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The Shadow Killer
How Deep Can You Go Into A Killer's Mind
Before You Lose Your Own?
Dr. Evelyn Shaw is a celebrated forensic psychologist, known for her ability to uncover the minds of the most dangerous criminals. But when she is asked to profile James Hawthorne, a cunning and manipulative serial killer, she finds herself drawn into a psychological battle unlike any she has faced before.
James is no ordinary murderer. He reveals unsettling details about his crimes—and Evelyn’s past. As their sessions progress, Evelyn’s carefully constructed life begins to unravel. Long-buried childhood traumas a domineering father, a mother’s mysterious death, and a brother she couldn’t save. James’s eerie knowledge of her darkest memories forces her to question whether he is manipulating her or if her mind is betraying her.
As Detective Inspector Ziggy Thornes races to uncover the truth behind James’s crimes, Evelyn becomes increasingly isolated. The line between victim and accomplice blurs when James escapes and Evelyn flees to her childhood home to confront the truth.
In a chilling finale, Evelyn must face her darkest fears and unravel her own connection to James’s crimes. The Shadow Killer is a gripping psychological thriller that explores the thin line between sanity and madness, manipulation and truth, leaving readers questioning where darkness truly begins.
Before You Lose Your Own?
Dr. Evelyn Shaw is a celebrated forensic psychologist, known for her ability to uncover the minds of the most dangerous criminals. But when she is asked to profile James Hawthorne, a cunning and manipulative serial killer, she finds herself drawn into a psychological battle unlike any she has faced before.
James is no ordinary murderer. He reveals unsettling details about his crimes—and Evelyn’s past. As their sessions progress, Evelyn’s carefully constructed life begins to unravel. Long-buried childhood traumas a domineering father, a mother’s mysterious death, and a brother she couldn’t save. James’s eerie knowledge of her darkest memories forces her to question whether he is manipulating her or if her mind is betraying her.
As Detective Inspector Ziggy Thornes races to uncover the truth behind James’s crimes, Evelyn becomes increasingly isolated. The line between victim and accomplice blurs when James escapes and Evelyn flees to her childhood home to confront the truth.
In a chilling finale, Evelyn must face her darkest fears and unravel her own connection to James’s crimes. The Shadow Killer is a gripping psychological thriller that explores the thin line between sanity and madness, manipulation and truth, leaving readers questioning where darkness truly begins.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 7, 2025
1 person is currently reading
31 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Skeet-Yaffe
6 books72 followersCatherine Yaffe is a bestselling British crime author whose gripping thrillers have topped the Amazon charts multiple times. Her work is known for its psychological depth, twisty plots, and unforgettable characters—particularly strong, complex women like Dr Evelyn Shaw.
When she's not plotting fictional murders, she’s passionate about supporting new writers. She runs a local writing group dedicated to helping unpublished authors develop their stories, and delivers workshops on crime writing, storytelling, and overcoming creative blocks.
A regular speaker at festivals including CrimeFest, Bay Tales, and Bloody Scotland, she also gives talks to libraries and community groups like the Women’s Institute, where she shares her journey through writing, illness, and resilience. Each year, she co-hosts Murder in the Rhubarb Triangle in partnership with Wakefield Library, a lively crime event that attracts over 200 visitors.
Her stories often draw on her own experiences bringing authenticity and emotional grit to her work. When she’s not writing or speaking, she can usually be found with a strong cup of tea, plotting her next murder.
When she's not plotting fictional murders, she’s passionate about supporting new writers. She runs a local writing group dedicated to helping unpublished authors develop their stories, and delivers workshops on crime writing, storytelling, and overcoming creative blocks.
A regular speaker at festivals including CrimeFest, Bay Tales, and Bloody Scotland, she also gives talks to libraries and community groups like the Women’s Institute, where she shares her journey through writing, illness, and resilience. Each year, she co-hosts Murder in the Rhubarb Triangle in partnership with Wakefield Library, a lively crime event that attracts over 200 visitors.
Her stories often draw on her own experiences bringing authenticity and emotional grit to her work. When she’s not writing or speaking, she can usually be found with a strong cup of tea, plotting her next murder.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
June 7, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ | This suspenseful story kept me at edge of my seat on this journey with Dr. Evelyn Shaw as she dives into the mind of a serial k1ller. However, with each encounter with notorious killer, James Hawthorne, it becomes evident that he has a connection to a past that Dr. Shaw is trying to leave behind.
Gripping read with dark content, yet a very addicting storyline. The twists at the end made it even more worthwhile, as some of them I did not see coming. Recommend for fans of suspenseful thrillers. Thank you Catherine Skeet-Yaffe & Hayling Bookstorm for this ARC, all opinions are my own.
Gripping read with dark content, yet a very addicting storyline. The twists at the end made it even more worthwhile, as some of them I did not see coming. Recommend for fans of suspenseful thrillers. Thank you Catherine Skeet-Yaffe & Hayling Bookstorm for this ARC, all opinions are my own.
August 17, 2025
Although this title is one of a series, it is perfectly readable as a standalone. The story follows a well-known pattern: we have our DI (Ziggy, although in one instance he introduces himself as ‘Andrew,’ so I think that must be his real name), his colleagues, a small town where they all live and work, and of course Ziggy is divorced with a son. It’s not clear whether he lives alone or sometimes with his ex-wife and son because there is mention of breakfasts together.
Enter the serial killer. He’s caught very early in the story; his name and method of killing are no surprise. Ziggy asks Evelyn Shaw, forensic psychologist, to come and help him get an insight in James’ mind so he may be persuaded to reveal how many lives he actually took and what he did with the bodies – although we later see that this is something you will have an extremely hard time dealing with. And of course, there are secrets and more secrets and twists in this book.
Thanks to Booksirens and the author for this review copy.
This was a new author to me, and I must admit I struggled with thinking about how to rate it and especially how to write this review. English is not my first language, but I must admit that although I initially rated the book four stars, I ended up giving it three. Why? Because I found some very strange editorial mistakes and some very strange grammar mistakes. Far be it from me to criticize an apparently well-known and celebrated author, but the writing style, combined with the mistakes I found (and of course I checked!), reminded me more of a young and not so experienced author.
Although some of the dialogues were very interesting to read, in the end there were some twists that should have been mentioned earlier to improve the flow of the story.
Anyway, I was a bit underwhelmed but not disappointed. I will certainly try and read more books by this author.
Enter the serial killer. He’s caught very early in the story; his name and method of killing are no surprise. Ziggy asks Evelyn Shaw, forensic psychologist, to come and help him get an insight in James’ mind so he may be persuaded to reveal how many lives he actually took and what he did with the bodies – although we later see that this is something you will have an extremely hard time dealing with. And of course, there are secrets and more secrets and twists in this book.
Thanks to Booksirens and the author for this review copy.
This was a new author to me, and I must admit I struggled with thinking about how to rate it and especially how to write this review. English is not my first language, but I must admit that although I initially rated the book four stars, I ended up giving it three. Why? Because I found some very strange editorial mistakes and some very strange grammar mistakes. Far be it from me to criticize an apparently well-known and celebrated author, but the writing style, combined with the mistakes I found (and of course I checked!), reminded me more of a young and not so experienced author.
Although some of the dialogues were very interesting to read, in the end there were some twists that should have been mentioned earlier to improve the flow of the story.
Anyway, I was a bit underwhelmed but not disappointed. I will certainly try and read more books by this author.
June 6, 2025
Sick and depraved!!
I read these books so grateful I’m just reading about the macabre and heinous things instead of experiencing them.
I kept trying to figure out why Evelyn just didn’t tell her brother Vernon to stuff it but by the end of the book I understood.
I had no idea about the truth behind Hawthorne’s sick ex’s.
Yaffe hid that very important ingredient very well!
Buckle up for this read!!
Thanks Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the advance copy.
I read these books so grateful I’m just reading about the macabre and heinous things instead of experiencing them.
I kept trying to figure out why Evelyn just didn’t tell her brother Vernon to stuff it but by the end of the book I understood.
I had no idea about the truth behind Hawthorne’s sick ex’s.
Yaffe hid that very important ingredient very well!
Buckle up for this read!!
Thanks Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the advance copy.
June 6, 2025
This book threw me for a loop !!
Detective Ziggy and Dr Evelyn Shaw dive into the mind of a serial killer to get to the bottom of where the murders happened and why he did it , BUT it’s closer to home for Dr Shaw the. You would imagine
Detective Ziggy and Dr Evelyn Shaw dive into the mind of a serial killer to get to the bottom of where the murders happened and why he did it , BUT it’s closer to home for Dr Shaw the. You would imagine
June 10, 2025
I was given this book as an ARC to read and I am thankful! This book is a solid 4 stars but might still change to a 4.5/5 star after another re-read.
It was a compelling story describing the work that Ziggy and Evelyn needed to conduct, to find out who was behind gruesome and macabre murders that were displayed creatively. Was it one or two killers? Or the work of three? You will just have to read The Shadow Killer to find out!
It was a compelling story describing the work that Ziggy and Evelyn needed to conduct, to find out who was behind gruesome and macabre murders that were displayed creatively. Was it one or two killers? Or the work of three? You will just have to read The Shadow Killer to find out!
August 19, 2025
Book 5 of the police series set in Leeds and featuring DI ‘Ziggy’ Thornes. His squad are on the point of arresting a prolific serial killer following the disappearance of at least 6 women over the past few months. This could be read as a stand-alone but after reading this I think you’ll want to read the earlier books!
Briefly, James Hawthorne, is arrested with the body of a woman in his apartment so there appears to be no question of his guilt. However there is no sign of any of the other women. As Ziggy continues to try and find them the Court orders a psychology report on the suspects state of mind and Dr Evelyn Shaw, a celebrated forensic psychologist, is given the grim task. And this is where things get darker and darker as Hawthorne starts to manipulate her. As she starts to unravel his secrets it starts to revolve around her own past.
There is a fast paced cat and mouse game going on between Evelyn and Hawthorne and the suspense is really ramped up as it moves to its conclusion. A twisted (very), devious (utterly) and dark (black as night) but totally engrossing read.
Briefly, James Hawthorne, is arrested with the body of a woman in his apartment so there appears to be no question of his guilt. However there is no sign of any of the other women. As Ziggy continues to try and find them the Court orders a psychology report on the suspects state of mind and Dr Evelyn Shaw, a celebrated forensic psychologist, is given the grim task. And this is where things get darker and darker as Hawthorne starts to manipulate her. As she starts to unravel his secrets it starts to revolve around her own past.
There is a fast paced cat and mouse game going on between Evelyn and Hawthorne and the suspense is really ramped up as it moves to its conclusion. A twisted (very), devious (utterly) and dark (black as night) but totally engrossing read.
September 15, 2025
I am an ARC reader for Book Sirens and this is my honest opinion. This book is a thriller and a half. The author wrote a warning before the story begins that "This book covers themes including violence and trauma. Take care". If a reader is used to horror stories it's not a problem. If, like me as a reader is able to separate what they're reading from the day to day of life, it's not a problem. That said, the book kept me turning the pages, hungry to read what happens next. The man arrested, named by the press as The Shadow Killer sounds truly creepy, as do other characters, who I have to say I had suspicions about soon after they were introduced, but the author creates such as sense of horror and surrealism around the main character and his crimes that I can easily imagine the palpable atmosphere of evil in the room when he is being interviewed. There are stories within stories that lead the reader down more than one path, all very creepy. A story like this always makes me wonder how the author imagines the things he/she writes without being personally affected. If you're a fan of horror stories this one is definitely for you.
May 30, 2025
Psychological Suspense at Its Finest
The Shadow Killer is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the intense dynamic between Dr. Evelyn Shaw, a forensic psychologist, and James Hawthorne, a chillingly manipulative serial killer. As Evelyn is drawn deeper into his mind games, she’s forced to confront painful truths from her own past. Catherine Yaffe masterfully balances suspense with emotional depth, crafting a story that is both unsettling and utterly compelling.
As always, I was completely hooked. I have loved every book by Catherine Yaffe, but this one truly stands out. Her ability to blend rich character development with a gripping plot is second to none. I couldn’t put it down, and I can’t wait to see what she writes next. Thank you to Catherine Yaffe for giving me a free advance copy of the book to preview, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Shadow Killer is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the intense dynamic between Dr. Evelyn Shaw, a forensic psychologist, and James Hawthorne, a chillingly manipulative serial killer. As Evelyn is drawn deeper into his mind games, she’s forced to confront painful truths from her own past. Catherine Yaffe masterfully balances suspense with emotional depth, crafting a story that is both unsettling and utterly compelling.
As always, I was completely hooked. I have loved every book by Catherine Yaffe, but this one truly stands out. Her ability to blend rich character development with a gripping plot is second to none. I couldn’t put it down, and I can’t wait to see what she writes next. Thank you to Catherine Yaffe for giving me a free advance copy of the book to preview, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 6, 2025
*Special Thanks to the Author Catherine Skeet Yaffe and Hayling Bookstorm Ltd for gifting me this eARC, All Opinions are my own!*
I have never read any books by author Catherine Skeet-Yaffe but i want to read more! This story was so good and filled with a chilling suspense! I love a good psychological thriller and this book delivers on that. There’s a lot of plot twists which will leave you on an emotional roller coaster. This story kept me engaged and was dark and twisted everything that is perfect for a Thriller lover🖤 The writing was really well done and the ending was perfection👌😌 I’m excited to see what Catherine Skeet Yaffe writes next! And I’m going to go read some of her other books!
I have never read any books by author Catherine Skeet-Yaffe but i want to read more! This story was so good and filled with a chilling suspense! I love a good psychological thriller and this book delivers on that. There’s a lot of plot twists which will leave you on an emotional roller coaster. This story kept me engaged and was dark and twisted everything that is perfect for a Thriller lover🖤 The writing was really well done and the ending was perfection👌😌 I’m excited to see what Catherine Skeet Yaffe writes next! And I’m going to go read some of her other books!
June 6, 2025
The Shadow Killer is book book 5 in the DI 'Ziggy' Thornes Series.
Where to start! I absolutely love this psychological thriller! I don't recall reading the other books in this series, so IMO, you can read this as a standalone, but I would recommend reading them all because it's just that good. This book not only held my attention and kept me up all night but was so well written. I could envision the story playing out in my head like a movie. The author did a fantastic job with the characters from their movements, body language to the tension, twists, trauma, and capturing the mindset of a serial killer. Who is the hunter, and who is the hunted? Guess you better read to find out!
Please read Trigger warnings for this book! Your mental health matters!
Where to start! I absolutely love this psychological thriller! I don't recall reading the other books in this series, so IMO, you can read this as a standalone, but I would recommend reading them all because it's just that good. This book not only held my attention and kept me up all night but was so well written. I could envision the story playing out in my head like a movie. The author did a fantastic job with the characters from their movements, body language to the tension, twists, trauma, and capturing the mindset of a serial killer. Who is the hunter, and who is the hunted? Guess you better read to find out!
Please read Trigger warnings for this book! Your mental health matters!
July 4, 2025
An excellent read, the title alone had me eager to read this book. I don't usually enjoy reading psychological thrillers, but I wouldn't classify this book as such. A serial killer murder thriller without a doubt. Loved the characters and the insight into the British approach to investigations. Wow, so many sleight of hand and misdirection by the characters; you had to keep your wits about you to solve the crime before the investigative team ;-). If you enjoy murder thrillers, this is one you want to add to your reading list. I can guarantee you will not be disappointed.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 9, 2025
This was definitely a psychological thriller. I loved how they got into the mind of the serial killer and the conversation between Dr. Shaw and Hawthorne. It was really incredible to watch how the story unfolded, and how the detectives came to their conclusions. To be honest, I really thought I knew who did what and was really at the edge of my seat reading how the story ended up playing out. I can say I didn’t see that one coming. Grateful to be able to have been able to read this one! So so good !
May 2, 2025
Hooray! Time for the fifth book in the DI Ziggy Thorne series by Carherine Skeet-Yaffe... a favourite author and series of mine! It was a joy to get back into the world of Ziggy & Co again
This book is just as good as the previous four, and once again whilst it is great to have another book in the series it can be read as a standalone novel too.
The themes are dark and twisted, which I loved, the action is gripping and thrilling, and I absolutely devoured this book.
Another top notch 5 star book from this author!
This book is just as good as the previous four, and once again whilst it is great to have another book in the series it can be read as a standalone novel too.
The themes are dark and twisted, which I loved, the action is gripping and thrilling, and I absolutely devoured this book.
Another top notch 5 star book from this author!
May 11, 2025
At last!!! My Ziggy withdrawal symptoms can be sated, I’ve been looking forward to this since finishing ‘Catch me twice’ and am certainly not disappointed.
As with all Catherine’s other books I was totally hooked, the dark, twisted mind of the serial killer had me on the edge of my seat.
There was lots of twists, turns and rollercoaster rides and am now waiting eagerly for the next book, am curious to find out what’s next for Ziggy & Sadie x
Well done Catherine, another brilliant book.
As with all Catherine’s other books I was totally hooked, the dark, twisted mind of the serial killer had me on the edge of my seat.
There was lots of twists, turns and rollercoaster rides and am now waiting eagerly for the next book, am curious to find out what’s next for Ziggy & Sadie x
Well done Catherine, another brilliant book.
July 3, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. It started off with DI Thorne and his team catching the serial killer 'The Shadow Killer'. The cat and mouse dance the psychiatrist, Dr Shaw, has to do with the serial killer to find his current and past victims is so interesting. I loved the tension and suspense throughout the book . This is the first book I've read in the series, and the author describes characters' relationships very well, so I didn't feel lost at all. I received an ARC copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 31, 2025
Another page turner from an accomplished author. The characters were realistic and the twists kept me turning the pages. The main character, Evelyn shows strength while trying to find the connection between her and James. I enjoyed the way the story played out. I would definitely recommend this book. I received an advance copy of this book via the author and this is my honest review.
June 8, 2025
An interesting read. Very suspenseful and intriguing, with a crazy double twist at the end. I expected the first half of the twist, but the second half came out of nowhere.
June 4, 2025
I was left speechless so many times whilst reading this! The twists and look into the mind of serial killer were wild!
June 19, 2025
❣ 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 4.4✨
❣ 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - 7 June 2025
❣ 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
- crime thriller
- revenge
- detective pov
- organized crime
- personal stakes
- psychological suspense
❣ 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
Thank you so much haylingbookstagram and author for the free ARC!
The Shadow Killer grabbed me from the first page and didn’t let go! Catherine Yaffe delivers a gripping crime thriller that’s packed with tension, twists, and emotional punches. Ziggy’s determination to find justice for his best friend adds such a personal edge you really feel his pain and frustration. The way Yaffe weaves in organized crime with the detective’s personal battle makes the story layered and intense. I loved the multiple perspectives because they gave the plot real depth without slowing down the pace. The suspense kept me guessing, and the darker moments were balanced perfectly with Ziggy’s raw, relatable emotions. This isn’t just another police procedural it’s a thrilling dive into loyalty, betrayal, and the cost of revenge. If you’re into crime novels that make you think and feel, this one’s a definite five-star read. Can’t wait for the next book!
❣ 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - 7 June 2025
❣ 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
- crime thriller
- revenge
- detective pov
- organized crime
- personal stakes
- psychological suspense
❣ 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
Thank you so much haylingbookstagram and author for the free ARC!
The Shadow Killer grabbed me from the first page and didn’t let go! Catherine Yaffe delivers a gripping crime thriller that’s packed with tension, twists, and emotional punches. Ziggy’s determination to find justice for his best friend adds such a personal edge you really feel his pain and frustration. The way Yaffe weaves in organized crime with the detective’s personal battle makes the story layered and intense. I loved the multiple perspectives because they gave the plot real depth without slowing down the pace. The suspense kept me guessing, and the darker moments were balanced perfectly with Ziggy’s raw, relatable emotions. This isn’t just another police procedural it’s a thrilling dive into loyalty, betrayal, and the cost of revenge. If you’re into crime novels that make you think and feel, this one’s a definite five-star read. Can’t wait for the next book!
June 24, 2025
Wow, just wow!
Diving into the mind of serial killer, James Hawthorn, gives Dr. Evelyn Shaw more than she ever expected. As the story continues, it is evident the two of them have a connection either she’s forgotten or trying to keep buried.
Bravo to the author, Catherine Yaffe, for the uniquely, hidden twist.
This story is so good I don’t want to reveal a single thing!
Thanks to Hayling Bookstorm and the author for an ARC.
Diving into the mind of serial killer, James Hawthorn, gives Dr. Evelyn Shaw more than she ever expected. As the story continues, it is evident the two of them have a connection either she’s forgotten or trying to keep buried.
Bravo to the author, Catherine Yaffe, for the uniquely, hidden twist.
This story is so good I don’t want to reveal a single thing!
Thanks to Hayling Bookstorm and the author for an ARC.
October 18, 2025
Psychological thriller | Yorkshire setting | Dark & gripping
This is the fifth instalment in the DI Ziggy Thorne series—but my first foray into Yaffe’s work, thanks to a review copy from BookSirens. Despite diving in mid-series, I had no trouble getting swept up in the tension and stakes.
Set in Yorkshire (a region I used to call home), The Shadow Killer is a deeply psychological and often disturbing cat-and-mouse thriller. It opens with the arrest of James Hawthorne, found with a body in his flat. An open-and-shut case? Not quite. As DI Thorne investigates the missing women, forensic psychologist Dr Evelyn Shaw is tasked with profiling Hawthorne—and this is where the story turns truly chilling.
What follows is a cerebral, unsettling descent into manipulation and mental warfare. Hawthorne is no ordinary killer—his insight into Evelyn’s past blurs the line between predator and prey, and I found myself questioning what was real right alongside her. The pacing is deliberate, ratcheting up the tension while exploring deep psychological trauma.
Yaffe doesn’t shy away from darkness—so a heads-up that this one is grim in places. But if you enjoy twisted, tightly plotted thrillers with flawed, fascinating characters, this will absolutely keep you hooked.
🖤 Twisted and devious
🧠 For fans of psychological suspense
📍 Set in Yorkshire
📚 A standalone-feel thriller in a series
This is the fifth instalment in the DI Ziggy Thorne series—but my first foray into Yaffe’s work, thanks to a review copy from BookSirens. Despite diving in mid-series, I had no trouble getting swept up in the tension and stakes.
Set in Yorkshire (a region I used to call home), The Shadow Killer is a deeply psychological and often disturbing cat-and-mouse thriller. It opens with the arrest of James Hawthorne, found with a body in his flat. An open-and-shut case? Not quite. As DI Thorne investigates the missing women, forensic psychologist Dr Evelyn Shaw is tasked with profiling Hawthorne—and this is where the story turns truly chilling.
What follows is a cerebral, unsettling descent into manipulation and mental warfare. Hawthorne is no ordinary killer—his insight into Evelyn’s past blurs the line between predator and prey, and I found myself questioning what was real right alongside her. The pacing is deliberate, ratcheting up the tension while exploring deep psychological trauma.
Yaffe doesn’t shy away from darkness—so a heads-up that this one is grim in places. But if you enjoy twisted, tightly plotted thrillers with flawed, fascinating characters, this will absolutely keep you hooked.
🖤 Twisted and devious
🧠 For fans of psychological suspense
📍 Set in Yorkshire
📚 A standalone-feel thriller in a series
October 26, 2025
Wow. That was….wow. I had a funny feeling there was more to her than me the eye, but that was a twist I wasn't quite expecting. When Ziggy found out about the person in the video, I really knew but the twist of their childhood. That totally threw me off. Well played. The only thing that gets me about this was Evelyn's childhood and her best friend. I feel like there should have been more to that. All things considering. But it's one heck of a story. Some things you definitely don't see coming. One of those you can't put down.
May 18, 2025
I love the Ziggy Thorne series! Catherine Yaffe has created a series of likeable characters, and manages to weave them into intriguing storylines. This book kept my interest until the very last page.
April 16, 2025
Wow! I was blown away with the intricacies of this book. So many facets to this thriller. A jailed man, a police team and a forensic psychologist. Nothing is as it would seem. Once you start this book, it’s hard to put down. The characters are well thought out and very authentic and very human. When faced with horrible facts and yet so many unknowns, you get this fascinating book which you will enjoy. It’s is a bit graphic at times, but just so you can see how depraved or sick that the killer really is. If you like psychological thrillers, you’ll love this book.
June 19, 2025
My first from this author and in this genre and I am not disappointed.
This is like an episode of Criminal Minds in book form. Everything about this book was compelling. The villain is charming and unsettling. The twist is so unexpected. Such an amazing read.
This is like an episode of Criminal Minds in book form. Everything about this book was compelling. The villain is charming and unsettling. The twist is so unexpected. Such an amazing read.
June 13, 2025
I had the great privilege of having ARC of this book and I’ve got to say it’s brilliant psychological thriller, and I really loved the aspects of seeing a criminal psychologist at work. The suspense of this book kept me really interested and couldn’t wait to pick up the book and read the next chapter again. Had a great twist, some of it I did guess early on me it was still really good. The only bit I didn’t like was the portrayal of someone with Dissociative identity disorder, however, it was only a few lines in the book and wasn’t the main focus so it didn’t take away from the story line.
October 18, 2025
Overall I enjoyed the book and the story it was telling.
As this was the first time I had read this author and this series of books, I did feel out of the know at times but it didn’t detract from the engagement of the book overall
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
As this was the first time I had read this author and this series of books, I did feel out of the know at times but it didn’t detract from the engagement of the book overall
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 11, 2025
This is a very dark thriller with gruesome descriptions of killing sites and victims but once you start reading you just can't stop, you just need to know the answers to the brutal crimes. Ziggy and Sadie make an unbeatable duo always debating ideas and supporting each other during their investigation as they face a difficult and unreliable serial killer who seems to unnerve even Dr. Shaw, a criminal psychologist. A web of deceit and horrible facts will be woven around Dr. Shaw until she also falls prey to the culprits and will suffer in their hands. Will she be saved? What's in Ziggy's future? Looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 24, 2025
This was such an amazing book. Thrilling!
June 8, 2025
Tropes:
#Crime/thriller
#Revenge
#Organized crime
#physhclogical suspense
#Emotional
Yorkshire Post, Saturday 4th October 2003, CAUGHT: The Shadow Killer, one girl still missing, feared dead. James Hawthorne, a 54-year-old architect from North Yorkshire, was arrested.
This man James Hawthorne is evil, and he loves to torment, he loves to get you riled up by asking you questions, he reminds me of Dr. Hannibal Lector from the Silence of the Lambs story. Chilling, this author did a fantastic job with the plot, the characters, the descriptions, everything, this is a story that reaches into your soul and gives you the chills. James is no ordinary murderer, he plays with his victims, and he keeps trophies of his victims, can you guess what it is? He also carved numbers into their torso’s, what does that represent? He is cunning and manipulative serial killer, and he is going to give this Inspector Detective and the Forensic Psychologist Dr. Evelyn Shaw a run for their money, or their mind! She is facing her most psychological battle unlike anything she’s faced before.
Dr. Evelyn Shaw is known for her ability to uncover the minds of the most dangerous criminals, and she has been requested to come in and interview James, as he will not talk to Ziggy, the Detective Inspector handling the case. James, the suspect, is playing his games with them. The first meeting between James and Dr. Shaw its like a cat and mouse. And James is throwing out things that why does he even know anything about her? He brings up her father, her mother’s mysterious death. Dr. Shaw has own secrets, she lived in hell as a child, and her brother still treats her horribly; and in this chilling thriller she is going to have to face her darkest fears and unravel her own connection to James. There have been 5 brutal murders where are the bodies? James is a very sick individual and is very graphic in his telling of his murders or masterpieces.
James has escaped! Ziggy is frantic, he races to uncover the truth, and to protect Dr. Shaw.
Ziggy is a great character, believable and committed to justice and protecting people.
This serial killer had me on the edge, couldn’t put this book down, so many twists and turns, will when this end?
A couple passages from this book that stuck with me.
“It was his eyes that unnerved her the most. In the photographs she had viewed she had noted their unusual shade of green. Gemstone Green. Seeing them without the sheen of photographic paper, they were even more startling – piercing cold calculating. His eyelashes were dark, overly long, that made it look like he was wearing mascara. She gave an unvoluntary shudder and rose from her seat.”
James – “Please James, were not here to talk about me,” her voice was reedy barely audible. “You had no where to hide then, did you? “Did you hate it when he found you EVIE?”
Her brother calls her that, and she hates it, it takes her back to her fear, her childhood! How are they connected together?
#Crime/thriller
#Revenge
#Organized crime
#physhclogical suspense
#Emotional
Yorkshire Post, Saturday 4th October 2003, CAUGHT: The Shadow Killer, one girl still missing, feared dead. James Hawthorne, a 54-year-old architect from North Yorkshire, was arrested.
This man James Hawthorne is evil, and he loves to torment, he loves to get you riled up by asking you questions, he reminds me of Dr. Hannibal Lector from the Silence of the Lambs story. Chilling, this author did a fantastic job with the plot, the characters, the descriptions, everything, this is a story that reaches into your soul and gives you the chills. James is no ordinary murderer, he plays with his victims, and he keeps trophies of his victims, can you guess what it is? He also carved numbers into their torso’s, what does that represent? He is cunning and manipulative serial killer, and he is going to give this Inspector Detective and the Forensic Psychologist Dr. Evelyn Shaw a run for their money, or their mind! She is facing her most psychological battle unlike anything she’s faced before.
Dr. Evelyn Shaw is known for her ability to uncover the minds of the most dangerous criminals, and she has been requested to come in and interview James, as he will not talk to Ziggy, the Detective Inspector handling the case. James, the suspect, is playing his games with them. The first meeting between James and Dr. Shaw its like a cat and mouse. And James is throwing out things that why does he even know anything about her? He brings up her father, her mother’s mysterious death. Dr. Shaw has own secrets, she lived in hell as a child, and her brother still treats her horribly; and in this chilling thriller she is going to have to face her darkest fears and unravel her own connection to James. There have been 5 brutal murders where are the bodies? James is a very sick individual and is very graphic in his telling of his murders or masterpieces.
James has escaped! Ziggy is frantic, he races to uncover the truth, and to protect Dr. Shaw.
Ziggy is a great character, believable and committed to justice and protecting people.
This serial killer had me on the edge, couldn’t put this book down, so many twists and turns, will when this end?
A couple passages from this book that stuck with me.
“It was his eyes that unnerved her the most. In the photographs she had viewed she had noted their unusual shade of green. Gemstone Green. Seeing them without the sheen of photographic paper, they were even more startling – piercing cold calculating. His eyelashes were dark, overly long, that made it look like he was wearing mascara. She gave an unvoluntary shudder and rose from her seat.”
James – “Please James, were not here to talk about me,” her voice was reedy barely audible. “You had no where to hide then, did you? “Did you hate it when he found you EVIE?”
Her brother calls her that, and she hates it, it takes her back to her fear, her childhood! How are they connected together?
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