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Chapter Forty-Nine: A Dark and Twisted Psychological Thriller
At Forty-Nine, Emma Donovan thought she had left the small town of Blackthorn behind for good. But when the chance to return to her hometown presents itself, she decides to take it—hoping the quiet life she’s been missing might offer the peace she’s longed for. What she doesn’t expect is the string of gruesome murders that begins to haunt the small town, each one eerily similar to a tragedy from years ago.
As the killings spiral closer to home, Emma is drawn into the investigation, finding herself at the center of a mystery that links her directly to the victims. As the townspeople whisper, and the clues mount, Emma must confront the chilling possibility that someone in Blackthorn is using her to recreate a past she can’t remember—and may never have understood.
With time running out and danger closing in, Emma will have to uncover the truth behind the murders, all while grappling with her own forgotten memories. In Blackthorn, some secrets refuse to stay buried—and some of them may be her own.
As the killings spiral closer to home, Emma is drawn into the investigation, finding herself at the center of a mystery that links her directly to the victims. As the townspeople whisper, and the clues mount, Emma must confront the chilling possibility that someone in Blackthorn is using her to recreate a past she can’t remember—and may never have understood.
With time running out and danger closing in, Emma will have to uncover the truth behind the murders, all while grappling with her own forgotten memories. In Blackthorn, some secrets refuse to stay buried—and some of them may be her own.
171 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 28, 2025
48 people are currently reading
507 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Powers
22 books82 followersMichelle Powers writes the kind of thrillers that keep you up way past bedtime—just one more chapter, right? What started with her breakout novella, The First Murder, quickly snowballed into a full-blown obsession with killers, clues, and crime scenes (the fictional kind, of course). She’s the internationally recognized indie author behind the addictive Detective Willoughby series, the fan-favorite Detective Kate Brown series, and a growing stack of standalone thrillers that will make you second-guess everyone you know. In 2024, she proudly earned the coveted KDP All-Star title—a gold star for authors who live on coffee, plot twists, and sheer grit. When she’s not working her day job in logistics or plotting her next murder (on paper, we swear), Michelle can be found writing at her desk with her Rottweiler sidekick, Ozzy, snoring nearby. Follow her on Facebook for new releases, giveaways, and all things murdery and mysterious. Just maybe leave the lights on.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
February 4, 2025
Thankful to have the opportunity in reading this beauty and man was it good! My mind kept going back and forth as to what and who and why and when! But baby when the truth came out, priceless! It definitely keeps you wondering!
March 14, 2025
I felt like this book was rather predictable. The “twists” weren’t surprising and the ending was a bit rushed and odd. A lot of the dialogue was unrealistic and repetitive.
Also, it was a disappointment that the book had forty-five chapters- totally a missed opportunity.
Also, it was a disappointment that the book had forty-five chapters- totally a missed opportunity.
March 17, 2025
Quick and easy read. Entertaining characters. Some jaw dropping and whiplash moments. Wanted more for the ending but think it's a good set up for or if the writer wants to make a sequel. First time reading a novel from this writer but definitely not the last. Appreciate the ARC from Michelle Powers and Bookfunnel.
May 5, 2025
I’ve read a lot of psychological thrillers, but Chapter Forty-Nine hit different. It wasn’t just the darkness—it was the way the author peeled it back layer by layer until you couldn’t tell what was real, who to trust, or if the characters would ever come back from the damage.
I love this author's work.
I love this author's work.
March 4, 2025
ok/good
Easy read but I wanted more from this book. It just seemed like a very typical and predictable thriller with a weird ending.
Easy read but I wanted more from this book. It just seemed like a very typical and predictable thriller with a weird ending.
July 21, 2025
"Chapter 49" is a fast read that threw me for a loop. There were several times I THOUGHT I figured out the who and why. I was wrong. When the truth was revealed, I actually gasped! This was such a good read.
September 4, 2025
wow
What a page turner this was really good the people I suspected weren’t even close! The mfc should’ve stayed where she was at lol
What a page turner this was really good the people I suspected weren’t even close! The mfc should’ve stayed where she was at lol
March 24, 2025
Compelling/Comprehensive/Intriguing
Genre: Contemporary Fiction/Mystery/Thriller
Chapter Forty-Nine by Michelle Powers, Author 🎂🗡
In the wake of disturbing and unexpected news, Emma Donovan returns to her home town to attempt to prevent the past from being repeated, and also visit someone she hasn’t seen for a quarter of a century so as to have no regrets, if what she has learned has any truth to it. With doubt firmly planted in her mind, she is reticent to act immediately, but when she sees something on the way to work, she is transported back to a memory from her childhood, and is compelled to investigate just what the correlation is between what she has seen, and what she recalls. However, in doing so, she is about to unearth a truth about someone she thought she could trust, a discovery about herself and the real reason behind the incidents that occurred all those years ago. 🖤
I have never been a big reader of mystery or thrillers but decided to try it as a new genre earlier this year. Michelle Powers’, ‘The House of Secrets’, piqued my interest almost immediately, and I was gripped. So it was a ‘no-brainer’ that I was always going to read ‘Chapter Forty-Nine’. I liked the fact that it was a fairly short novel, as I wanted a quick read. The chapters were a nice length and worked well with the genre, the suspense and the absorbing narrative. As soon as Michelle reveals Emma’s reason for being back in her home town, I was fascinated to read the rest! 📖
The fact that from the off, it is made apparent that Emma is a forty nine year old woman grappling with her hormones, instantly gave me the ability to relate to this woman, as I am the same age, in exactly the same situation. I too feel incredibly old, and I am an over-thinker! I’m not sure I’ve ever read a book with a character that I have been able to relate to so much. However, is (peri) menopause the sole reason for the way she feels? We learn that because her returning to the town of Blackthorn is so recent, she hasn’t yet made any acquaintances, Christmas is on the horizon, and she fears that she will be spending it alone. She sets out to her work place and drives by an incident which prompts flashbacks. Once she arrives at work, feeling disturbed by what she has seen, and after logging on to her system, she investigates what she has seen on the internet. After making her excuses, she decides to return home, also taking her anxiety medication. She decides that the only course of action is to rekindle a contact from twenty five years ago, when she originally lived in Blackthorn, someone who will be able to assist her. However, she fails to think it through, and ends up having to confess to being aware of issues in relation to what he tells her. I did at this point wonder how she wasn’t aware that she was harbouring information that she should have disclosed, even if she hadn’t taken it seriously to begin with. But then given that Emma had all those years ago been in close proximity to someone she had also been trying to avoid, as the author states, I was not that surprised.
This author is very good at giving the reader a number of characters, a scenario and all through the book, giving the reader legitimate reasons for changing their minds several times about the reason for something occurring or who the guilty party is. As such, at this point in the book when she gives Emma’s background, I was conceited enough to think that I had solved the case at this early stage. Her contact, Ryan, seems overly concerned for her wellbeing and he also seems overly agitated at the news she hasn’t yet told anyone. Not to mention, having been extremely helpful with her relocation plans, when staying in Blackthorn became impossible. It is evident that there had been some sort of attraction though, at least on his part. He also suggests that they go out sometime, which I thought inappropriate for a first conversation in what was just under a gap of time that amounted to half her life span. I could understand it when she thought to herself that she hadn’t known how to address Ryan after such a long time, and also the situation. He, apparently had no such worries. When she mentions to him how old she is now, and says ‘I’m up to chapter forty-nine now, it’s all downhill from here’ – her mother always related to her age as chapters, which I think I will start doing – I knew that I would like her if she wasn’t just a character in a book, lol.
Every time, she rings Ryan with something to tell him, his astonishment at her foolhardy and reckless behaviour that further gives way to putting herself in an extremely tenuous situation, gives rise to his exclamation of ‘for f**** sake Em’! This became quite comical. Now however, I know why he was so eloquent with his profanities. 📱✉
When Emma is angry at being asked the most obvious of questions by Ryan, she again shows her naivety in thinking that he was purely her friend. She does realise the reason behind it, but her pride won’t let her give in that gracefully, until she realises she has no choice. Not being able to conceive that Ryan in fact has to juggle two sides to his persona, not something he was even expecting to have to do.
The chapters detailing what happened back in Emma’s early twenties, were well written and constructed, and had clearly been thought about. They were also sufficiently graphic, but not overly so. Emma’s connection to what went on was really what made it for me, and the relationships of those involved. I also enjoyed the continuity.💉⚔
When her best friend Mary is introduced, I felt suspicious of her anyway, given the background information that the author has given by this point, but I also didn’t entirely trust how keen she was to help Emma, but maybe that says more about my friends, lol. She further cements Emma’s belief that Ryan was wrong to ask the things he did which annoyed me, as I felt that she was agreeing with her friend because she thought that that was what Emma would want, rather than thinking about it and making her see the logical side to the situation. I don’t think that her indignant attitude to Ryan’s stance was helpful.
When they realise that what alerted Emma to return to Blackthorn in the first place hasn’t come from the source she originally thought, my suspicions had been correct, and I was kind of surprised that neither Emma nor Ryan had realised before. Emma looks for information on the internet, which might provide her with a lead, and take the heat off her, but in doing so, feels that her actions are counter-intuitive, which I thought was logical given her original response to it all. This is where I began to have my suspicions about Mary and on meeting Casey, the information that the reader is fed about him is an example of Michelle’s excellent ability to frame all of her characters, at one point or another. The same also goes for Jason who I thought came across as jealous, petty and spiteful although, I couldn’t help thinking that he was right when he pointed out that given the reason that Emma said that they had come to his house, they weren’t adequately prepared. His background did give me a certain sympathy with him though. The narrative presents the reader with so many scenarios, a smart strategy to employ to keep the reader interested. As well as declaring that ‘being a woman sucks’, which I wholeheartedly agree with, Emma’s comment in the diner concerning the ages of the people now involved in this ‘reoccurrence’ was very funny! I liked the easy banter between the two girls, Mary teasing Emma about how quickly she seems to be collecting male suitors, when she’s only been back in town five minutes.💻💰
When Ryan rings her with information that further compromises Emma’s situation, I couldn’t help wondering if she was involved somehow, but then the reader is thrown off course with regards to the missing items and the rental company. The owner of the house in which Emma is living was a big shock, making me change my mind again!! When Ryan accompanies Emma to see the person that she had originally intended to visit, I was a little confused as to why he said to her that that person couldn’t hurt her, as she never hurt her in the first place. He was of course, just using every opportunity he had to be tactile. The connection that Emma then learns that exists between the targets of yesteryear and today was such a great parallel, and one I would never have seen coming.
The mention of ibuprofen also had me thinking, especially as it crops up many times, and that the tablets are brown. Whenever I’ve taken them, they’ve always been white, so I’m not sure if that was intended as a ruse, or they are different colours. That and the fact that when Emma enters the kitchen after Mary arrives at hers after work, she trips over her shoes, not realising they were there.🥾💊
From Mary going out to Emma’s car to collect her medication, the whole thing seemed to become a little chaotic, rushed and far-fetched to my mind. I’m not sure if it would have been better had it been longer and given the end more time to play out. I had also wondered how Debra, Shane, Christa and Joanna, would have been known to Emma before it was explained via Ryan. However, as Emma had not been prone to doing what it took previously, it seems strange to me that she would do it now, regardless of the circumstances.I wondered how Ryan took care of Emma’s last actions and what happened to Mary.
The end scenario for Emma seemed a believable one, but the final twist seems like it was a pre-cursor to a sequel. Otherwise, I’m not sure what the point of it was. I would read a sequel, and for the most part, enjoyed this one. There are many elements of Michelle’s writing that she does well. I just struggled with the end.📖
Genre: Contemporary Fiction/Mystery/Thriller
Chapter Forty-Nine by Michelle Powers, Author 🎂🗡
In the wake of disturbing and unexpected news, Emma Donovan returns to her home town to attempt to prevent the past from being repeated, and also visit someone she hasn’t seen for a quarter of a century so as to have no regrets, if what she has learned has any truth to it. With doubt firmly planted in her mind, she is reticent to act immediately, but when she sees something on the way to work, she is transported back to a memory from her childhood, and is compelled to investigate just what the correlation is between what she has seen, and what she recalls. However, in doing so, she is about to unearth a truth about someone she thought she could trust, a discovery about herself and the real reason behind the incidents that occurred all those years ago. 🖤
I have never been a big reader of mystery or thrillers but decided to try it as a new genre earlier this year. Michelle Powers’, ‘The House of Secrets’, piqued my interest almost immediately, and I was gripped. So it was a ‘no-brainer’ that I was always going to read ‘Chapter Forty-Nine’. I liked the fact that it was a fairly short novel, as I wanted a quick read. The chapters were a nice length and worked well with the genre, the suspense and the absorbing narrative. As soon as Michelle reveals Emma’s reason for being back in her home town, I was fascinated to read the rest! 📖
The fact that from the off, it is made apparent that Emma is a forty nine year old woman grappling with her hormones, instantly gave me the ability to relate to this woman, as I am the same age, in exactly the same situation. I too feel incredibly old, and I am an over-thinker! I’m not sure I’ve ever read a book with a character that I have been able to relate to so much. However, is (peri) menopause the sole reason for the way she feels? We learn that because her returning to the town of Blackthorn is so recent, she hasn’t yet made any acquaintances, Christmas is on the horizon, and she fears that she will be spending it alone. She sets out to her work place and drives by an incident which prompts flashbacks. Once she arrives at work, feeling disturbed by what she has seen, and after logging on to her system, she investigates what she has seen on the internet. After making her excuses, she decides to return home, also taking her anxiety medication. She decides that the only course of action is to rekindle a contact from twenty five years ago, when she originally lived in Blackthorn, someone who will be able to assist her. However, she fails to think it through, and ends up having to confess to being aware of issues in relation to what he tells her. I did at this point wonder how she wasn’t aware that she was harbouring information that she should have disclosed, even if she hadn’t taken it seriously to begin with. But then given that Emma had all those years ago been in close proximity to someone she had also been trying to avoid, as the author states, I was not that surprised.
This author is very good at giving the reader a number of characters, a scenario and all through the book, giving the reader legitimate reasons for changing their minds several times about the reason for something occurring or who the guilty party is. As such, at this point in the book when she gives Emma’s background, I was conceited enough to think that I had solved the case at this early stage. Her contact, Ryan, seems overly concerned for her wellbeing and he also seems overly agitated at the news she hasn’t yet told anyone. Not to mention, having been extremely helpful with her relocation plans, when staying in Blackthorn became impossible. It is evident that there had been some sort of attraction though, at least on his part. He also suggests that they go out sometime, which I thought inappropriate for a first conversation in what was just under a gap of time that amounted to half her life span. I could understand it when she thought to herself that she hadn’t known how to address Ryan after such a long time, and also the situation. He, apparently had no such worries. When she mentions to him how old she is now, and says ‘I’m up to chapter forty-nine now, it’s all downhill from here’ – her mother always related to her age as chapters, which I think I will start doing – I knew that I would like her if she wasn’t just a character in a book, lol.
Every time, she rings Ryan with something to tell him, his astonishment at her foolhardy and reckless behaviour that further gives way to putting herself in an extremely tenuous situation, gives rise to his exclamation of ‘for f**** sake Em’! This became quite comical. Now however, I know why he was so eloquent with his profanities. 📱✉
When Emma is angry at being asked the most obvious of questions by Ryan, she again shows her naivety in thinking that he was purely her friend. She does realise the reason behind it, but her pride won’t let her give in that gracefully, until she realises she has no choice. Not being able to conceive that Ryan in fact has to juggle two sides to his persona, not something he was even expecting to have to do.
The chapters detailing what happened back in Emma’s early twenties, were well written and constructed, and had clearly been thought about. They were also sufficiently graphic, but not overly so. Emma’s connection to what went on was really what made it for me, and the relationships of those involved. I also enjoyed the continuity.💉⚔
When her best friend Mary is introduced, I felt suspicious of her anyway, given the background information that the author has given by this point, but I also didn’t entirely trust how keen she was to help Emma, but maybe that says more about my friends, lol. She further cements Emma’s belief that Ryan was wrong to ask the things he did which annoyed me, as I felt that she was agreeing with her friend because she thought that that was what Emma would want, rather than thinking about it and making her see the logical side to the situation. I don’t think that her indignant attitude to Ryan’s stance was helpful.
When they realise that what alerted Emma to return to Blackthorn in the first place hasn’t come from the source she originally thought, my suspicions had been correct, and I was kind of surprised that neither Emma nor Ryan had realised before. Emma looks for information on the internet, which might provide her with a lead, and take the heat off her, but in doing so, feels that her actions are counter-intuitive, which I thought was logical given her original response to it all. This is where I began to have my suspicions about Mary and on meeting Casey, the information that the reader is fed about him is an example of Michelle’s excellent ability to frame all of her characters, at one point or another. The same also goes for Jason who I thought came across as jealous, petty and spiteful although, I couldn’t help thinking that he was right when he pointed out that given the reason that Emma said that they had come to his house, they weren’t adequately prepared. His background did give me a certain sympathy with him though. The narrative presents the reader with so many scenarios, a smart strategy to employ to keep the reader interested. As well as declaring that ‘being a woman sucks’, which I wholeheartedly agree with, Emma’s comment in the diner concerning the ages of the people now involved in this ‘reoccurrence’ was very funny! I liked the easy banter between the two girls, Mary teasing Emma about how quickly she seems to be collecting male suitors, when she’s only been back in town five minutes.💻💰
When Ryan rings her with information that further compromises Emma’s situation, I couldn’t help wondering if she was involved somehow, but then the reader is thrown off course with regards to the missing items and the rental company. The owner of the house in which Emma is living was a big shock, making me change my mind again!! When Ryan accompanies Emma to see the person that she had originally intended to visit, I was a little confused as to why he said to her that that person couldn’t hurt her, as she never hurt her in the first place. He was of course, just using every opportunity he had to be tactile. The connection that Emma then learns that exists between the targets of yesteryear and today was such a great parallel, and one I would never have seen coming.
The mention of ibuprofen also had me thinking, especially as it crops up many times, and that the tablets are brown. Whenever I’ve taken them, they’ve always been white, so I’m not sure if that was intended as a ruse, or they are different colours. That and the fact that when Emma enters the kitchen after Mary arrives at hers after work, she trips over her shoes, not realising they were there.🥾💊
From Mary going out to Emma’s car to collect her medication, the whole thing seemed to become a little chaotic, rushed and far-fetched to my mind. I’m not sure if it would have been better had it been longer and given the end more time to play out. I had also wondered how Debra, Shane, Christa and Joanna, would have been known to Emma before it was explained via Ryan. However, as Emma had not been prone to doing what it took previously, it seems strange to me that she would do it now, regardless of the circumstances.I wondered how Ryan took care of Emma’s last actions and what happened to Mary.
The end scenario for Emma seemed a believable one, but the final twist seems like it was a pre-cursor to a sequel. Otherwise, I’m not sure what the point of it was. I would read a sequel, and for the most part, enjoyed this one. There are many elements of Michelle’s writing that she does well. I just struggled with the end.📖
March 1, 2025
Overall, I really enjoyed this book it was a fast-paced psychological thriller with short chapters that made the book fly by (missed opportunity not making the book 49 chapters ;) ). Although the book is short, it really packed a punch.
August 15, 2025
Outstanding. What makes a psychological thriller a 5⭐️ read? When you have that WTF moment when the truth comes out. Sure, it was one of my first guesses, but the way i went back and forth, side to side, and up and down, I was certain that was not how it would end.
The great details and information provided throughout so that you could follow along with the crime was just enough, but not enough in the same breath.
A quick, thought-provoking mess that keeps you invested until the last sentence. And then you get to think, "Does that mean there's another one?"
The great details and information provided throughout so that you could follow along with the crime was just enough, but not enough in the same breath.
A quick, thought-provoking mess that keeps you invested until the last sentence. And then you get to think, "Does that mean there's another one?"
May 8, 2025
The worst book I’ve read this year. Maybe my kindle downloaded the wrong book because I fail to see where this travesty warrants a 4.2 rating.
Let’s start off with the fact that the MC is turning 49, not 89. FFS every other paragraph was how old and decrepit she was. Another issue I had with this book was the constant back and forth of first, second and third person point of view. I couldn’t keep up with whose thoughts were what. It was annoying to read and it happened multiple times on one page alone.
The reveal was laughable. Garbage.
Let’s start off with the fact that the MC is turning 49, not 89. FFS every other paragraph was how old and decrepit she was. Another issue I had with this book was the constant back and forth of first, second and third person point of view. I couldn’t keep up with whose thoughts were what. It was annoying to read and it happened multiple times on one page alone.
The reveal was laughable. Garbage.
March 1, 2025
What a ride! Amazing story of serial murder, mayhem and a mother's love. I curled my toes and bit my lip while reading this thriller. Character development was so true to life that I felt every ache of the main character. Fabulous world building, especially the cabin in the woods. I DID NOT even come close to solving this story. Highly Recommended!
February 26, 2025
I didn’t want to put the book down! There’s so many twists and turns that carry you through the book. I had an inkling at the beginning at who it was but you never completely know until the end. Loved it!
March 1, 2025
Emma Donavan's life takes a sudden, mysterious turn when she receives a letter bearing her mother's signature—communication she hasn't had in twenty-five years. This unexpected communication stirs a tempest of emotions, casting her back into the shadows of her past. At forty-nine, Emma returns to Blackthorn, the town she once called home, only to find it shrouded in fear. A series of gruesome murders mirrors the horrific events from over two decades ago, events that Emma has struggled to suppress. Plagued by childhood trauma and the complexities of her relationship with her mother, Courtney, Emma faces a daunting challenge: to unravel the truth behind these murders before she becomes the prime suspect.
In ‘Chapter Forty-Nine,’ Michelle Powers masterfully weaves a tale that oscillates between the past and present, creating a rich tapestry of suspense and intrigue. The dual timelines not only reveal Emma's troubled history of the enigmatic relationship with her mother but also provide critical insights into the unfolding mystery. As readers delve deeper into the narrative, they are taken on a journey through Emma's younger years and the haunting events that shaped her into the woman she is today. This intricate narrative technique ensures that each revelation is met with a gasp, leaving readers eager to piece together the story's intricate puzzle.
Michelle Powers' skillful use of vivid descriptions brings the eerie atmosphere of Blackthorn to life. For instance, the chilling depiction of the abandoned cabin in the woods, with its creaking floors and the overwhelming scent of decay, is just one example of how the author sets the scene for the unfolding drama. These carefully crafted settings heighten the sense of dread and anticipation, making readers feel as though they are walking beside Emma as she navigates the dangerous path laid out before her. The haunting ambiance is a character in itself, contributing to the psychological tension that permeates the novel.
The characters in "Chapter Forty-Nine" are intricately crafted, each with their own secrets. Michelle Powers expertly plants seeds of doubt, making readers question the trustworthiness of certain characters. As Emma interacts with the others—each with their own connections to the past—layers of subtle yet sinister secrets start to unravel. The dialogue and actions of these characters constantly shift the narrative, keeping readers guessing and engaged. This unpredictability adds depth to the story, ensuring that the plot remains as suspenseful as it is complex.
While the storyline is predominantly cohesive and compelling, there are occasional moments where contradictions arise— a dialogue that doesn't quite align with a previous comment. However, these instances are fleeting and do little to detract from the overall narrative. Readers may find themselves momentarily puzzled, but the strength of the characters and their journeys ultimately keeps the audience engaged to the point that this compensates for any minor inconsistencies, allowing the story to flourish despite its imperfections.
The culmination of Emma's journey is as thrilling as it is satisfying. Michelle Powers ties together the threads of past and present with precision, delivering an ending that is both unexpected and gratifying. The resolution of the mystery is a testament to the author's storytelling prowess, leaving readers with a sense of closure and contemplation. "Chapter Forty-Nine" by Michelle Powers is a psychological thriller that not only captivates but also challenges readers to ponder the nature of memory and truth. Michelle Powers masterfully weaves an atmosphere of suspense that lingers in your mind, making "Chapter Forty-Nine" a must-read for anyone seeking an exhilarating escape into the world of psychological suspense.
Book Rating:
Originality: 4.75 / 5.0
Structure: 4.5 / 5.0
Pacing: 5.0 / 5.0
Dialogue: 4.5 / 5.0
Personal Enjoyment: 4.75 / 5.0
Cover Design: 4.75 / 5.0 (Not averaged in the overall rating.)
Overall Rating: 4.7 / 5.0 (Rating will be rounded up due to platforms not allowing partial ratings.)
In ‘Chapter Forty-Nine,’ Michelle Powers masterfully weaves a tale that oscillates between the past and present, creating a rich tapestry of suspense and intrigue. The dual timelines not only reveal Emma's troubled history of the enigmatic relationship with her mother but also provide critical insights into the unfolding mystery. As readers delve deeper into the narrative, they are taken on a journey through Emma's younger years and the haunting events that shaped her into the woman she is today. This intricate narrative technique ensures that each revelation is met with a gasp, leaving readers eager to piece together the story's intricate puzzle.
Michelle Powers' skillful use of vivid descriptions brings the eerie atmosphere of Blackthorn to life. For instance, the chilling depiction of the abandoned cabin in the woods, with its creaking floors and the overwhelming scent of decay, is just one example of how the author sets the scene for the unfolding drama. These carefully crafted settings heighten the sense of dread and anticipation, making readers feel as though they are walking beside Emma as she navigates the dangerous path laid out before her. The haunting ambiance is a character in itself, contributing to the psychological tension that permeates the novel.
The characters in "Chapter Forty-Nine" are intricately crafted, each with their own secrets. Michelle Powers expertly plants seeds of doubt, making readers question the trustworthiness of certain characters. As Emma interacts with the others—each with their own connections to the past—layers of subtle yet sinister secrets start to unravel. The dialogue and actions of these characters constantly shift the narrative, keeping readers guessing and engaged. This unpredictability adds depth to the story, ensuring that the plot remains as suspenseful as it is complex.
While the storyline is predominantly cohesive and compelling, there are occasional moments where contradictions arise— a dialogue that doesn't quite align with a previous comment. However, these instances are fleeting and do little to detract from the overall narrative. Readers may find themselves momentarily puzzled, but the strength of the characters and their journeys ultimately keeps the audience engaged to the point that this compensates for any minor inconsistencies, allowing the story to flourish despite its imperfections.
The culmination of Emma's journey is as thrilling as it is satisfying. Michelle Powers ties together the threads of past and present with precision, delivering an ending that is both unexpected and gratifying. The resolution of the mystery is a testament to the author's storytelling prowess, leaving readers with a sense of closure and contemplation. "Chapter Forty-Nine" by Michelle Powers is a psychological thriller that not only captivates but also challenges readers to ponder the nature of memory and truth. Michelle Powers masterfully weaves an atmosphere of suspense that lingers in your mind, making "Chapter Forty-Nine" a must-read for anyone seeking an exhilarating escape into the world of psychological suspense.
Book Rating:
Originality: 4.75 / 5.0
Structure: 4.5 / 5.0
Pacing: 5.0 / 5.0
Dialogue: 4.5 / 5.0
Personal Enjoyment: 4.75 / 5.0
Cover Design: 4.75 / 5.0 (Not averaged in the overall rating.)
Overall Rating: 4.7 / 5.0 (Rating will be rounded up due to platforms not allowing partial ratings.)
March 27, 2025
Chapter Forty-Nine
- Michelle Powers
In Chapter Forty-Nine, Powers presents a passionate and fascinating exploration of resilience, self-discovery, and the intricacies of human interactions. The story line tackles themes of love, trauma, mental health struggles, and loss, all centered around pivotal moments that shape each character.
I immediately connected with Emma Donovan (FMC), formerly known as Emily Striker, the daughter of Courtney Striker, a cold-blooded murderer who took the lives of three college students, deeming them responsible for the death of her oldest daughter. As Emma embarks on her journey into “chapter forty-nine,” she undergoes significant life changes - from her physical changes to relocating across the country in an effort to reconnect with a past she’s cautious to confront. I felt every emotion alongside her as she returned to her hometown, reconnected with familiar faces, and started a new job. Without warning, the haunting traumas stemming from her mother’s violent past resurface strongly affecting her. From here, her journey is a long and arduous one that will leave you in awe.
Powers excels at character development, skillfully illustrating how relationships evolve throughout the story. Each character is given just enough backstory to be relatable and authentic, deepening the reader’s emotional connection. Powers doesn't shy away from uncomfortable truths or dark themes; instead, she immerses us in a world filled with heartache and hope, gradually building tension with each plot twist and shocking revelation.
The vivid imagery used creates a strong sense of place, pulling readers directly into the storyline and reinforcing the emotional stakes. This investment in the outcome is enhanced by her smooth pacing and seamless transitions between chapters and scenes. Her writing is both engaging and haunting, compelling readers to keep turning the pages.
One standout aspect is Powers' masterful ability to misdirect guilt. I found myself constantly suspicious of everyone, caught up in a whirlwind of doubt - at one point, I even questioned if I was the guilty party! Every time Emma made a decision I wasn’t on board with, I couldn’t help but holler, “FFS, what are you thinking?!”
While this story is deeply touching and thought-provoking, stressing the importance of mental health, it delivers an authentic psychological thriller experience. It showcases Powers' talent not only for crafting a profound narrative with well-developed characters but also for weaving in memorable moments that capture the essence of what it means to be human, all while delivering the thrill that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
Based on the ending, I sincerely hope for a sequel to continue this gripping story.
As always, all opinions and reviews are of my own volition. I have not been promised any compensation by the author, present or future, for my review.
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- Michelle Powers
In Chapter Forty-Nine, Powers presents a passionate and fascinating exploration of resilience, self-discovery, and the intricacies of human interactions. The story line tackles themes of love, trauma, mental health struggles, and loss, all centered around pivotal moments that shape each character.
I immediately connected with Emma Donovan (FMC), formerly known as Emily Striker, the daughter of Courtney Striker, a cold-blooded murderer who took the lives of three college students, deeming them responsible for the death of her oldest daughter. As Emma embarks on her journey into “chapter forty-nine,” she undergoes significant life changes - from her physical changes to relocating across the country in an effort to reconnect with a past she’s cautious to confront. I felt every emotion alongside her as she returned to her hometown, reconnected with familiar faces, and started a new job. Without warning, the haunting traumas stemming from her mother’s violent past resurface strongly affecting her. From here, her journey is a long and arduous one that will leave you in awe.
Powers excels at character development, skillfully illustrating how relationships evolve throughout the story. Each character is given just enough backstory to be relatable and authentic, deepening the reader’s emotional connection. Powers doesn't shy away from uncomfortable truths or dark themes; instead, she immerses us in a world filled with heartache and hope, gradually building tension with each plot twist and shocking revelation.
The vivid imagery used creates a strong sense of place, pulling readers directly into the storyline and reinforcing the emotional stakes. This investment in the outcome is enhanced by her smooth pacing and seamless transitions between chapters and scenes. Her writing is both engaging and haunting, compelling readers to keep turning the pages.
One standout aspect is Powers' masterful ability to misdirect guilt. I found myself constantly suspicious of everyone, caught up in a whirlwind of doubt - at one point, I even questioned if I was the guilty party! Every time Emma made a decision I wasn’t on board with, I couldn’t help but holler, “FFS, what are you thinking?!”
While this story is deeply touching and thought-provoking, stressing the importance of mental health, it delivers an authentic psychological thriller experience. It showcases Powers' talent not only for crafting a profound narrative with well-developed characters but also for weaving in memorable moments that capture the essence of what it means to be human, all while delivering the thrill that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
Based on the ending, I sincerely hope for a sequel to continue this gripping story.
As always, all opinions and reviews are of my own volition. I have not been promised any compensation by the author, present or future, for my review.
IG: thetxlitchic Pinterest: thetxlitchic FB: TheTxLitChic
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/thetxlitchic
LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/TheTxLitChic
#thetxlitchic #bookreviewsandmore #bookstagram #booktok #bookcommunity #readersofinstagram #booklover #arcreader #bookreview #bingeworthy #tbr #supportindieauthors #bookobsessed #instareads #books #bookaddict #bookreviewer #bookreviews #keepreading #indiebooks #indieauthors #Supportyourlocalbook #genrewhore #ilikebigbooksandicannotlie
October 5, 2025
5 🌟Review. Chapter Forty-Nine.
Emily had to leave her hometown of Blackthorn before she was 25 years old to escape judgement and gossip after a truly shocking spate of Murders. She changed her name to Emma and closed herself off from her old life.
Years later, she returns to Blackthorn, believing enough time has passed and that she can get on with her life. She is now 49 years old.
Suddenly, gruesome murders start happening which trigger Emma. She reaches out to old friends and acquaintances for support. Emma finds herself right in the thick of all these murders and starts spiraling downwards, shocked and confused. Repressed memories start coming back....
Is someone trying to frame her because of her past?
My first book by Michelle and definitely won't be my last! I loved the fast-paced twists and turns. I thought I had it all worked out and what character's to trust. I didn't...
Michelle drew me in from the first page and revealed layers of lies and 'truths' right through to the end, encouraging the reader to bask in the knowledge that they had it all worked out.
An excellent read! Thanks Michelle Powers 🥰
Emily had to leave her hometown of Blackthorn before she was 25 years old to escape judgement and gossip after a truly shocking spate of Murders. She changed her name to Emma and closed herself off from her old life.
Years later, she returns to Blackthorn, believing enough time has passed and that she can get on with her life. She is now 49 years old.
Suddenly, gruesome murders start happening which trigger Emma. She reaches out to old friends and acquaintances for support. Emma finds herself right in the thick of all these murders and starts spiraling downwards, shocked and confused. Repressed memories start coming back....
Is someone trying to frame her because of her past?
My first book by Michelle and definitely won't be my last! I loved the fast-paced twists and turns. I thought I had it all worked out and what character's to trust. I didn't...
Michelle drew me in from the first page and revealed layers of lies and 'truths' right through to the end, encouraging the reader to bask in the knowledge that they had it all worked out.
An excellent read! Thanks Michelle Powers 🥰
February 8, 2025
Chapter Forty-Nine was an exhilarating journey from start to finish! I was hooked instantly. The dual timelines were like a dynamic duo—each one adding its own flavor to the story. I loved jumping back and forth between the past and present with Emma Donovan, piecing together the puzzle.
And those jaw-dropping moments? Absolute gold! Just when I thought I had it all figured out, BAM! Another twist hit me out of nowhere. One scene had my jaw dropping, and just when I recovered, another twist left me gasping again. It was a rollercoaster of emotions!
The connection between Emma’s forgotten memories and the current murders added an extra layer of intrigue. It was fascinating to see how the past and present intertwined. It felt like solving a complex mystery with each clue unveiling more chilling secrets.
Michelle excels in creating a chilling atmosphere; her vivid description of Blackthorn is so immersive that you can imagine yourself there with your eyes closed!
If you're into suspenseful reads filled with unexpected twists, this book is a must-read!
And those jaw-dropping moments? Absolute gold! Just when I thought I had it all figured out, BAM! Another twist hit me out of nowhere. One scene had my jaw dropping, and just when I recovered, another twist left me gasping again. It was a rollercoaster of emotions!
The connection between Emma’s forgotten memories and the current murders added an extra layer of intrigue. It was fascinating to see how the past and present intertwined. It felt like solving a complex mystery with each clue unveiling more chilling secrets.
Michelle excels in creating a chilling atmosphere; her vivid description of Blackthorn is so immersive that you can imagine yourself there with your eyes closed!
If you're into suspenseful reads filled with unexpected twists, this book is a must-read!
February 28, 2025
"In Blackthorn, some secrets refuse to stay buried... and some of them may be her own."
Chapter Forty-Nine by Michelle Powers is an absolutely thrilling, suspenseful, psychological thriller that will leave readers on the edge of their seats!
When Emma decides to go back to her hometown of Blackthorn, she is hoping for some much needed peace and quiet. What she finds instead is a brutal string of murders that are almost identical to the ones that had happened years before. And it seems Emma is a common link. can Emma find out who is targeting her town before she becomes the next victim? And as she continues to investigate what will her memories uncover?
For a short book this one packed a serious punch! Absolutely grabbed me from the very beginning and refused to let go. I was pretty certain I knew who the killer was but then I got hit with twists and turns all over the place that left me breathless. And that ending!? Maybe a sequel!? I will definitely be keeping my eye on Michelle Powers! Highly recommend for lovers of dark and twisty thrillers.
Chapter Forty-Nine by Michelle Powers is an absolutely thrilling, suspenseful, psychological thriller that will leave readers on the edge of their seats!
When Emma decides to go back to her hometown of Blackthorn, she is hoping for some much needed peace and quiet. What she finds instead is a brutal string of murders that are almost identical to the ones that had happened years before. And it seems Emma is a common link. can Emma find out who is targeting her town before she becomes the next victim? And as she continues to investigate what will her memories uncover?
For a short book this one packed a serious punch! Absolutely grabbed me from the very beginning and refused to let go. I was pretty certain I knew who the killer was but then I got hit with twists and turns all over the place that left me breathless. And that ending!? Maybe a sequel!? I will definitely be keeping my eye on Michelle Powers! Highly recommend for lovers of dark and twisty thrillers.
August 1, 2025
This was a hot mess. I'm sorry. I normally try really hard to be softer in my criticism, but this? Lets start with the most annoying part first, the woman is turning 49, not 80 yet the majority of the book is writing like she and her BFF are literally falling apart. The aches, the pains the meds. She is scared if she gets in the tub she cant get out. As someone in her 50's, this analogy is such a stretch. Then there is the fact this book either didn't have someone do a basic spell check or they just missed a lot. But I digress. A lot of the conversations seem far fetched and unrealistic.
But the most ridiculous part of all of this? The main character is the killer, the cop knows this and is running around hiding all the evidence of that because he loves her!! After what, one night when they slept together over 25 years ago?? Give me a break! At least its a quick read that can be done in a day, that's all I have at this point.
But the most ridiculous part of all of this? The main character is the killer, the cop knows this and is running around hiding all the evidence of that because he loves her!! After what, one night when they slept together over 25 years ago?? Give me a break! At least its a quick read that can be done in a day, that's all I have at this point.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2025
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 This is my first book from Michelle Powers and definitely not my last. I read it all in one day!
Emma Donovan (aka Emily Striker) is celebrating her forty ninth birthday (chapter 49). She had moved to Boston to escape things in her past and returned to her home town, Blackthorn. She left to escape because after the loss of her sister, Jessie, her mom turned into a completely different person and blamed others for the death of her sister. She felt they deserved the same fate as Jessie and murdered them. She was sent to prison for life, but Emma had made friends with the detective on the case, he had helped her arrange to move away for 2 decades.
Once she comes back, murders started happening again. How is that possible that her DNA was found on their bodies? Who broke into her house? Who and why is someone trying to frame her? These are just some of the twists in this book. It had me hooked from the first page! I never saw some of these twists and turns coming!
Emma Donovan (aka Emily Striker) is celebrating her forty ninth birthday (chapter 49). She had moved to Boston to escape things in her past and returned to her home town, Blackthorn. She left to escape because after the loss of her sister, Jessie, her mom turned into a completely different person and blamed others for the death of her sister. She felt they deserved the same fate as Jessie and murdered them. She was sent to prison for life, but Emma had made friends with the detective on the case, he had helped her arrange to move away for 2 decades.
Once she comes back, murders started happening again. How is that possible that her DNA was found on their bodies? Who broke into her house? Who and why is someone trying to frame her? These are just some of the twists in this book. It had me hooked from the first page! I never saw some of these twists and turns coming!
August 10, 2025
Chapter Forty-Nine by Michelle Powers
🌟🌟🌟🌟
This is a wildly entertaining psychological thriller that kept me at the edge of my seat!
There are a good amount of twists and turns and suspense in this story! It definitely kept me guessing!
Emma decides to head back to her hometown for some rest as she’s turning 49, but she quickly finds out there have been a string of murders in the small town.
I enjoyed the dual timelines that went on from Emma’s past to the present day. It kept me extra intrigued.
I listened to the audio and the narrator did a great job!
This is my first book from this author and it won’t be my last!!
*Check out this thrilling read!!*
🌟🌟🌟🌟
This is a wildly entertaining psychological thriller that kept me at the edge of my seat!
There are a good amount of twists and turns and suspense in this story! It definitely kept me guessing!
Emma decides to head back to her hometown for some rest as she’s turning 49, but she quickly finds out there have been a string of murders in the small town.
I enjoyed the dual timelines that went on from Emma’s past to the present day. It kept me extra intrigued.
I listened to the audio and the narrator did a great job!
This is my first book from this author and it won’t be my last!!
*Check out this thrilling read!!*
February 9, 2025
Chapter Forty-Nine is the type of story that you are sure you have all figured out. You don't. I love these kinds of endings. I was pretty sure that I knew who the "killer" was and not only was I wrong, they didn't survive to end the story. The story revolves around Emma and her mom who is a college professor and oh yeah, she's also a serial killer. Emma tries to find out who may be doing some copycat killings but it's not what you think. I enjoyed it and think you will too. Quick read that will keep you interested.
February 17, 2025
Emma Donovan returns to Blackthorn after 20+ years after she left. Murders started happening again like then when she left, and Emma gets drawn to investigation, bcs. murders are linked to her.
Emma needs to discover the truth before is too late.
Chapter Forty - Nine got me hooked from the start. Short chapters, loved every minute of it.
Book didn't drag, something was always happening, and twists and turns all the time.
If you love quick psychological thrillers with many twist, turns and likeable characters, this is my recommendation.
Emma needs to discover the truth before is too late.
Chapter Forty - Nine got me hooked from the start. Short chapters, loved every minute of it.
Book didn't drag, something was always happening, and twists and turns all the time.
If you love quick psychological thrillers with many twist, turns and likeable characters, this is my recommendation.
March 1, 2025
Best book of the year so far! This a thriller. I thought I had it figured out.. Wow I was wrong!!
Emma (Emily)received a letter from her mother who is currently in prison. At least she thought it was from her mother. She returns to her home town to see her mother. And hopefully stop the murders that were mentioned in the letter. Enter Detective Ryan. He helped her move and get a new identity. So she could start over. Ryan seems to be on her side to help clear her name. The plot twist in the book left me stunned! I highly recommend this book! You can pre order now!
Emma (Emily)received a letter from her mother who is currently in prison. At least she thought it was from her mother. She returns to her home town to see her mother. And hopefully stop the murders that were mentioned in the letter. Enter Detective Ryan. He helped her move and get a new identity. So she could start over. Ryan seems to be on her side to help clear her name. The plot twist in the book left me stunned! I highly recommend this book! You can pre order now!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 10, 2025
📖 Book Review: Chapter Forty-Nine by Michelle Powers
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My jaw was on the floor by the end of this book—literally! I couldn’t have predicted that twist if I tried. 😱 This is my very first read by Michelle Powers, and I can already tell it won’t be the last. I absolutely adore this book!
The story gripped me from the start. The cover alone had me hooked and curious—and trust me, the inside more than delivered. Every chapter pulled me deeper into the mystery, and just when I thought I had it all figured out… boom! Plot twist I did not see coming.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My jaw was on the floor by the end of this book—literally! I couldn’t have predicted that twist if I tried. 😱 This is my very first read by Michelle Powers, and I can already tell it won’t be the last. I absolutely adore this book!
The story gripped me from the start. The cover alone had me hooked and curious—and trust me, the inside more than delivered. Every chapter pulled me deeper into the mystery, and just when I thought I had it all figured out… boom! Plot twist I did not see coming.
February 1, 2025
This book was an absolute page turner from the jump. I thought i had it all figured out about 4 different times, only to be blown away at the end, with the twists that just kept coming. The way it ended could lead to another book...I sure hope it does. I live that it wasn't a long, drawn-out 500-page novel. Quick easy read done in an evening. I think I just found a new favorite author!! This was a great way to end my January reads with this being my 35th and final book of the month!!!
March 1, 2025
Really enjoyed this one!
Emma finds herself back in a hometown she left long ago and in the middle of murder investigation. What did she walk back in to? Should she have stayed away from her past?
Chapter Forty-Nine grabbed my attention from the first chapter and kept me guessing the entire time. The short chapters created a fast paced reading experience. This thriller is full of twists that you're not expecting.
I highly recommend checking this one out for a quick read!
Emma finds herself back in a hometown she left long ago and in the middle of murder investigation. What did she walk back in to? Should she have stayed away from her past?
Chapter Forty-Nine grabbed my attention from the first chapter and kept me guessing the entire time. The short chapters created a fast paced reading experience. This thriller is full of twists that you're not expecting.
I highly recommend checking this one out for a quick read!
March 10, 2025
must read
This book was a thrilling ride from beginning to end! This fast-paced story kept me engaged, and I fully enjoyed every minute of it. The author crafted a story filled with twists and turns that kept me guessing throughout the entire book. If you’re looking for a book that will grab your attention and hold it from the first page then, look no further, this one is for you! I highly recommend. I will be reading more from this author.
This book was a thrilling ride from beginning to end! This fast-paced story kept me engaged, and I fully enjoyed every minute of it. The author crafted a story filled with twists and turns that kept me guessing throughout the entire book. If you’re looking for a book that will grab your attention and hold it from the first page then, look no further, this one is for you! I highly recommend. I will be reading more from this author.
February 5, 2025
This was an enjoyable, quick read with a good story, but possibly too many 'storyline ideas' crammed into a relatively short book. The last few pages add nothing to the story other than a possible sequel, but I'm not sure the story warrants continuing. I found myself correcting typos, incorrect words and character references, which was frustrating. Needs proofreading!
March 26, 2025
Interesting premise, and I picked it out to read because of the high reviews. However, I almost DNF because I did not enjoy the author’s syntax and diction. I felt the dialogues were forced, unnatural, and a bit amateurish. It was an entertaining enough read, but I prefer a bit more complexity in writing styles.
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