The Dead Ringer: A Novel

by Dane Bahr

320 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication April 21, 2026

About the author

Dane Bahr was born in Minnesota. He lives in Washington state with his wife and sons. He is the author of The Houseboat.

Reviews

[Dr. Obie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is phenomenal. The Dead Ringer delivers edge-of-your-seat tension, clever storytelling, and gripping emotional layers that elevate it above most thrillers. The protagonist’s struggles are compelling and relatable, making the stakes feel incredibly real. The locations are vividly described, adding richness and atmosphere to every scene. The twists are bold, unpredictable, and incredibly satisfying. I found myself thinking about the story even when I wasn’t reading. The pacing is perfect—every chapter moves the plot forward. It’s rare to find a thriller this polished and engaging. A definite five-star masterpiece that I’ll be recommending to everyone.

[German Gorczany · Rating 5 out of 5]

An outstanding thriller from start to finish. “The Dead Ringer” pulls you into its mysterious world with intense scenes, sharp writing, and unforgettable characters. The story unfolds in clever, unexpected ways that consistently surprised me. The atmosphere is rich and suspenseful, with a sense of danger lurking behind every chapter. The author clearly knows how to build tension and deliver a great twist. I loved the emotional elements woven through the plot—it adds depth without slowing the pace. By the time I reached the final pages, I felt completely satisfied. This is a five-star gem of a novel.

[Aidan Kshlerin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Dead Ringer is an absolute triumph in suspense fiction. The story is filled with gripping conflicts, dangerous secrets, and twists that land with incredible impact. The protagonist is relatable and compelling, making their journey all the more engaging. I was impressed by how well the author manages to keep the tension high without sacrificing character development. Every chapter moves with purpose, and the writing is cinematic and atmospheric. The mystery is layered and satisfying, leaving no loose ends. This is a standout thriller that kept me glued to the pages. A clear five-star read.

[Helmer Breitenberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book blew me away. The Dead Ringer is a gripping thriller with incredible atmosphere and tight storytelling. The author’s attention to detail creates vivid imagery and highly immersive scenes. The characters feel real, each with secrets that deepen the suspense. The plot twists are bold and unpredictable, and the tension builds steadily throughout. I was especially impressed by the emotional depth woven into the mystery—it adds weight to the action and makes the story unforgettable. By the end, I was completely satisfied and wanting more. This is a five-star novel through and through.

[Mrs. Bert · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most exciting thrillers I’ve read lately. “The Dead Ringer” delivers suspense, shock, and powerful storytelling in perfect balance. The author creates a world full of danger and uncertainty, keeping the reader engaged from page one. The twists are smart and unexpected, and the characters are memorable and well-developed. I loved the pacing—it’s fast but steady, never overwhelming. The writing style is vivid, making it easy to picture every scene. This is more than just a mystery; it’s a compelling journey filled with tension and emotional stakes. A strong five-star recommendation.

[Devonte Spinka · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brilliant, edge-of-your-seat thriller that delivers on every promise. “The Dead Ringer” combines emotional weight with a fast-paced plot full of shocks and reveals. The author creates a gripping sense of mystery from the start, and each chapter deepens the intrigue. The characters are believable and deeply engaging, and the twists are genuinely surprising. I loved how the story unfolds piece by piece, keeping you constantly guessing. The writing is strong and atmospheric, making the entire experience feel cinematic. This is a must-read for thriller fans. Five stars without hesitation.

[Drew McCoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is hard to say but I think this is Dane's best book, and the reason it's hard to say is because all of Dane's books are great. I've loved every single one of them. He's one of the best writers doing it today. Propulsive stories. Well-rounded characters. And prose that are next level. Dane's sentences sing. Come for the stories, for the plot, for the colorful characters, but stay for the prose. Dane Bahr knows how to do it.