The Serial Killer Support Network

Secret Vigilante #2

by D.B. Stephens

Therapy was just the beginning…

For six months someone known only as The Caretaker has been committing crimes against those who have wronged.

Now, women across the country have been inspired to take control of their own lives and seek revenge on the people who hurt them.

The Caretaker is more than just a killer, he’s become a movement. And the serial killer support group have found themselves at the heart of it…

Genres: Mystery, Thriller

390 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 24, 2026

About the author

Pseudonym for crime and thriller writer, Darren O'Sullivan.

Reviews

[Yaya · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ll admit it. I tend to be skeptical of sequels. This book made me rethink that stance.

The Serial Killer Support Network is an outstanding follow up, but it truly shines when read after the first installment. To fully appreciate the depth of this story, starting at the beginning of the series is essential.

D. B. Stephens takes the foundation built in the first book and expands it in a way that feels both thoughtful and unsettling. The story dives into the consequences of redefining justice and the system created around it. These consequences ripple across legal, moral, social, and emotional dimensions, making the narrative feel layered and complex.

About a third of the way through, I was able to anticipate some of the events that would unfold. Surprisingly, that didn’t take away from the experience. Even when I saw certain moments coming, others still caught me completely off guard. I don’t cry easily, but parts of this story genuinely hit a nerve.

What stood out most is how the book explores the tension between feeling like a victim of injustice, taking matters into one's own hands, and then facing the moral weight of those decisions. It’s not easy to separate those lines, and the story doesn’t try to simplify them.

This continues to be a perfect book club series. There is so much here to unpack and discuss, from ethical dilemmas to emotional consequences. Even if you’re not part of a book club, this is absolutely worth picking up after finishing the first book.

And honestly, I’m hoping for a third installment. There’s still more to explore, and I’m ready for it.

[Dozelina 666 · Rating 3 out of 5]

After flying through book one, I was really excited to jump straight into this.

And this time… things go bigger.

What started as a small support group has now turned into a full network; more people, more reach, more chaos. It’s definitely interesting to see how things evolve and how the movement grows.

That said, unfortunately, I didn’t enjoy this one as much as the first book.

The pacing felt slower, killings didn't felt as personal as in book 1 where I felt connected with the characters; for me it wasn’t as entertaining overall. I also wasn’t the biggest fan of the back-and-forth between Jess and the detective, it felt really frustrating.

The vibe felt a bit different too. Not necessarily bad, just… off compared to the first book.

Still, it’s not a bad installment by any means and I am also very curious and prepared for book 3.

⭐ 3.5 stars

Thank you HarperCollins for the widget.

[Rustic_reads_ (Donna) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having read the first in the series ‘The Serial Killer Support Group’ I couldn’t wait to see where the story took Jess and the other members of the group. The author really hit it out the park with this sequel- shining a light on abuse, and the wider consequences of taking matters into your own hands- both for the women, the men they targeted, and the community as a whole who succumbed to mob mentality and contentious moral stances in the name of justice. I was rooting for Jess even when her choices were questionable- but I can’t say I wouldn’t have done the same if I was her! 👀

I really enjoyed delving more into Sophie’s life, her history and the lengths she’ll go to protect her family. It was also good to see the return of a familiar face, one of the few men who could be trusted.

[Beth · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley, HarperCollins UK and One More Chapter for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

I thought the first book in this series was painfully average, but I got a NetGalley widget for this one, so wanted to give it a shot.

I hate to say it, but it doesn’t fare any better than its predecessor. I was bored throughout pretty much the whole book, and it required a hell of a lot of suspension of belief. The cliffhanger was decent but even that wasn’t enough to get me excited about a third book.

[Sharna Raine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the first instalment of The Serial Killers’ Support Network, so I was excited to get stuck into this one, and it didn’t disappoint. It’s been great to see how the characters have developed and grown in this second book, which added more depth to the story overall.
That said, I would have liked a bit more build-up leading to Maddison’s death. She felt quite distant in this instalment, and I think more focus on her could have made that moment hit even harder.
Overall though, a strong follow-up that kept me hooked, and I’m definitely looking forward to what comes next.

[Hollie Goodwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley, D B Stephen’s and Harper Collins for this arc read.

The second installment in the secret vigilante series and I loved it just as much as the first book!

For 6 months the caretaker has been committing crimes against bad men. This has inspired women across the country to take matters into their own hands and seek revenge as the police won’t help

A brilliant gripping thriller from page 1

[Sophia Scarlett · Rating 5 out of 5]

The narrative is gripping from the outset, with Jess’s journey from victim to survivor at its heart. The support group, initially a place of solace and camaraderie, quickly becomes the focal point for a series of chilling events as the ex-partners of its members begin to be attacked or murdered by a mysterious figure known as “The Caretaker.” This vigilante’s actions force Jess and the other women to confront difficult questions about justice, morality, and the failings of the legal system to protect victims of domestic abuse. 💯💓

[Liv · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading Journal Details
Book: The Serial Killer Support Network by D B Stephens
Format: eBook (384 pages)
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5/5)

Quick Take
This is exactly the kind of morally gray, high concept thriller I want, and it delivers with both meaning and momentum.

Full Review
I went into this already knowing how much The Serial Killer Support Group (first installment) stuck with me—and somehow, this sequel made it incredibly easy to fall right back into that universe. Even after more than a year, the characters, the tone, and the emotional weight all came rushing back without any hesitation, which says a lot about just how impactful that first novel truly was.

What continues to stand out most is just how intelligently constructed this story is. The concept itself is bold, and arguably a little dangerous in the wrong hands, but it's handled with the level of care that keeps it from tipping into something that feels over the top or too convenient. Even when the story sometimes stretches plausibility, it does so in a manner that feels intentional rather than forced, and that made it very easy for me to remain locked in.

The pacing here is relentless in the very best way. This is one of those books where I kept finding myself pushing for "just one more chapter," and before I knew it, I was far deeper than I planned to be in the web of the novel. It moves quickly, but never at the expense of character or clarity, which is a really appreciative balance I find in thrillers like this.

What truly elevates it, though, is the moral grayness woven throughout. This isn't a story that asks easy questions, or one that gives easy answers. Watching the support network evolve and seeing women reclaim power in ways that are both unsettling and empowering created a constant tension that kept me engaged on more than just a surface level. It's the kind of story that had me sitting with my own reactions, and I found myself fully leaning into that discomfort.

The characters are another true highlight here. Sophie Salam and Jess Pendle both stood out in different ways, but I found myself equally invested in both of their journeys.

Sophie's sharp, observant nature paired with her internal struggle to remain firmly on the side of the law added a compelling layer to the investigation side of the narrative. At the same token, Jess continues to be a powerful emotional anchor; her growth from what she endured in the frist novel to where she stands now is both steady and wholly meaningful.

Something noteworthy is this is a 4.5-star rating from me, but GR doesn't allow half-stars. That said, if I had to point anything that kept this from being a full 5-stars, it would be that the larger scope, particularly around The Caretaker's expanding influence, occasionally pulls away from the investigative thread. Notwithstanding, this never quite felt like a true negative to me, perhaps more neutral. If anything, it reinforced the core theme of the story and what it's ultimately trying to say.

By the end, I was completely invested, and more than ready for whatever comes next. If a third installment is on the horizon, D B Stephen, know that I will absolutely be first in line for it.

Would Recommend If...
I would recommend this title if you enjoy dark, addictive thrillers that lean into moral grayness and give you something to think about well beyond the final twist.

Advance Copy Provided By
Advance copy provided by HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter, and NetGalley. I especially appreciated how the story balanced its bold central idea with grounded emotional stakes, making the impact feel both earned and intense.

[Aries.Pisces · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review: The Serial Killer Support Network by D.B. Stephens (Secret Vigilante, Book 2)
The first rule of a successful sequel is that it must stand on its own while honoring what made its predecessor worth following. The Serial Killer Support Network manages the second more consistently than the first — and that imbalance is ultimately what keeps it from matching the tight, intimate tension of The Serial Killer Support Group.
What works best here is also what is most honest. Stephens takes seriously the question that most vigilante thrillers conveniently sidestep: what actually happens when ordinary people without training, resources, or psychological preparation take the law into their own hands? The answers are sobering and ring true. Someone becomes a copycat and gets caught. Someone else, unprepared and outmatched, pays the ultimate price — because a woman with no combat training is at a serious disadvantage against a man who isn't caught off guard. And the psychological toll of taking a life is rendered with genuine weight. One character in particular is so devastated by what she has done that the nightmares become unbearable. These are the moments where the book earns its darkness honestly.
The network premise itself is less successful. What made the original story so compelling was its intimacy — a small group of women bound by shared trauma and shared secret, a Caretaker whose identity was protected by its very containment. Scaling that into a national movement diffuses the tension rather than amplifying it, and the goal of passing domestic violence legislation, while worthy in principle, never generates the urgency the plot needs it to carry. The resolution feels convenient rather than earned.
What saves the book — and what will bring readers back for book three — is the relationship between Jess and Sophie. Their dynamic is the backbone of the story, a slow burn of mutual recognition between two women on opposite sides of a line that Sophie has been quietly crossing for some time. Sophie is the most compelling character in the series precisely because she is the most compromised — a detective who has sacrificed her integrity in increments, each transgression making the next one easier and the way back harder. Where her story goes next is genuinely the most interesting question the series has raised.
The Serial Killer Support Network is a 3.5 star book in a world that allowed half stars — better than its weakest moments suggest, not quite as strong as its best ones promise. For readers invested in Jess and Sophie, it is worth the journey. Just go in knowing that this is very much a bridge to book three rather than a destination in its own right.

[Britney Ireland · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Serial Killer Support Network

An Unforgettable, Five-Star Thrill Ride!

Wow!!! Five stars from me! This novel completely blew me away. I extend my sincere gratitude to #NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced reader copy (ARC) of this extraordinary book. It was an absolutely amazing read, and I thoroughly loved every single moment of it.

Captivating from Beginning to End

From the moment I turned to page one, I was utterly absorbed in this story, and that intense focus didn't break until the very last word. The suspense was so masterfully crafted that it was genuinely impossible for me to set the book down. It became a marathon read, and I raced through the chapters, needing to know what happened next. The only downside was reaching the end—I honestly did not want this book to finish. The pacing was perfect, the tension relentless, and the narrative flow made for an irresistible reading experience.

A Cast of Characters to Root For

One of the true strengths of this novel was its characters. I loved every one of them and found myself deeply invested in their individual arcs and outcomes. The author did a phenomenal job of giving them depth and complexity, making their motivations understandable and their struggles palpable. I was actively rooting for all of them throughout the entire story, a testament to the brilliant character development.

A Brilliant and Unique Premise

The central storyline, revolving around the concept of a "Serial Killer Support Network," was brilliant and highly original. I was fascinated by the intricate details of how this network operated and the ethical and moral dilemmas it introduced. The execution of this unique premise was flawless, offering a fresh take on the thriller genre that kept me guessing.

Justice Served: A Satisfying Read

There's something inherently satisfying about a story where the 'bad guys' finally receive their just deserts, and this book delivers on that front spectacularly. Watching those who deserve retribution finally face it makes for some of the best and most cathartic reading experiences, and this novel certainly falls into that category. It’s a compelling, tense, and ultimately gratifying read that I highly recommend to anyone looking for a top-tier thriller.

[Suesyn Zellmer · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the second book of the Secret Vigilante series, and The Caretaker is making big news. Abusive men are being targeted to discourage their behavior and encourage legislation supporting victims of domestic violence. Until real change is enacted, he won’t stop. The more notorious he becomes, the more supporters he gains. Copycats begin to emerge, trying to hide behind the anonymity so they can seek their own revenge. But that’s counterproductive to the movement that thrives on caution and preparation. The Caretaker can’t risk accidental exposure, but that’s exactly what DS Sophie Salam is hoping for.

She’s now in charge of the investigation and at her wits' end. She’s been keeping her own secrets about the past, and now they’re threatening to be exposed. She’s terrified that her daughter is no longer safe, and between that worry and the stress of The Caretaker case, she’s exhausted and desperate. She grows closer to Jess, who is simultaneously a suspect and friend. They’re aware they’re on opposite sides of the law, but can’t break the connection they have. Which could be crucial when Sophie’s ultimate fears are realized and she needs Jess’s assistance more than ever.

Readers will know what’s coming from the get-go, as Sophie’s fears build throughout the story. She has connections to someone dangerous, and The Caretaker handles dangerous men. Pretty obvious where that will lead, but there’s a lot of buildup to that point. Most of it is frustrating to me because I honestly think the whole concept is too much. I’m all for vengeance, but it should be more relative to the crime. Man beats woman, The Caretaker beats man. But just jumping to murder for every situation is ridiculous, especially for an emotionally manipulative person. And I can’t see the public reacting like The Caretaker is an idol rather than a serial killer in this day and age. We’re a little too evolved for that anymore.

My thanks to NetGalley, HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for the free advanced reading copy of this book.

[Aurora Jay · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Serial Killer Support Network by D.B. Stephens (Secret Vigilante #2)

𝗤𝗨𝗜𝗖𝗞 𝗣𝗟𝗢𝗧 𝗣𝗘𝗘𝗞
Sophie Salem leads the hunt for the Caretaker, a vigilante targeting abusive men. As attacks spread and the movement grows, all signs point to Jess - but Sophie still has to prove how she’s connected.

𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗥𝗬 𝗧𝗔𝗞𝗘
I’d highly recommend reading The Serial Killer Support Group first. This isn’t a loose series - it’s a trilogy. There are repeated references back to book one and while you can follow along, it’s gonna be more enjoyable if you don’t skip ahead.

Last time, the focus was on the group. This time, it expands into a full network of women. Even so, the real heart of the story is the cat-and-mouse tension between Jess and Detective Sophie Salem.

The vibe is revenge-fueled, but not gritty. Even with the heavy topic of domestic abuse, it’s handled in a more sanitized way - light enough that it doesn’t feel completely devastating.

Fast-paced, with short chapters and multiple POVs, it’s incredibly readable and easy to binge.

I’ll be honest - this isn’t a wildly twisty ride. It leans a little predictable at times, but there’s so much to love. Women supporting women, standing up to abusive men, and reclaiming control. And that ending… chef’s kiss.

𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗛 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗?
Domestic abuse fills me with a deep, dark rage - but this book caused me excitement and joy. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I liked this even more than book one and can’t wait for the finale.

Thank you HarperCollins UK, One
More Chapter and NetGalley for this #gifted ARC.

🎧 Narrated by Ezra Saifie
📖 Publishes 04•24•26 | 390 pages | 10h 14m

[Claire Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been eagerly awaiting this installment since I first read book one about a year ago. After the wild ride of the first book, I was worried about how a sequel could possibly live up to those expectations, especially since the mystery of The Caretaker’s identity is already resolved. I shouldn't have worried, this book is every bit as thrilling as the first, and it manages to scale the story up in a way that feels both terrifying and incredibly relevant.

In this installment, The Caretaker moves beyond local justice and takes his campaign against abusive men to a national level. His goal? To force legislative changes that protect victims of domestic abuse. It’s a fascinating, dark, and thought-provoking shift in the narrative. It is essential to read the first book before jumping into this one. This is a direct continuation of the story, and the emotional weight of the The Caretaker’s mission relies heavily on the foundation laid in book one.

While there were moments where I could tell where the storyline was inevitably heading, particularly regarding DS Sophie Salam, the journey of how we got there was so exciting that it didn't matter one bit. Stephens has a way of making the process of the hunt just as captivating as the reveals themselves. The writing style is punchy, atmospheric, and kept me hooked throughout.

The ending definitely suggests we have a third book to look forward to, which has me incredibly excited. If you love vigilante thrillers with a moral edge, you need to read this series. I adore these characters and I can’t wait for the next ride.

My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC of this book.

[Jacquelyn Dohoney · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I first read this series, I was so impressed because I thought I had read every idea that could possibly be written. It’s hard to come up with something new and fresh nowadays it seems, and it’s equally hard for a writer to take an oft used trope like vigilantism and turn it on its head. This series does exactly that. It’s a bit like Dexter in that you know the characters are doing something awful, but you can’t help cheering them on as they do it. In this second book, it was even easier to cheer them on because I had already bonded so well with the characters. I didn’t feel as close to the newer characters though, and maybe it’s because they only appeared for a very short amount of time. But having said that, their appearances did pack a punch. (No pun intended). I did have a feeling where the story was going to go, but it still gave me horrible anxiety thinking about it. The one thing that did bother me is that a couple of character’s storylines didn’t get tied up. They were just kind of left dangling, so I’m not sure if that’s it for them or if they are going to appear in the next book. I would have liked something a bit more definitive considering how big the network has gotten. Still, I can’t wait to read the next one. If you’re looking for something along the lines of female rage, women protecting women, and women who have gotten sick and tired of being sick and tired, you will love this book!

Huge thanks to HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter | One More Chapter and NetGalley for sending me this ARC for review! All of my reviews are given honestly!

[Juli · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this followup to the The Serial Support Group, the women of the the group once again work to help women who are victims of domestic abuse. As noted in the title, this group is now a network, having grown to encompass more women in need and helping them get their power back.

The self named "Caretaker" continues his acts of vengeance against the bad men. Jess Pendle lhas grown from the previous book. She is more sure of herself and has become a leader for the women. Sophie Salam, the police officer, has her suspicions about the group. There is alot of gray area in this book. Is vengeance right or wrong? There is no question that what these women have had to endure is wrong. Who is the Caretaker?

Domestic violence is an emotional subject and D B Stephens takes great care in presenting the subject. This is a dark book, due to the subject matter, but it is also emotional and as a reader, I was totally invested in the stories of these women. I particularly enjoyed the relationship between Jess and Sophie and watching it change.

I will say the conclusion surprised me, but in a good way. I did not see that twist coming, but I loved it. This is a fast read, a brisk pace that keeps you wanting to see where the author goes next. I look forward to the next book.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, One More Chapter, Harper Collins UK, for an ARC. The opinions in this review are my own.

[Joana Henriques · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Serial Killer Support Network is the second book from the Secret Vigilante series. Anyone who wants to read this book, needs to have read The Serial Killer Support Group first in order to really understand the story and how the group became a network.

This book shows how the network has grown and the effects of taking the Caretaker nationwide. As the Caretaker was now killing men that weren’t close to the main characters it felt that the killings were less personal. Even though the killings aren’t personal, they still have the same message women taking back their power and punishing abusers.

This book is told in three POVs Jess, Sophie and The Caretaker, which I love multi POV books, so the way the chapters are divided works very well. I really liked how this book shows how grief and traumatic events can affect different people, I thought the author did a great job showing the struggles each character dealt with, even if we don’t have their own POV we see it through the interactions.

Overall, this was a good sequel, I kept wanting to see how the story would unfold, even if I did suspect some of the things that did happen.

I cannot wait to read the next book and see how the network will keep growing, and hopefully having more Kelly and Hannah involved.

Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Darlene Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

How could this be written by a man? How could he understand what it's like to be a victim of domestic abuse? I was caught from the first page, finished in just two evenings. The book blurb didn't give anything away, hinted but nothing to spoil it. I thought a support group setting had possibilities and that's very true. I'd also never thought much about men being abused too but logically I know it's true. We call them henpecked or worse but it's assumed men can take care of themselves.

I like the idea of battered and broken women coming to life again, realizing the abuser had broken them completely down and built them back into a possession. Taking control of the situation didn't bother me nor did how they did it. I applaud the intelligent, careful, practical way the plan came together. Would I be able to do it? Yes, I feel sure I could now being older and understanding how the world works or doesn't work.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

#TheSerialKillerSupportGroup #NetGalley #DBStephens #One More Chapter #Secret Vigilante #SerialKillers #DomesticThrillers #Women'sFriendship #supportgroup #thriller #suspense #contemporarythriller #contemorarysuspense #bookreview

[Connie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Caretaker began killing bad men when women came forward to tell of the mens’ abuse. The first women were Kelly, Madison, Hannah and Jess. They formed a support group that only grew across the UK. The Caretaker is a man who prepared himself so no DNA could be found when he killed someone. Everyone involved hoped to pass legislation where men would be incarcerated if found guilty of abusing a woman. Until this was passed, the Caretaker would continue his work.

Sophie is a police detective who believes that some of the wives “saved” by the Caretaker are complicit with the crimes on abusive men. She is also a single mother whose daughter, Lottie, is autistic and she worries about her so much. Sophie has a secret from her past that she is trying to keep hidden but she is afraid it will come out that could have very bad results.

I did not read the first book in the series so I wasn’t expecting things to be so “real.” There is a lot of angst among these women and they struggle to try and lead a normal life which is very difficult for them. I found the book to be quite scary so beware if you cringe easily. All in all, a good story.

Copy provided by Edelweiss in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Els · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first book in this series was truly fantastic, and it made this already happy reader even happier when it turned out that a second book would be released. Of course, you want to devour it as quickly as possible, so the countdown began until it finally became available. And yes, yesterday was the day.

It’s a fact that impressive books stay with you for a long time. I had absolutely no trouble getting back into the story right away.

I flew through the pages because the story pulled me in relentlessly, and I enjoyed every single page.

The sense of unity and the support shown between like-minded souls was heartwarming, while the circumstances they found themselves in broke my heart.

The entire book was put together incredibly well, and karma was clearly one of the main “characters.”

I thought it was very cleverly done that each “victim” was punished using the same methods they themselves used on others.

The ending was one to truly admire.

My conclusion: I once again enjoyed this immensely. Everything was perfect and fit together seamlessly. That’s why I can, without any doubt, give it 5 stars.

Thank you.

[Victoria Baldin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Serial Killer Support Network by D B Stephens

This is book two in the Secret Vigilante series.

As The Caretaker strikes again and again around the UK trying to change the domestic violence law the police are no closer to arresting anyone. Meanwhile Sophie is being blackmailed by an old boyfriend, one she cannot tell anyone about as she met him years ago while working undercover but crossed a line and now cannot go to the police as she will go to jail.

Jess Pendle and Sophie Salam are becoming close friends but they are in a very difficult position as Jess does not want her support group to know she is forming a friendship with a police officer and Sophie cannot let anyone find out she is becoming close to one of the suspects on The Caretaker case, the very same case that she is now in charge of.

I enjoyed this book very much. It flowed perfectly from book 1 and I love how the book finished and cannot wait for the next one in the series.

I would like to thank Net Galley and HarperCollins UK and One More Chapter or a copy of this eBook in exchange for an honest review

[Louise Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 2 of Secret Vigilante

For six months someone known only as The Caretaker has been committing crimes against those who have been wronged. Now, women across the country have been inspired to take control of their own lives and seek revenge on the people who hurt them. The Caretaker is more than just a killer, he's become a movement. And The Serial Killer Support Group have found themselves at the heart of it.

I was quickly pulled into this cleverly crafted story. The pace was perfectly set, the characters were well-developed and the tension built throughout. I loved all the female characters in this book. The story covers domestic abuse. The story is told from multiple perspectives. I wouldn't recommend reading this book as a standalone as there were a few references to the previous book The Serial Killer's Support Group. I enjoyed this story more than I did the previous book.

Published 1st May 2026

I would like to thank #NetGalley #HarperCollinsUK #OneMoreChapter and the author #DBStephens for my ARC of #TheSerialKillersSupportNetwork in exchange for an honest review.

[Ann-Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jess, Kelly, Madison and Hannah are ‘the saved’ ones from domestic abuse, their saviour being The Caretaker who killed their abusers. Months later they are attending their regular support group meeting for abused women when a surprise guest comes to talk to the group. All four of them know that there is more behind the visit than it appears. Speaking to Kimberely after the meeting they learn that The Caretaker is going to kill that evening. They’re given no more information than that so they can tell the complete truth if they’re questioned by the police.

DS Sophie Salam is in charge of the investigation to find the Caretaker but, although she has her suspicions as to his identity, she has yet to get any proof. A man is found dead with credit taken by the Caretaker – is it a copycat killing or is the Caretaker back?

This is a thrilling and compelling story, told from several points of view and it raises many moral questions. Just how far would some people go to serve justice? Full of twists, turns, red herrings and a surprising ending.

Thanks to Net Galley and Harper Collins (One More Chapter) for an ARC for my honest review.

[Sorina · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review

"The Serial Killer Support Network" by D.B. Stephens is part of the "Secret Vigilante" and a sequel to "The Serial Killer Support Group".

Thank you HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for the gifted eARC.
Opinions from this review are completely my own.

I read "The Serial Killer Support Group" last year and I found the idea of the book interesting so I wanted to read the sequel.

The story is told in multiple POVs and follows DS Sophie Salam (that is now lead investigator), Jess and her friends (Hannah, Kelly and Madison) and "The Caretaker", the vigilante killer.

The support group develops into a support network and copycat killers appear across the country.
The story is fast paced and keeps you engaged.

Just like in the first book, the chapters from "The Caretaker"'s POV have a sense of anonymity and they are pretty disturbing.

A friendship develops between Jess and Sophie, which is a dangerous for both of them, as Jess is a suspect in the case that Sophie leads.

Even if I liked the first book more than this one, I am invested in the story and the characters, so I will definitely read the next book too.

[icantcomeimbooked · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Review of The Serial Killer Support Network

The whole concept hooked me straight away a serial killer turning into a full movement and inspiring others to take revenge?? yeah i needed to read this that is absolutely something that is right up my alley.

it’s not just about one killer, it’s about what happens when that idea spreads and people start taking things into their own hands which made it feel a lot bigger than i expected the characters are very morally grey no one is fully good or bad, and i kept changing my mind on who i was actually rooting for and i loved that.

there’s also a bit of dark humour throughout, which helped balance out the story/vibe the pacing was really fast too
something is always happening, and there are enough twists to keep you hooked the whole time

it’s one of those books where you’re like
“this is kind of messed up but i can’t stop reading” it was super entertaining and addictive overall i had a really good time with this.

thank you to Net galley, the publisher & D B Stephens for the arc

[Cindieslibrary · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Vibe: High energy, focused on the mystery of "The Caretaker."
​
The original blue book has been burned... but a new one is already being filled. 📘🔥
​I was lucky enough to snag an ARC of The Serial Killer Support Network by D.B. Stephens, the second book in the Secret Vigilante series, and let’s just say: The Caretaker is NOT finished yet. 🔪

​This time, the "Group" has become a "Network." We’re still following Jess, Kelly, Hannah, and Madison, but as they try to heal, a new, darker force has taken the lead.

​What to expect:
👤 A new Caretaker with a chilling manifesto.
⚖️ Vigilante justice for domestic abusers.
🕵️‍♀️ DS Sophie Salam’s past coming back to haunt her.
🤫 Secret romances that could ruin everything.

​The middle dragged a little for me, but that ending? SPECTACULAR. It made the whole journey worth it and has me desperate for book three!

​Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.75
Release Date: End of April (Get it on your TBR!)

Want to read my full review on this book? You can find it here: https://cindieslibrary.com/the-serial...

[Sheila's Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

🅷🅴 🆂🅴🆁🅸🅰🅻 🅺🅸🅻🅻🅴🆁 🆂🆄🅿🅿🅾🆁🆃
🅽🅴🆃🆆🅾🆁🅺. Book 2
By DB Stephens - @d.b.stephens

➡️ For synopsis

⋆‧°𓏲ּ𝄢⋆‧°𓏲ּ𝄢⋆‧°𓏲ּ𝄢

I absolutely devoured 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗞𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗽
which is the first book in this trilogy. This second book builds nicely on the story, blending dark humor with psychological elements, making it compelling and bingeable.

A dark figure in the night, inflicting their own form of justice quickly escalates into a movement that spreads across the nation.

And at the heart of it all is a small domestic violence support group who never asked to be part of it.

The flow of the book is perfect, making it easy to read, and keeping you hooked from the first page. The characters are interesting , flawed, messy and the morals they struggle with are real.

If you enjoy a dark, unhinged premise you'll love this second installment in the series. I can't wait for the 3rd book.

Thank you to netgalley for my copy.

🖤Female empowerment
🖤 Morally gray characters
🖤Vigilante justice
🖤Cat and Mouse
🖤 Female rage

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[Sherri · Rating 3 out of 5]

***I received an ARC from Net Galley in exchange for my honest review

In book 2 of the Secret Vigilante series, for six months someone known only as The Caretaker has been avenging the women who have been hurt, by killing those men who hurt them. Now, women across the country have been inspired to take control of their own lives and seek revenge on the people who hurt them. The Detective Sophie Salam is still convinced she knows who is behind The Caretaker murders but has no evidence to prove it. Then her ex shows back up in her life, and she will do anything to keep her daughter safe. Anything.

I loved book one, but this one, not so much. I don't know if it was because there was just a small group of women in the last book who needed help, so it was easier to connect with all of them, where this book, the group has gotten so large, it just felt very impersonal. Also, it was just a very slow burn for almost the entire book - not at all like the last book. It did set it up for a third book - hopefully that one will be more like the first book.

[Susan Belman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another easy 5 stars.
I flew through this book like my life depended on it. The second I finished Serial Killer Support Group, I needed more—and this delivered everything I wanted.
What I loved here is how the story expands. It’s no longer just the group… it’s a whole movement.
“The Caretaker” isn’t just a killer anymore—he’s become something bigger, and suddenly women everywhere are taking justice into their own hands. And honestly? Same energy as book one: I probably shouldn’t support this… but here we are 😏
But what made this one even more fun was that little twist of doubt creeping in…
Some of the murders don’t quite fit.
And you start wondering—wait… is this one of ours?
That constant questioning added such a good layer of tension. It’s not just about what’s happening anymore, it’s about who’s actually behind it.
The pacing is just as addictive—fast, dark, and impossible to put down. I barely came up for air while reading this.
And now I’m sitting here like… this BETTER be a trilogy because I am not ready to leave this world yet 😭

[Dina Gillingham · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley, D. B. Stephens and One More Chapter (Harper Collins UK) for a copy of this eARC in exchange for my honest review.

3 stars for The Serial Killer Support Network

After devouring the first book in the series, I was thrilled to be approved for the sequel. Unfortunately, this instalment fell a little flat for me. Following such a major reveal in book one, I expected something of a similar scale, but this story never quite reached those same heights.

It was interesting to follow the journey of the “saved” after the events of the first book, but parts of the storyline felt underdeveloped and, at times, a bit farfetched.

The ending, in particular, left me feeling frustrated. While I can see how it sets up a third book, it didn’t feel especially satisfying on its own.

I had been really excited for this release, but overall it felt somewhat lacklustre. I’ll likely read the third book for some sense of resolution, though I’m not sure I’ll be going in with especially high expectations.

[Keeley Ribchester · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to read The Serial Killers Support Network by D. B. Stephens after having read The Serial Killer Support Group as an ARC and absolutely loving it. and this sequel did not disappoint. As soon as this arc hit my kindle I was straight onto reading. It was just as dark, gripping, and addictive, with even higher stakes and plenty of twists.
I loved how the story builds on the original with vigilante justice, revenge, found family, moral grey choices, secret identities, and shocking twists, while still keeping the strong friendships and dark humour that made the first book so good. The Caretaker storyline added a whole new level of tension, and I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough.
This will appeal to fans of twisty thrillers with attitude, similar in feel to books by Karin Slaughter and C. J. Tudor, with its mix of dark themes, suspense, and characters you can’t help rooting for