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The Vulture Tree
A famous Dallas journalist vanishes. Her estranged sister digs up the past, starting with a mysterious tree from their childhood.
Emma never expected the nightly news to bring her sister, Scarlett, a well-known Dallas journalist, back into her life—let alone announce she’d been missing for three weeks.
Estranged for over six years following a family tragedy, Emma is determined to bridge the gap and help find Scarlett before it’s too late.
Partnering with Jackson, the lead detective on the case, Emma discovers that the key to uncovering Scarlett’s whereabouts lies in her missing journal—a journal filled with secrets someone is willing to kill to protect.
As Emma and Jackson dig deeper, a shared childhood memory, the mysterious vulture tree, could hold the answers they’ve been searching for.
With time running out, Emma must confront her own fears and the painful history between her and Scarlett. Will the sisters reunite and find healing, or will the shadows of the past claim Scarlett forever?
A story of resilience, redemption, and the unbreakable bond of family, The Vulture Tree is a gripping mystery that will keep you guessing until the very last page.
This is the first installment in “The Vulture Tree” two-book series.
Emma never expected the nightly news to bring her sister, Scarlett, a well-known Dallas journalist, back into her life—let alone announce she’d been missing for three weeks.
Estranged for over six years following a family tragedy, Emma is determined to bridge the gap and help find Scarlett before it’s too late.
Partnering with Jackson, the lead detective on the case, Emma discovers that the key to uncovering Scarlett’s whereabouts lies in her missing journal—a journal filled with secrets someone is willing to kill to protect.
As Emma and Jackson dig deeper, a shared childhood memory, the mysterious vulture tree, could hold the answers they’ve been searching for.
With time running out, Emma must confront her own fears and the painful history between her and Scarlett. Will the sisters reunite and find healing, or will the shadows of the past claim Scarlett forever?
A story of resilience, redemption, and the unbreakable bond of family, The Vulture Tree is a gripping mystery that will keep you guessing until the very last page.
This is the first installment in “The Vulture Tree” two-book series.
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 19, 2025
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February 20, 2025A thrilling tale that begins with action and thrill from the first page. A kidnapped woman, Scarlett, who is an investigative journalist worries no one will find her but also hopes her sister looks for her; even though they haven't talked in a long time.
On the other hand, the Sister, Emma finds out Scarlett is missing for 3 weeks and decides to do anything to find her sister. In this journey, she meets a detective who has taken this missing case. Along the way, we also find out about both the sisters, and their lives, both together and also separate. How things went in the past and what led them to where they were now.
The twists, the events, the truths, all were detailed to the point and just the correct amount.
I would highly recommend this book to all thrill lovers with mystery and suspense too. And the way it ends with a cliffhanger, you'll want to read more. I am waiting.
On the other hand, the Sister, Emma finds out Scarlett is missing for 3 weeks and decides to do anything to find her sister. In this journey, she meets a detective who has taken this missing case. Along the way, we also find out about both the sisters, and their lives, both together and also separate. How things went in the past and what led them to where they were now.
The twists, the events, the truths, all were detailed to the point and just the correct amount.
I would highly recommend this book to all thrill lovers with mystery and suspense too. And the way it ends with a cliffhanger, you'll want to read more. I am waiting.
February 15, 2025
The Vulture Tree
by Sabrina Wade
Release Date: Feb 19, 2025
Some family bonds are stretched thin, but Emma never imagined hers would snap back with such force—delivered through the cold glow of a news report. Her sister, Scarlett, a respected Dallas journalist, has vanished. Three weeks gone. No calls. No clues. Just an aching silence where her voice used to be.
With a past fractured by tragedy and six years of estrangement, Emma isn’t sure how to mend what’s broken—but she knows she has to try. Partnering with Jackson, the detective leading the case, she sets out to unravel the mystery of Scarlett’s disappearance. The key? A missing journal filled with secrets that someone is willing to kill to protect.
As Emma and Jackson chase down leads, a haunting childhood memory surfaces—the vulture tree. A name wrapped in shadow, a place neither sister dared revisit. Could it hold the answers they seek? Or will digging too deep awaken dangers neither of them are prepared for?
Sabrina Wade masterfully weaves suspense and emotion, pulling the reader through a labyrinth of secrets, guilt, and redemption. The tension hums like a live wire, each revelation tightening the grip until you’re racing through the final pages, desperate for answers. But make no mistake—this is only the beginning. The Vulture Tree is book one of a two-part series, and by the time you reach the last page, you’ll be anxious—no, desperate—to get your hands on book two.
by Sabrina Wade
Release Date: Feb 19, 2025
Some family bonds are stretched thin, but Emma never imagined hers would snap back with such force—delivered through the cold glow of a news report. Her sister, Scarlett, a respected Dallas journalist, has vanished. Three weeks gone. No calls. No clues. Just an aching silence where her voice used to be.
With a past fractured by tragedy and six years of estrangement, Emma isn’t sure how to mend what’s broken—but she knows she has to try. Partnering with Jackson, the detective leading the case, she sets out to unravel the mystery of Scarlett’s disappearance. The key? A missing journal filled with secrets that someone is willing to kill to protect.
As Emma and Jackson chase down leads, a haunting childhood memory surfaces—the vulture tree. A name wrapped in shadow, a place neither sister dared revisit. Could it hold the answers they seek? Or will digging too deep awaken dangers neither of them are prepared for?
Sabrina Wade masterfully weaves suspense and emotion, pulling the reader through a labyrinth of secrets, guilt, and redemption. The tension hums like a live wire, each revelation tightening the grip until you’re racing through the final pages, desperate for answers. But make no mistake—this is only the beginning. The Vulture Tree is book one of a two-part series, and by the time you reach the last page, you’ll be anxious—no, desperate—to get your hands on book two.
February 22, 2025
Having learned on the TV Sabrina Wade, a well known journalist, is missing for three weeks, her estranged sister, Emma has to find her. There is so much edge of your seat thrilling moments, you can't stop turning pages to see what will happen next. After a tragedy struck her family, Sabrina left for college, leaving Emma behind to take care of her father. Emma hadn't seen Sabrina since. Detective Jackson, who is in charge of the case tells Emma he wants her to come to Texas in order to help find her sister. Emma, being more of a homebody, reclusive feels maybe if she finds her sister, they can mend their relationship. When investigating they find that a key to help find Sabrina is a missing journal filled with secrets Sabrina was uncovering that someone might be willing to kill to protect. A memory of the girls past and the vulture tree, may just be a key. This is a page turning mystery that leaves you hanging in the end with unanswered questions that has you craving book two to see how things get tied up. This is a well written thrilling mystery with some really well developed characters with just a little bit of romance. This book has it all, well almost all until the second book comes out. I received an ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
February 12, 2025
When Emma Pearson hears on the news that her sister, Scarlett Pearson, and investigative journalist has been kidnapped.
She has to overcome her fear of leaving her home and travel to another state to help the police with the investigation.
The Vulture Tree is part one of a two book series.
While it's marketed as a Thriller, it's really a Romantic Suspense.
The overall story is well told with developed characters and a bit of intrigue.
I had to struggle to give this one four stars instead of three.
Towards the end of the book, the focus completely shifts from the search for Scarlett to the potential romantic interest background stories.
It was to the point that I thought the author had forgotten there was a missing person who was supposed to be the focus point of the story and what had become of her.
This is a short story in which this book will need to be read first as there is a huge cliffhanger that will be addressed in the next book.
Having said all of that, the story did hold my interest, and I am looking forward to the next book to find out how it all ties together and comes to an end.
She has to overcome her fear of leaving her home and travel to another state to help the police with the investigation.
The Vulture Tree is part one of a two book series.
While it's marketed as a Thriller, it's really a Romantic Suspense.
The overall story is well told with developed characters and a bit of intrigue.
I had to struggle to give this one four stars instead of three.
Towards the end of the book, the focus completely shifts from the search for Scarlett to the potential romantic interest background stories.
It was to the point that I thought the author had forgotten there was a missing person who was supposed to be the focus point of the story and what had become of her.
This is a short story in which this book will need to be read first as there is a huge cliffhanger that will be addressed in the next book.
Having said all of that, the story did hold my interest, and I am looking forward to the next book to find out how it all ties together and comes to an end.
February 15, 2026
The writing was good and the premise intriguing, even the pacing fit the thriller genre. I didn't realize it was episodic fiction - which is fine! It just caught me off guard because I assumed it was a completed thriller novel. The book itself is about 60k words or less, which is short for a thriller, and the plot isn't tied up at the end. Readers will need to read the remaining books in the series to learn the resolution to the mystery, because the ending of book one leaves you with more questions than answers.
The reason for the 3 stars is only because it's not advertised as episodic fiction (meaning...you need to read all the books for the full story to be resolved). Typically in a series, each book has a standalone plot that finds resolution, even if the overarching series plot isn't resolved. But this book didn't resolve anything...we're not even sure Scarlett (the woman who's being held captive at the beginning) makes it to safety, we only learn she's still alive at the end. It's not a bad read, and I'd still recommend it as it seems like a binge-worthy, quick read series, just know this isn't a full story.
The reason for the 3 stars is only because it's not advertised as episodic fiction (meaning...you need to read all the books for the full story to be resolved). Typically in a series, each book has a standalone plot that finds resolution, even if the overarching series plot isn't resolved. But this book didn't resolve anything...we're not even sure Scarlett (the woman who's being held captive at the beginning) makes it to safety, we only learn she's still alive at the end. It's not a bad read, and I'd still recommend it as it seems like a binge-worthy, quick read series, just know this isn't a full story.
February 25, 2025
Emma is watching the nightly news when she learns that a well known Dallas journalist is missing and has been for three weeks. That jouralist is her estranged sister, Scarlett. They haven't talked in six years since some tragedy related to family. She sets out to try to figure out what happened. That journey leads her to the lead detective.
Jackson is helping Emma locate her sister. Clues seem to point to a journal Scarlett kept. There are secrets in there that it sees someone is willing to kill to keep it quiet. As they follow what amounts to clues or vague hints Emma starts to remember things from when they were younger. One thought is focused on what they called the vulture tree. What does that have to do with Scarlett and her disappearance? The time for action draws close. Will Emma be able to get past the pain and anger to find her sister? Will she still be alive?
A mystery wrapped in a thriller. The reader will be left gasping.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Jackson is helping Emma locate her sister. Clues seem to point to a journal Scarlett kept. There are secrets in there that it sees someone is willing to kill to keep it quiet. As they follow what amounts to clues or vague hints Emma starts to remember things from when they were younger. One thought is focused on what they called the vulture tree. What does that have to do with Scarlett and her disappearance? The time for action draws close. Will Emma be able to get past the pain and anger to find her sister? Will she still be alive?
A mystery wrapped in a thriller. The reader will be left gasping.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 19, 2025
THE VULTURE TREE by Sabrina Wade is the first of two books in her thriller series, The Vulture Tree. This is also my introduction to the author. I enjoyed the characters and world building. You'll find family drama, nail biting situations and enough suspense to keep you turning the pages.
The story is about a fearless journalist that has vanished, possibly kidnapped or even murdered. The missing sister makes the plot of the story, but her estranged sister, Emma, is the main character. The story follows Emma and the investigating officers as they look for clues to Scarlett's whereabouts. The story flips back now and then to let us know what is happening to Scarlett.
A shared childhood memory and the mysterious vulture tree may be the only things that can save this family.
I received a free copy of this book from the author, and the above is my voluntary and honest review. Looking for the second book
The story is about a fearless journalist that has vanished, possibly kidnapped or even murdered. The missing sister makes the plot of the story, but her estranged sister, Emma, is the main character. The story follows Emma and the investigating officers as they look for clues to Scarlett's whereabouts. The story flips back now and then to let us know what is happening to Scarlett.
A shared childhood memory and the mysterious vulture tree may be the only things that can save this family.
I received a free copy of this book from the author, and the above is my voluntary and honest review. Looking for the second book
February 20, 2025
This story has a bit of everything, from family tragedies to danger!
I have read other books by Sabrina Wade and loved them all. Suspense, fear and terror are something she does well. This story is no exception to that. We have Emma, a woman who pretty much became agoraphobic when COVID hit. After a tragedy struck her family, her older sister left home for college, leaving Emma behind who felt obligated to take care of her father. Emma has neither seen nor heard from her sister since then. Now her sister is missing and the detective in charge of the case requests that Emma travel to Texas to assist with the case. There is plenty of drama in this story. Not only does Emma have to leave her home and cat behind to travel to Texas, but she must also interact with people, something else she hasn’t really done in a long time. Honestly, I can’t wait until the second part of this tale comes out!
I have read other books by Sabrina Wade and loved them all. Suspense, fear and terror are something she does well. This story is no exception to that. We have Emma, a woman who pretty much became agoraphobic when COVID hit. After a tragedy struck her family, her older sister left home for college, leaving Emma behind who felt obligated to take care of her father. Emma has neither seen nor heard from her sister since then. Now her sister is missing and the detective in charge of the case requests that Emma travel to Texas to assist with the case. There is plenty of drama in this story. Not only does Emma have to leave her home and cat behind to travel to Texas, but she must also interact with people, something else she hasn’t really done in a long time. Honestly, I can’t wait until the second part of this tale comes out!
February 17, 2025
This is a mystery book and is book 1 of a 2 book series. We are introduced to Emma and her estranged sister Scarlett. Scarlett is a journalist, and Emma just found out that she is missing. Even though they became estranged after a family issue, Emma wanted to track her down and maybe mend fences, if they can be mended. Family issues can run deep. Emma , with lead detective Jackson set out. The clues lie with Scarlett’s journal. Things lead back to childhood memories and does she really want to dredge up everything? I will have to wait for book 2 to see how this sorts out. I received an ARC copy from the author and this is my honest review.
February 19, 2025
The Vulture Tree is a gripping, atmospheric debut novel that blends family drama with a touch of dark mystery. Set in a small, rural town, it follows the journey of a young woman returning home to confront her past and unravel the secrets that have haunted her family. Wade’s writing is rich in detail, capturing the haunting beauty of the landscape and the complex relationships within the family. The novel's slow-building tension keeps readers intrigued, leading to a satisfying but bittersweet conclusion. This book is perfect for those who enjoy introspective stories with a sense of suspense and emotional depth.
February 18, 2026
The Vulture Tree is a gripping thriller that masterfully blends suspense with emotional depth. Sabrina Wade doesn’t just give us a missing person mystery she delivers a layered story about fractured family bonds and unresolved trauma. The tension builds steadily as Emma and Detective Jackson peel back secrets tied to Scarlett’s journal.
What truly stood out to me was the emotional undercurrent between the sisters. The mysterious vulture tree serves as a powerful symbol of memory and buried truth. This book kept me guessing while also making me reflect on how the past shapes our present. An excellent start to the series.
What truly stood out to me was the emotional undercurrent between the sisters. The mysterious vulture tree serves as a powerful symbol of memory and buried truth. This book kept me guessing while also making me reflect on how the past shapes our present. An excellent start to the series.
March 4, 2025
Great Story—hard to put down,
Emma and Scarlett are sisters. But they have lost touch with each other. Their mother and little brother were killed in a tornado. The family split apart. It was hard on them. Now, Scarlett is a reporter—but she is missing. Emma is very upset—but afraid to leave her house. One of the detectives on the case in Texas gets ahold of Emma. Emma decides that she needs to be involved in the case—perhaps she can help. Can she get there in time? Will she be able to help find Scarlett?
Emma and Scarlett are sisters. But they have lost touch with each other. Their mother and little brother were killed in a tornado. The family split apart. It was hard on them. Now, Scarlett is a reporter—but she is missing. Emma is very upset—but afraid to leave her house. One of the detectives on the case in Texas gets ahold of Emma. Emma decides that she needs to be involved in the case—perhaps she can help. Can she get there in time? Will she be able to help find Scarlett?
February 14, 2025
OMG 😱 it was absolutely another great mystery. It was a page turner and the suspense was intriguing. I was on the edge of my seat and I couldn’t even put it down. It was addicted. Emma Pearson found out what happened to her sister Scarlett Pearson was kidnapped a she was investigative journalist. She was scared to leave her own home to search for her sister but she have to travel to another state to help the police with the investigation. But will Jackson and Wyatt be able to save her sister life before it is too late. There were many secrets surrounding this story and they had to get to the bottom of this once and for all. But it brought up some bad memories and feelings for her and her family in this moment. And who was the culprit? Was it someone that least expected?
I definitely recommend this book and you won’t be disappointed. I received advance copy of this book via Bookfunnel and am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion. Trina Jones
I definitely recommend this book and you won’t be disappointed. I received advance copy of this book via Bookfunnel and am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion. Trina Jones
February 17, 2025
The Vulture Tree by Sabrina Wade will be released on February 19th and is book one in the Vulture Tree Series. I found The Vulture Tree to be a great domestic thriller. The MFC, Emma, discovers that her estranged sister, Scarlett, is missing and begins working with the detectives to try and locate her. I found the read to have a suspenseful plot with a good build of characters. I recommend this read for those who enjoy domestic thrillers.
March 7, 2025
Entertaining!
Two sisters who’ve not spoken or seen each other in years. One is missing, the other a recluse. Emma has to help find her sister, Scarlett, in anyway possible so when she gets hold of the lead detective on her case she has to face more than just her fears in order to try.
This is book one of two and a good read if you love mystery.
I read this book voluntarily for an honest review.
Two sisters who’ve not spoken or seen each other in years. One is missing, the other a recluse. Emma has to help find her sister, Scarlett, in anyway possible so when she gets hold of the lead detective on her case she has to face more than just her fears in order to try.
This is book one of two and a good read if you love mystery.
I read this book voluntarily for an honest review.
April 8, 2025
The Vulture Tree: (Vulture Tree Series Book 1), my fourth read from author Sabrina Wade. A 228-page read. If you like N.L. Hinkens & James Caine you'll probably like Sabrina Wade. "I received a complementary Kindle copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. The Guardian Tree is high on my TBR list when it's released. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
February 15, 2025
One of the greatest books I've read so far this year it's full of mystery, nail biting situations, survival of devastating loss and warmth of friends. I love how lead Detective Jackson and Detective Wyatt took Emma under their wings to help and try to find her missing sister Scarlett. Since discovering this author she has become a favorite of mine.
February 25, 2025
Though this is marked as a thriller, it is more romance and suspense. I personally, can do without the romance, but the story blended it in well where I could 'live with it'. Other than that, it is an intense story about a sister trying to save her sister. A good start. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
April 15, 2025
Must read
Wow. Enthralling. Great plot. Good characters. Well written. Good clean mystery. Very worth the read. Looking forward to next in series.
Themes, loss, starting fresh, running away from problems, kidnapping, in over her head, investigations, police, likely dirty cops, learning to trusttget out again.
Wow. Enthralling. Great plot. Good characters. Well written. Good clean mystery. Very worth the read. Looking forward to next in series.
Themes, loss, starting fresh, running away from problems, kidnapping, in over her head, investigations, police, likely dirty cops, learning to trusttget out again.
February 27, 2026
The Vulture Tree( Culture Tree Series Book 1) Sabrina Wade
Fascinating read and can't wait for the next. Kidnapping, police targeting the clues. A sister who has been away from her older Sister trying to find clues. The people she encounters are either evil or kind. She misses her cat!
Fascinating read and can't wait for the next. Kidnapping, police targeting the clues. A sister who has been away from her older Sister trying to find clues. The people she encounters are either evil or kind. She misses her cat!
February 14, 2025
Received as ARC. Enjoyable start to the series. Two sisters apart for 6 years, Emma learns that her sister, Scarlet, has been missing for 3 weeks. After partnering with the lead detective, they began the chase. Easy reading, with a good plot and characters.
February 25, 2025
What?!!!? So good!! The plot, the characters, everything! But the cliffhanger?? Noooooooo!!!! I can’t wait for the sequel! Way to go, Ms. Wade. Another great book! Thanks for sharing the ARC with me!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2025
This was a well written and intriguing mystery with a good storyline and interesting characters. The story moves at a good pace and is written well. I really enjoyed reading this wonderful mystery and can't wait to read what happens next.
April 6, 2025
This is book one of a two book series. I enjoyed reading this book and I highly recommend. It is well written with action, danger and well written characters. I am looking forward to reading book 2 once it is out and definitely want to read more of Sabrina Wade's writing
August 6, 2025
New to me Author
Ms. Wade is a news to Author and I'm so glad to have one-clicked on this book! She kept my attention throughout, and now I'm on my way to The Saving Tree. Be back soon!!
Ms. Wade is a news to Author and I'm so glad to have one-clicked on this book! She kept my attention throughout, and now I'm on my way to The Saving Tree. Be back soon!!
August 6, 2026
I stumbled upon this book by chance and finished it in one sitting! It captivated my attention from the very beginning and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I’ve already picked up the second book in the series!!
February 15, 2025
this was a good book a quick read i like it the characters were great
March 11, 2025
So good
I can’t wait for the next one! High action and fun, and seemingly accurate emotions. Two sisters needing closure from past pain.
I can’t wait for the next one! High action and fun, and seemingly accurate emotions. Two sisters needing closure from past pain.
July 21, 2025
loved every word!!
June 17, 2026
Good characters and plot development / writing style. I'm not a fan of books in a series that ends with cliff hangers like this one. Some suspense and a good thriller. I hope the next one doesn't end with a cliff hanger.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews