.
Debra Webb has written more than 170 novels!!! Yikes how have I only read a few? I did read [book: Alibi for Murder” which was Book #2 in this series. Although it featured the Colby Agency the lead Investigator was Steve Durham and female was Allie Foster an on-call nurse. IN other words the stories are stand alone and not based on the previous book in the series.
I definitely am ready to read more!!
Want to thank NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for granted me this great audiobook.
The Audiobook Publishing Release Date is scheduled for September 30, 2025.
Series: Colby The Next Generation series. Book #3
Author: Debra Webb
Format: 🎧
Narrator: Megan Tusing
Publisher: Harlequin Audio
Genre: Mystery Thriller
Pub Date: September 30, 2025
My Rating: 4.5 Stars!
Pages: 224
Story is told from the POV of Anne Griffin- Present Day and Mary Morton via her Journal during the past thirty years..
Anne Griffin was born in jail as her mother Mary Morton was convicted of murdering Anne’s father and Mary’s husband.
Anne was moved from foster home to another then another. They just didn’t work for her. No one really wanted to raise a child of a murderer- including family members. But Anne survived on her own and wanted to keep her past behind her.
When Jack Brenner a Colby investigator arrives at Anne’s door with new evidence, Anne is still very angry and she doesn’t want to do anything about it. However, his evidence is that her mother may have been wrongly accused and sentences. This got her attention and although nervous about bring her past she decides to help him reexamine the thirty-year-old cold case. One clue is the journal her now-deceased biological mother kept, claiming her innocence.
But as Anne and Jack come closer to the truth—and each other¬¬¬¬¬—danger follows them. Someone wants a secret to stay buried.
Story is based in the Chicago suburbs an area that I am familiar with. I remember Barrington being very beautiful also a place for the rich . I did smile at the street names – ‘Plum Tree Road’ and “Rolling Hills Drive ‘as we lived on ‘Burning Tree Lane’ so this type of street name seemed to be popular in NW Cook County. Our neighborhood wasn’t where the rich settled but was perfect for a young family. We loved living there It was a new area with schools and churches nearby. I cried when told my husband had been transferred to Southern California.
Anne and Jack work well together and are both sure Anne’s mother did NOT pull the trigger that killer her father. Although they have no proof they
do have several that are suspects.
,
Aww this is my kind of a thriller plus Anne and Jack have the beginning of a sweet romance.
Debra Webb has written more than 170 novels!!! Yikes how have I only read a few? I did read [book: Alibi for Murder” which was Book #2 in this series. Although it featured the Colby Agency the lead Investigator was Steve Durham and female was Allie Foster an on-call nurse. IN other words the stories are stand alone and not based on the previous book in the series.
I definitely am ready to read more!!
Want to thank NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for granted me this great audiobook.
The Audiobook Publishing Release Date is scheduled for September 30, 2025.
October 1, 2025
Debra Webb’s Memory of Murder is a riveting and emotionally layered suspense novel that explores not only the pursuit of justice but also the complicated ties of family and identity. At the center of the story is Anne, a woman whose life is forever marked by the shocking accusation against her biological mother—a woman charged with murder. Anne’s quest to uncover what really happened is both a hunt for the truth and a personal journey that forces her to confront her own past, her heritage, and the secrets that shaped her life.
From the very first chapters, Webb establishes a compelling balance between mystery and emotional depth. The murder itself is chilling, but what sets this novel apart is the way it connects crime to family legacy. The question isn’t just who committed the crime, but also how far Anne is willing to go to untangle the lies and secrets surrounding her mother’s past. That deeply personal stake infuses the narrative with urgency, making the suspense feel both high-stakes and intimate.
Webb’s writing is sharp, clear, and purposeful. She doesn’t weigh down the story with unnecessary detail but instead keeps the focus on what matters most: the puzzle of the crime, the impact on the characters, and the relentless forward momentum of Anne’s search for answers. This precision makes the book particularly engaging—you feel as if every chapter pulls you closer to the heart of the mystery without ever straying into filler.
Anne herself is a standout character. Strong yet vulnerable, determined yet haunted, she embodies the tension of someone who must face not only external obstacles but also the internal conflict of loving someone who might not be who she thought they were. Her investigation isn’t just about clearing—or confirming—her mother’s name; it’s about discovering her own truth and deciding whether the past will define her future. That character-driven dimension gives the book a richness that elevates it above a simple whodunit.
Thematically, Memory of Murder grapples with the weight of legacy, the bonds of blood, and the ways in which truth can both destroy and heal. Webb touches on how rumors, family history, and unspoken traumas ripple across generations, making the story as much about human relationships as it is about solving a crime. These deeper layers resonate with readers, making the book memorable long after the final page.
Paced with precision and written with emotional clarity, Memory of Murder is both a compelling thriller and a thoughtful examination of identity, family, and the pursuit of justice. Debra Webb once again proves why she is a master of romantic suspense and crime fiction, delivering a story that is taut, haunting, and impossible to put down.
From the very first chapters, Webb establishes a compelling balance between mystery and emotional depth. The murder itself is chilling, but what sets this novel apart is the way it connects crime to family legacy. The question isn’t just who committed the crime, but also how far Anne is willing to go to untangle the lies and secrets surrounding her mother’s past. That deeply personal stake infuses the narrative with urgency, making the suspense feel both high-stakes and intimate.
Webb’s writing is sharp, clear, and purposeful. She doesn’t weigh down the story with unnecessary detail but instead keeps the focus on what matters most: the puzzle of the crime, the impact on the characters, and the relentless forward momentum of Anne’s search for answers. This precision makes the book particularly engaging—you feel as if every chapter pulls you closer to the heart of the mystery without ever straying into filler.
Anne herself is a standout character. Strong yet vulnerable, determined yet haunted, she embodies the tension of someone who must face not only external obstacles but also the internal conflict of loving someone who might not be who she thought they were. Her investigation isn’t just about clearing—or confirming—her mother’s name; it’s about discovering her own truth and deciding whether the past will define her future. That character-driven dimension gives the book a richness that elevates it above a simple whodunit.
Thematically, Memory of Murder grapples with the weight of legacy, the bonds of blood, and the ways in which truth can both destroy and heal. Webb touches on how rumors, family history, and unspoken traumas ripple across generations, making the story as much about human relationships as it is about solving a crime. These deeper layers resonate with readers, making the book memorable long after the final page.
Paced with precision and written with emotional clarity, Memory of Murder is both a compelling thriller and a thoughtful examination of identity, family, and the pursuit of justice. Debra Webb once again proves why she is a master of romantic suspense and crime fiction, delivering a story that is taut, haunting, and impossible to put down.
Read
September 30, 2025Anne Griffin knows little about her biological family, except that before she was born her mother was tried and convicted of murdering her father. Anne was born while her mother was in prison, and taken away to be raised in a series of difficult foster homes. Though her mother had claimed she was innocent, time had run out and she died in prison, permanently estranged from her daughter.
Jack Brenner is a PI who is assigned to the case after the head of his agency comes into possession of compelling diaries from Anne's mother that lead them to believe the case deserves a second look.
Anne is hesitant at first, but agrees to let Jack ask some questions with her cooperation. Belief in her mother's guilt quickly turns to suspicion that her parent's group of friends seems to have a lot to hide.
Jack and Anne pursue the truth against powerful people and try to get justice for the death of one person and the false imprisonment of another.
[Listened to the audiobook narration by Megan Tusing. Very enjoyable tone, pace, and character voices. Easy listening.]
———
Harlequin Intrigue (Oct 2025)
Genre/Subgenre: Romantic Suspense, Contemporary Romance, Category Romance
Standalone/Series: series, but easily read standalone
Themes/Tropes: corruption in the criminal justice & political system, women falsely imprisoned, betrayal, grief, forgiveness
Steam/Spice Level: closed door, discussed only in flashback, very low spice
Setting: Chicago, IL & surrounding suburbs (Barrington & Crystal Lake)
BIPOC Characters: N/A
LGBTQ+ Characters: N/A
Religion: N/A
POV: third person, past tense
Cops/LEO: yes, inclusion of law enforcement and failures of the criminal justice system
__________
Thank you Harlequin Publishing for the Advanced Reader Copy. Expected pub date Sept 30, 2025
Jack Brenner is a PI who is assigned to the case after the head of his agency comes into possession of compelling diaries from Anne's mother that lead them to believe the case deserves a second look.
Anne is hesitant at first, but agrees to let Jack ask some questions with her cooperation. Belief in her mother's guilt quickly turns to suspicion that her parent's group of friends seems to have a lot to hide.
Jack and Anne pursue the truth against powerful people and try to get justice for the death of one person and the false imprisonment of another.
[Listened to the audiobook narration by Megan Tusing. Very enjoyable tone, pace, and character voices. Easy listening.]
———
Harlequin Intrigue (Oct 2025)
Genre/Subgenre: Romantic Suspense, Contemporary Romance, Category Romance
Standalone/Series: series, but easily read standalone
Themes/Tropes: corruption in the criminal justice & political system, women falsely imprisoned, betrayal, grief, forgiveness
Steam/Spice Level: closed door, discussed only in flashback, very low spice
Setting: Chicago, IL & surrounding suburbs (Barrington & Crystal Lake)
BIPOC Characters: N/A
LGBTQ+ Characters: N/A
Religion: N/A
POV: third person, past tense
Cops/LEO: yes, inclusion of law enforcement and failures of the criminal justice system
__________
Thank you Harlequin Publishing for the Advanced Reader Copy. Expected pub date Sept 30, 2025
September 26, 2025
Anne Griffin, born to her mother in prison and raised in foster care, has built a successful life as a decorator. However, a knock on her door from Colby investigator Jack Brennan brings a box containing evidence that could prove her mother’s innocence of the crime of killing Anne’s father thirty years previously. Despite moving on from a less than ideal childhood, Anne questions if she can revisit the past. Will she allow Jack to work with her to potentially clear her now-deceased mother’s name?
A bit unsure at first, Anne does begin to work with Jack with the information he has. However, it becomes evident that someone is determined to prevent them from uncovering the truth about her mother’s case. Despite the decades that have passed, the lack of cooperation they receive from those they speak to is increasingly frustrating. As they spend time together, things quickly bloom between Anne and Jack, even as the intensity of their investigation deepens.
I have been enjoying this extension of the Colby Agency series. I love the emotional edge in this story, especially as Anne works on coming to terms with losing both of her parents, and no doubt wonders how differently her life could’ve been. This is a quick, suspenseful read, and I am very much, looking forward to reading the fourth book in the series, Witness to Murder.
I’ve had this and the previous book as audiobooks, and the upcoming book for review is also going to be an audiobook. I have very much enjoyed Megan Tusing’s narration.
Many thanks to Harlequin Intrigue and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
A bit unsure at first, Anne does begin to work with Jack with the information he has. However, it becomes evident that someone is determined to prevent them from uncovering the truth about her mother’s case. Despite the decades that have passed, the lack of cooperation they receive from those they speak to is increasingly frustrating. As they spend time together, things quickly bloom between Anne and Jack, even as the intensity of their investigation deepens.
I have been enjoying this extension of the Colby Agency series. I love the emotional edge in this story, especially as Anne works on coming to terms with losing both of her parents, and no doubt wonders how differently her life could’ve been. This is a quick, suspenseful read, and I am very much, looking forward to reading the fourth book in the series, Witness to Murder.
I’ve had this and the previous book as audiobooks, and the upcoming book for review is also going to be an audiobook. I have very much enjoyed Megan Tusing’s narration.
Many thanks to Harlequin Intrigue and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
September 28, 2025
Memory of Murder
Debra Webb
Anne Griffin - Daughter of Mary Morton
Mary Morton - Mother off Annie
Jack Brenner - Colby Agency
Neil Reed - Dauughter to Neil Reed
Annie Griffin was home one day working on a project for a customer in redoing their house. when a knock on her door and it was Jack Brenner from Colby Agency. They were asked to investigate your mother's situation and picked Colby Agency to investigate what happened and to find the truth. So she looked at the box and what was in the box and why they had come to her. Then asked if she wanted to find who really miudered her father Neil Reed. She asked for sometime to think about it. She told him she would know the next day. She talked to her assistant about this .Lisa told her to do it and find the truth. He told her she had to go with him on this investigation. She asked if Lisa could started working on there big customers contract. She had to tell Jack Brenner her answer in the morning. She started by reading Mary Morton's journal. After she read it she contacted Jack that she would do this with him. They did alot of talking to Mary's friends so called friends. Her grandfather who was very mean to her because she looked like her mother. The more they looked the dangerous things happened. But that didn't stop them from getting closer to the truth.
What did Annie and Jack find out was the truth ?
What happens between Jack and Annie?
Debra did a fantastic show the book she knew the intriguing story would keep you reading to the end.
Debra knew how to make the story with characters worked together.
I recommend this book.
Debra Webb
Anne Griffin - Daughter of Mary Morton
Mary Morton - Mother off Annie
Jack Brenner - Colby Agency
Neil Reed - Dauughter to Neil Reed
Annie Griffin was home one day working on a project for a customer in redoing their house. when a knock on her door and it was Jack Brenner from Colby Agency. They were asked to investigate your mother's situation and picked Colby Agency to investigate what happened and to find the truth. So she looked at the box and what was in the box and why they had come to her. Then asked if she wanted to find who really miudered her father Neil Reed. She asked for sometime to think about it. She told him she would know the next day. She talked to her assistant about this .Lisa told her to do it and find the truth. He told her she had to go with him on this investigation. She asked if Lisa could started working on there big customers contract. She had to tell Jack Brenner her answer in the morning. She started by reading Mary Morton's journal. After she read it she contacted Jack that she would do this with him. They did alot of talking to Mary's friends so called friends. Her grandfather who was very mean to her because she looked like her mother. The more they looked the dangerous things happened. But that didn't stop them from getting closer to the truth.
What did Annie and Jack find out was the truth ?
What happens between Jack and Annie?
Debra did a fantastic show the book she knew the intriguing story would keep you reading to the end.
Debra knew how to make the story with characters worked together.
I recommend this book.
September 26, 2025
Those with power can weave whatever picture they like....
But the Colby Agency cannot be bought, they cannot be threatened and they won't stop digging until they have all the answers....the real answers, not those paid for by the powerful.
This is a very twisted case that doesn't become clear until the final pages, greed, corruption, deceit and fear meant an innocent woman was railroaded and a child was abandoned. And whilst many suspected there had been a cover up, both they and the Colby Agency are shocked when the killer is finally revealed. Anne is the child that was left abandoned in this, not because her parents didn't love her, they did, but they were torn from her, as she was torn from them. She just didn't know it until now, thirty years later, and I cannot imagine the heartbreak and pain she has suffered growing up knowing she was abandoned and living with the stigma that her mother was a murderer. But Jack helps her see that not everything is as it seems and her mother may just have been as innocent as she claimed, he also has the proof that her parents loved her with their whole hearts, and that whilst others may have abandoned her, they didn't. Nor will Jack abandon her now.
It is lovely to see Jack earn Anne's trust, their chemistry is instant but their fall into love feels both fast and slow at the same time, no matter the speed it is beautiful to see as they navigate the dangers, the lies and the long buried secrets.
I love this Colby Agency Next Generation series and look forward to many more investigations and books to come.
But the Colby Agency cannot be bought, they cannot be threatened and they won't stop digging until they have all the answers....the real answers, not those paid for by the powerful.
This is a very twisted case that doesn't become clear until the final pages, greed, corruption, deceit and fear meant an innocent woman was railroaded and a child was abandoned. And whilst many suspected there had been a cover up, both they and the Colby Agency are shocked when the killer is finally revealed. Anne is the child that was left abandoned in this, not because her parents didn't love her, they did, but they were torn from her, as she was torn from them. She just didn't know it until now, thirty years later, and I cannot imagine the heartbreak and pain she has suffered growing up knowing she was abandoned and living with the stigma that her mother was a murderer. But Jack helps her see that not everything is as it seems and her mother may just have been as innocent as she claimed, he also has the proof that her parents loved her with their whole hearts, and that whilst others may have abandoned her, they didn't. Nor will Jack abandon her now.
It is lovely to see Jack earn Anne's trust, their chemistry is instant but their fall into love feels both fast and slow at the same time, no matter the speed it is beautiful to see as they navigate the dangers, the lies and the long buried secrets.
I love this Colby Agency Next Generation series and look forward to many more investigations and books to come.
November 9, 2025
Once again, I found myself really enjoying another installment in the Colby Agency series. This time, the agency takes on a decades-old case involving a woman who was convicted of killing her husband nearly 30 years ago—a claim she’s always denied. After giving birth to her daughter in prison, that child grows up in the foster system believing her mother was a murderer. Fast forward to the present day, and the mother has passed away, leaving behind a journal and a final plea for the Colby Agency to look into her case. She’s not asking to clear her name for herself, but rather to ease the burden her daughter has carried her whole life.
The storytelling in this one felt effortlessly balanced—mystery, a touch of crime procedural, and just the right amount of romance all woven together into a really satisfying read. The pacing kept me engaged from start to finish, and the emotional payoff at the end was exactly what I was hoping for. The reveal and resolution were both heartfelt and rewarding, making the journey completely worth it. I’m honestly not sure how many more Colby Agency books are in the works, but I sincerely hope the series isn’t wrapping up yet—I’m definitely not ready to say goodbye.
The storytelling in this one felt effortlessly balanced—mystery, a touch of crime procedural, and just the right amount of romance all woven together into a really satisfying read. The pacing kept me engaged from start to finish, and the emotional payoff at the end was exactly what I was hoping for. The reveal and resolution were both heartfelt and rewarding, making the journey completely worth it. I’m honestly not sure how many more Colby Agency books are in the works, but I sincerely hope the series isn’t wrapping up yet—I’m definitely not ready to say goodbye.
September 15, 2025
Release Date September 30, 2025
Anne Griffin was born in prison. Her mother Mary Martin was accused of murdering her father Neil Reid! Anne lived a horrible childhood being bounced in between foster homes. Her grandfather didn’t want her. None of her mother‘s friends wanted her. But that didn’t stop in from becoming successful later on in life. She ran her own business, but there was always just something!
When Mary passed in prison, a letter was sent to the Colby agency. She wanted her daughter to know that she was innocent. In her letter, she begged the Colby agency to help her daughter. Find the truth. She wanted the stigma that was put on her daughter to be set straight.
Anne was reluctant at first to help with this case, but Jack Brenner convinced her to at least start and see if she wanted to continue. Anne was so glad that she did because she found Jack to be an incredible man.
If you like a great mystery then I strongly suggest this it is a three book series. It can be read as a standalone.
Book #1 A Colby Christmas RESCUE
Book #2 Alibi for MURDER
Book#3 Memory of MURDER
Book #4 Witness to MURDER (Release date 10/28/25)
Anne Griffin was born in prison. Her mother Mary Martin was accused of murdering her father Neil Reid! Anne lived a horrible childhood being bounced in between foster homes. Her grandfather didn’t want her. None of her mother‘s friends wanted her. But that didn’t stop in from becoming successful later on in life. She ran her own business, but there was always just something!
When Mary passed in prison, a letter was sent to the Colby agency. She wanted her daughter to know that she was innocent. In her letter, she begged the Colby agency to help her daughter. Find the truth. She wanted the stigma that was put on her daughter to be set straight.
Anne was reluctant at first to help with this case, but Jack Brenner convinced her to at least start and see if she wanted to continue. Anne was so glad that she did because she found Jack to be an incredible man.
If you like a great mystery then I strongly suggest this it is a three book series. It can be read as a standalone.
Book #1 A Colby Christmas RESCUE
Book #2 Alibi for MURDER
Book#3 Memory of MURDER
Book #4 Witness to MURDER (Release date 10/28/25)
September 30, 2025
Debra Webb's third installment of the Colby series is the best one yet!
Anne Griffin needed justice, she just didn't know it until Jack Brenner paid her a visit. Jack works for the Colby Agency and wants to investigate who really killed Anne's father. Although Anne thought she had closed the book on that chapter of her life, what could it hurt to find the truth. As the investigation continues, the twists and turns keep you guessing. Was Mary, Anne's mother who died in prison for killing her dad really guilty? Did her parents' friends all those years ago have anything to do with her dad's death? The truth at the end will leave you speechless.
Debra Webb has a way with a story that draws you in from the very first page. The characters are so likeable, and the chemistry between them is ever so slightly woven in. The author knows how to weave a plot where you think you have it figured out, and then you don't. This book can be read as a standalone, but why stop at this one? I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants a great read. Thanks to the author and Harlequin for the arc of this great story.
Anne Griffin needed justice, she just didn't know it until Jack Brenner paid her a visit. Jack works for the Colby Agency and wants to investigate who really killed Anne's father. Although Anne thought she had closed the book on that chapter of her life, what could it hurt to find the truth. As the investigation continues, the twists and turns keep you guessing. Was Mary, Anne's mother who died in prison for killing her dad really guilty? Did her parents' friends all those years ago have anything to do with her dad's death? The truth at the end will leave you speechless.
Debra Webb has a way with a story that draws you in from the very first page. The characters are so likeable, and the chemistry between them is ever so slightly woven in. The author knows how to weave a plot where you think you have it figured out, and then you don't. This book can be read as a standalone, but why stop at this one? I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants a great read. Thanks to the author and Harlequin for the arc of this great story.
August 30, 2025
This book is full of intrigue and suspense that will keep you guessing until the very end. Anne Griffin was born in prison after her mother was convicted of the murder of her father, and was raised in foster care. 30 years later, she is contacted by Colby Agency, and given a box from her mother, with the request that she participate in an investigation to help clear her mother’s name, even though her mother recently passed away, she had requested the agency clear her name, for her daughter’s sake. When investigator Jack is assigned to the case, they start asking questions, but those questions are putting them both in danger and the closer they get to the truth, the more desperate the real culprit is getting. Will the clues in the box lead to forgiveness and truth, or will the truth hurt more than the unknown?
August 31, 2025
Anne Griffin was born while her Mom Mary Martin was incarcerated for the murder of her father Neil Reed. Anne was immediately taken away & bounced from foster care-foster care. As Anne aged she tried to visit her Mom in jail,but Mary didn’t want her to be subjected to that environment. Jack Brenner,ace investigator for the Colby Investigation Company has a knack for solving cold cases & together the two of them put their heads together & get to the bottom of this mystery. This is book #3 in this series but can easily be read as a standalone book & it was my favorite of the 3. This book releases on 9-30 grab a copy & be prepared to be shocked by the ending! Thank you Debra Elaine Webb for entertaining me
September 12, 2025
Memory of Murder by Debra Webb
Publication date September 30, 2025
"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
Anne Griffins mother was convicted of murdering her husband when she was pregnant. Anne grew up in foster care and believing her mother was guilty she didn’t have a relationship with her. When her mother died, she left behind a journal claiming her innocence. Investigator Jack Brenner contacted Anne and together they set out to prove her mother was not guilty.
This was an easy read. It didn’t really have that edge of your seat feel to it but it was a good story. I gave it 4 stars, it was well written and a quick read.
I received this as an audiobook and the narrator Megan Tusing did a great job.
Publication date September 30, 2025
"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
Anne Griffins mother was convicted of murdering her husband when she was pregnant. Anne grew up in foster care and believing her mother was guilty she didn’t have a relationship with her. When her mother died, she left behind a journal claiming her innocence. Investigator Jack Brenner contacted Anne and together they set out to prove her mother was not guilty.
This was an easy read. It didn’t really have that edge of your seat feel to it but it was a good story. I gave it 4 stars, it was well written and a quick read.
I received this as an audiobook and the narrator Megan Tusing did a great job.
October 3, 2025
Memory of Murder is the latest installment in the Colby Agency Next Generation series by Debra Webb.
Anne finds out her biological mother died in prison, her mother always denied being guilty of murder. Colby Agency investigator Jack is on the case of finding out what happened al those years ago. Together they start an investigation and that’s not without danger. Someone doesn’t want them to know the truth.
It’s a fast paced story and I couldn’t put it down! Intriguing plot and great characters!
I read it in one sitting and I never guessed the ending. Good balance between romance and suspense! I really loved it and looking forward to read the next book in this series.
I recieved this arc from the author and this review is my honest opinion
Anne finds out her biological mother died in prison, her mother always denied being guilty of murder. Colby Agency investigator Jack is on the case of finding out what happened al those years ago. Together they start an investigation and that’s not without danger. Someone doesn’t want them to know the truth.
It’s a fast paced story and I couldn’t put it down! Intriguing plot and great characters!
I read it in one sitting and I never guessed the ending. Good balance between romance and suspense! I really loved it and looking forward to read the next book in this series.
I recieved this arc from the author and this review is my honest opinion
October 9, 2025
Having been born in jail Anne Griffin had never met her mother who had been convicted of the murder of her father before she was even born.
Anne’s young life consistent of her living her formative years, moving from different foster care homes. She learned early on that she had no one to depend but herself.
After a visit from investigator Jack Brenner from the Colby Agency all that changed.
With new evidence in hand, Anne decides to team up with Jack to investigate the 30 year-old crime.
Anne’s mother’s constant claim of her innocence may now have merit, after her mother’s journal was examined.
Apparently, Anne and Jack are the only ones to want the truth to come to light.
This was a very enjoyable read. Great for a cool fall evening.
Anne’s young life consistent of her living her formative years, moving from different foster care homes. She learned early on that she had no one to depend but herself.
After a visit from investigator Jack Brenner from the Colby Agency all that changed.
With new evidence in hand, Anne decides to team up with Jack to investigate the 30 year-old crime.
Anne’s mother’s constant claim of her innocence may now have merit, after her mother’s journal was examined.
Apparently, Anne and Jack are the only ones to want the truth to come to light.
This was a very enjoyable read. Great for a cool fall evening.
November 19, 2025
I enjoyed this book more than the previous book. It could easily be read as a stand-alone. This seemed like a fairly short book. I'm not sure if I expected it to be longer, or just wanted it to be longer and more detailed.
I thought the hint of romance was unnecessary as it was depicted in the book. The romance isn't given a chance to develop into anything that the reader can grasp. It seemed like a very surface relationship and I never felt the characters connection. The book ends with the couple's situation left hanging. The fmc's business issues are left up in the air with no apparent resolution.
The mystery was pretty good. I didn't expect the particular character to be identified as the murder while at the same time, I wasn't surprised.
I thought the hint of romance was unnecessary as it was depicted in the book. The romance isn't given a chance to develop into anything that the reader can grasp. It seemed like a very surface relationship and I never felt the characters connection. The book ends with the couple's situation left hanging. The fmc's business issues are left up in the air with no apparent resolution.
The mystery was pretty good. I didn't expect the particular character to be identified as the murder while at the same time, I wasn't surprised.
September 15, 2025
#memoryofmurder #thankyounetgalley
Memory of Murder by Debra Webb is a clever, funny whodunnit that kept me hooked from start to finish. The first-person perspective made the investigation feel personal and immediate, pulling me right into the heart of the mystery. When new evidence resurfaces, old feelings come rushing back, adding emotional depth that sets this apart from typical mysteries.
The characters are well-drawn and relatable, balancing humor with moments of genuine tension. Returning to the past isn’t easy for them, but it’s what drives the story—and it’s worth every twist and turn. If you love mysteries with a funny, emotional edge and smart plotting, this one’s a must-read.
Memory of Murder by Debra Webb is a clever, funny whodunnit that kept me hooked from start to finish. The first-person perspective made the investigation feel personal and immediate, pulling me right into the heart of the mystery. When new evidence resurfaces, old feelings come rushing back, adding emotional depth that sets this apart from typical mysteries.
The characters are well-drawn and relatable, balancing humor with moments of genuine tension. Returning to the past isn’t easy for them, but it’s what drives the story—and it’s worth every twist and turn. If you love mysteries with a funny, emotional edge and smart plotting, this one’s a must-read.
October 3, 2025
Memory of Murder follows Anne as she receives a journal from her dead mother that details how she isn't guilty of the murder she was accused of 25 years ago. She retraces the events of the case and tries to clear her mother's name. This was a very interesting plot line again but the romance felt so forced. There were twists and turns in the cold case which somehow ended up with the bad people threatening our MCs, again. The ending felt very predictable but still a good read. 4/5 stars.
This is a review of the audiobook. Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a free copy of this ALC. All opinions expressed are my own.
This is a review of the audiobook. Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a free copy of this ALC. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 20, 2025
Anne was born to a mother in jail. She was shuffled from one foster home to the next.
Fast forward to a knock on her door that is going g to shake her up and bring her past crashing in on her.
Jack works for The Colby Agency and is there to find proof that Anne's mom was wrongly convicted.
Anne isn't on board at first but after reading her moms journal she is reluctant to go forward and find the truth.
Once her and Jack start looking for the truth they stir up a hornets nest.
This book had me on the edge of my seat. I was shocked, in a good way, with the conclusion of what they find out.
Fast forward to a knock on her door that is going g to shake her up and bring her past crashing in on her.
Jack works for The Colby Agency and is there to find proof that Anne's mom was wrongly convicted.
Anne isn't on board at first but after reading her moms journal she is reluctant to go forward and find the truth.
Once her and Jack start looking for the truth they stir up a hornets nest.
This book had me on the edge of my seat. I was shocked, in a good way, with the conclusion of what they find out.
August 3, 2025
Thank you, Debra Webb, for my early copy of this book. This is book 3 of the Colby agency, the next generation series. It can easily be read as a stand-alone book if you haven't or don't want to read the others. This is a fast-paced romantic suspense. It's fairly light on the romance, so it's great for anyone, really.
Jack Brenner and Anne Griffin set out to find out the truth about who really killed her father. was it really her mother or someone else. The closer they get to the truth, the more danger they seem to be in.
A good overall quick read story.
Jack Brenner and Anne Griffin set out to find out the truth about who really killed her father. was it really her mother or someone else. The closer they get to the truth, the more danger they seem to be in.
A good overall quick read story.
August 27, 2025
Jamie brings the newest case for the Colby Agency to her Grandmother, hoping that they will be able to help clear Mary's name for her daughter's sake. Jack Brenner goes to Anne, Mary's daughter, to ask if she will help investigate what really happened to put her mother in jail. As Anne is going through Mary's items, she realizes she doesn't know the full story and is willing to help find it out.
This is the 3rd book in the Colby Agency: The Next Generation. Another great plot with great characters with suspense and a little romance to keep it interesting.
This is the 3rd book in the Colby Agency: The Next Generation. Another great plot with great characters with suspense and a little romance to keep it interesting.
September 15, 2025
Anne Griffin was born in prison to a mother she never knew or had contact with. She has just found out that her mother died, but she doesn't feel any sadness or anger anymore.
Ace Colby investigator Jack Brenner knocks on Anne's door to tell her they are investigating her mother's death, at her request, to prove she did not kill her husband. Anne decides to help with the investigation, and suddenly she and Jack are dealing with someone who doesn't want the truth to ever come out.
Can they find out the truth and stay alive?
Ace Colby investigator Jack Brenner knocks on Anne's door to tell her they are investigating her mother's death, at her request, to prove she did not kill her husband. Anne decides to help with the investigation, and suddenly she and Jack are dealing with someone who doesn't want the truth to ever come out.
Can they find out the truth and stay alive?
September 30, 2025
Another awesome book by Debra Webb, Once I started reading, I just could not put the book down.
Anne's Mother was sent to prison for a crime she said she did not commit. When Anne heard of her Mother's death she wasn't sure what to feel. She had never met the women who gave birth to her so she didn't really feel anything for her.
So when Jack shows up at the house to tell her that they have been asked by her mother to uncover the truth of what happened so long ago. She didn't know how to feel about it.
This is an awesome book and I think you will enjoy it too.
Anne's Mother was sent to prison for a crime she said she did not commit. When Anne heard of her Mother's death she wasn't sure what to feel. She had never met the women who gave birth to her so she didn't really feel anything for her.
So when Jack shows up at the house to tell her that they have been asked by her mother to uncover the truth of what happened so long ago. She didn't know how to feel about it.
This is an awesome book and I think you will enjoy it too.
August 3, 2025
Anne was born when her mother was in jail for murdering her mom. Anne has always tried to move on and has been estranged from her mom. Then Jack, an investigator from the Colby agency brings her evidence new evidence and Anne wants to find answers. Her mom is dead, but Anne finds her journal. In the journal, her mom is adamant that she is innocent. And and Jack become close, both to each other and to the truth and they find themselves in danger. Someone wants them to stop their investigation in the thirty year old case. Will they find the truth, or did Anne's mom really the killer?
Memory Of Murder is book three in Debra Webb's Colby agency series. All books can be read as stand alones as well. They are quick, intriguing reads and are very enjoyable and I was fortunate enough to get an ARC copy!
Memory Of Murder is book three in Debra Webb's Colby agency series. All books can be read as stand alones as well. They are quick, intriguing reads and are very enjoyable and I was fortunate enough to get an ARC copy!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews