Backtrack: Amanda Greene novels, Book 3

by Caitlin K. Murphy

Detective Amanda Greene, a Marine combat vet and MMA master, returns for her third adventure and faces her toughest challenge in Backtrack. A fatal car crash is used to conceal an ingenious murder, and Amanda’s razor-sharp instincts lead her into a multi-layered, complex investigation. As she probes the case, she also starts seeing a therapist to deal with work-related stress, and the sessions force her to confront buried trauma from her past. With danger closing in, can she outwit a killer while battling her own demons? This gripping novel exposes much of Amanda's past while keeping readers guessing about the unique murder plot she's investigating. Perfect for fans of Alafair Burke’s Ellie Hatcher, Robert Parker’s Spenser, and Jeffrey Deaver’s Amelia Sachs, Amanda’s grit and brilliance shine in this heart-pounding thriller.

339 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 25, 2025

Reviews

[Shourya Sharma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Caitlin K. Murphy hits it out of the park again with Backtrack, the third novel in the Amanda Greene series. This one is a page-turning blend of raw emotion, high-level investigation, and psychological nuance that has you stuck to the pages from beginning to end.

Detective Amanda Greene is not only a battle-hardened Marine and MMA specialist; she's a multifaceted, human character struggling with trauma, survival, and the intense weight of pursuing justice. In Backtrack, Murphy leads us past the badge, up close and personal, to get a first-hand look at Amanda's internal conflict as she begins therapy to manage on-the-job stress. What follows is not only a thrilling mystery but a compelling story of self-discovery.

The central mystery a fatal car accident that has potentially sinister undertones than it might initially suggest is constructed with skillful suspense. The rhythm is well-paced, the hints are well-integrated, and the twists are well-rewarding without seeming forced. Murphy keeps Amanda's detective skills in balance with her emotional weaknesses effectively, creating a heroine who is admirable not because she's unbeatable, but because she fearlessly confronts her demons.

What really distinguishes Backtrack is its emotional depth. While Amanda works on the case, she also uncovers aspects of her own history buried beneath duty and discipline. The sessions are unflinching, insightful, and refreshingly honest illuminating mental health in high-stress work with sensitivity and candor.

Murphy’s writing is sharp, cinematic, and full of heart. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the Amanda Greene series or just picking it up for the first time, Backtrack is a captivating, character-driven mystery that not only entertains but also lingers in your mind long after you’ve turned the last page.

This is a highly recommended read for crime thriller fans who love strong female protagonists, emotional depth, and plotting that resonates long after the last page is turned.

[Abhay Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

⚫️Caitlin K. Murphy delivers yet another gripping installment in the Amanda Greene series with Backtrack a thrilling ride packed with emotional depth and psychological intrigue that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

⚫️Amanda Greene isn’t your average protagonist. A battle-tested Marine and seasoned veteran, she’s tough as nails, sharp as a tack, and a black belt to boot. But in Backtrack, Murphy peels back the layers of Amanda's tough exterior to reveal something even more captivating her vulnerability. As Amanda seeks therapy for stress related to her job, readers are invited on a profound inner journey that runs parallel to a dangerous external case.

⚫️The story kicks off with what seems like a tragic car accident, but Amanda’s instincts along with her determination to dig deeper suggest that there’s more to the story. As the mystery unfolds, so does Amanda's emotional armor. Murphy expertly weaves these two narratives together, creating not just a riveting procedural but also a heartfelt exploration of trauma, resilience, and personal growth.

⚫️What truly sets Backtrack apart is the depth of its main character. Amanda is tough, flawed, and incredibly relatable. Her battle to confront her past adds a rich emotional layer to the story, and her interactions whether with colleagues, suspects, or her therapist are sharp, authentic, and often poignant.

⚫️Murphy’s writing is crisp and cinematic, with action scenes that are both believable and exhilarating, while introspective moments resonate without slowing the pace. This thriller is a rare gem that not only quickens your pulse but also prompts reflection on the weight of hidden secrets.

⚫️Whether you’re a devoted fan of the Amanda Greene series or diving in for the first time, Backtrack excels in every aspect mystery, emotion, and action. It’s a stellar addition to the genre and a testament to Murphy’s talent.

Happy reading ❤️✨

[Sienna S'Zell · Rating 3 out of 5]

The best thing about this story was her name: Amanda. Amanda, in a slow, drawn-out procedure, gives us her bio and one of her girlfriend's; tells us she works out at a gym, and goes through her every procedure at length, and also that she spars, and includes every movement made. Oh, and then every day she tells us she is wet and sweaty, takes a shower and washes her hair. Somehow she inserts in there that as a detective with the police force she does back-timing on accidents. So then, in a glacially-moving chapter after chapter, she teaches us along with her rookie how to do every step of the way of this investigation, even repeating herself a few times. Meantime she has 2 girlfriends she shares meals with daily/weekly and we get to hear what they eat.

I fell asleep many times during this boring book, waiting to see if she got jumped in the parking lot, if someone attacked her on the front porch, if her back door got bashed in. Nope. But I did finish the book by major scrolling and discovered that she actually uncovered a murder plot. I guess painful slogging awards even the most boring detective.

[Tina Collins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ms Murphy has created a stellar plot and has worked on developing the cast of interesting characters fully. However, I did notice some repetition of key information such as those for the protagonist's workouts and how she carried out interviews of witnesses. I had to go back and check to see if I hadn't made a mistake, but there it was.

Despite this, the series of police procedural novellas written by the author, Ms Murphy, will be sure to build up a following of readers who love a good mystery. It allows its fans to invest in their favourite character, cheer when they catch the baddie and feel their pain and life experiences.

[P. Portraits · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘Don’t look FOR something, look AT everything!’

Detective Amanda Greene has landed a murder investigation, and her Marine training ensures she dives right in. Using her analytical skills and great attention to detail, she approaches the case in ways other detectives might not, seeking justice for the victim.

As the detective story unravels, so does her personal story of a traumatic past case that she must work through in order to regain control over what happened.

This is a great book for fans of police procedure, detective novels, and women characters at the helm.