Twisted

by Terry Cavanaugh

In a quiet Midwestern town, dark secrets twist beneath the surface of everyday life.
Twisted is a gripping mystery thriller that follows a small-town police investigation into a shocking murder that rocks the local community and the church at its center. When a beloved pastor is found dead under suspicious circumstances, a web of political agendas, religious rivalries and long-buried grudges begins to unravel.
As the case deepens, law enforcement uncovers disturbing ties to a local United Methodist congregation, leading to unsettling questions about those entrusted with moral authority. Faith is tested, trust is shattered and nothing is as it seems.
Terry Cavanaugh masterfully weaves suspense, small-town dynamics and spiritual tension into a page-turning thriller that keeps you guessing until the final twist. Perfect for fans of character-driven mysteries with heart and depth.

303 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 18, 2025

About the author

Hi, My name is Terry Cavanaugh. I am excited that you are looking at my books. I just want to take a moment and introduce myself. I have lived in Southeastern Ohio for 30-plus years. I’m a retired Methodist pastor. I’ve served churches in Belpre, Laurelville, Adelphi, Jackson, Georgetown, Greenville, and others, all in Ohio. I am a graduate of Muncie Central High School, Ohio Christian University, and The Methodist Theological School of Ohio. I’ve served as a police Chaplain for Jackson, Ohio since May 2021.

Reviews

[Martin B. · Rating 2 out of 5]

Twisted is a quick read, easily consumed in a few short sessions.  The book also moves along at a fast pace, bringing the main characters on board quickly and efficiently.  The premise is interesting: quiet Midwestern town, the shock of a pastor’s suspicious death, and the unraveling of secrets in a small community. The novel’s pacing and suspense are strong points, and the finale is appropriately shocking and “twisted”. While the plot unwinds and the bodies pile up, the writing is heavy on storyline, but light on character development, emotional depth, or any descriptive background which would build out the narrative. 

[Holly Towe · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was surprised by how well this story plot was! Overall I really enjoyed the story, it flowed well.