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Welfare Check: The Kate McKinney Mysteries
Kate McKinney didn’t move to the middle of nowhere to make friends, she came for the quiet.
The kind that doesn’t scream at her through dispatch calls or drag her back to a life she’s trying to forget.
But when an old man vanishes from his remote cabin and his niece goes missing right along with him, Kate starts listening harder. A battered truck. A back trail no one uses. And eyes that follow her home after dark.
The local sheriff calls it concern. Kate calls it what it is, a warning.
Her only early ally is Boone, the sharp-eyed rescue mutt who trusts no one but her. Still, as the town closes ranks, Kate begins to find unlikely connections in the quiet, people who remind her she’s not as alone as she thinks.
In a town where everyone knows everyone, someone’s counting on her to stay silent.
They’re about to be disappointed.
The kind that doesn’t scream at her through dispatch calls or drag her back to a life she’s trying to forget.
But when an old man vanishes from his remote cabin and his niece goes missing right along with him, Kate starts listening harder. A battered truck. A back trail no one uses. And eyes that follow her home after dark.
The local sheriff calls it concern. Kate calls it what it is, a warning.
Her only early ally is Boone, the sharp-eyed rescue mutt who trusts no one but her. Still, as the town closes ranks, Kate begins to find unlikely connections in the quiet, people who remind her she’s not as alone as she thinks.
In a town where everyone knows everyone, someone’s counting on her to stay silent.
They’re about to be disappointed.
323 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 13, 2025
1 person is currently reading
7 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
November 8, 2025
“The quiet didn’t mean safe. It just meant waiting.”m
Thank you to the author for the ARC copy of Welfare Check! It’s a small town thriller centered around Kate, who is new to town. Having recently moved into her new home looking for a reset in life, her dog Boone, immediately throws a bone her way. Literally. She works as a 911 dispatcher and soon finds herself the target of hate crime group. The story was very well paced and you can recognize how the authors own life experience as a dispatcher helped make the story fee so real! The mystery element with the crimes had a good build up and I absolutely loved the found family aspect. That door replacement? Are you kidding me?? IYKYK 🤭
Thank you to the author for the ARC copy of Welfare Check! It’s a small town thriller centered around Kate, who is new to town. Having recently moved into her new home looking for a reset in life, her dog Boone, immediately throws a bone her way. Literally. She works as a 911 dispatcher and soon finds herself the target of hate crime group. The story was very well paced and you can recognize how the authors own life experience as a dispatcher helped make the story fee so real! The mystery element with the crimes had a good build up and I absolutely loved the found family aspect. That door replacement? Are you kidding me?? IYKYK 🤭
November 20, 2025
I completely loved this book. I read it as an ARC for the author. There is a super strong FMC plus who doesn’t love a doggo sidekick who has his own fun personality. I love some good old witty banter among characters. TOO many times I was laughing out loud. This is a must read.
October 30, 2025
I was drawn to the premise—a former city woman escaping into the quiet of rural Oregon, only to find the small-town serenity hiding secrets and danger. Kate McKinney is a strong enough lead, and I like that she prefers silence but is thrust into chaos when a missing man and his niece raise the alarm. The setting is well portrayed: remote cabins, battered trucks, back trails, a dog named Boone who plays an unexpected but welcome role.
While the mystery has solid bones, it didn’t quite deliver the punch I was hoping for. The pace felt uneven: the first half drifts in atmosphere nicely but takes a while to build momentum, and when key revelations start to arrive I found myself wanting sharper tension. Some of the supporting characters feel under-developed; I was invested in Kate’s perspective, but I kept waiting for a stronger “villain” or more chilling sense of threat than what we got.
What works: the escape to nature angle, the dog as an ally (Boone earns his stripes), and the promise of secrets in a town where “everyone knows everyone.” The author writes cleanly and gives a believable sense of place.
What falls a bit short: the mystery payoff doesn’t feel as surprising as the setup suggests. A few threads feel like they could have been tighter (e.g., the town’s reaction, or deeper backstory for the missing pair). Also, for a suspense book I wanted more moments of real risk or darkness; instead it stays somewhat comfortable.
Overall, I’d say Welfare Check is a pleasant read—especially if you like rural-suspense settings and characters who aren’t screaming at you every page. But it doesn’t quite reach the “edge-of-your-seat” level it might aim for. I’m giving it 3 stars, and I’d consider reading the next book in the series if the tension steps up and the stakes feel higher.
While the mystery has solid bones, it didn’t quite deliver the punch I was hoping for. The pace felt uneven: the first half drifts in atmosphere nicely but takes a while to build momentum, and when key revelations start to arrive I found myself wanting sharper tension. Some of the supporting characters feel under-developed; I was invested in Kate’s perspective, but I kept waiting for a stronger “villain” or more chilling sense of threat than what we got.
What works: the escape to nature angle, the dog as an ally (Boone earns his stripes), and the promise of secrets in a town where “everyone knows everyone.” The author writes cleanly and gives a believable sense of place.
What falls a bit short: the mystery payoff doesn’t feel as surprising as the setup suggests. A few threads feel like they could have been tighter (e.g., the town’s reaction, or deeper backstory for the missing pair). Also, for a suspense book I wanted more moments of real risk or darkness; instead it stays somewhat comfortable.
Overall, I’d say Welfare Check is a pleasant read—especially if you like rural-suspense settings and characters who aren’t screaming at you every page. But it doesn’t quite reach the “edge-of-your-seat” level it might aim for. I’m giving it 3 stars, and I’d consider reading the next book in the series if the tension steps up and the stakes feel higher.
November 12, 2025
This book was a suspenseful, edge-of-your-seat read that kept me guessing until the very end. I’m always drawn to stories featuring emergency personnel investigating mysterious situations, and this one hit all the right notes. Kate, the main character, is a strong and courageous 911 dispatcher who’s recently relocated to a quiet new town, only to find herself entangled in the unsettling events unfolding around her. As danger closes in, she’s pulled deeper into the chaos, relying on her instincts and the support of her coworkers, local officers, and her sheriff neighbor. The mix of small-town tension, danger, and camaraderie made this story incredibly engaging. It’s a gripping, fast-paced read with a heroine you can’t help but root for. I sincerely hope this isn’t the last we see of Kate She’s a character worth following.
November 4, 2025
Boone stole the show! 🐕 lol but no in all reality I usually am not a thriller girly but this one seemed extremely interesting to me. The more I read the more I was drawn in and hooked. This was a top tier thriller, coming from a spicy dark romance girl this book was the best thriller I have read!
November 2, 2025
The Welfare Check - Salem Hurley
I love mysteries and thrillers. I loved getting to know everybody of this town. I really enjoy the banter and dynamics between Kate and Tom and MK and everyone else in the story. This book is the perfect mix of a no spice closed door romance, and a mystery thriller. I can’t wait to read more in this series and see what other mysteries Kate and Tom and the crew will solve. I’m definitely intrigued.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Out of 5 Stars ⭐️
🫑/ Spice Rating ☀️
# of Pages 🌙 289 pages
Release Date 🌟 11/13/25
Format 💫 Gifted Digital Copy
Series 🌙 Kate McKinney Mystery, #1
Genre/Tropes ✨ thriller, murder mystery, closed door romance, no spice romance, sweet romance, found family, animal sidekick
Favorite Character ☀️ Kate
Favorite Line 🌟 “Good, you’ll like it here. Less traffic. More cows”
I love mysteries and thrillers. I loved getting to know everybody of this town. I really enjoy the banter and dynamics between Kate and Tom and MK and everyone else in the story. This book is the perfect mix of a no spice closed door romance, and a mystery thriller. I can’t wait to read more in this series and see what other mysteries Kate and Tom and the crew will solve. I’m definitely intrigued.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Out of 5 Stars ⭐️
🫑/ Spice Rating ☀️
# of Pages 🌙 289 pages
Release Date 🌟 11/13/25
Format 💫 Gifted Digital Copy
Series 🌙 Kate McKinney Mystery, #1
Genre/Tropes ✨ thriller, murder mystery, closed door romance, no spice romance, sweet romance, found family, animal sidekick
Favorite Character ☀️ Kate
Favorite Line 🌟 “Good, you’ll like it here. Less traffic. More cows”
November 6, 2025
4.25 Stars
One thing I know all too well is how different, yet absolutely crazy small town emergency services can be. I can only chuckle to myself when people move to rural areas for peace and quiet and to get away from the craziness of the city. This book does a great job of portraying how completely different the small town experience is and how it is the perfect setting for a suspenseful mystery. This book was really unlike what I usually read but because I have enjoyed other books that this author has written, I decided to give it a chance. I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed this book. I love a good mystery, and this gave that feeling you get when you are completely engrossed in the middle of a true crime documentary and you can’t stop until you find out what is going to happen next. The pacing of the story was great because I felt like I was flying through the pages. The connection between the characters was wonderful and this was an enjoyable read.
The characters were very well written and ones that you could easily connect to. Kate is someone trying to get away from the city life. She moves to a more rural place where she could find the simple quietness that nature has to offer. She is a strong FMC that has dealt with life and makes her for such a likable FMC. Tom is the kind of guy that you can easily fall in love with. Yeah, he is a grump, but he is so perfect when dealing with Kate. Their relationship building is the absolute definition of a slow burn, almost to a point that it is infuriating. But the build is a wonderful torture. The real star of this book though is Boone. Who doesn’t fall for the best pup in the world?
This book had a lot of elements that were so different from my usual reads. It is a closed door romance, so the spice is just not there. But when the story is well written and engaging like this one, you don’t really notice what you are missing. If you are looking for a spicy romance, maybe skip this one. But if you are looking for a well written, suspenseful, small town, story with that bit of romance that will have you loving the MCs, this is the story for you.
One thing I know all too well is how different, yet absolutely crazy small town emergency services can be. I can only chuckle to myself when people move to rural areas for peace and quiet and to get away from the craziness of the city. This book does a great job of portraying how completely different the small town experience is and how it is the perfect setting for a suspenseful mystery. This book was really unlike what I usually read but because I have enjoyed other books that this author has written, I decided to give it a chance. I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed this book. I love a good mystery, and this gave that feeling you get when you are completely engrossed in the middle of a true crime documentary and you can’t stop until you find out what is going to happen next. The pacing of the story was great because I felt like I was flying through the pages. The connection between the characters was wonderful and this was an enjoyable read.
The characters were very well written and ones that you could easily connect to. Kate is someone trying to get away from the city life. She moves to a more rural place where she could find the simple quietness that nature has to offer. She is a strong FMC that has dealt with life and makes her for such a likable FMC. Tom is the kind of guy that you can easily fall in love with. Yeah, he is a grump, but he is so perfect when dealing with Kate. Their relationship building is the absolute definition of a slow burn, almost to a point that it is infuriating. But the build is a wonderful torture. The real star of this book though is Boone. Who doesn’t fall for the best pup in the world?
This book had a lot of elements that were so different from my usual reads. It is a closed door romance, so the spice is just not there. But when the story is well written and engaging like this one, you don’t really notice what you are missing. If you are looking for a spicy romance, maybe skip this one. But if you are looking for a well written, suspenseful, small town, story with that bit of romance that will have you loving the MCs, this is the story for you.
October 24, 2025
As an Oregonian, Welfare Check hit me in a way few thrillers do. Salem Hurley doesn’t just set the story in the Pacific Northwest, she grounds it there, with wooded cabins, winding backroads, and the kind of silence that hums with tension. Eastern Oregon is a place I know well, and Hurley nails the atmosphere.
Kate McKinney, a former dispatcher turned reluctant investigator, is a protagonist you root for not because she’s flashy, but because she’s real. She’s carrying trauma, a rescue mutt named Boone, and a quiet determination that makes her compelling. When a routine welfare check turns into a missing persons case, the mystery unfolds with emotional weight and eerie precision.
Then there’s Undersheriff Tom Craig and his loyal companion Gunner. Tom is the kind of man who speaks in actions, not words, he’s a silent protector whose presence is steady and grounding. The romance between him and Kate unfolds slowly, almost imperceptibly, like mist rising off the Oregon pines. It’s not flashy or fast, but it’s deeply felt. Every glance, every quiet moment shared, builds a connection that feels earned and intimate. Their bond is the kind that lingers, it’s the kind you don’t realize you’ve been craving until it’s there.
Kate slowly finds a sense of belonging with Tom, but through her coworkers and new friends like M.K. What starts as a job becomes something deeper: a quiet, unspoken bond built on trust, shared burdens, and showing up when it matters. Together, they all form the kind of found family that doesn’t need grand gestures, just presence, loyalty, and a little understanding.
This isn’t a twist-a-minute thriller. It’s a simmering, character-driven mystery that builds dread through subtle clues and emotional realism. Hurley’s prose is lean and evocative, and the pacing mirrors the foggy uncertainty of the Oregon woods — slow, deliberate, and haunting.
If you love rural noir, dispatch drama, and stories that linger long after the last page, this one’s for you. And if you’re from Oregon? You’ll feel like you’ve walked these trails before.
A huge thank you Salem Hurley for the early copy! I can’t wait to see what’s next for Kate in her journey!
Kate McKinney, a former dispatcher turned reluctant investigator, is a protagonist you root for not because she’s flashy, but because she’s real. She’s carrying trauma, a rescue mutt named Boone, and a quiet determination that makes her compelling. When a routine welfare check turns into a missing persons case, the mystery unfolds with emotional weight and eerie precision.
Then there’s Undersheriff Tom Craig and his loyal companion Gunner. Tom is the kind of man who speaks in actions, not words, he’s a silent protector whose presence is steady and grounding. The romance between him and Kate unfolds slowly, almost imperceptibly, like mist rising off the Oregon pines. It’s not flashy or fast, but it’s deeply felt. Every glance, every quiet moment shared, builds a connection that feels earned and intimate. Their bond is the kind that lingers, it’s the kind you don’t realize you’ve been craving until it’s there.
Kate slowly finds a sense of belonging with Tom, but through her coworkers and new friends like M.K. What starts as a job becomes something deeper: a quiet, unspoken bond built on trust, shared burdens, and showing up when it matters. Together, they all form the kind of found family that doesn’t need grand gestures, just presence, loyalty, and a little understanding.
This isn’t a twist-a-minute thriller. It’s a simmering, character-driven mystery that builds dread through subtle clues and emotional realism. Hurley’s prose is lean and evocative, and the pacing mirrors the foggy uncertainty of the Oregon woods — slow, deliberate, and haunting.
If you love rural noir, dispatch drama, and stories that linger long after the last page, this one’s for you. And if you’re from Oregon? You’ll feel like you’ve walked these trails before.
A huge thank you Salem Hurley for the early copy! I can’t wait to see what’s next for Kate in her journey!
November 5, 2025
This was a really interesting mystery.
Kate McKinney left the big city and moved to a small mountain town that fulfills her need for quiet. She is able to easily pick up her job at dispatch. However, when an old man and his niece might be missing, she starts noticing connections between some of the calls. As more mysterious things start happening, Kate finds herself in the middle of a tense investigation, but she starts connecting with people in the town who remind her she isn't in it alone. Will they be able to solve the mystery before it gets to Kate?
I really loved the premise of this book and I could appreciate how Kate wanted to get away from the city and all of the traumatic dispatch calls she handled there. I also really enjoyed how people in town were so welcoming to her especially Tom and M.K. I loved the way that Boone and Gunnar were almost instant BFFs. It really reflected the easy connection between Tom and Kate. M.K. was absolutely hilarious and I loved her antics. The small town, "everyone knows everyone" setting was portrayed perfectly. I did feel like there wasn't as much payoff as I would have liked from the mystery aspect. There was a lot of tension and build up, but some of the mystery elements felt kind of predictable and others felt unfinished. Overall, I enjoyed the book and if you like mysteries I would definitely recommend giving it a try.
Kate McKinney left the big city and moved to a small mountain town that fulfills her need for quiet. She is able to easily pick up her job at dispatch. However, when an old man and his niece might be missing, she starts noticing connections between some of the calls. As more mysterious things start happening, Kate finds herself in the middle of a tense investigation, but she starts connecting with people in the town who remind her she isn't in it alone. Will they be able to solve the mystery before it gets to Kate?
I really loved the premise of this book and I could appreciate how Kate wanted to get away from the city and all of the traumatic dispatch calls she handled there. I also really enjoyed how people in town were so welcoming to her especially Tom and M.K. I loved the way that Boone and Gunnar were almost instant BFFs. It really reflected the easy connection between Tom and Kate. M.K. was absolutely hilarious and I loved her antics. The small town, "everyone knows everyone" setting was portrayed perfectly. I did feel like there wasn't as much payoff as I would have liked from the mystery aspect. There was a lot of tension and build up, but some of the mystery elements felt kind of predictable and others felt unfinished. Overall, I enjoyed the book and if you like mysteries I would definitely recommend giving it a try.
October 18, 2025
Wholesome, heartwarming and the friendships we all need.
⭐️ 4.25/5
🚪 Closed door romance
🔅small town rural mystery
🔅strong female lead
🔅woman in danger
🔅domestic suspense
🔅animal companion
🔅slow burn connection
🔅found family
🔅first responder
🔅 closed door romance
🔅 banter
🔅 strong friendships
“Just so we’re clear, I’ve got zero things that you haven’t seen. And you don’t need to look”
This read was so wholesome and I enjoyed every second of it.
I stepped away from my usual genre and decided to have a palette cleanser and what a pick!
I welled up at a few of these chapters, because they were so cute and heartwarming and it’s been a minute since a book has made me shed tears. I loved this book from the first page and Boone (the best companion) is his own MC in his own right.
Some of my favourite quotes:
“But theoretically, it wasn’t about shooting, and some asshole was mad about c0ck.”
“So this guy might’ve knocked me off balance, but I found peace here. I’m not letting him take it. I lived that way too long.“
“She stared at him. This man who proved everyday that actions speak louder.“
⭐️ 4.25/5
🚪 Closed door romance
🔅small town rural mystery
🔅strong female lead
🔅woman in danger
🔅domestic suspense
🔅animal companion
🔅slow burn connection
🔅found family
🔅first responder
🔅 closed door romance
🔅 banter
🔅 strong friendships
“Just so we’re clear, I’ve got zero things that you haven’t seen. And you don’t need to look”
This read was so wholesome and I enjoyed every second of it.
I stepped away from my usual genre and decided to have a palette cleanser and what a pick!
I welled up at a few of these chapters, because they were so cute and heartwarming and it’s been a minute since a book has made me shed tears. I loved this book from the first page and Boone (the best companion) is his own MC in his own right.
Some of my favourite quotes:
“But theoretically, it wasn’t about shooting, and some asshole was mad about c0ck.”
“So this guy might’ve knocked me off balance, but I found peace here. I’m not letting him take it. I lived that way too long.“
“She stared at him. This man who proved everyday that actions speak louder.“
October 19, 2025
~ Recommendation ~
This is the perfect book for fans of
• found family
• small-town secrets
• banter/dry humor
• loyal dogs
• Mid 40's FMC
• Sloooooow burn with a side of flirting and KISS HER ALREADY vibes
~ Review ~
I absolutely loved this book! I laughed, I gasped, I cried, cried some more and lost sleep because I was anxious to find out what happened next. Kate was very relatable and I felt that helped me connect more with her character. Boone is an absolute scene stealer and I adore him!! I truly enjoyed the way the story unfolded, how Kate discovers more about herself and how she learns to accept help from others. This book truly touched my heart and reminded me that even though there is bad in the world and people that mean us harm, there are still good people full of kindness. I look forward to reading more of Kate McKinney’s mysteries!
Disclaimer*
I received this copy for free as an ARC — I was not paid to review this book, these are my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you to Salem Hurley for the honor to read and review this book!
This is the perfect book for fans of
• found family
• small-town secrets
• banter/dry humor
• loyal dogs
• Mid 40's FMC
• Sloooooow burn with a side of flirting and KISS HER ALREADY vibes
~ Review ~
I absolutely loved this book! I laughed, I gasped, I cried, cried some more and lost sleep because I was anxious to find out what happened next. Kate was very relatable and I felt that helped me connect more with her character. Boone is an absolute scene stealer and I adore him!! I truly enjoyed the way the story unfolded, how Kate discovers more about herself and how she learns to accept help from others. This book truly touched my heart and reminded me that even though there is bad in the world and people that mean us harm, there are still good people full of kindness. I look forward to reading more of Kate McKinney’s mysteries!
Disclaimer*
I received this copy for free as an ARC — I was not paid to review this book, these are my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you to Salem Hurley for the honor to read and review this book!
October 24, 2025
Silence has never been this loud.
Kate McKinney didn’t move to Nowhere, USA to make friends .... she came to mind her business, pet her dog, and forget her past. Unfortunately, the town had other plans.
When a man and his niece vanish into the woods, Kate starts hearing more than the quiet she came for ....a battered truck, whispering trees, and the kind of stares that make you double-check your locks. The sheriff says “concern.” Kate calls BS.
Armed with Boone (a dog with trust issues that rival her own) and the survival instincts of someone who’s been through it, Kate starts digging ..and what she finds makes “small town secrets” sound like a bedtime story.
Salem Hurley does it again. I have loved every single thing I’ve read by this author, but this one? Chef’s kiss. Gritty, atmospheric, and tense enough to make you want to sleep with the lights on.
One woman, one dog, a whole lot of don’t go in the woods.
And I loved every second of it. 🖤
Kate McKinney didn’t move to Nowhere, USA to make friends .... she came to mind her business, pet her dog, and forget her past. Unfortunately, the town had other plans.
When a man and his niece vanish into the woods, Kate starts hearing more than the quiet she came for ....a battered truck, whispering trees, and the kind of stares that make you double-check your locks. The sheriff says “concern.” Kate calls BS.
Armed with Boone (a dog with trust issues that rival her own) and the survival instincts of someone who’s been through it, Kate starts digging ..and what she finds makes “small town secrets” sound like a bedtime story.
Salem Hurley does it again. I have loved every single thing I’ve read by this author, but this one? Chef’s kiss. Gritty, atmospheric, and tense enough to make you want to sleep with the lights on.
One woman, one dog, a whole lot of don’t go in the woods.
And I loved every second of it. 🖤
November 8, 2025
Im not typically a Mystery/ Thriller reader.
This one was done tastefully though and I enjoyed most all of it honestly!
Boone was awesome! Our FMC was great. The overall concept was good!
911 Dispatcher now in the middle of this crazy thing.. these people.. what do you think will happen..
Overall it's a quick easy read but for sure takes you on a ride. The cool thing is I feel like youre on the edge of your seat at moments. I will say there was a lot of build up of the "mystery" aspect but it mildly fell flat for me. I read way too much though so maybe thats why? Thank you for the opportunity to early read this! I would for sure recommend this to a friend who loves mystery Thrillers!
This one was done tastefully though and I enjoyed most all of it honestly!
Boone was awesome! Our FMC was great. The overall concept was good!
911 Dispatcher now in the middle of this crazy thing.. these people.. what do you think will happen..
Overall it's a quick easy read but for sure takes you on a ride. The cool thing is I feel like youre on the edge of your seat at moments. I will say there was a lot of build up of the "mystery" aspect but it mildly fell flat for me. I read way too much though so maybe thats why? Thank you for the opportunity to early read this! I would for sure recommend this to a friend who loves mystery Thrillers!
October 5, 2025
Well, this one was suspenseful and kept me guessing what would happen. I love anything that has an emergency personnel that is investigating a situation. This story has an awesome, brave MFC named Kate! She is a 911 dispatcher that had recently moved to a new town and soon finds herself knee deep into figuring out all the craziness that is happening around her town. She will be dragged into this and put in danger. But with the help of many of her fellow co workers, police officers and her sheriff neighbor, who has eyes for Kate, they will help and protect their own. This was an awesome read and hope that I will see more from this character.
November 5, 2025
I DID NOT EXPECT TO ENJOY THIS BOOK AS MUCH AS I DID. No spoilers! But the story will keep you on your toes. Twists and turns, such plot will keep you up at night! For charecters, I did wish there was more depth to them? Like there was a lot of potential for depth in the characters but still I'll call them Semi-shallow characters. I did Enjoy that the language was the perfect plenty of simplicity and description, where it was super easy to understand but at the same time it was highly descriptive but not boring!
In the end, I LOVED this book and i am sure you will too! Go ahead buy it and do tell me your views in the comments as well!
In the end, I LOVED this book and i am sure you will too! Go ahead buy it and do tell me your views in the comments as well!
October 13, 2025
*ARC review*
WELFARE CHECK is a fast, fun, and thoroughly engrossing read. I read it in just a few hours, because I couldn't put it down. The pace leaves no room for your mind to wander, and keeps you interested past the last page.
The characters are likeable from the first sentences, the story is intense out being too heavy, the setting is beautiful, and the dogs are the best Good Boys ever.
I found myself wanting more when the story ended. I will definitely be checking out more books by this author!
WELFARE CHECK is a fast, fun, and thoroughly engrossing read. I read it in just a few hours, because I couldn't put it down. The pace leaves no room for your mind to wander, and keeps you interested past the last page.
The characters are likeable from the first sentences, the story is intense out being too heavy, the setting is beautiful, and the dogs are the best Good Boys ever.
I found myself wanting more when the story ended. I will definitely be checking out more books by this author!
November 4, 2025
I really like it!! It was funny and it made me cry so hard too! I love how down to earth the story is, the setting was so well described! It was lovely! I loved Boone! He truly is the perfect companion 💕
The slow burn was 😮💨 good! I wanted to scream at him to kiss her already!! lol but I love it! The way they started to trust each other and her leaning into him was lovely to read! There was no need for huge love gestures, it felt true to real life and o love that! The suspense was amazing it kept me right on edge!
The slow burn was 😮💨 good! I wanted to scream at him to kiss her already!! lol but I love it! The way they started to trust each other and her leaning into him was lovely to read! There was no need for huge love gestures, it felt true to real life and o love that! The suspense was amazing it kept me right on edge!
November 5, 2025
I really enjoyed this book, especially the character development and the ending!! It was so well done! Loved reading during the times they were in the dispatch center taking calls, that sort of stuff super intrigues me!! of course the good old doggo sidekick for our FMC who I adored! All around a good book. Mystery and a lot of great plot!
Absolutely loved the authors writing style! Every time I picked it up I had a hard time putting it down! Good pace, easy read! Highly recommend you check it out!
Absolutely loved the authors writing style! Every time I picked it up I had a hard time putting it down! Good pace, easy read! Highly recommend you check it out!
October 11, 2025
Thrilling, exciting, and a wild ride!
I loved this book!
I was so emotional reading this book, I was happy, then laughing, then crying, then hanging on by a thread… then I repeated the motions again and again!
I love Kate! She’s spunky and quick witted.
Tom…. Oh my heart! Who doesn’t love a grump with a stone cold attitude, who only melts for their person??
The back and forth banter between the FMC and MMC is great! The tension between them, is undeniable, and the plot was great!
I loved this book!
I was so emotional reading this book, I was happy, then laughing, then crying, then hanging on by a thread… then I repeated the motions again and again!
I love Kate! She’s spunky and quick witted.
Tom…. Oh my heart! Who doesn’t love a grump with a stone cold attitude, who only melts for their person??
The back and forth banter between the FMC and MMC is great! The tension between them, is undeniable, and the plot was great!
November 5, 2025
Police dispatcher, small town crime, and a dog named Boone. This book has me hooked from the beginning. For me as a fan of both true crime and detective books this one definitely follows both.
I really enjoyed this read and this was the first book I've read by the author. Her books definitely fit into the realm of things I like to read. The way this is written and progressed reminded me of either a true crime series or movie. Thanks again for allowing me to be an ARC reader.
4/5
I really enjoyed this read and this was the first book I've read by the author. Her books definitely fit into the realm of things I like to read. The way this is written and progressed reminded me of either a true crime series or movie. Thanks again for allowing me to be an ARC reader.
4/5
November 5, 2025
Salem's books literally never disappoint. I love a good thriller, and this one had all the intense vibes that make them the best! All of the dispatcher lingo and knowledge put into this book is ridiculously impressive, I was so enthralled the entire time. Like edge of my seat. I definitely plan to read any more Kate McKinnon installments, because this one was top tier!!
November 5, 2025
this book is amazing. its small town mystery I loved it. it literally made my head down double takes. I love that this authors words can play like movies scenes in my head. I loved it. I loved the twist and turns, had me questioning if someone ir was done by one person or another. I loved it cant wait for the second book.
October 22, 2025
You are going to fall in love with Kate and all the residents of Franklin County that you meet in this book! Boone and Gunner may be my favorites, but you can make your own decision! It’s fast paced and easy to get sucked in!
November 4, 2025
This was such a great book I enjoyed every page of this book and it had me hooked from the beginning
November 17, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Ok… Salem Hurley, thank you for the ARC of Welfare Check!! Was I judging based on the last book I read of yours (Theirs to Hunt)… probably 🤣🤣
However, Welfare Check has SERIOUS potential as the series continues to develop!! I always like a good mystery with good plot and characters!
I felt and am looking forward to the continuation of the character development. You’re on to something here and I feel like this could be a series that could be set up for the long haul… absolutely!!
What Salem NEVER misses out on is the opportunity to bring you into the scene. I honestly could see Oregon and all of its glory with the descriptive writing. You literally could be in the forest watching the fog and mist come off the trees. BRAVO!
As always, looking forward to book 2.
Ok… Salem Hurley, thank you for the ARC of Welfare Check!! Was I judging based on the last book I read of yours (Theirs to Hunt)… probably 🤣🤣
However, Welfare Check has SERIOUS potential as the series continues to develop!! I always like a good mystery with good plot and characters!
I felt and am looking forward to the continuation of the character development. You’re on to something here and I feel like this could be a series that could be set up for the long haul… absolutely!!
What Salem NEVER misses out on is the opportunity to bring you into the scene. I honestly could see Oregon and all of its glory with the descriptive writing. You literally could be in the forest watching the fog and mist come off the trees. BRAVO!
As always, looking forward to book 2.
October 12, 2025
grateful to have received an e-arc. It was such an amazing book can’t wait for more from Kate and her furry companion Boone !
October 23, 2025
I’m very happy I got the opportunity to read this book. Not my normal genre and the book was better than expected.
This is a cosy murder mystery. A perfect fall book. It’s about Kate McKinney who moves to a small town to seek serenity and peace. She works as a first dispatcher and it’s fun to follow the calls since I love police series.
A mystery unfolds, Kate tries to put the pieces together. She finds new friends and maybe something more. Kate has an awesome dog named Boone. He is a star that gild this story. Nice writing, easy to read, exciting, thrilling and an entertaining read.
Official release date 13th of November.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
This is a cosy murder mystery. A perfect fall book. It’s about Kate McKinney who moves to a small town to seek serenity and peace. She works as a first dispatcher and it’s fun to follow the calls since I love police series.
A mystery unfolds, Kate tries to put the pieces together. She finds new friends and maybe something more. Kate has an awesome dog named Boone. He is a star that gild this story. Nice writing, easy to read, exciting, thrilling and an entertaining read.
Official release date 13th of November.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
November 4, 2025
Kate thought she was leaving the loud hectic city as behind for some small town peace and quiet. What she ends up with is a town full of hilarious characters, friends that turn into family, and a slow burn tension filled romance. Don't get me started on Boone and Gunner. I look forward to seeing what else Kate McKinney gets herself into.
November 6, 2025
ARC review given of my own accord: This book was fantastic! I love the author's writing style: short and snappy chapters (each titled!), wonderful conversation and banter between characters, fantastic development of all character interactions and relationships. I love Kate and M.K.'s witty sarcasm, Kate and Tom's care for each other, and Kate's doggy sidekick, Boone, with his spotlight stealing personality. I can't wait to read more about Kate and her adventures with her found family in her new town!
November 21, 2025
This was a very good read! I went into this without much knowledge of what to expect or how this author structures stories. It was great. Salem Hurley does an amazing job building a story.
In this book we follow Kate McKinney as she starts fresh in a small town. We are given hints that she is leaving behind something hard and painful and Hurley introduces these topics in a very natural feeling way.
The side characters are fun and distinct! The locations are something you can picture from almost any small town you have seen.
The story is built with tension and (maybe a bit convenient) actions from the protagonist group of skinheads. Hurley gives us peaks at the villain without giving us details in a real way that might occur during an investigation.
Kate has a wonderful dry humor that made me enjoy reading about her. She is smart resourceful and doesn't come across as a teenage heroine making (very) questionable choices. She has a firm idea of who she is. She has a plan to protect herself and like all of us, she is fallible.
There is a romantic subplot that builds up some great tension also.
I gave this 5 stars based on how much I ended up loving the story and the characters.
In this book we follow Kate McKinney as she starts fresh in a small town. We are given hints that she is leaving behind something hard and painful and Hurley introduces these topics in a very natural feeling way.
The side characters are fun and distinct! The locations are something you can picture from almost any small town you have seen.
The story is built with tension and (maybe a bit convenient) actions from the protagonist group of skinheads. Hurley gives us peaks at the villain without giving us details in a real way that might occur during an investigation.
Kate has a wonderful dry humor that made me enjoy reading about her. She is smart resourceful and doesn't come across as a teenage heroine making (very) questionable choices. She has a firm idea of who she is. She has a plan to protect herself and like all of us, she is fallible.
There is a romantic subplot that builds up some great tension also.
I gave this 5 stars based on how much I ended up loving the story and the characters.
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