In this gripping fourth installment of the Schock Sisters Mystery Series, Meg and Charlie Schock confront a decades-old murder buried by privilege, power—and a killer still watching.
A glittering party. A dead girl. A cold case that won’t stay buried.
Thirty years ago, eight-year-old Tiffany was found murdered during her family's lavish holiday party—her body hidden among the champagne and secrets of D.C.’s most powerful elite. The case faded, buried by money, influence, and silence.
Now, as the anniversary of her death looms, sisters Charlie and Meg Schock are pulled into their most chilling investigation yet. When their mother launches a campaign to reopen the case, it ignites a media storm and political backlash. Ordered to stand down by U.S. Attorney JJ Carrington, the sisters do what they do best—dig deeper.
What they uncover is a legacy of privilege and lies… and a killer hiding in plain sight, ready to kill again.
In a city where truth is deadly and silence protects the powerful, the Schock sisters must How far will they go to speak for the dead?
Perfect for fans of Karin Slaughter, Lisa Gardner, and Tana French, this pulse-pounding cold case mystery will keep you turning pages deep into the night.
USA TODAY Bestselling Author Misty Evans is celebrating her 100th published novel in 2025. She loves writing urban fantasy, paranormal romance, and mystery/suspense. Under her pen name, Nyx Halliwell, she also writes supernatural cozy mysteries.
When not reading or writing (which is most of the time), she enjoys music, movies, and hanging out with her husband, twin sons, and three spoiled rescue dogs. She’s a crafter at heart and has far too many projects to finish.
4th Silence, the latest installment in the Schock Sisters Mystery Series by Adrienne Giordano and Misty Evans, hooked me right from the start…as has each book in the series written by two such talented authors. It mixes a decades-old murder with all the secrets and power plays of Washington, D.C. I was so immediately immersed in the intrigue and cover-up that I lost all track of time, and the pages nearly turned themselves.
The setup is chilling: thirty years ago, a little girl was murdered during her family’s glamorous holiday party, and the case was quietly buried thanks to money and influence. Now the anniversary of her death brings everything back into the spotlight, with Meg and Charlie Schock finding themselves in the middle of it all. Of course, being told to back off only makes them dig deeper—and what they uncover is both shocking and dangerous.
What captivated me the most was the balance of suspense and heart. The mystery kept me guessing, and the pages turning, but it’s the sisters’ determination and loyalty that really drew me in. They’re smart, stubborn, and fearless, and you can’t help but respect the strength they bring to every challenge. The political intrigue and high-society setting made the story feel extra sharp and relevant, and the ending left me both satisfied and a little unsettled—in the best way.
If you enjoy cold-case mysteries, strong female leads, and stories where the truth is anything but simple, this is a fantastic read.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the author. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
The Schock sisters are drawn into a cold case by their mother, who does not act subtly. Before they realize it, they are navigating political landmines and attempting to remain inconspicuous while trying to solve a 30-year-old cold case. The murder occurred at a Christmas dinner, where eight-year-old Tiffany was found dead. The family is wealthy and politically connected, but neither the murder weapon nor the killer was ever found.
Thirty years later, the Schock sisters are combing through old case files and videotapes, as well as interviewing witnesses. They become convinced that the host of the party, Mary Hartman, is guilty. As they seem to be getting close to solving the mystery, they are thwarted at every turn. However, once Charlie and Meg are on a trail, they do not stop.
I hope this is not the final story in the Schock sisters series, as Charlie and Meg are compelling characters. Charlie is a former FBI profiler, and Meg is an artist who reconstructs victims’ appearances using their skulls. Together, however, they are unstoppable.
The Schock sisters really have a hard time with this one. Not only is it a 30-year-old cold case, but pressure is brought to bear by local politicians and JJ lets Charlie know that their relationship is interfering with his job. Meg's boyfriend has proposed, and it scares her so bad. She ghosts him for a few days. When their mom shows up with an explosive cold case, it throws everything into chaos. Thirty years earlier, a little girl is found dead in the basement on Christmas. The house is full of people, mostly relatives, and no one knows anything. Charlie and Meg have an idea of the killer but are having problems getting close to her because of her connections in the city. JJ is told to close the case and back off. Then an anonymous tip to the press puts Charlie's reputation on the line. She knows it was the girl's family that murdered her, but which person did it and how will she prove it after all this time?
The reason for the 5 stars… because the story in itself is simply phenomenal! The writing, emotion, character interactions and the who done it were absolutely amazing. You couldn’t ask for a better story to read. I 100% recommend reading this book.
Now the reason for 3.5 stars… no actual spoilers but if you don’t want it to affect your reading then please stop here…
Because the entire time I was reading it I couldn’t help comparing it to a similar famous murder which also happens to be a 30 year old cold case. And because I was constantly wondering about this famous murder and the real people involved in it, it just took away from the enjoyment of reading for me. I’m sure many may make the same comparison I have, but if you don’t, I’m not going to name names so I don’t put it into your head while reading this book.
4th Silence by Misty Evans & Adrienne Giordano A Schock Sisters Mystery #4
Excellent addition to the series ~ I love this sister team that run their own private investigation service that solves predominately cold cases ~
What I liked: * Charlie: older sister, ex-FBI profiler, strong, resilient, caring, kind, honest, forthright, in a relationship with JJ * Meg: younger sister, forensic sculptor/artist, obsessed, focused, goes without sleep, immersed in her projects, in a relationship with Jerome * That though the sisters are in many ways different, they love, support, and protect one another * The cold case to be solved of Tiffany’s death during a family Christmas party ~ Which guest or family member it was is solved by the end of the story * The romantic updates and how JJ and Jerome are faring with the sisters – there were definitely some issues to be dealt with * That both daughters love their parents though their mother, an investigative reporter, can be a handful * The plot, pacing, setting, and writing with chapters told alternating between sisters * Matt, their part-time investigator and a steady support and Haley, receptionist – wouldn’t mind seeing more of them in the future * That the cold case was solved, the killer caught, and justice waiting to happen * Knowing that there will be another book to look forward to
What I didn’t like: * Who and what I was meant not to like * The way power and money impacted the murder case and coverup * Finding it difficult to warm up to Helen, the sisters’ mother, and her somewhat narcissistic seeming personality – even if she had a good cause * Having to wait for the next book in the series
Did I like this book? Yes Would I read more in this series? Definitely
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
Awesome read! I swear this family has a penchant to find trouble around the corner. They are like magnets. In a new cold case, the family and friends set out to solve the murder of a young child that occurred over two decades ago. So many things do not add up in this case.
The sisters and their mother lets nothing stop them or get in their way of discovering new clues, interviewing people, and stalling them. They are not ones that let the grass grow under their feet. This time though, a relationship will be on the line. Boundary lines have been drawn. That only confirms this murder is suspect to more scrutiny.
They have a network of suspects and a mountain of evidence to go through. Luck seems to always be on their side when needed. When the cards are all dealt, the girls will solve the mystery but what of their personal lives? Read the next book in the series to see what they get up too.
This is another exciting book in this series. I love how committed Charlie and Meg are to trying to finding out what happened to cold cases. Their mother is so stubborn and loud in trying to help with cases, she is a trip! Charlie, Meg, and their mother are trying to identify how a young girl from a rich family that passed away years ago. Mary is the patriarch of that family where the child passed away and not a very nice person. Of course since she is so rich, she has many officials in her pocket to help keep anyone inquiring about the cold case away from her. I felt so bad for JJ and Charlie as this case was tearing them apart. It is interesting how they methodically go about trying to determine what happened at that holiday party years ago. I was shocked to find out how she had passed away. I loved the book and strongly encourage you to read it.
I am so happy that these authors finally wrote a new book in this series. It can be read as a stand-alone if you haven’t read the other books. It features the Schock sisters, Charlie and Meg, who specialize in solving cold cases. This case revolves around a 30-year-old cold case of an eight-year-old girl killed on Christmas Eve. She was a member of a wealthy, powerful family. When their mother rallies for the case to be reopened, Charlie and Meg begin to investigate the murder. They are blocked by mostly everyone they approach. The family won’t cooperate and goes to extreme measures to block the investigation. They also encourage all of the local politicians to stop the sisters, to the point where their mother is arrested. These authors write so well together, and it will keep you enthralled until the explosive ending.
Attention grabbing from start to finish! It didn't take long in the company of the Schock family to be hooked on their brand of disfunction and hilarity. I was quickly drawn into the cold case that was garnering their attention and causing so much drama in their lives. Charlie is under pressure to get justice for this case her mother is determined to shine a light on, but it's putting her in a tough spot with her boyfriend and his bigwig bosses. I enjoyed the characters, but wanted a bit more background on them and on their relationships to get a complete picture on who they all were and to make it a truly standalone story. The drama and mystery leading up to the big finale of catching the killer was really interesting, but I felt a disconnect with the abrupt ending between Charlie and JJ. An enjoyable read overall that held my attention and kept me entertained.
I was fortunate to receive an ARC of this story. The Schock sisters and their mother are investigating another cold case involving a child which occurred on Christmas Eve years ago. The investigation strains the relationships between the sisters and their mother, the sisters and their significant others, and their relationships with different departments of law enforcement. The plot has lots of twists to keep you guessing. The development of the Schock sisters and their various relationships gives insight into what it means to deal with an obsession even if it is to find justice for the victims. Although the story can be read as a stand alone, I recommend reading the series in order for the best understanding of the characters. The story will keep you engrossed until the very last page.
I loved 4th Silence! I’ve read all of the books in this series and adored them and the fourth book was no different. Both Meg and Charlie are great characters and i loved their dynamic and passion for their work. The balance between Charlie and Meg’s work and their personal lives, like the men they love are so well balanced. Jj and Jerome are amazing men who clearly love the tough women in their lives and balance each other so well. I’m loving seeing their relationships progress and change. Seeing more of Meg and Charlie’s mum was awesome as well as seeing a bit more of their dad, Matt and Haley. The plot was great and i loved seeing them all solve the crime. I really hope we see more of this series and this cast of characters!
Another brilliant read in this series and like its predecessors in the series once you start you won't want to put this book down
The latest case for the Shock sisters is a cold case from 30 years ago a young girl murdered at her parents holiday party but money and clout where used to keep all the secrets close to the chest Now as the anniversary of her death draws close the sisters start to delve into the case and what they find is that the hostess may have had plenty to do with the death but as political pressure is brought to bear they are warned away but the Schock sisters never back down and will see this case to the end.
This is one of those stories that stays with you after you turn the last page maybe because it could so easily be true
I don’t know how I missed the first three Schock sisters books- now I have to go back and read them. This was THAT GOOD. At the heart of the story is the upcoming anniversary of the heartbreaking murder of a child. The Schock sisters are reopening the case I hopes of finally bringing justice to the killer after decades of no progress. The secrecy that power and money can buy adds a level of frustration to the investigation, but these gals are indefatigable! I got a little confused at the narration initially- the authors take turns with which sister is speaking, which took some getting used to. It’s a great story with a satisfying conclusion. Looking forward to going back and seeing what other mischief the Schock sisters (and mom) got into before!!
Charles and Meg are sisters who run and own Schock investigations. Charlie is the psychologist. Helene is their mother.
Charlie, Meg and Helene work together to solve a cold case of a you g girl who was murdered and went unsolved. Can they solve the case with all the road blocks due to wealth and influence? Can Meg and Charlie each have a Happily Ever After amid the amid the influence of this case?
This was a very good book making want to go back and read the others in the series.
This book has suspense, danger, intrigue and some twists and turns.
I absolutely LOVED this one. It was like it’s been no time since I got to spend time with Meg & Charlie! Oh, and her crazy mom.
This was fast paced from the get go and never let up. I was so invested. I did have an idea of who was the killer but it in no way deterred me. I had a bout with insomnia and plowed through this. It was such a great, fun, fast paced read. I just love the characters. Great cold case and fun romance. A little bit of everything I love. I so hope that there will be more. This series is just fast and fun. I highly recommend hanging out with Meg & Charlie!
‘Schock sisters - screwing up their professional and private lives in one fell swoop.’
If you haven’t met the Schock sisters (And their feisty mother), make them a priority on your tbr pile. Christmas is fast approaching in book four and thanks to their mother, Meg and Charlie are drawn into a non paying cold case that creates waves in high places and immediately blows back on them, professionally and personally, which makes them even more determined to get to the bottom of the horrific murder of a child. I read this one in one sitting, it was simply that great!
A Great mystery with lots of twists and turns. Meg and Charlie along with their meddling mother try to solve a 30 year old cold case. You can feel the passion both sisters have for finding the killer and finding justice for the young girl murdered so long ago. Love seeing the conflicts the sisters face with their relationships with Jerome and JJ. It makes Meg and Charlie very relatable and shows their softer more vulnerable sides. A great addition to the Shock Sisters Mysteries!
The Schock sisters have a family affair with their mother in the mix on this thirty year old cold case. The drama and intrigue both personal and professional have sisters Charlie and Meg riding a rollercoaster of emotions as they tirelessly and somewhat unconventionally solve the crime and get Tiffany the justice she deserves. I certain hope there’s a book 5 to look forward to.
Wow, What a story. I loved it. Meg and Charlie are sisters that operate Schock Investigation. Their mother is an investigative journalist reporter and asks them to reopen a cold case. The case is for an eight year old that was murdered on Christmas Eve. Can they solve the case? I read an arc of this book and this is my review.
A glamorous party remains unsolved. The hidden secrets will not stay quiet even as time passes by. What really happened during the party that threatens to surface once again? A mother wanting answers despite the opposition. The sister will seek justice and uncover the lies of the privilege. It’s a gripping read.
I really enjoy reading books written by these two authors, Misty Evans and Adrienne Giordana. Two sisters working together in different forms trying to solve cold cases and then overcoming problems within their own relationships.
It's the Holiday Season, and this brought up a 30-year-old cold case. Meg and Charlie's mom generated the investigation that prompted the sisters to get involved. The wonderful characters and a plot filled with family saga, DC politics, murder, and a little romance created an entertaining story.
I enjoyed catching up with the Schock sisters and the other characters in this series. And, I was happy to get little glimpses into JJ and Charlie's relationship. I've always liked them being together.
The Schock Sisters are back! The Schock Sisters Mysteries are a favorite of mine, and 4th Silence doesn’t disappoint. Misty Evans and Adrienne Giordano deliver another story that blends suspense, family dynamics, and romance in such a satisfying way. I especially love the interplay between the sisters and their mother, as well as their perseverance in finding the truth no matter the consequences to themselves. With its perfect mix of intrigue and relationships, this book kept me hooked from beginning to end. Fans of mystery with a touch of romance will love this series, and 4th Silence proves the Schock Sisters’ adventures just keep getting better.
Welcome Back Schock Sisters!!! I loved this series and missed it! I am so happy to see its return!!! My time was well spent reading it! I was glued to my seat from the very beginning and did not move until after the last page! I love these characters! They go through so much but still are strongly determined to solve the mysteries/ crimes that come their way! ***** I hope there is more to come with the Schock sisters! Great read!