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Detective Katie Scott #14
The Whispering Girls
Dressed only in an oversized t-shirt, with a burlap sack covering her head, the body of a girl swings gently from the branches in the breeze. A newly-lit candle burns on the ground below. The killer was here just moments ago…
Taking a much-needed break in a cabin in the woods with her service dog Cisco, Detective Katie Scott is disturbed by a sharp knocking at the door. Outside, she finds a terrified girl called TJ, begging for help—she says she has found a dead girl in the forest. When they reach the scene, Katie turns to ask TJ further questions, but she has vanished.
At dawn the next day, the body of another girl is found laid out only a mile from the first. To Katie’s horror, she realizes it is TJ. The scene looks eerily similar, with a small shrine below her feet. What kind of monster would do this? And if a twisted serial killer is at work, who is their next victim?
As more bodies and shrines emerge, Katie needs to find the link between the girls and the unhinged killer. But when she stumbles across a cold case that the local police seem determined to keep quiet, Katie realizes danger could be closer to her than she first thought. How much will Katie sacrifice to find the killer and can she stop more innocent lives from being taken?
An addictive crime fiction novel for fans of Lisa Regan, Rachel Caine and Melinda Leigh. A nail-biting rollercoaster ride from USA Today and Amazon bestseller Jennifer Chase!
Readers love The Whispering Girls:
“Utterly unputdownable… The tension never lets up… A dark and twisty ride… It’s the kind of book that keeps you up past midnight, promising yourself you’ll stop at the next page — and never actually doing it… Gripping… must-read… isn’t just a five-star book — it’s a full-body experience.” Apieceofmyheart, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Ok I am not ok. Ok wow. Ok wowzas. Ok breathe. and then read this book because it was incredible… I was hooked… I was gripped and gripping my knees together.” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Wow… Fast paced and exciting, there were twists with every page turned… This kept me on the edge of my seat, the story is addictive and I couldn’t put it down. One that definitely had me on edge as the tension built. Highly recommend this one to everyone!” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I literally got goosebumps… The suspense kept me hooked right until the very end. Fantastic! 5 stars.” B for Book Review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“A fast-paced thriller that keeps you hooked from the first page.” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Readers love Jennifer
“THERE WAS NO WAY I WAS PUTTING THIS BOOK DOWN!!!!!… I was literally holding my breath… I HAD TO KNOW!!!!! As for the explosive ending: WOW definitely not what, or who I was expecting.
Taking a much-needed break in a cabin in the woods with her service dog Cisco, Detective Katie Scott is disturbed by a sharp knocking at the door. Outside, she finds a terrified girl called TJ, begging for help—she says she has found a dead girl in the forest. When they reach the scene, Katie turns to ask TJ further questions, but she has vanished.
At dawn the next day, the body of another girl is found laid out only a mile from the first. To Katie’s horror, she realizes it is TJ. The scene looks eerily similar, with a small shrine below her feet. What kind of monster would do this? And if a twisted serial killer is at work, who is their next victim?
As more bodies and shrines emerge, Katie needs to find the link between the girls and the unhinged killer. But when she stumbles across a cold case that the local police seem determined to keep quiet, Katie realizes danger could be closer to her than she first thought. How much will Katie sacrifice to find the killer and can she stop more innocent lives from being taken?
An addictive crime fiction novel for fans of Lisa Regan, Rachel Caine and Melinda Leigh. A nail-biting rollercoaster ride from USA Today and Amazon bestseller Jennifer Chase!
Readers love The Whispering Girls:
“Utterly unputdownable… The tension never lets up… A dark and twisty ride… It’s the kind of book that keeps you up past midnight, promising yourself you’ll stop at the next page — and never actually doing it… Gripping… must-read… isn’t just a five-star book — it’s a full-body experience.” Apieceofmyheart, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Ok I am not ok. Ok wow. Ok wowzas. Ok breathe. and then read this book because it was incredible… I was hooked… I was gripped and gripping my knees together.” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Wow… Fast paced and exciting, there were twists with every page turned… This kept me on the edge of my seat, the story is addictive and I couldn’t put it down. One that definitely had me on edge as the tension built. Highly recommend this one to everyone!” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I literally got goosebumps… The suspense kept me hooked right until the very end. Fantastic! 5 stars.” B for Book Review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“A fast-paced thriller that keeps you hooked from the first page.” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Readers love Jennifer
“THERE WAS NO WAY I WAS PUTTING THIS BOOK DOWN!!!!!… I was literally holding my breath… I HAD TO KNOW!!!!! As for the explosive ending: WOW definitely not what, or who I was expecting.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 20, 2025
1190 people are currently reading
170 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Chase
33 books588 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
Jennifer Chase is a multi award-winning and USA Today Best Selling crime fiction author, as well as a consulting criminologist. She has written the popular Detective Katie Scott Series and the Emily Stone Thriller Series.
Jennifer holds a bachelor degree in police forensics and a master's degree in criminology & criminal justice. These academic pursuits developed out of her curiosity about the criminal mind as well as from her own experience with a violent psychopath, providing Jennifer with deep personal investment in every story she tells. In addition, she holds certifications in serial crime and criminal profiling.
She is an affiliate member of the International Association of Forensic Criminologists, and member of the International Thriller Writers. www.authorjenniferchase.com
Jennifer Chase is a multi award-winning and USA Today Best Selling crime fiction author, as well as a consulting criminologist. She has written the popular Detective Katie Scott Series and the Emily Stone Thriller Series.
Jennifer holds a bachelor degree in police forensics and a master's degree in criminology & criminal justice. These academic pursuits developed out of her curiosity about the criminal mind as well as from her own experience with a violent psychopath, providing Jennifer with deep personal investment in every story she tells. In addition, she holds certifications in serial crime and criminal profiling.
She is an affiliate member of the International Association of Forensic Criminologists, and member of the International Thriller Writers. www.authorjenniferchase.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
August 19, 2025
The Whispering Girls is book 14 in the Detective Katie Scott series by Jennifer Chase. If you haven't read this series yet, this is a great book to start with. Katie Scott is a detective with her service dog, Cisco. They have both been ordered to take a 2 week vacation as they've been physically and mentally working for too long without a break. Katie rented a cabin in the woods in a very small town to get away from everything. She's surprised when there's someone knocking on her door. Katie opens the door to a terrified girl named T.J. T.J. says she needs help as she found a dead girl in the woods. T.J. leads Katie to the horrific scene where she finds a girl swaying from a tree branch. As Katie looks around for evidence left, she turns to ask T.J. something, but the girl is gone. It's like she vanished into thin air. Why would T.J. leave so abruptly? Where could she have gone?
Katie calls the local sheriff's office to report the murder and waits for them at her cabin. She's going to have to lead them to the scene. When only 3 people show up, Katie realizes what a small town this is, and that they're in way over their heads with this murder. Early the next morning another girl is found very close to where the first girl was found. Katie is horrified to see that this girl is T.J. Why would someone kill these 2 young girls? Is there a serial killer at work in this small town? As more bodies are found, Katie finds a link to a cold case, and realizes someone close to her could be involved. Katie is in real danger and must find the killer before he strikes again. Will Katie and Cisco be able to solve the case and stay alive? I thought I knew who was doing it, but was completely wrong. This book will keep you guessing until the end and your heart racing throughout. The Whispering Girls is a fantastic thriller that I rate 5 stars with my highest recommendation. The Whispering Girls is out on August 20 and should not be missed by anyone who loves a good whodunit. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for an advanced copy of The Whispering Girls in exchange for a fair review. #TheWhisperingGirls
Katie calls the local sheriff's office to report the murder and waits for them at her cabin. She's going to have to lead them to the scene. When only 3 people show up, Katie realizes what a small town this is, and that they're in way over their heads with this murder. Early the next morning another girl is found very close to where the first girl was found. Katie is horrified to see that this girl is T.J. Why would someone kill these 2 young girls? Is there a serial killer at work in this small town? As more bodies are found, Katie finds a link to a cold case, and realizes someone close to her could be involved. Katie is in real danger and must find the killer before he strikes again. Will Katie and Cisco be able to solve the case and stay alive? I thought I knew who was doing it, but was completely wrong. This book will keep you guessing until the end and your heart racing throughout. The Whispering Girls is a fantastic thriller that I rate 5 stars with my highest recommendation. The Whispering Girls is out on August 20 and should not be missed by anyone who loves a good whodunit. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for an advanced copy of The Whispering Girls in exchange for a fair review. #TheWhisperingGirls
September 25, 2025
Comme d'hab, j'ai adoré ce livre de Jennifer Chase. La seule chose que j'ai moins aimé c'est qu'ils soient sur une enquête en dehors de leur territoire avec leur équipe complète et toutes leurs ressources. Bien contente qu'elle finisse enfin avec John🤭
August 21, 2025
This book did not hit for me. It had some similarities to another author’s books that just felt off. And I just could not get past it. I prefer to not get into particulars. But I read a lot of books and this is the first time that something like this happened to me. And it was not cool. So I will leave it at that.
August 19, 2025
This is a brilliant crime thriller and one of my favourites in this series.
Katie escapes to the woods for two weeks rest with Cisco, but is soon knee deep in a murder investigation.
The local Police are not used to dealing with murders and when the Chief ends up in hospital, he asks her to lead the investigation.
Katie speaks to her Uncle and soon her partner Gav is by her side to try and find the killer.
Another young girl is then found dead but Katie and Gav are facing a brick wall when asking the locals for information.
There’s lots going on in this book and there’s more than one character hiding dark secrets, so it was impossible for me to work out the identity of the killer.
This is a brilliant book and a series that I’d highly recommend.
Thanks to Bookouture for the opportunity to read this book.
Katie escapes to the woods for two weeks rest with Cisco, but is soon knee deep in a murder investigation.
The local Police are not used to dealing with murders and when the Chief ends up in hospital, he asks her to lead the investigation.
Katie speaks to her Uncle and soon her partner Gav is by her side to try and find the killer.
Another young girl is then found dead but Katie and Gav are facing a brick wall when asking the locals for information.
There’s lots going on in this book and there’s more than one character hiding dark secrets, so it was impossible for me to work out the identity of the killer.
This is a brilliant book and a series that I’d highly recommend.
Thanks to Bookouture for the opportunity to read this book.
August 24, 2025
Gosh that was a hard read. You could tell from the start the author was pushing someone hard as the killer but obviously it wouldn’t be given up so easily. The writing is disjointed and there were so many holes in the story making it super unbelievable and a lot of it makes absolutely no sense; a huge storyline that wasn’t well thought out and kind of stuck together. Far out.. That was a terrible waste of time.
July 16, 2025
Katie is enjoying a well-deserved vacation—or at least she’s supposed to be—but boredom quickly sets in, and she secretly starts counting down the days until she can return home and get back to work.
But do detectives ever really get time off? It seems like trouble always finds Katie, and it doesn’t take long before she’s knee-deep in a new, complex case. Thankfully, she has the support of her partner Gav, and of course, Cisco is never far behind. She’ll definitely need their help, because danger is once again lurking from all sides.
The author masterfully (pun intended 😉) creates an eerie atmosphere that grips the story from start to finish. Storms, snow, and a forest form the perfect backdrop for chilling scenes. I literally got goosebumps.
Katie is a beautifully written character. Despite the trauma she’s endured—and still suffers from, often at the worst moments—she doesn’t let it throw her off. She always manages to push through her fears to save victims or bring murderers to justice.
I also love how she protects her loyal four-legged friend and only brings him into action when there’s truly no other option. Much to Cisco’s dismay, of course, as he would gladly be part of every adventure from start to finish, front and center.
People kill for all sorts of reasons, but one thing is always central: self-interest.
I thoroughly enjoyed this excellent story and was thrilled with the romantic twist at the end.
Oh, and one more thing—did I guess the identity of the killer? No, of course not. So the suspense kept me hooked right until the very end. Fantastic! 5 stars.
Thank you
But do detectives ever really get time off? It seems like trouble always finds Katie, and it doesn’t take long before she’s knee-deep in a new, complex case. Thankfully, she has the support of her partner Gav, and of course, Cisco is never far behind. She’ll definitely need their help, because danger is once again lurking from all sides.
The author masterfully (pun intended 😉) creates an eerie atmosphere that grips the story from start to finish. Storms, snow, and a forest form the perfect backdrop for chilling scenes. I literally got goosebumps.
Katie is a beautifully written character. Despite the trauma she’s endured—and still suffers from, often at the worst moments—she doesn’t let it throw her off. She always manages to push through her fears to save victims or bring murderers to justice.
I also love how she protects her loyal four-legged friend and only brings him into action when there’s truly no other option. Much to Cisco’s dismay, of course, as he would gladly be part of every adventure from start to finish, front and center.
People kill for all sorts of reasons, but one thing is always central: self-interest.
I thoroughly enjoyed this excellent story and was thrilled with the romantic twist at the end.
Oh, and one more thing—did I guess the identity of the killer? No, of course not. So the suspense kept me hooked right until the very end. Fantastic! 5 stars.
Thank you
August 23, 2025
If you compare a book to a Lisa Regan book, you have me sold. This book had me on the edge of my seat the whole time.
Katie is supposed to be on a mandatory vacation, until she finds a body near the cabin where she’s staying. That body plunges her into the middle of a serial killer investigation. Her partner comes to her so they can work together for answers. Their lives are at risk the more they investigate the small town and a cold case that they try to figure out if they’re related to the current murders or not.
I thought I had figured out the killer really early on, and I was right about part of it at least. I was not expecting there to be multiple killers.
I love the dynamic Katie has with her partner. They remind of me of Olivia Benson and Elliot Stabler. I also love that Katie has Cisco. I love military/police dogs in police procedurals.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for my copy of this book.
Katie is supposed to be on a mandatory vacation, until she finds a body near the cabin where she’s staying. That body plunges her into the middle of a serial killer investigation. Her partner comes to her so they can work together for answers. Their lives are at risk the more they investigate the small town and a cold case that they try to figure out if they’re related to the current murders or not.
I thought I had figured out the killer really early on, and I was right about part of it at least. I was not expecting there to be multiple killers.
I love the dynamic Katie has with her partner. They remind of me of Olivia Benson and Elliot Stabler. I also love that Katie has Cisco. I love military/police dogs in police procedurals.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for my copy of this book.
July 27, 2025
ARC Review: NetGallery & Bookouture
Katie was supposed to be on a relaxing vacation with her dog Cisco until she stumbles across a crime scene that abruptly ends their break in Echo Forest.
This was an okay read. I don’t usually gravitate toward drawn out crime fiction where I’m constantly trying to piece things together with no clear clues. This town was overflowing with strange events and secrets lurking behind every local.
If you’re into stories with crime and full of mystery this one might just be your kind of book.
Katie was supposed to be on a relaxing vacation with her dog Cisco until she stumbles across a crime scene that abruptly ends their break in Echo Forest.
This was an okay read. I don’t usually gravitate toward drawn out crime fiction where I’m constantly trying to piece things together with no clear clues. This town was overflowing with strange events and secrets lurking behind every local.
If you’re into stories with crime and full of mystery this one might just be your kind of book.
August 20, 2025
Katie and Cisco are on mandatory R & R in a cabin near a creepy town where everything is just too pat and perfect.
I felt the hinkiness immediately and would have hightailed it out of there but this is Katie so of course she’s investigating an active murder scene.
I thought the hospital scenario was right out the early Halloween horror flicks. I was playing the music in my head as I read that part!
I identified a villain but the rest were obscure.
I’m happy for the much needed development for the forensics former Seal who has my vote!!
I do wish Cisco had been able to munch on the bad characters.
Thanks Bookouture and NetGalley for the early copy.
I felt the hinkiness immediately and would have hightailed it out of there but this is Katie so of course she’s investigating an active murder scene.
I thought the hospital scenario was right out the early Halloween horror flicks. I was playing the music in my head as I read that part!
I identified a villain but the rest were obscure.
I’m happy for the much needed development for the forensics former Seal who has my vote!!
I do wish Cisco had been able to munch on the bad characters.
Thanks Bookouture and NetGalley for the early copy.
September 22, 2025
Loved it!
Another brilliant read from Jennifer Chase. Gutted to have finished it so soon. Looking forward to what's next for Katie Scott. Hopefully won't be waiting too long!
Another brilliant read from Jennifer Chase. Gutted to have finished it so soon. Looking forward to what's next for Katie Scott. Hopefully won't be waiting too long!
December 27, 2025
(See all my Book Reviews and Author Interviews) - Jennifer Chase (https://authorjenniferchase.com) is the author of more than 25 books. The Whispering Girls was published late last August, and is the 14th novel in her Detective Katie Scott series. It is the 92nd title I’ve completed reading in 2025.
I received an ARC of this book for free through https://www.netgalley.com and I am voluntarily leaving this review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. Due to scenes of violence, I categorize this novel as R.
Detective Katie Scott is on a rare, much-needed break from the Pine Valley, California Sheriff’s Department. Seeking quiet and solitude, she and her service dog, Cisco, retreat to a secluded cabin in Echo Forest. Their peace is shattered when a terrified young woman pounds on the door late one evening, begging for help. The girl, who says her name is TJ, claims she has discovered a woman in distress somewhere in the surrounding woods.
Katie and Cisco follow TJ into the forest–only to stumble upon a nightmare.
A young woman’s body hangs from a pine tree, swaying gently in the cold air. A burlap sack covers her head, her bare feet dangling just a foot above the ground. A recently lit candle burns beneath her, and a crude totem stands nearby–signs that the killer may still be close. When Katie turns to question TJ, the girl has vanished without a trace.
Local authorities soon arrive, but the Echo Forest Police Department, led by Chief Beryl Cooper with officers Banning and Clarke, is unprepared for a murder of this magnitude in their quiet town. Despite Katie’s credentials, Cooper regards her with suspicion. The situation worsens at dawn, when another body is discovered less than a mile away. This time, the victim is TJ herself–posed in a chillingly similar ritualistic display.
As fear tightens its grip on Echo Forest, Katie is stunned when Chief Cooper suffers a heart attack and asks her to take over the investigation. Reinforcements arrive from Pine Valley: Katie’s partner Detective Sean McGaven and forensic supervisor John Blackburn. As they dig deeper, they uncover a disturbing revelation–Chief Cooper’s wife was murdered in the forest years earlier, a case that was never solved.
The team sets up their base at a remote resort run by the town veterinarian, Dr. Jack Thomas, the only guests during the harsh off-season. But the killings continue. More victims surface, a suspect slips through their grasp, and a brutal snowstorm seals Echo Forest off from the outside world.
When an ambush at the local hospital nearly costs them their lives–and John is later abducted after the team is drugged–Katie and an injured Sean must act fast, battling the storm, their own wounds, and a killer who may be closer than they think.
Is there only one murderer? Why are young women being targeted? And can Katie uncover the truth before the forest claims another life?
I enjoyed the 5+ hours I spent reading this 338-page mystery. I give this novel a rating of 3.5 (rounded to 4) out of 5.
You can access more of my book reviews on my Blog ( https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/).
I received an ARC of this book for free through https://www.netgalley.com and I am voluntarily leaving this review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. Due to scenes of violence, I categorize this novel as R.
Detective Katie Scott is on a rare, much-needed break from the Pine Valley, California Sheriff’s Department. Seeking quiet and solitude, she and her service dog, Cisco, retreat to a secluded cabin in Echo Forest. Their peace is shattered when a terrified young woman pounds on the door late one evening, begging for help. The girl, who says her name is TJ, claims she has discovered a woman in distress somewhere in the surrounding woods.
Katie and Cisco follow TJ into the forest–only to stumble upon a nightmare.
A young woman’s body hangs from a pine tree, swaying gently in the cold air. A burlap sack covers her head, her bare feet dangling just a foot above the ground. A recently lit candle burns beneath her, and a crude totem stands nearby–signs that the killer may still be close. When Katie turns to question TJ, the girl has vanished without a trace.
Local authorities soon arrive, but the Echo Forest Police Department, led by Chief Beryl Cooper with officers Banning and Clarke, is unprepared for a murder of this magnitude in their quiet town. Despite Katie’s credentials, Cooper regards her with suspicion. The situation worsens at dawn, when another body is discovered less than a mile away. This time, the victim is TJ herself–posed in a chillingly similar ritualistic display.
As fear tightens its grip on Echo Forest, Katie is stunned when Chief Cooper suffers a heart attack and asks her to take over the investigation. Reinforcements arrive from Pine Valley: Katie’s partner Detective Sean McGaven and forensic supervisor John Blackburn. As they dig deeper, they uncover a disturbing revelation–Chief Cooper’s wife was murdered in the forest years earlier, a case that was never solved.
The team sets up their base at a remote resort run by the town veterinarian, Dr. Jack Thomas, the only guests during the harsh off-season. But the killings continue. More victims surface, a suspect slips through their grasp, and a brutal snowstorm seals Echo Forest off from the outside world.
When an ambush at the local hospital nearly costs them their lives–and John is later abducted after the team is drugged–Katie and an injured Sean must act fast, battling the storm, their own wounds, and a killer who may be closer than they think.
Is there only one murderer? Why are young women being targeted? And can Katie uncover the truth before the forest claims another life?
I enjoyed the 5+ hours I spent reading this 338-page mystery. I give this novel a rating of 3.5 (rounded to 4) out of 5.
You can access more of my book reviews on my Blog ( https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/).
August 21, 2025
*BLOG TOUR REVIEW*
Firstly, a huge thank you to Bookouture for asking me to be a part of this Book Tour.
Book #14 in the Katie Scott series, and once again, Jennifer Chase hits those high notes that call to you like a siren and mesmerise you deep into its pages.
Detective Katie Scott and her loyal K9 companion Cisco are on a well deserved vacation high up the hills in a cabin. Sounds idyllic, but the boredom very quickly sets in, and Katie is counting the hours before she can return to work.
A frantic knowck at the cabin door puts paid to her enforced rest and relaxation. Opening it to find a girl, TJ, begging for help. TJ leads her to the scene of a young girl, murdered in the woods, but when Katie turns to ask questions, TJ has disappeared into thin air, as if she was never there.
The tragic scene looks staged to Katie, the placement and objects around the body quite obviously set out, but she clashes with local law enforcement and when another body turns up the very next morning, that of TJ and staged the same way, Katie knows she needs to investigate with her team.
When more bodies and shrines are discovered, Katie knows they are chasing a very sick killer, but can they catch them before anyone else is killed? When a cold case seems connected, one that the locals all seem to want to bury, she knows she needs to tread carefully. Not easy in such a small town!
The location setting of this polt was sublime. The weather changes of storms and snow jist added to the eeriness. Written so perfectly, I could feel the chills.
No matter how many books in we are, with each new installment, I love how Katie's character is still developing. She has been through so much trauma but still comes through as this tenacious, strong willed, empathetic but kick ass woman who isn't afraid of her own vulnerability.
I will never tire of just how masterful Jennifer Chase truly is. Her writing has this majestic way of keeping you completely focused from the very first line to the very last word. The heart pounding suspense coupled with the build up of characters and dark, spine tingling narrative has me going back to this series time and time again.
Ifyou havent delved into this series yet, shame on you! I will always recommend starting from the very first installment, BUT I'll also add that this could easily be read as a stand alone.
HUGE thanks anks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC.
Firstly, a huge thank you to Bookouture for asking me to be a part of this Book Tour.
Book #14 in the Katie Scott series, and once again, Jennifer Chase hits those high notes that call to you like a siren and mesmerise you deep into its pages.
Detective Katie Scott and her loyal K9 companion Cisco are on a well deserved vacation high up the hills in a cabin. Sounds idyllic, but the boredom very quickly sets in, and Katie is counting the hours before she can return to work.
A frantic knowck at the cabin door puts paid to her enforced rest and relaxation. Opening it to find a girl, TJ, begging for help. TJ leads her to the scene of a young girl, murdered in the woods, but when Katie turns to ask questions, TJ has disappeared into thin air, as if she was never there.
The tragic scene looks staged to Katie, the placement and objects around the body quite obviously set out, but she clashes with local law enforcement and when another body turns up the very next morning, that of TJ and staged the same way, Katie knows she needs to investigate with her team.
When more bodies and shrines are discovered, Katie knows they are chasing a very sick killer, but can they catch them before anyone else is killed? When a cold case seems connected, one that the locals all seem to want to bury, she knows she needs to tread carefully. Not easy in such a small town!
The location setting of this polt was sublime. The weather changes of storms and snow jist added to the eeriness. Written so perfectly, I could feel the chills.
No matter how many books in we are, with each new installment, I love how Katie's character is still developing. She has been through so much trauma but still comes through as this tenacious, strong willed, empathetic but kick ass woman who isn't afraid of her own vulnerability.
I will never tire of just how masterful Jennifer Chase truly is. Her writing has this majestic way of keeping you completely focused from the very first line to the very last word. The heart pounding suspense coupled with the build up of characters and dark, spine tingling narrative has me going back to this series time and time again.
Ifyou havent delved into this series yet, shame on you! I will always recommend starting from the very first installment, BUT I'll also add that this could easily be read as a stand alone.
HUGE thanks anks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC.
August 22, 2025
The Whispering Girls by Jennifer Chase
Detective Katie Scott #14
~ Vacation to relax becomes a murder investigation as Katie and two of her team work to find the killer before more die ~
What I Liked:
Katie: ex-military K-9 trainer & handler, cold case police detective, good friend, leader, puzzle solver, works for her uncle the sheriff, loves her K-9 partner, suffers from PTSD, strong, dedicated, may have a new love interest moving forward
* Cisco: Katie’s black German Shepherd K-9 partner who was with her in war and was discharged into her arms. He’s there for her no matter what, companion to Katie, skilled at his job, loving and protective, helps ground Katie – loved by all
* Sean: Katie’s work partner, supportive, good sense of humor, able to read Katie, in a committed relationship, loves Cisco, dedicated, protective, a good man
* John: forensic supervisor, ex-SEAL, intelligent, strong, protective, lethal, have been intrigued by him in the past, possible love interest moving forward
* The small-town winter setting that intensified aspects of the story
* Being able to dislike whoever was killing innocents and wishing karma would descend with a vengeance
* The police procedural aspects and how the twists & turns were dealt with although it seemed the team were at times overthinking things
* That the case was wrapped up without loose ends to be tied up later
* Knowing that there will be another book soon and looking forward to finding out what will happen next
What I Didn’t Like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* Thinking about what might warp a mind to want to kill and what makes that individual take pleasure in doing so when others might have difficult backstories and not have any inclination to kill
* Having to wait to find out what will happen next with Katie and her possible new love interest
Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC – this is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
Detective Katie Scott #14
~ Vacation to relax becomes a murder investigation as Katie and two of her team work to find the killer before more die ~
What I Liked:
Katie: ex-military K-9 trainer & handler, cold case police detective, good friend, leader, puzzle solver, works for her uncle the sheriff, loves her K-9 partner, suffers from PTSD, strong, dedicated, may have a new love interest moving forward
* Cisco: Katie’s black German Shepherd K-9 partner who was with her in war and was discharged into her arms. He’s there for her no matter what, companion to Katie, skilled at his job, loving and protective, helps ground Katie – loved by all
* Sean: Katie’s work partner, supportive, good sense of humor, able to read Katie, in a committed relationship, loves Cisco, dedicated, protective, a good man
* John: forensic supervisor, ex-SEAL, intelligent, strong, protective, lethal, have been intrigued by him in the past, possible love interest moving forward
* The small-town winter setting that intensified aspects of the story
* Being able to dislike whoever was killing innocents and wishing karma would descend with a vengeance
* The police procedural aspects and how the twists & turns were dealt with although it seemed the team were at times overthinking things
* That the case was wrapped up without loose ends to be tied up later
* Knowing that there will be another book soon and looking forward to finding out what will happen next
What I Didn’t Like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* Thinking about what might warp a mind to want to kill and what makes that individual take pleasure in doing so when others might have difficult backstories and not have any inclination to kill
* Having to wait to find out what will happen next with Katie and her possible new love interest
Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC – this is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
August 21, 2025
❤️ 💙 WoW 💙 ❤️
The Whispering Girls by Jennifer Chase is the 14th book in the excellent Detective Katie Scott series and this has been a series that has always been a 5 ⭐️ read. This latest book by Jennifer is no different, it was just excellent and I loved it.
Detective Kate Scott is taking a much needed break from her job she loves, and she has gone to stay in a cabin in the woods with her service dog Cisco. . . . . Whilst relaxing in the cabin there was a sharp knock on her door. Outside there was a terrified young girl called TJ standing there begging for her Help! TJ explain to Detective Katie Scott that she has found a dead girl in the forest. . . . . When they reach to the location Kate turns and asks TJ more questions, but she is not there. . . . she has disappeared!
On the very next day and at dawn, another girl's body is found, laid out only a mile away from the first girl was found. But to Kate's horror when she see's the body of the girl. . . . . it is TJ! 🥹 She was laid out the same way and there was a small shrine below her feet.
" What kind of monster would do this?"
"Is there a twisted serial killer who killed these two girls and why?
Who is their next victim?
More bodies and shrines emerge, and Katie needs to find the link between the girls and the unhinged killer. Then, she stumbles across a cold case that the local police seem determined to keep quiet, Now, Katie realises the danger she is in and she needs to be 100% alert at all times . . . .
But the clock is ticking and Kate needs to find the Killer before they kill again!!!
I highly recommend The Whispering Girls especially as can be read as a standalone but I so recommend you read the other 13 books within this series as they will not disappoint - as they were also a 5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ read.
Big Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my ARC.
The Whispering Girls by Jennifer Chase is the 14th book in the excellent Detective Katie Scott series and this has been a series that has always been a 5 ⭐️ read. This latest book by Jennifer is no different, it was just excellent and I loved it.
Detective Kate Scott is taking a much needed break from her job she loves, and she has gone to stay in a cabin in the woods with her service dog Cisco. . . . . Whilst relaxing in the cabin there was a sharp knock on her door. Outside there was a terrified young girl called TJ standing there begging for her Help! TJ explain to Detective Katie Scott that she has found a dead girl in the forest. . . . . When they reach to the location Kate turns and asks TJ more questions, but she is not there. . . . she has disappeared!
On the very next day and at dawn, another girl's body is found, laid out only a mile away from the first girl was found. But to Kate's horror when she see's the body of the girl. . . . . it is TJ! 🥹 She was laid out the same way and there was a small shrine below her feet.
" What kind of monster would do this?"
"Is there a twisted serial killer who killed these two girls and why?
Who is their next victim?
More bodies and shrines emerge, and Katie needs to find the link between the girls and the unhinged killer. Then, she stumbles across a cold case that the local police seem determined to keep quiet, Now, Katie realises the danger she is in and she needs to be 100% alert at all times . . . .
But the clock is ticking and Kate needs to find the Killer before they kill again!!!
I highly recommend The Whispering Girls especially as can be read as a standalone but I so recommend you read the other 13 books within this series as they will not disappoint - as they were also a 5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ read.
Big Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my ARC.
September 3, 2025
Wow I'm lost for words WOW you have done it again Jennifer, I was glued to your book like always I just couldn't put it down. I was even reading with my kindle while vacuuming my house (yes this is not hard for me to do, I know it is funny, I do it all the time)
Your story once again dragged me into it, like I was one of the characters inside the book. I started reading your series in 2024 and since then I am always checking to see if your new ones are out yet or not. The story line was amazing, the details on the murders WOW so detailed i'm sure I even dreamed about it!
I must collect all her books in physical copy’s, this is so I can share them with my Nana as I know she will love these story’s as well.
The story had me gripping, you sit there reading and it feels like you’re actually in the story imagining it in a dream. Descriptions detailing information is very clear, and there is a good amount of details to have the picture of what is happening.
And once again another one of my favourite authors, because well each of Jennifers books that she writes is a book that carry's on after the other one left off, there is none of this one month/two months/two years and so on skipping in the story lines. This is one of my major things I look for in a series, it's also what makes me look forward to reading them!
I cannot wait to read the next instalment in the series, and I will admit I hope that I get the chance to do this before it is published.
Another love about these series that Carolyn writes is that each book carry’s on after the other one left off, there is none of this one month/two month/one year later skipping in the books. This is one of the major things that help me to enjoy the series that she has written, I struggle when you get a series that doesn't just follow through and it makes reading it harder cause you just can't enjoy it as much.
Thank you Jennifer for another great read and cannot wait for book 15!
Your story once again dragged me into it, like I was one of the characters inside the book. I started reading your series in 2024 and since then I am always checking to see if your new ones are out yet or not. The story line was amazing, the details on the murders WOW so detailed i'm sure I even dreamed about it!
I must collect all her books in physical copy’s, this is so I can share them with my Nana as I know she will love these story’s as well.
The story had me gripping, you sit there reading and it feels like you’re actually in the story imagining it in a dream. Descriptions detailing information is very clear, and there is a good amount of details to have the picture of what is happening.
And once again another one of my favourite authors, because well each of Jennifers books that she writes is a book that carry's on after the other one left off, there is none of this one month/two months/two years and so on skipping in the story lines. This is one of my major things I look for in a series, it's also what makes me look forward to reading them!
I cannot wait to read the next instalment in the series, and I will admit I hope that I get the chance to do this before it is published.
Another love about these series that Carolyn writes is that each book carry’s on after the other one left off, there is none of this one month/two month/one year later skipping in the books. This is one of the major things that help me to enjoy the series that she has written, I struggle when you get a series that doesn't just follow through and it makes reading it harder cause you just can't enjoy it as much.
Thank you Jennifer for another great read and cannot wait for book 15!
August 1, 2025
The Whispering Girls, the latest installment in the Detective Katie Scott series, is a thrilling page-turner that showcases Jennifer Chase's skillful storytelling.
Detective Katie Scott, as always, is a complex and driven protagonist. Her vulnerability is balanced with her fierce determination to seek justice, especially when faced with the haunting case of two murdered girls. The author has created a compelling narrative that combines heart-pounding suspense with an emotional depth that resonates throughout the story. The eerie atmosphere of the woods serves as the perfect backdrop for this dark tale. The author's vivid descriptions made me feel as if I were right beside Katie, experiencing her desperation and frustration as she races against time to uncover the truth.
Each revelation unfolds with precision, leading to a shocking climax that I genuinely didn't see coming. However, the ending felt a bit rushed, and I still had some questions on the why and how, but overall, a good book and addition to the series. I had one character picked out for being the culprit (and I was wrong), so that always is a good indication that the story is well-written for me when you can't readily guess who is involved. I didn't even think of the person who was ultimately responsible. There was one character whose fate we never found out (I don't want to name names so as not to ruin the plot).
If you're a fan of suspense that combines heart, mystery, and a strong lead character, you won’t want to miss this book. I am looking forward to more in this series to see what happens between Kim and John and what other adventures await the team. As always, Cisco is a great K9 character. I would recommend this series, this author, and this book.
#TheWhisperingGirls #NetGalley @bookouture
Detective Katie Scott, as always, is a complex and driven protagonist. Her vulnerability is balanced with her fierce determination to seek justice, especially when faced with the haunting case of two murdered girls. The author has created a compelling narrative that combines heart-pounding suspense with an emotional depth that resonates throughout the story. The eerie atmosphere of the woods serves as the perfect backdrop for this dark tale. The author's vivid descriptions made me feel as if I were right beside Katie, experiencing her desperation and frustration as she races against time to uncover the truth.
Each revelation unfolds with precision, leading to a shocking climax that I genuinely didn't see coming. However, the ending felt a bit rushed, and I still had some questions on the why and how, but overall, a good book and addition to the series. I had one character picked out for being the culprit (and I was wrong), so that always is a good indication that the story is well-written for me when you can't readily guess who is involved. I didn't even think of the person who was ultimately responsible. There was one character whose fate we never found out (I don't want to name names so as not to ruin the plot).
If you're a fan of suspense that combines heart, mystery, and a strong lead character, you won’t want to miss this book. I am looking forward to more in this series to see what happens between Kim and John and what other adventures await the team. As always, Cisco is a great K9 character. I would recommend this series, this author, and this book.
#TheWhisperingGirls #NetGalley @bookouture
September 3, 2025
I feel really bad giving such a bad rating after seeing how much others loved it.
It was not great.
There were serious editing issues. You don't put "pressure" on a leash, it's tension. And other such errors that build up over the course of the book and really makes it feel unfinished (and irritates the reader.)
Cons:
1. Editing errors aside, the story was not the best.
2. There was an attempt at action scenes, but they really fell flat for me.
3. And the "detecting" was awful. Good detectives don't speculate. They follow the evidence. They also don't think "those footprints are definitely human." My gosh, I almost laughed out loud when I read that. As opposed to what? Bigfoot?
4. Good detectives also don't have a 100% solve rate. Ask anyone, if a detective's solve rate is too high, that means he's putting innocent people away so he can close the case and needs to be investigated by IA. It's completely unrealistic and an author in this genre should know this.
But Agatha Christie, I hear you say. That's a different sub-genre. This is serious crime. Christie's crime novels were fun puzzles for the reader to solve.
5. Stop telling the reader it's an "eerie" setting. SHOW us it's eerie.
6. Inconsistent viewpoint. One moment we're limited third person following Katie, the next SOMEONE thinks "they look like friends", referring to Katie and whatshisname. Who is thinking this? Why did we jump heads? And then just as suddenly jump back again. I can't believe a mistake like this happened in the 14th book of a series.
The only pro for me was the dog. Unfortunately he did not get much airtime and had little to no character.
This was my first foray into the Katie Scott series. I shan't be returning.
It was not great.
There were serious editing issues. You don't put "pressure" on a leash, it's tension. And other such errors that build up over the course of the book and really makes it feel unfinished (and irritates the reader.)
Cons:
1. Editing errors aside, the story was not the best.
2. There was an attempt at action scenes, but they really fell flat for me.
3. And the "detecting" was awful. Good detectives don't speculate. They follow the evidence. They also don't think "those footprints are definitely human." My gosh, I almost laughed out loud when I read that. As opposed to what? Bigfoot?
4. Good detectives also don't have a 100% solve rate. Ask anyone, if a detective's solve rate is too high, that means he's putting innocent people away so he can close the case and needs to be investigated by IA. It's completely unrealistic and an author in this genre should know this.
But Agatha Christie, I hear you say. That's a different sub-genre. This is serious crime. Christie's crime novels were fun puzzles for the reader to solve.
5. Stop telling the reader it's an "eerie" setting. SHOW us it's eerie.
6. Inconsistent viewpoint. One moment we're limited third person following Katie, the next SOMEONE thinks "they look like friends", referring to Katie and whatshisname. Who is thinking this? Why did we jump heads? And then just as suddenly jump back again. I can't believe a mistake like this happened in the 14th book of a series.
The only pro for me was the dog. Unfortunately he did not get much airtime and had little to no character.
This was my first foray into the Katie Scott series. I shan't be returning.
August 18, 2025
Detective Katie Scott’s forced two-week vacation takes a turn for the worse from the tense opening scene. Peace and quiet are nowhere to be found for Katie. After a terrified girl knocks on her door, begging for help, Katie discovers something horrifying and immediately contacts the local police.
At first, the police chief is skeptical and sarcastic, but Katie’s presence may have been a sign of providence. Her involvement in the terrible crime she uncovers proves crucial. It soon becomes evident that this won’t be the only murder, and Katie’s experience, beyond her role as a cold case detective, is invaluable.
One thing Katie begins to realize is that something is very wrong in a small town that has boasted no murders in two decades. Why now? What is more is that tragically more murders occur and Katie and those from her police force realize that something sinister is going on and she doesn’t plan on leaving until she stops the killer.
As the series progresses, readers have come to understand how Katie has coped with PTSD after her time in the military and how her canine partner, Cisco, has been invaluable to her. Katie has also faced relationship difficulties, but these may be taking a turn for the better. This dynamic makes the story even more compelling. In fact, it was a one-sitting read that kept me on the edge of my seat. Katie deserves the best, and I can’t wait to see what’s next in store for her. While this book could work as a standalone novel, as this is a fantastic long-running series, reading it from the beginning would be recommended.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
At first, the police chief is skeptical and sarcastic, but Katie’s presence may have been a sign of providence. Her involvement in the terrible crime she uncovers proves crucial. It soon becomes evident that this won’t be the only murder, and Katie’s experience, beyond her role as a cold case detective, is invaluable.
One thing Katie begins to realize is that something is very wrong in a small town that has boasted no murders in two decades. Why now? What is more is that tragically more murders occur and Katie and those from her police force realize that something sinister is going on and she doesn’t plan on leaving until she stops the killer.
As the series progresses, readers have come to understand how Katie has coped with PTSD after her time in the military and how her canine partner, Cisco, has been invaluable to her. Katie has also faced relationship difficulties, but these may be taking a turn for the better. This dynamic makes the story even more compelling. In fact, it was a one-sitting read that kept me on the edge of my seat. Katie deserves the best, and I can’t wait to see what’s next in store for her. While this book could work as a standalone novel, as this is a fantastic long-running series, reading it from the beginning would be recommended.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
August 24, 2025
The Whispering Girls is book 14 in the Detective Katie Scott series. You can totally read it as a standalone, but I’d recommend picking up a few earlier books first to get a better feel for the characters and their dynamics.
In this installment, Katie’s quiet cabin getaway is interrupted when a terrified girl shows up claiming she’s found a body in the woods. But when Katie investigates, the girl disappears—and is later found dead in a disturbingly similar scene. The case may be tied to a 15-year-old cold case that rocked the same small town years ago.
I went into this one with high hopes—Katie Scott’s series is one of my go-to police procedurals. It’s fast-paced, easy to follow, and packed with characters I rooted for, like Katie herself, her loyal K9s—Cisco, and her quirky partner. There’s even a sprinkle of romance that adds a nice touch without overpowering the mystery.
This time, though, the story didn’t quite hold my attention. Around the halfway mark, the investigation started to feel scattered, with not much to grab onto.
And just when things seemed to be picking up, the ending rushed in and wrapped everything up too quickly. After all that buildup, I was left thinking… wait, that’s it ???
That said, the opening chapters did pull me in, and I loved the eerie small-town setting.
So, while this one didn’t quite hit the mark, I’m still sticking with the series. Fingers crossed the next book brings another cold case that really lets Katie and her team shine.
I received a review copy through Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!
⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: murder, death, mental distress, violence
In this installment, Katie’s quiet cabin getaway is interrupted when a terrified girl shows up claiming she’s found a body in the woods. But when Katie investigates, the girl disappears—and is later found dead in a disturbingly similar scene. The case may be tied to a 15-year-old cold case that rocked the same small town years ago.
I went into this one with high hopes—Katie Scott’s series is one of my go-to police procedurals. It’s fast-paced, easy to follow, and packed with characters I rooted for, like Katie herself, her loyal K9s—Cisco, and her quirky partner. There’s even a sprinkle of romance that adds a nice touch without overpowering the mystery.
This time, though, the story didn’t quite hold my attention. Around the halfway mark, the investigation started to feel scattered, with not much to grab onto.
And just when things seemed to be picking up, the ending rushed in and wrapped everything up too quickly. After all that buildup, I was left thinking… wait, that’s it ???
That said, the opening chapters did pull me in, and I loved the eerie small-town setting.
So, while this one didn’t quite hit the mark, I’m still sticking with the series. Fingers crossed the next book brings another cold case that really lets Katie and her team shine.
I received a review copy through Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!
⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: murder, death, mental distress, violence
August 22, 2025
I have read this entire series and it amazes me the plot twists that this author is able to weave into each book. Pine Valley Cold Case Detective Katie Scott is on a two-week enforced vacation, in Echo Forest, after her last case. A vacation that soon turns into a nightmare when her cabin water line breaks and she must find a new place. She is in her cabin when a girl comes to the door and tells her that there is a body in the forest. She follows the girl and finds a body, but when she turns, the girl is gone. Contacting the local police, they arrive at the scene and she returns to her cabin. She is offered a room at the local veterinarian’s lodge by the vet who collected the forensics from the murder scene. The next day she is notified that the police chief has had a heart attack and she is to take over the case. Luckily, she is able to have her regular partner, Detective Sean McGaven, arrive to assist. The next day, another girl’s body is found, is there a serial killer in the area? Soon, the chief is missing as are the other town officers as more bodies are found. When John Blackburn, the Forensic Supervisor in Pine Valley arrives in town, she welcomes his expertise and as her dear friend, the comfort of having him there. Will they be able to stop the mayhem before even more people are killed? Katie has been alone since her fiancé unexpectedly left her and the town…is there a chance for something more with John…I hope so! A thriller to the very end! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
August 5, 2025
There is something wicked and evil lurking beneath the surface of this seemingly quiet, small town.
Detective Katie Scott, along with her K-9, Cisco, just thought she was going to get a vacation and respite from dead bodies and crime solving. A knock at the door of her cabin changes the trajectory of the restful vacation that Katie has planned. A frightened young girl leads her to a dead body and then she simply disappears.
The local police chief asks for Katie's assistance as she knows more about solving a murder than his small town force knows. Katie knows she has her work cut out for her when the local veterinarian shows up to examine the body.
Afterward the bodies start piling up, people are disappearing and the mystery deepens even further. Katie's crew joins her to assist in trying to unravel this complex, twisty mystery which is a head scratcher. Even my Spidey senses were tingling as I could just sense something was not right in this small town. I would have never guessed where this was headed.
This author knows how to shock readers with her twisty reveals, as well as fooling you into thinking you know the truth, when it fact it was just another twisted turn. I was literally panting those last 30 or so pages dreading the ending. This was a marathon that was well worth the time I spent one evening frantically turning the pages.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Detective Katie Scott, along with her K-9, Cisco, just thought she was going to get a vacation and respite from dead bodies and crime solving. A knock at the door of her cabin changes the trajectory of the restful vacation that Katie has planned. A frightened young girl leads her to a dead body and then she simply disappears.
The local police chief asks for Katie's assistance as she knows more about solving a murder than his small town force knows. Katie knows she has her work cut out for her when the local veterinarian shows up to examine the body.
Afterward the bodies start piling up, people are disappearing and the mystery deepens even further. Katie's crew joins her to assist in trying to unravel this complex, twisty mystery which is a head scratcher. Even my Spidey senses were tingling as I could just sense something was not right in this small town. I would have never guessed where this was headed.
This author knows how to shock readers with her twisty reveals, as well as fooling you into thinking you know the truth, when it fact it was just another twisted turn. I was literally panting those last 30 or so pages dreading the ending. This was a marathon that was well worth the time I spent one evening frantically turning the pages.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 2, 2025
I’ve been fascinated by this series from the start. Well, the first book I read. Katie’s fiancé disappears and is missing for a few books. That really drew me in and made me want to devour those first few books. And the series just keeps hitting high notes.
This one picks up right after book 13 with Katie forced to take a vacation to decompress from her last intense case. Do you think she gets a break? Of course not, she stumbles into a serial killer case by a young girl and an incapacitated chief. She brings in McGaven and John to assist and they run into more than they bargained for. I love that Cisco, Katie’s dog, always finds a way to be part of the action without seeming forced. I relate to Katie and all she’s been through and that when she is supposed to be resting, she’s willing to jump in and fight for justice.
There were plenty of characters which means plenty of potential suspects. And did I figure this one out? No. Not even close. Am I disappointed? Also, no. I enjoy the writing style of the author, the main character and her team. Cisco and the process.
And I loved the progression of Katie’s personal life at the end. I find I am just as drawn to the recurring characters in the series as I am with the cases. A great mix of the two.
If you’re a fan of tense crime novels with a great team working to solve the case, I highly recommend this series.
This one picks up right after book 13 with Katie forced to take a vacation to decompress from her last intense case. Do you think she gets a break? Of course not, she stumbles into a serial killer case by a young girl and an incapacitated chief. She brings in McGaven and John to assist and they run into more than they bargained for. I love that Cisco, Katie’s dog, always finds a way to be part of the action without seeming forced. I relate to Katie and all she’s been through and that when she is supposed to be resting, she’s willing to jump in and fight for justice.
There were plenty of characters which means plenty of potential suspects. And did I figure this one out? No. Not even close. Am I disappointed? Also, no. I enjoy the writing style of the author, the main character and her team. Cisco and the process.
And I loved the progression of Katie’s personal life at the end. I find I am just as drawn to the recurring characters in the series as I am with the cases. A great mix of the two.
If you’re a fan of tense crime novels with a great team working to solve the case, I highly recommend this series.
January 19, 2026
I have mixed feelings about this.
I loved how a spree homicide just thrust itself onto Katie while on vacation in the middle of nowhere with Cisco, and how Gav and John didn't hesitate to come out to god knows where just because Katie needed help. The fact that the case wasn't in Pine Valley also meant they had limited resources, which was both refreshing and frustrating to see how the investigation went on with an obvious lack of information. Maybe the helplessness helped to spotlight the sense of camaraderie among them, not that we don't already know how strong their bond are, but I still love whenever that happened, nonetheless.
I had a few itches throughout the book that weren't scratched even at the end. Like how Katie felt like an outsider looking in, how TJ's apartment and the hospital were spotless and looked staged, how, as Katie should have, they didn't notice both girls' initials were TJ, and the whispers of Katie's name in the wind. Maybe it was addressed and I missed it? Idk
Despite those, I cannot wait for the next book in Feb 2026 now that John and Katie are together. I've been rooting for them since forever and I'm gonna have so much fun reading about their interactions and how they transit between being professionals and in their personal capacity in the next case.
I loved how a spree homicide just thrust itself onto Katie while on vacation in the middle of nowhere with Cisco, and how Gav and John didn't hesitate to come out to god knows where just because Katie needed help. The fact that the case wasn't in Pine Valley also meant they had limited resources, which was both refreshing and frustrating to see how the investigation went on with an obvious lack of information. Maybe the helplessness helped to spotlight the sense of camaraderie among them, not that we don't already know how strong their bond are, but I still love whenever that happened, nonetheless.
I had a few itches throughout the book that weren't scratched even at the end. Like how Katie felt like an outsider looking in, how TJ's apartment and the hospital were spotless and looked staged, how, as Katie should have, they didn't notice both girls' initials were TJ, and the whispers of Katie's name in the wind. Maybe it was addressed and I missed it? Idk
Despite those, I cannot wait for the next book in Feb 2026 now that John and Katie are together. I've been rooting for them since forever and I'm gonna have so much fun reading about their interactions and how they transit between being professionals and in their personal capacity in the next case.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Masterclass in Crime Fiction
Jennifer Chase delivers another chilling, utterly unputdownable installment in the Detective Katie Scott series with The Whispering Girls. From the very first page, the atmosphere is thick with suspense, and the tension never lets up.
What makes this book so exceptional is Chase’s signature blend of sharp pacing, emotionally complex characters, and richly layered storytelling. Katie Scott remains a fiercely compelling protagonist — determined, intuitive, and deeply human — and the return of her loyal K-9 partner, Cisco, adds both heart and grit to the story.
Without giving anything away, this book takes readers on a dark and twisty ride through secrets that don’t want to stay buried. The setting is immersive, the stakes feel real, and every chapter ends with a pull to keep reading just one more. It’s the kind of book that keeps you up past midnight, promising yourself you’ll stop at the next page — and never actually doing it.
Chase has truly outdone herself. If you’re a fan of gripping police procedurals with strong female leads and smart, unsettling mysteries — this is a must-read. The Whispering Girls isn’t just a five-star book — it’s a full-body experience.
August 3, 2025
Katie is taking a forced 2-week vacation to recover from the aftermath of the last case. No sooner has she reached the cabin to unwind, she is wondering how she is going to cope with the lack of action. Be careful what you wish for, next thing, she is drawn into a murder investigation when a girl shows up on her doorstep and taking to her scene of a crime.
The small town of Echo Forrest does not have the resources to look after a murder, the last one happened 15yrs ago and was unsolved. But there is something not right in this town and the people in it, including the Vet who doubles as the forensic support at the scene.
If you are up to date with this series, there is no shortage of action and the team finding themselves in dangerous situations, including exploding buildings. It has a good pace, the clues dribble in, but the who and the why, you will have to wait until the end of the book to find that out. It is a twisted, tangled mess of happenings.
There is even a new budding love, I won’t say more as I don’t want spoilers in this, but like Gav says in the book, you could tell it would eventually happen.
The small town of Echo Forrest does not have the resources to look after a murder, the last one happened 15yrs ago and was unsolved. But there is something not right in this town and the people in it, including the Vet who doubles as the forensic support at the scene.
If you are up to date with this series, there is no shortage of action and the team finding themselves in dangerous situations, including exploding buildings. It has a good pace, the clues dribble in, but the who and the why, you will have to wait until the end of the book to find that out. It is a twisted, tangled mess of happenings.
There is even a new budding love, I won’t say more as I don’t want spoilers in this, but like Gav says in the book, you could tell it would eventually happen.
August 23, 2025
Favorite Quotes:
These investigations were not only the hardest they’d had to investigate, but the twists and turns were both unusual and horrific. It was as if they were being dropped into a play with no script and didn’t know what was going to happen next.
Everything seems to read like a soap opera and not a crazed killer taking victims. There are too many moving parts to this case. People who aren’t who they say they are. People not telling us the truth.
My Review:
This complex and compelling tale was more than a bit complicated, while fraught with tension and an eerie unease from beginning to end. Katie was supposed to be on vacation and resting, but the location of her R&R proved to be an unfortunate choice. The creepiness factor was high in that odd little berg with impending peril always seeming to be just around the corner.
This installment had my shoulders in my ears as I white knuckled my Kindle and fretted that the main character wasn’t going to unravel it in time to save one of their own. Silly me, I should know better. While she is not without personal challenges and foibles, Detective Katie Scott and her wonder dog, Cisco, are a phenomenon with an unheard-of 100% closure rate.
These investigations were not only the hardest they’d had to investigate, but the twists and turns were both unusual and horrific. It was as if they were being dropped into a play with no script and didn’t know what was going to happen next.
Everything seems to read like a soap opera and not a crazed killer taking victims. There are too many moving parts to this case. People who aren’t who they say they are. People not telling us the truth.
My Review:
This complex and compelling tale was more than a bit complicated, while fraught with tension and an eerie unease from beginning to end. Katie was supposed to be on vacation and resting, but the location of her R&R proved to be an unfortunate choice. The creepiness factor was high in that odd little berg with impending peril always seeming to be just around the corner.
This installment had my shoulders in my ears as I white knuckled my Kindle and fretted that the main character wasn’t going to unravel it in time to save one of their own. Silly me, I should know better. While she is not without personal challenges and foibles, Detective Katie Scott and her wonder dog, Cisco, are a phenomenon with an unheard-of 100% closure rate.
August 2, 2025
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for this eARC.
I love the Detective Katie Scott series, and I love Cisco, Katie's loyal furry friend.
Note,: Although this book it's #14 of the Katie Smith books - they are written so you can grab any individual read and you won't get lost, and personally I found this to be one of the best of this stellar series.
If you are looking for an exciting, refreshing police procedural with almost non-stop action that puts a skilled detective against someone commiting a series of ruthless murders, give this book a read. Although it is by NO means a "cozy" it IS a book that includes likeable relatable characters (I dislike books peppered with only characters I hate or one-dimension cut outs).
Jennifer Chase proves in The Whispering Girls that although she is a talented author at the top of her game, she keeps her skills razor sharp; I have read every book in this series either before or immediately after publication, and I finished each book in one stretch.
Keep 'em coming Ms..Chase, we will certainly keep reading.
I love the Detective Katie Scott series, and I love Cisco, Katie's loyal furry friend.
Note,: Although this book it's #14 of the Katie Smith books - they are written so you can grab any individual read and you won't get lost, and personally I found this to be one of the best of this stellar series.
If you are looking for an exciting, refreshing police procedural with almost non-stop action that puts a skilled detective against someone commiting a series of ruthless murders, give this book a read. Although it is by NO means a "cozy" it IS a book that includes likeable relatable characters (I dislike books peppered with only characters I hate or one-dimension cut outs).
Jennifer Chase proves in The Whispering Girls that although she is a talented author at the top of her game, she keeps her skills razor sharp; I have read every book in this series either before or immediately after publication, and I finished each book in one stretch.
Keep 'em coming Ms..Chase, we will certainly keep reading.
August 24, 2025
4.5 ⭐
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for an early copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. The opinions in this review are my own.
Cold Case Detective Katie and her K9 companion Cisco are supposed to be taking a mandatory 2 weeks vacation relaxing at a rental cabin in Echo Forest. That all comes to a screeching halt when a young woman named TJ starts pounding on Katie's cabin door. TJ is hysterical and begs Katie to follow her to an area in the woods that turns out to be the scene of a murdered young woman. Quickly Katie becomes wrapped up in the investigation and due to the inexperience of the local police is asked to lead the investigation.
This book gripped me from the very beginning and had me questioning everything and everyone. I never knew who to trust and when I thought that I had it figured out another layer the plot was added. This book was addictive, gripping, and unputdownable. This was everything I love in a thriller book and I highly recommend it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for an early copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. The opinions in this review are my own.
Cold Case Detective Katie and her K9 companion Cisco are supposed to be taking a mandatory 2 weeks vacation relaxing at a rental cabin in Echo Forest. That all comes to a screeching halt when a young woman named TJ starts pounding on Katie's cabin door. TJ is hysterical and begs Katie to follow her to an area in the woods that turns out to be the scene of a murdered young woman. Quickly Katie becomes wrapped up in the investigation and due to the inexperience of the local police is asked to lead the investigation.
This book gripped me from the very beginning and had me questioning everything and everyone. I never knew who to trust and when I thought that I had it figured out another layer the plot was added. This book was addictive, gripping, and unputdownable. This was everything I love in a thriller book and I highly recommend it.
July 18, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy of this book.
Detective Katie Scott and her K9 Cisco are on some mandatory rest days in an isolated cabin. When a girl comes to the door, Katie is lead to a murder victim. When the girl disappears and later turns up dead, Katie’s partner McGaven comes to join her as they begin a deadly investigation.
Wow as soon as this popped up on NetGalley I had to have it. Fast paced and exciting, there was twists with every page turner. I enjoyed being as puzzled as Katie as I also couldn’t put the clues together, and the big ending was so unexpected for me. These characters are really well written and by book 14 I feel like they are old friends.As always, Cisco is my favourite!
This kept me on the edge of my seat, the story is addictive and I couldn’t put it down. One that definitely had me on edge as the tension built. Highly recommend this one to everyone!
Detective Katie Scott and her K9 Cisco are on some mandatory rest days in an isolated cabin. When a girl comes to the door, Katie is lead to a murder victim. When the girl disappears and later turns up dead, Katie’s partner McGaven comes to join her as they begin a deadly investigation.
Wow as soon as this popped up on NetGalley I had to have it. Fast paced and exciting, there was twists with every page turner. I enjoyed being as puzzled as Katie as I also couldn’t put the clues together, and the big ending was so unexpected for me. These characters are really well written and by book 14 I feel like they are old friends.As always, Cisco is my favourite!
This kept me on the edge of my seat, the story is addictive and I couldn’t put it down. One that definitely had me on edge as the tension built. Highly recommend this one to everyone!
August 12, 2025
From the moment I started this, I knew it was going to be a one-sitting kind of book!
With each new book in this series, Jennifer Chase outdoes herself in terms of tension, suspense, and the unique plots in her stories.
In this fourteenth installment, we find Katie and Cisco on vacation, well, at least until a young woman knocks on her cabin door and tells her she found a body in the woods. This sets off a chain of events that had me on the edge of my seat until I turned the last page.
Katie and McGavin end up taking over the murder investigation in the small town of Echo Ridge, and Katie realizes pretty quickly that things seem off. And things continue to go downhill. There are twists and turns around every corner, bodies dropping left and right, and I had no idea the full extent of what was going on until it was all revealed.
I think this one is my favorite so far, and I can't wait to see what's in store next for Katie, Cisco, and McGavin!
With each new book in this series, Jennifer Chase outdoes herself in terms of tension, suspense, and the unique plots in her stories.
In this fourteenth installment, we find Katie and Cisco on vacation, well, at least until a young woman knocks on her cabin door and tells her she found a body in the woods. This sets off a chain of events that had me on the edge of my seat until I turned the last page.
Katie and McGavin end up taking over the murder investigation in the small town of Echo Ridge, and Katie realizes pretty quickly that things seem off. And things continue to go downhill. There are twists and turns around every corner, bodies dropping left and right, and I had no idea the full extent of what was going on until it was all revealed.
I think this one is my favorite so far, and I can't wait to see what's in store next for Katie, Cisco, and McGavin!
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